Side Story: Episode 19-3 - Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Episode 19. An Old Person (3) Reflect on your parents. When I was a child, there was an assignment at school to draw a picture on the theme of 'family.' I remember it as quite a challenging task. The reason being that, back then, I was not very good at drawing people's faces. Whenever I tried to recall someone’s face, for some odd reason, only a hazy, mosaic-like image would come to mind. So instead of drawing my parents, I drew myself standing under a deep, dark night sky. "Why did you only draw yourself, Hak Hyun?" When the teacher asked this, I answered that I had drawn my parents. Looking back now, that might have been a manifestation of my literary talent. A deep, warm night sky with a few stars twinkling. A cozy darkness that seemed willing to embrace me no matter what I did. Figures with no distinct form or face, yet clearly present there, enveloping me. Reflecting on it, perhaps it was thanks to my parents that I started writing novels. "What is a novel?" When I asked that, my mother replied, "Hmm. It’s a story for world peace." A story for world peace. "When everyone reads stories and talks only about stories, there will be no wars or conflicts." "Why?" "Because stories are fiction." For the world to be peaceful, everyone must read novels. Initially, I didn’t understand what that meant. "Hak Hyun, don’t play with him. Come over here." But as I went to school and met friends, "Why do you keep talking to him?" "Isn’t Hak Hyun kind of gloomy too?" While I was ostracized for not joining in the exclusion of a certain friend, "Hak Hyun, you'll need to bring your parents tomorrow." And criticized by the teacher for not clearing up misunderstandings, even though I did nothing wrong, I began to understand my mother’s words for the first time. "Apparently, Hak Hyun’s parents are quite unique." "Tsk, like parents, like child." People really do love stories. They create events where none exist, exaggerate them, and even distort them to grow the story. They enjoy watching someone right in front of them get hurt and fall. And then they quickly forget all about it. Perhaps it was from that time that I started writing novels. Instead of hating people, I decided to write novels. Write really interesting novels that make everyone in the world constantly talk about them. And so I wrote, and I wrote more. By the time I turned 23, I debuted. When I went to my parents with the news of my debut, I remember their initial expressions. Although the memory is faint, like a soft mosaic, the emotions captured in those expressions are clear. “So, that’s how it turned out.” But why? My parents’ faces looked somehow sad after reading my novel. This confused me, as I had expected them to be happy. Had I written something wrong? Did something in my novel make them sad? My parents quietly embraced me. Not understanding their feelings, I left home that day. Looking back, it seems like a silly story. Maybe my parents were worried whether I could make a living as a pure literature writer. Ultimately, considering I met Ji Eun Yoo and became a web novel author, perhaps their concerns were justified. “Writer, you can’t start the introduction like this.” Ji Eun Yoo was a persistent and patient editor. “How can you delve so deeply into the protagonist’s past like this?” She didn’t hold back on correcting awkward sentences or pointing out mismatched character dialogues. Many manuscripts were rejected, and dozens of creations were scrapped for thousands of reasons. I wrote, and she edited. And so, one series, then another, our works piled up. “Writer! We did it! We succeeded!” One day, a story found us. “Do you know? This is the first! It’s the first time our management has ever secured this kind of promotion!” Our first successful work, created together. Even Ji Eun Yoo, who was usually calm and composed, couldn’t hide her excitement in front of the sales indicators. On the day our work went premium, we sat side by side in the management's darkened office, reading reader comments together. Not all comments were supportive, but that day we were quite uplifted. I bet it was as thrilling as when Kim Dokja first became a Constellation. “Editor. By the way.” Then why am I recalling that day now? Following Ji Eun Yoo’s advice, such a long story could be troublesome. “People keep asking if Kim Dokja is my self-insert character. What does self-insert mean?” * "Whoa!" A strange scream escaped me as I jolted upright, with the surroundings cloaked in pitch-black darkness. I had a bizarre dream. It seemed like a dream about my parents and Ji Eun Yoo. As I lightly stretched my shoulders and surveyed my surroundings, a heavy sensation was felt on my right thigh. When I shone the smartphone’s light, Shin Yoosung was leaning against me, asleep. A series of memories came floating back. To collect the ‘Sangpyeong Tongbo’, I had entered the ‘Place of Trumpets’ dungeon, which was a solo dungeon, and there I had met Shin Yoosung. Together, we faced the Ancient Trumpet Fish. I remembered using [Song Strengthening] to tame the Ancient Trumpet Fish, going as far as inciting myself as ‘Shin Yoosung’. But beyond that, my memories were unclear. Perhaps it was a side effect of the incitement. “Yoosung, are you okay?” Gently shaking Shin Yoosung’s shoulder, she opened her eyes quickly. “Oh, you’re awake……!” Seeing Shin Yoosung smile bashfully, I felt a chill running down my spine for some reason. Why though? Fortunately, that feeling quickly dissipated. “Yes. Are you unharmed?” “Yes, thanks to you!” It seemed we had cleared the ‘Place of Trumpets’ without any mishaps. In the meantime, the message log had piled up extensively. [You are the first to hunt more than 500 ‘Trumpet Fish’!] [You have cleared the solo dungeon.] **New Terms and Translations:** - "상평통보" - "Sangpyeong Tongbo" (*an ancient Korean currency coin; maintained original term for specific cultural context*) - "나각의 장" - "Place of Trumpets" (*'나각' refers to 'trumpet', translated the dungeon name to maintain a poetic sense while indicating the type of challenge faced in the dungeon*) - "고대 나각" - "Ancient Trumpet Fish" (*'나각' literally means a trumpet but here figuratively named the monster in the dungeon*) In Korean, the word "재미있는" used for "interesting" or "fun" when referring to stories has an implicit double meaning—it suggests both the idea of being entertaining and of being meaningful. Additionally, given the narrative's context, this nuance aligns well with the protagonist's resolve to write compelling stories that can engage others positively. Regarding future updates, based on this passage, no list updates appear necessary. However, should any character affiliations or further gender specifications become clear through subsequent chapters, adjustments may be required based on evolving contexts. [You've acquired 2 Sangpyeong Tongbo as a basic reward.] [Additionally, you've received 8 more Sangpyeong Tongbo as a bonus for the massacre of 'Trumpet Fish.'] [You've acquired the exclusive skill 'Breath of Trumpet Fish.'] The exclusive skill [Breath of Trumpet Fish]. A skill that allows you to hold your breath for up to 30 minutes with just a single breath. Although it has a cooldown period, it's a useful skill when navigating polluted areas or engaging in underwater combat. [You have successfully hunted the 'Hidden Boss' of the solo dungeon.] [You receive additional rewards.] You even managed to hunt the hidden boss of the solo dungeon, the 'Ancient Trumpet Fish,' earning yourself extra rewards. [You've acquired the 'Horn of Provocation.'] The Horn of Provocation. An item that, when used, greatly decreases the enemies' mental strength and gathers scattered enemies in one place. Honestly, I'm unsure where I might use this. I'm not a tank, and rounding up a bunch of unwary monsters would only lead to a senseless death. I might as well hand it over to Gyeong Se-in later. But that wasn't the end of the messages. The bounty scenario was still in progress. [The sub-scenario - 'Precious Hair' has been completed!] [You've obtained 2,000 coins as a reward.] [By offering the ‘Ancient Trumpet Fish Meat,’ the ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’ will bestow a special reward.] Come to think of it, this scenario ends by offering the ‘Ancient Trumpet Fish Meat’ to Great Sage Heaven's Equal. [The Constellation, ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’, is looking forward to the 'Ancient Trumpet Fish Meat.'] [The Constellation, ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’, looks at the ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’ with disdain.] [The Constellation, ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’, would appreciate it if you could cook it as well.] Pausing for a moment, I muttered towards the empty air. “It'll take a few days to prepare, is that alright?” [The Constellation, ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’, says they can wait for that long.] This bought me some time. However, as I exited the dungeon, the Ancient Trumpet Fish vanished, leaving me to wonder how I would offer its meat. While I was lost in thought, Shin Yoosung dusted off her clothes and stood up. “Thank you, mister. Thanks to you, I can now handle things on my own.” Shin Yoosung brightened as she looked down at the Sangpyeong Tongbo she had earned. Yet, I couldn’t bring myself to smile. “Are you planning to return to your original group?” “Oh, yes… That’s the plan with the adults…” Shin Yoosung had entered the ‘solo dungeon’ to prove her worth to the adults in her group. Now that she’d proven herself, she could become an official member of that group. “I’m not asking about the adults’ decision; I’m asking what you want. Do you really wish to join that group?” The clever Shin Yoosung would understand the meaning behind my question. But some children, due to their intelligence, sometimes provide answers that betray their true feelings. “The adults in the group said they don’t make distinctions based on age and will treat you according to your abilities—” I could understand what she was trying to say, yet there was no need to listen further. “Yoosung.” “Yes, yes?” “Would you like to join me, if that's alright?” Shin Yoosung looked up at me with wide eyes. I gave her ample time to think. After a pause, she asked in a small voice. “Is that okay?” “Yes, absolutely.” “But I might not be much help…” “If it weren’t for you, I would have died.” “That was because you were helping me…” Muttering with her head hung low, Shin Yoosung bit her lip. “You don’t even know what kind of person I am…” What had pushed this child to such an extent? It wasn’t solely the fault of the Dokkaebi, Constellations, or the Star Stream. "Like a little demon." "Kids these days are tougher. They say she survived the first scenario by killing someone." "If you can't trust them, they better be useful. Throw them into the dungeon. If they survive, bring them along." "The tough ones need to be put in place early." Even without Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, I could hear the words echoing in the child's mind. I declared in defiance. “No, I know.” “Pardon?” “I know what kind of person you are.” “How…?” If she asked how I knew, I had no words to explain. "Mister." I could say that I’ve read and written countless sentences about you. But that wouldn't be fair to the Shin Yoosung in front of me right now. For she is not the ‘3rd round Shin Yoosung’ but the ‘41st round Shin Yoosung.’ “What were we to the leader?” “I hate that you exist in this world alone.” “Now there's only one thing I can tell you. The leader cannot save anyone.” Someone who had followed Yoo Joonghyuk more loyally than anyone. Someone who couldn’t endure the sense of betrayal. Someone who wandered through countless timelines, growing their hatred. Someone who became a calamity in the 3rd round. "Barreet!" Someone who had become Kim Dokja’s daughter. Someone who reincarnated as a Dokkaebi and relayed the story of Kim Dokja’s Company to the Star Stream. "All of these are stories that have yet to unfold." Therefore, while I understand Shin Yoosung well, I do not know the Shin Yoosung standing before me. “Even if I don’t know what kind of person you are, I’ve decided to trust you.” Thus, that was the only promise I could make. Shin Yoosung looked up at me blankly for a moment, then averted her gaze and spoke. “…I think I can trust you too, mister.” [The character ‘Shin Yoosung’ shows strong trust in you.] After wriggling her small hands for a while, Shin Yoosung asked. “Then… Do you have a group too, mister?” “Would you like to join my group?” “Is that okay? But to join a group, you need the king’s permission…” “I am the king.” **New Terms and Translations:** - "고대 나각" - "Ancient Trumpet Fish" (*Previously explained in the translation above*) - "도발의 뿔피리" - "Horn of Provocation" (*‘도발’ means ‘provocation,' and '뿔피리' is a 'horn'; this is a literal translation capturing its essence and function in the narrative*) - "긴고아의 죄수" - "Prisoner of the Golden Headband" (*Maintains translation consistency; '긴고아' specifically relates to 'Golden Headband') - "제천대성" - "Great Sage Heaven's Equal" (*A known title for the character Sun Wukong from 'Journey to the West,' consistent with established translation practices*) **Additional Context:** Shin Yoosung's dialogue and internal struggle illustrate the tension between her experiences in past worlds and her current innocence. The intricacies of her past lifetimes and the influence they have over her form a critical narrative tension. Her willingness to join Kim Dokja’s trust signifies a significant turning point in reconciling her past with her present, hinting at the broader themes of identity and growth. Regarding changes to the list, the depiction of Shin Yoosung as "someone who became a calamity in the 3rd round" and "Kim Dokja’s daughter" could bear further elucidation in future episodes, potentially relating her more closely to the established characters or storylines. Furthermore, the "Prisoner of the Golden Headband" accurately translates to 은밀한 모략가, which is distinctly separate from other characters, anchoring him in the mythological context while possibly expanding on his narrative role. At my words, Shin Yoosung let out a small hiccup, taking a sharp breath, and took a few steps back, her shoulders beginning to tremble. I understood all too well what kind of being her previous group's 'king' was. Damn bastards. “There’s no need to be tense. As you can see, I'm just an ordinary guy who happened to pick up a flag.” It would have been more persuasive if Cheon Inho had a kinder face. I squinted to draw a look as gentle as possible. “When you smile like that, it’s scary.” “My apologies.” “Um, is it really okay for me to join?” “Of course.” Once I agreed, Shin Yoosung, after a moment of contemplation, spoke with determination. “Then I'll join.” [The Incarnation ‘Shin Yoosung’ has joined your group.] I couldn’t turn my back on Shin Yoosung, of all people. Though Yoo Joonghyuk of the 41st round might beat me to a pulp later, I believe this is the right decision for now. “The other group members haven’t joined yet, so it’ll just be the two of us for a while.” Shin Yoosung nodded enthusiastically, as if that was just fine with her. “Okay!” Having cleared the 'solo dungeon,' now all that was left was to use the 'Sangpyeong Tongbo' we gathered to enter the ‘Northern Celestial Lodge.’ As I searched for where to insert the 'Sangpyeong Tongbo' in the lobby, I pondered briefly about Shin Yoosung. This was the 41st round, not recorded in Ways of Survival. In this round, Shin Yoosung, who became the ‘Calamity of Overflow’ and destroyed Chronos, would not appear. So, who will become the calamity of the 'fifth scenario'? Inserting ten Sangpyeong Tongbo into the entrance slot in the lobby, a faint light began to pervade the space. “We’re about to enter a hidden dungeon. It might be dangerous—are you okay with that?” With the entrance to the National Palace Museum collapsed, clearing the dungeon was our only way of escape. If just one person clears the dungeon, the remaining members will be automatically summoned outside the museum. “It’s fine. I’ve prepared myself for this much.” Watching the resolute child, my heart ached slightly. Without delay, I used the Sangpyeong Tongbo. [You have used 10 Sangpyeong Tongbo to enter the hidden realm.] [Do you wish to enter the hidden realm, ‘Northern Celestial Lodge’?] “Enter.” Neither at the National Museum of Korea nor within the ‘Place of Trumpets’ did I find any traces of other kings. This meant that other kings had already gathered ten Sangpyeong Tongbo and entered the ‘Northern Celestial Lodge.’ 「The culprit behind the museum’s collapse would also be inside this dungeon.」 As I blinked, the scenery rippled. I preemptively imagined the unfolding landscape. 「The gleaming white lobby transformed into a broad, open waiting room. At the end of the waiting room were seven doors.」 Shortly, an open waiting area, just as described in the original Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, appeared. However, there was one difference from the original. With a cold anticipation, I narrowed my eyes further. The ‘Northern Celestial Lodge’ scenario required gathering all the 'Starry Gems' scattered in seven doors to summon the ‘Four Tiger Sword.’ Thus, there should be a total of seven doors, matching the number of Starry Gems in the waiting room. 「However, right now, there was only one door visible in the waiting room.」 The scenario had changed. **New Terms and Translations:** - "북두칠성의 장" - "Northern Celestial Lodge" (*This term references the Big Dipper constellation, known as the "Seven Stars of the North" in Korean; '장' in this context suggests a location or realm, rendered poetically here as 'Lodge' for thematic coherence*) - "별보석" - "Starry Gems" (*'별' translates to 'star,' and '보석' is 'gem' or 'jewel'; keeping with the celestial theme, 'Starry Gems' enhances the mystical quality of the items within this storyline*) - "사인참사검" - "Four Tiger Sword" (*'사인' traditionally refers to four tigers and is likely related to a mythical or symbolic weapon; '참사검' literally translates to 'sword of slaughter,' maintaining its mythic resonance*) **Additional Context:** This passage marks a pivotal shift in the narrative, indicating a deviation from previously recorded events in the ‘Ways of Survival,’ underscoring the fluid and unpredictable nature of the story’s world. It reinforces the theme of alternate possibilities and the strength of agency within the narrative framework, as characters face challenges that deviate from anticipated outcomes. The Northern Celestial Lodge scenario, with its mythical and celestial associations, expands the scope and stakes within this world, setting up the potential for a significant quest or conflict resolution. The enigmatic absence of expected doors signals looming challenges or secrets, igniting curiosity and tension about the upcoming trials.