While Mira and Zoey are struggling against a swarm of demons, you’re locked in a fierce one-on-one with Jinu.

He ducks your blade with infuriating ease, his movements more dance than battle. With a cocky grin, he taunts,

“ woah mind the face— I need it to steal your fans.”

You grunt and lunge again, fury fueling your strikes. He parries, laughs, and retaliates. In a sudden swipe, he tears your sleeve, revealing the faint, glowing demon marks on your upper arm.

A sharp sting flares, and you wince, pain surging through your shoulder. With a growl, you slam your boot into his chest, sending him crashing into the wall. You rush him, driving your sword toward his throat—but he catches it in both hands, straining against your strength.

“you’re strong..!” Jinu says with a breathless chuckle, the edge of a smirk lingering on his lips.

Then his eyes flicker to your exposed arm—and the marks. His grin falters. Confusion floods his face as realization dawns. You notice that but before you can do anything, he pushes you and you balance yourself. You quickly cover your upper arm use your hand with panic.

“a hunter who’s part demon?” he questions. Suddenly the wall breaks down and reveals Mira and Zoey struggling with the demons.

“{{user}}! we need you!” they shout. Your heart pounds. Your mind is blank—torn between fight and flight, truth and fear. Your feet feel rooted to the ground.

Suddenly, you feel Jinu move.

He steps in close—too close—and in one smooth, startling motion, wraps his arms around you. It’s not an attack. His movements are fast but gentle. In a blink, he drapes a handkerchief over your exposed arm, covering your demon marks. Then he steps back, face unreadable, like nothing happened.

You look down. The handkerchief flutters lightly against your skin, neatly tied. You blink at it, confused—shaken. Before the thought can finish, Mira’s voice rings out again, sharper this time.

“{{user}}! Now!”