HMLU Ch 2
by soapaName: ElegantGorani
Title: Went to Riol after a long time and saw something funny
Content: I went to Riol after a million years to level up my alt character, and I saw a Dark Bear + Druid party hunting in the field.
―Comment List―
GodPriest: ? What’s so funny about that?
└ElegantGorani: The Dark Bear and Druid combo itself is funny.
Mahura: You saw something like that all by yourself?
└ElegantGorani: They might still be there if you go now. They’ve been at it all day since yesterday.
Name: Mahura
Title: What are Dark Bear and Druid doing?
Content: I got curious and checked it out, and the Druid was gathering all the field rats with stones, and the Dark Bear was killing them.
―Comment List―
GodPriest: What are they doing? Leveling, obviously.
└Mahura: Why would anyone level a Dark Bear and a Druid?
ElegantGorani: They seemed like a couple. If you check the Dark Bear’s status window, his spouse is the Druid lol.
└Mahura: lolol that’s insane.
└ElegantGorani: Go check it out.
The swarm of rats that stepped on the “Endless Pain” floor effect let out a collective screech and perished. At the same time, a level-up firecracker effect popped above the Black Bear’s round head. As always, the Black Bear started spinning in place and dancing, and I clapped for him. Clap clap clap.
Meritocracy: Congrats!
Kkamamgom: Thank you!!
Meritocracy: You’re a quick learner.
Meritocracy: I think you’ve got some talent lol.
Kkamamgom: Really?!
Yes, yes. That’s why you absolutely can’t quit until I hit max level. Hiding my inner thoughts, I sent a couple-exclusive heart motion above my head, and the Black Bear responded with a heart that looked like he was slamming his fingertips down on his head. No matter how I looked at it, it only seemed like a threat to split my skull in half, but I pretended not to notice.
After spending two full days in the field teaching him this and that, the Black Bear was now playing somewhat like a proper tank. I couldn’t say he was good even as flattery, but he seemed at least usable in the low-level section for now.
Meritocracy: Alright, let’s get you one defense tier first.
The Dark Bear’s defense tier 1 reward is attribute enhancement. It increases both the number of enemies you can aggro at once and your defense, so it’s a must before entering your first instance dungeon. If my memory is correct, it’s not a particularly difficult quest. There’s some grinding, but it should take about two hours to complete.
Meritocracy: You probably need to pull five or more mobs at least two levels higher than you.
Meritocracy: And kill them before you’re down to half HP. Of course, you have to do that 100 times.
Meritocracy: It’s easier to do this in the eastern Riolrea map. The Banshee Snakes there only use bleeding debuff attacks.
Meritocracy: You can make a snake venom immunity potion with the Druid’s basic crafting skill.
Meritocracy: If you take it, you won’t take any damage at all.
I put a bundle of pre-made potions in the trade window, and the Black Bear jumped in place. I always think this, but I wish he’d just accept the trade quickly instead of wasting time with pointless thankful motions… Of course, I didn’t say that out loud. He’s my precious shuttle, after all.
Kkamamgom: Thanks, but I feel bad for always taking stuff ㅠㅠ
What are you talking about? You’re going to work so hard for me. Hiding a lot of words, I drew a heart above my head, and the Black Bear twisted his shoulders as if embarrassed.
Meritocracy: We’re playing together, so don’t say stuff like that.
Meritocracy: It’s no big deal ^^
Only then did the Black Bear accept the potion and chug one bottle boldly. Good, good. I marveled at him like an animal conservation worker watching a baby bear starting wilderness training. To think he managed the difficult task of right-clicking an item to consume it all by himself—so impressive. As I was enthusiastically sending praise motions, the Black Bear suddenly said something absurd.
Kkamamgom: Merry-nim, you’re really like an angel ♥ ^^
“…….”
You’re too much like a 2000s blogger ★… Instead of replying, I shot a hand heart and headed toward the Dark Bear village. We needed to progress the story a bit to unlock the tier quest. It was when I was crossing the empty field toward the dock.
Mahura: Hey you guys.
Mahura: Newbies?
A mage suddenly appeared, grinning slyly. Of course, that’s just how it felt. I tried to ignore him and keep going, but a flame effect flashed in front of my eyes. It wasn’t aimed to hit, but it showed he wasn’t planning to let me pass nicely either.
Mahura: Ignoring me? ㅠ
A sigh escaped me. It’s because of jerks like this that the game can’t shake its bad reputation. Instead of kindly helping a precious newbie, they pull stunts like this.
Meritocracy: ㅠ? Sorry.
Meritocracy: I was too focused on the party window and didn’t notice lol.
But I didn’t do something stupid like picking a fight. If this were my main character, I’d have torn this filthy minion of darkness to pieces and thrown him into the Riolrea sea, but right now, I’m just a fragile low-level character. The day a low-level Druid can beat a max-level mage won’t come even after 100 centuries of the Copy Ban.
Mahura: lol
Mahura: Don’t be scared.
Mahura: I was just trying to help if you’re newbies lol.
Meritocracy: Oh lol.
Meritocracy: Thanks, but we’re fine ^^ Just playing casually.
I almost got roasted, and he says he was trying to help? There’s a limit to deception. I tried to swallow my irritation and get past this nicely, but the jerk didn’t back off easily.
Mahura: Oh~~ Light user? lol
Mahura: Already married, I see.
Mahura: Friends? lol
Meritocracy: Yeah, something like that lol…
How did he know we’re married? The question was quickly answered. Come to think of it, Kkamamgom had all his info out in the open. Wanting to get out of here, I started thinking of a suitable excuse, but the jerk finally revealed his true intentions.
Mahura: Both girls?
“Ha, this idiot…”
His sleazy intentions were just as expected. Swallowing a deep sigh, I quickly typed.
Meritocracy: lol
Meritocracy: I’m in the reserves.
Mahura: lololol
Mahura: You say that in a game?
Mahura: Your boyfriend told you to? ^^
Meanwhile, the Black Bear stood still, saying nothing. He seemed flustered, poor thing. Then it suddenly hit me. Come to think of it, is the Black Bear a guy or a girl? Not that it mattered either way.
Mahura: No, really, you don’t have to be wary of me lol.
Mahura: I’m not doing this with weird intentions.
Mahura: I don’t even know what you guys look like lol. No reason to be creepy.
Mahura: Just saw your character picks and thought you guys don’t know much about this game.
Mahura: I’m trying to help lol.
While I was lost in thought, the jerk started spewing unprompted nonsense and soon launched into a long lecture about why Dark Bear and Druid are trash characters. Naturally, it was about how their damage coefficients are low, how they’re bad in this and that way… Basically, they have no standout useful skills and deal low damage. I pretended to listen vaguely, then raised my fingers again.
Meritocracy: Oh, I see lol.
Meritocracy: But I picked Druid to enjoy the story.
Meritocracy: We’re planning to party just the two of us mostly.
Meritocracy: So we’re fine lol. Thanks for the concern.
Mahura: Huh lol.
Mahura: Story? lolol Druid story is just melodramatic fluff. Waste of time.
My fingers, about to leave the keyboard, froze. It was an outrageous claim I couldn’t believe my eyes had seen. This lunatic crossed a line.
Meritocracy: …?
Meritocracy: Have you played Druid? lol
Mahura: No? lolol
Mahura: Why would I play a trash character lol.
Meritocracy: You’ve never played it, so how do you know the story’s melodramatic fluff?
Meritocracy: Everyone who knows says the story’s god-tier lol. It was written by Im Jungah.
Mahura: Im Jungah is who?
Ugh… My head throbbed, and I closed my eyes tightly. I’m memorizing this guy’s username. I’ll hit max level again and crush him to bits. I’ll slaughter him over and over until he never dares log in again…
Mahura: lol but honestly, I don’t look at the story while playing.
Mahura: So I don’t know lol.
Whether he said that or not, I had to hold back for now. My lost main character was Asyrus’s greatest Druid, but right now, I’m just a pathetic low-level nobody…
Since the jerk didn’t seem likely to back off easily, it’d be better to log out with the Black Bear and meet up again later. I opened the party window with the Black Bear to set a plan.
I really meant to do that.
Meritocracy: You proud of being a story skipper, you idiot?
But my fingers wouldn’t listen…
Meritocracy: If you’re gonna ignore the story, why play an RPG? Open a Windows window and play Minesweeper. Ascendant instead. You buy an expensive subscription just to skip the story, so you’ve got nothing better to do than harass innocent newbies?
Meritocracy: Anyway, you just spoiled stuff, right? I’m reporting you for interfering with gameplay. Bye.
I fired off the message and quickly hit the screenshot key. Maybe it was my imagination, but it felt like the Black Bear moved at the same time as the shutter sound.
Mahura: ?
Mahura: lol
Mahura: Wow lol unbelievable.
Mahura: Report? lolol OK, I’m reporting you for cursing.
Meritocracy: Go ahead, you moron lololol. If we both get banned, who do you think loses more?
Meritocracy: I just started this yesterday ^^ I can ditch it and start over lol. Got no gear either lol.
That’s how mind games work. The one with more to lose always folds. To hit max level, you need more than just a bit of cash—someone like this aristocratic mage, nicknamed a “pay-to-win lord,” would lose way more than a newborn Druid newbie if both accounts got banned. From the looks of it, he’s sunk a ton of money into cosmetic items (*costume items) too. Guys like him live for strutting around big cities with expensive outfits and fully upgraded weapons, so missing even a day of the game would feel like the world’s collapsing.
Mahura: lolol no…
In a card game, a king can crush a citizen but loses to a slave—that’s the principle here. As I glared triumphantly, the jerk quickly changed his tune.
Mahura: Look, you kinda overreacted too, no?
Mahura: I was just joking…
Mahura: Anyway, if I upset you enough to make you curse, I’m sorry.
Mahura: Just take this for now.
He opened a trade and put up some pocket change and a few low-level potions. He must’ve been pretty desperate.
Mahura: I didn’t outright spoil anything… You can’t report for stuff like this.
Mahura: But my raid team’s aiming for the Iglhaus World First clear.
Mahura: Can’t afford any hiccups.
Mahura: This game’s a mess… The GMs handle stuff so inconsistently ;;
He’s not wrong, but I was annoyed by his attitude—like he had to flex that he’s in some hotshot raid team to feel good about himself—so I canceled the trade. The potions weren’t even that great, so I didn’t need them anyway.
Meritocracy: Got it.
Meritocracy: Just go, we’re trying to play.
Mahura: I’m going ; Just take this.
Meritocracy: I won’t report you, so just go.
After I stood my ground, the jerk finally backed off. I waited until he completely disappeared from the screen, then opened the party window.
Meritocracy: Bear-nim.
Meritocracy: Bear-nim??
Only then did the Black Bear turn his head. Maybe it was my imagination, but it looked like he was blinking his eyes.
Meritocracy: Were you startled?
Kkamamgom: Oh.
Kkamamgom: No, it’s not that.
Kkamamgom: I thought you might know him, so I stayed quiet ^—^;
Meritocracy: I don’t deal with losers like that.
Kkamamgom: What’s a loser?
“…Oh, uh…”
I got heated and let a bad word slip. I shouldn’t be like this with a kid. Pulling myself together, I forced a smile onto my fingertips.
Meritocracy: Oh, typo lol ;
Meritocracy: I meant to say dummy lol.
Kkamamgom: That’s a pretty big typo…
I tried to cool my heated head. Get it together, Shim Haemin. You should be sweet-talking him with kind, gentle words, not this.
Meritocracy: Anyway, sometimes mean kids like that might pick a fight.
Meritocracy: If you can, just ignore them and log out.
Meritocracy: Our levels are so low that if we get PK’d, we’re helpless.
Kkamamgom: But just now, Merry-nim…
Meritocracy: I fought because I could win with words.
Meritocracy: No.
Meritocracy: I mean, I fought because I could outtalk him.
Meritocracy: Don’t do that, Bear-nim lol ;
Kkamamgom: Hmm…
Kkamamgom: Okay lol.
The Black Bear nodded obediently. He listens so well and is pretty cute too. Feeling proud, I was about to continue on our way when he spoke up.
Kkamamgom: By the way, Merry-nim.
Meritocracy: Yes?
Kkamamgom: Do you like Im Jungah?
Meritocracy: Uh… Not like I’m a fan, but she’s a famous writer, so…
Caught off guard by the unexpected question, I reflexively denied it. It’s one of my bad habits. When someone asks if I like something, I automatically say no. Admitting I like someone or something has rarely led to anything good.
Meritocracy: I did enjoy reading her novels lol.
Feeling a bit guilty, I added that petty comment, and the Black Bear nodded again.
Kkamamgom: I see ^^
But does he know Im Jungah too? Is that why he’s playing Dark Bear? Curiosity hit me late, and I quickly grabbed the conversation.
Meritocracy: Do you like Im Jungah, Bear-nim?
Kkamamgom: I enjoyed reading her novels too lol.
Really? I couldn’t help but feel excited. She used to be a famous writer, but time’s passed, and she’s not mentioned much anymore. If only the damn GMs hadn’t made Druid such a trash character, things would’ve been different. If that jerk from earlier had properly experienced the Druid story, he’d be crying tears of awe and joining my email campaign to the publisher, demanding a complete edition of Isea Chronicles…
Meritocracy: Is that why you picked Dark Bear?
Kkamamgom: Dark Bear…
Kkamamgom: Oh, you mean Dark Bear?
Kkamamgom: No, it’s just that this was the only option? —.—;
I nodded, going, “Ahh.” He probably saw Dark Bear as the first option on the character creation screen and thought there were no other choices. Obviously, I didn’t bother explaining that scrolling left or right would reveal other meta classes. I’m not completely guilt-free about it, but with his mechanics, picking a paladin wouldn’t make his game life that much better. Sticking with me to the end is definitely the best for both of us.
Kkamamgom: By the way… Merry-nim.
Kkamamgom: Can I ask something a bit personal?
My fingers, lost in self-justification, paused. What, all of a sudden?
Meritocracy: Uh… If it’s something I can answer, I’ll try.
Kkamamgom: Thank you.
Kkamamgom: How old are you, by the way?
“Age…?”
What am I looking like to this guy for him to phrase it like that? I wondered, then thought, “Oh, right.” If he’s a kid, that makes sense.
Meritocracy: I’m 25 lol.
I figured it’s easier to just be upfront about something like this. But when I saw the Black Bear’s next reply, I nearly choked.
Kkamamgom: I should’ve said first.
Kkamamgom: I’m 22 ^—^
The Black Bear cheerfully raised a front paw. My brain froze for a second at the declaration, which completely clashed with my assumption of him being either an old geezer or a grade-schooler. Wait, he’s 22, and he talks like that…?
Meritocracy: Oh… I see.
My head was blank, so all I could muster was a solemn response. The Black Bear nodded again and asked once more.
Kkamamgom: Can I call you hyung? ^///^)ㅇ
The sudden buddy-buddy vibe hit me like a punch, and I felt like I was choking. He’s always been shamelessly cheerful, but this felt like the distance between us had shrunk way too fast. As usual, I started spouting nonsense to defuse the situation.
Meritocracy: How do you know if I’m a hyung or a noona lol?
Kkamamgom: Because you said you’re in the reserves…? ㅇㅅㅇ?
…Oh. I smacked my forehead, dumbfounded. Somehow, it feels like I’m losing my mind bit by bit.
Kkamamgom: Are you a noona?
Meritocracy: …No! lol I’m a hyung, for real.
Meritocracy: I was just joking lol.
So, the Black Bear is a guy too, huh. And twenty-two… Suddenly, I remembered how I ended up getting into this game. Wasn’t it because I saw a portal ad while messing around with nothing to do after getting discharged?
Meritocracy: Are you a student, Bear-nim?
Isn’t he following the same path? It’s August now, so universities will start next month. Even if we grind non-stop, it’ll take a while to reach Druid tier 10. What if the Black Bear just vanishes once September hits? I was lost in worry when he shook his big head side to side.
Kkamamgom: Oh ^—^;; No, no.
Kkamamgom: I don’t go to school! lol
Meritocracy: Oh.
Then is he working? …But he’s been logged into the game all day for the past few days… Maybe a long-term student studying for exams? That feels too personal to ask… While I was agonizing, the Black Bear remained cheerfully oblivious.
Kkamamgom: Are you a student, Merry-nim?
Meritocracy: Oh lol, yeah.
Kkamamgom: I see ^—^ I’m just at home!
That’s pretty enviable… I just flashed a smile with my character’s face. A twenty-two-year-old who’s neither in school nor working…
Kkamamgom: Anyway, is it okay if I call you hyung? ^///^
Watching the Black Bear twist his shoulders, a sudden suspicion hit me. Could it be… Is he lying about being twenty-two? Maybe he’s actually a grade-schooler? A kid who doesn’t know what people usually do at twenty-two…?
Meritocracy: Sure lol.
Meritocracy: By the way, Bear-nim, have you done your military service?
Kkamamgom: No ㅠ.ㅠ
Kkamamgom: I’m exempt ㅠ.,ㅠ
“Of course you are…”
I clicked my tongue, then let out a dry laugh. Fine, whatever. As long as he does his job as my leveling shuttle, it’s all good.
Meritocracy: Oh, I see lol.
Meritocracy: Let’s finish the tier quest for now lol.
Kkamamgom: Okay, hyung >_<
Kkamamgom: Oh, and.
Kkamamgom: You can talk casually! ^^)ㅇ
Meritocracy: Should I? lol
I answered easily and took the lead, with the Black Bear swaggering behind me. Riolrea is a beginner village, so it’s not big, but without any mounts, it’s a hassle to get around. The dragon I got from defeating Gaius probably vanished with my main character’s data. I had collected all sorts of rare mounts—such a pity…
“…”
Just as I was about to sink into nostalgia, a sharp voice suddenly pierced through my consciousness.
‘Making all the guild members look like idiots, and you’re feeling good about it?’
…Yeah, what’s there to miss? I shook my head to clear the thought and opened the party window.
Meritocracy: Bear-nim.
Meritocracy: No… What should I call you?
Meritocracy: Gom-ie?
Kkamamgom: lolololol
Kkamamgom: Gom-ie >_<)
Man, he’s so cute… At this point, I almost wish he was a grade-schooler. I really don’t want to imagine a twenty-two-year-old guy typing “Gom-ie >_<” on a keyboard.
Meritocracy: lolol Alright… Gom-ah.
Meritocracy: How late can you play today?
Kkamamgom: I just need to log off before 10 PM lol.
Meritocracy: Oh, 10 PM… lol Why? Gotta sleep then?
Kkamamgom: Yup ^—^
I see. A twenty-two-year-old who doesn’t go to school, doesn’t work, is exempt from military service, and has to sleep by 10 PM… I let out a hollow laugh and spun my character around.
Meritocracy: Then once we raise your defense tier.
Meritocracy: Wanna hit that dungeon we went to last time?
Kkamamgom: The one we snuck into with stealth?
Meritocracy: Yup lol.
Kkamamgom: Sure, let’s do it! ^—^
The Black Bear clapped above his head. Man, why does this game have so many overly detailed motions? There must be at least five different ways to clap.
Anyway, it doesn’t matter. As long as I can breeze through my tiers, I’m fine with anything.
🕹️
“…”
Of course, life is never that simple or easy.
Meritocracy: No, you need to use your AOE skill first to grab aggro.
Meritocracy: Then apply the debuff so you can take them all down.
Meritocracy: Hold on, just.
Meritocracy: Just stop.
Meritocracy: Stop ;
The Black Bear, who was decent enough as a tank in the field, started flopping the moment we entered Kamt Mountain, as if all his memory had been reset. He seemed so frazzled he could barely read the chat. Missing counter timings repeatedly, he was surrounded by dozens of bats, getting pummeled pathetically. I frantically cast heals on the Black Bear, whose HP was dangerously low, and sighed heavily.
Meritocracy: Come over here for a sec.
After taking down the swarm of bats one by one with stone throws, I finally managed to drag the dejected Black Bear out. To prevent him from charging off again (not that it’d actually stop him, but for my own peace of mind), I stood in front of him and explained step by step.
Meritocracy: First, you need to use a stun (*knocking out mobs) and then apply the bleeding debuff. That way, your skills won’t get interrupted mid-cast.
This is one of the reasons Shadow Warrior is a trash class. As a race that swings a greatsword, their skill motions are long, and they’re treated as casting skills. On top of that, since it’s a tank that needs to hold aggro, you have to know how to use stun skills effectively. In other words, it requires quite a bit of skill, even if not as much as a Druid.
Kkamamgom: ㅠㅠ
The Black Bear drooped his shoulders, burying his face in his front paws and making a sobbing motion. He must be frustrated too. Worried he might just log off, I quickly started soothing him.
Meritocracy: lol ; Don’t stress.
Meritocracy: You won’t die even if you take a few hits here, so just take it easy.
Kkamamgom: ㅠㅠ Sorry.
Kkamamgom: It worked fine with the rats, but this is weird…
Meritocracy: Everyone’s like that when they start lol.
Meritocracy: When I first came here, I revived at the village 500 times ;
The Black Bear looked up, saying, “Really?” At this point, I wanted to boost his confidence a bit. He doesn’t seem to know the timing for skills, so calling them out might help.
“…”
My eyes naturally drifted to the headset hanging next to my monitor. After a moment’s hesitation, I grabbed it, put it on, and raised my fingers.
Meritocracy: Do you have a Discord ID?
Kkamamgom: What’s Discord? ㅠ.ㅠ
Meritocracy: It’s a voice chat program… I’ll send you a link, so sign up and tell me your ID.
While the Black Bear went quiet, I opened the program window. I’d deleted the old guild server, but my friend list was still there. Tugudung, the cheerful login sound hit, and messages flooded in immediately.
Popuri: OMG Haemin hyung-nim.
Popuri: Are you coming back??
Popuri: Hyung-nim ㅠㅠㅠ
I blocked them without mercy and created a new server. Meanwhile, the Black Bear, faithfully doing as told, raised a front paw excitedly.
Kkamamgom: I made an ID! ^—^)
Meritocracy: Nice, good job.
I muted the endless message notifications and added the Black Bear’s ID. Clearing my throat with a cough, I turned on the mic and spoke.
“Uh… Can you hear me?”
The Black Bear paused, then drew a circle above his head. He had his mic on too, but I couldn’t hear anything. It seemed like his connection wasn’t set up properly.
“In dungeons, this is easier than typing. I’m slow at typing.”
I absolutely didn’t mean it’s because you’re bad at the game or can’t understand instructions. I wasn’t sure if he got that, but he nodded anyway.
Kkamamgom: Your voice is really nice, hyung! ㅇ///ㅇ)
I didn’t ask for this kind of social flattery… Feeling awkward, I changed the subject.
“Wanna turn on your mic too?”
As soon as I asked, I regretted it. Why would he? It’d totally give away that he’s a kid.
Kkamamgom: How do I do that? ㅠ.ㅠ
“Oh… Usually, you plug a headset with a mic into your computer. If you don’t have one, you can download the app on your phone and use earphones.”
I answered casually, not expecting much. But surprisingly, the Black Bear quickly waved a paw and replied.
Kkamamgom: One sec! I’ll grab my earphones ^—^)
While he was gone, a few more messages came in, mostly from old guildmates. Some just sent “??”, while others, like Popuri, were clingy. Blocking them one by one, I started feeling a bit skeptical. Yeah, you guys must be shocked… I’m shocked myself that I’m doing this again.
How did it come to this? Propping my chin on my left hand and frantically moving the mouse, all I could do was sigh. Most of them were people I knew in person. We’d gather at PC bangs near each other, spending days and nights strategizing raids.
Popuri2: Haemin hyung-nim ㅠㅠ
Popuri2: Please unblock me for a sec.
Popuri2: I really want to explain ㅠㅠ You’ve got a lot of misunderstandings.
I blocked Popuri’s newly made second account, and just then, the Black Bear returned. Tugudung, with the cheerful connection sound, I heard the faint noise of his mic turning on.
“Ha…”
Yeah, I’m pathetic. What’s so great about a game that I’m dragging along some clueless kid like this? I must be possessed or something.
“…”
Zzt, the ongoing noise made my mood sink further. If I hear a kid’s voice trying to sound grown-up in this situation, I might really start rethinking my life. Or maybe that’d be the moment I finally delete this trash game without regrets…
―…Hello?
It was then, amid the swirling mess of thoughts, that a smooth, solid voice flowed through.
―Hello.
“…”
―Merry hyung?
I instinctively yanked the headset off. It’s because I’d splurged on an overly high-spec headset for voice chat. It boasted incredible sound quality, especially in the low frequencies. Thanks to that, the resonant voice hitting my ears was so unreal it left me dazed for a moment.
“…What the?”
I muttered dumbly, holding the headset in both hands. For a second, I wondered if I’d dreamed it. While I was at a loss, the party window blinked.
Kkamamgom: ㅠㅠ Hyung, can’t you hear me??
Kkamamgom: Did I mess it up…? ㅠ.ㅠ)A;
Only then did I put the headset back on. I was so startled that the chaotic thoughts in my head had been completely bleached away.
“Sorry, I was… looking at something else.”
The words I stammered out sank and flipped over uselessly. But the guy on the other end didn’t seem to care, speaking in that same incredibly low, smooth voice.
―Oh, can you hear me now?
“…”
The hairs on my ears and cheeks stood on end. I don’t know if this is the right way to put it, but it was a disgustingly attractive voice. It was like the kind of tone you’d hear in a dubbed foreign movie, perfectly suited for a classically handsome guy.
“Are you a voice actor or something?”
I don’t know much, but voice acting isn’t a typical 9-to-5 job, right? If he described that as “just staying at home,” it’d make sense. Spurred by sudden curiosity, I blurted it out, and a puzzled breath came back.
―Me?
He let out a low chuckle. Even his laugh sounds handsome.
“Yeah, your voice is just so nice…”
―Your voice is nicer, hyung.
“…”
At this point, I felt a bit of cognitive dissonance. Is this really the same Black Bear I’ve been exchanging cheesy banter with for days? The one sending all sorts of heart motions and using end-of-the-world emoticons, and he’s a twenty-two-year-old guy with this voice?
―By the way, I’m sorry. I must be frustrating you.
This guy was typing stuff like “1004♥” in game chat?
“…No, it’s not that. I said I’m slow at typing.”
―I’ll do better this time.
I heard the clacking of his keyboard over his determined voice. At the same time, the Black Bear on-screen pounded his chest and stomped his feet.
《‘Kkamamgom’ is filled with resolve!》
I couldn’t help but let out a snort. Man, this is so hard to get used to. To think he was typing all that with this voice.
“Uh… Do you know how to adjust the HUD?”
―What’s a HUD?
“It’s about the types or positions of icons on your screen… If you lock the character motion window, you can use it without typing, which is easier.”
―Oh? How did you know I was typing them?
Good question, how did I know? I held back a laugh, cleared my throat, and said, “Hmm.”
“Anyway, I’ll show you in detail next time we’re looking at the screen. Let’s clear this first.”
―Okay, hyung.
The Black Bear answered sweetly and trotted off. I summoned my basic Kamt Fox and gathered a few mobs.
“I’ll pull them first, so grab aggro and try again.”
―Got it.
His chat was always plastered with exclamation marks and emoticons, giving off a chaotic vibe, but his spoken voice was as calm and steady as a lake that’s never lost a single pebble. Just talking to him felt so pleasant. Somehow, my heart felt endlessly generous. As I took down the bats the Black Bear missed with stone throws, I encouraged him.
“You’re doing great. Just watch your positioning.”
“Save the finishing blow for later.”
“Yeah, that’s it. If you time the skills right, you’ll get them.”
“Face forward when you use it. No, don’t worry. The game’s skill range is garbage, that’s the problem.”
Honestly, I wasn’t even mad. Part of it was his nice voice, sure, but I brought this complete newbie along to leech off him in the first place. Getting annoyed that he’s not moving like my personal minion would make me the trash.
―Hoo…
But he seemed frustrated with himself. As he watched me focus on stone-throwing, the Black Bear let out a low sigh. He probably tried to muffle it, but my headset’s quality was just too good.
“Wanna take a break if it’s tough?”
―Oh, no, it’s not that… I just feel bad for you, hyung.
“You don’t need to feel bad at all. I told you, everyone’s like this when they start.”
―Okay…
His voice was so dejected it tugged at my heart. As soon as I finished off the last bat, I sent him a comforting motion.
“You said this is your first RPG, right? You’re doing amazing for that. Seriously.”
―Thanks. Still, I should practice more before we play together.
“Yeah, but you don’t need to rush… Wait, what did you say?”
I reflexively asked, dumbfounded. Did I hear that wrong? But the Black Bear continued in a much more relaxed tone, as if it was no big deal.
―Should we set a schedule first? I can play whenever it’s convenient for you.
It doesn’t seem like I misunderstood his casual remark. Why is it just assumed we’re meeting up? After a moment’s thought, I decided to ask directly.
“Uh… Wait, are we meeting?”
―Huh?
“Did we talk about that…?”
―You said you’d teach me while looking at the screen…
“…”
A hint of confusion finally crept into the Black Bear’s voice. I did say that, sure. I meant using a screen-sharing program, but now that I think about it, it could’ve been misinterpreted.
“Oh, oh— I meant we can do that without meeting.”
―That’s what you meant?
“Yeah. I thought you meant something else.”
―I see. So we’re not meeting…
Click, with the sound of his keyboard, the Black Bear lowered a front paw and bowed his head. It was the “disappointed” motion. Should I call this being overly friendly…? We’ve barely known each other, and he already wants to meet in person.
“No, I didn’t mean we’d never meet… Just that I wasn’t talking about that earlier…”
Now that I think about it, meeting up for an hour or two to teach him might actually help him improve faster. The only thing that bothers me is…
“…Where do you live?”
It already feels too good as it is…
―I live in Seoul. Yeonhui-dong.
He was ridiculously close to my place. Feeling a bit flustered, I tried to change the subject.
“What if I lived far away? Were you just gonna meet up anyway?”
―As long as it’s not overseas, it doesn’t matter. I’m free, so I can just come to you.
“…”
―Where do you live, hyung?
I shut my mouth for a moment and scratched the back of my neck. Things seem to be heading in an unexpected direction.
“I… Uh… My family’s in Seongnam, but…”
―Seongnam in Gyeonggi-do?
“Yeah, but, uh… My apartment’s in Sinchon.”
―Sinchon… Like, Changcheon-dong?
It was so close to the next neighborhood over that admitting it felt embarrassing. It might even be walking distance. As I hesitated, struggling to find words, he let out a low chuckle.
―We might’ve already run into each other.
“…”
His tone was so smooth and sweet it almost felt unnecessary. With a voice and manner like that, doesn’t he get misunderstood a lot? My mouth felt dry.
―Are you at your apartment right now?
I almost said yes without thinking but swallowed hard. Is he about to suggest meeting today? The image of myself, holed up for three months working on my thesis, flashed through my mind. I hadn’t even gotten a haircut in ages. I’d need to at least look human to meet someone.
“…Oh, I’m at my family’s place today. Probably heading back around the weekend.”
―Got it. Wanna meet up over the weekend then?
“…”
―If you’re free, hyung.
My throat burned, and my mouth felt parched. I felt like I’d been roped into something, but it was too late to back out now.
“…Sure.”
With my reluctant reply, the Black Bear on the monitor broke into a joyful dance.
🕹️
At exactly 10 PM, the Black Bear said his goodbyes like clockwork and vanished. Left alone, I first took care of the remaining monsters in Kamt Mountain and collected a fresh sprout. I also had to do the daily beginner quests before midnight. No matter what’s going on, I can’t neglect my game life because of real life. Someone like that doesn’t deserve to be a Druid in the Copy Ban.
Heading back to Riolrea to find the daily quest NPC, I heard a faint messenger notification from the headset I’d taken off. Thinking it might be the Black Bear, I opened the messenger window, only to scrunch my face in annoyance.
Popuri5423: Hyung-nimmm
Popuri5423: Please answer meee
God, what a persistent guy… The absurdly high number on his username was almost funny. Even when we were in the same guild, his clinginess annoyed me, but talking to him was amusing enough. It seemed like this would keep happening until I ditched this account.
Haemin: — — Stop it already.
Haemin: What’s your deal?
Popuri5423: Hyung-nim!!!!
Popuri5423: You finally answered!!
Popuri replied dramatically and sent a flashy image. It was a scene from a historical drama with an actor sitting under a light snowfall.
Popuri5423: Are you coming back, hyung-nim?
Haemin: You think I would?
Haemin: I just logged in for a bit to use voice chat.
Popuri5423: Don’t do that, come back ㅠ
Popuri5423: Seriously, it’s been so boring since you left ;
Haemin: I don’t play anymore, so stop messaging me.
It’s convenient how easily I can lie with my fingers without blinking. I was about to block him when urgent messages popped up.
Popuri5423: Hyung-nim, I’m serious.
Popuri5423: Like, really serious.
Popuri5423: I swear I didn’t mean to screw you over or hold any bad feelings.
Popuri5423: I want to explain that properly. Can you hear me out just once?
Haemin: Nope.
Popuri5423: ㅠㅠ Please.
Then, out of nowhere, a voice channel opened. I wanted to ignore it without hesitation, but this guy wasn’t someone that’d work on. Sighing deeply, I put the headset back on.
“You’ve got five minutes.”
―Oh, damn, then I’ll skip the preamble and get straight to it.
Popuri spat out without pausing for breath. I used to think his voice was nice, but it’s nothing compared to the Black Bear’s. I was tired, and my mind was a mess. I closed my eyes and leaned back in my chair.
―First off, hyung-nim, I never badmouthed you during the Gaius thing. You know that, right?
“…”
―The stuff I said about you… It’s because the guild master brought it up so casually to me. So I thought I was the only one who didn’t know…
“If you’re gonna explain, don’t beat around the bush. Say exactly what it was.”
He went silent for a moment, then let out a self-reproaching groan.
―So, like… I did tell the others that you… like guys…
“…”
―I know I messed up, but I’m trying to say it wasn’t out of malice. The reason I brought it up was because Yongju—you know him—was saying nonsense about you hitting on his girlfriend, and I was trying to say there’s no way that’d happen…
“Who’s Yongju?”
―‘Freshian.’ The mage.
I don’t know who that is… Our guild was massive, with over a hundred concurrent players at its peak, so I couldn’t keep track of everyone beyond the regulars. Whether I followed or not, he started talking faster.
―I heard it from the guild master too. He just dropped it out of nowhere, super casually, like, ‘Haemin likes guys.’ So I was like, damn, did I miss the memo on some progressive new world? I thought it was cool to just talk about that stuff openly.
“…”
―I swear, I never thought of you differently because of it, and I didn’t tell the others to mess with you. Honest.
I let out a sigh. It’s not that I don’t believe him. Even back then, I didn’t think he did it with bad intentions. The guy who deserved a beating was someone else.
But does intent matter in something like this? What matters is how screwed over I got as a result.
“That it?”
―Hyung-nim…
“I get it. I understand what you’re saying. Happy now?”
―No, you still don’t see my sincerity. Hyung-nim, if you want, I can be gay for you.
Is this guy actually insane? I pressed my lips shut to keep from bursting and managed to say seriously, “Dude, that’s creepy.”
―You know why? Because you’re stupidly handsome and a god-tier player.
“You’re not my type.”
―But I’m a god-tier player, right? Popuri’s the god of DPS.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t deny that. This guy was the kind who never lost the global server’s top DPS (*damage per second: average damage dealt per second) spot. He wasn’t the type to leech off party members to boost his own numbers either. His raw skill was so good he’d claimed nearly every solo-play hard-content title.
―If you’re not playing ApPo, what are you up to? I’ll follow you.
“I told you a million times, I don’t play games.”
―Don’t say that. Call me whenever you need me, okay?
I don’t need him now, but if the Black Bear or I hit high levels, he’d definitely be useful. Sensing my hesitation, he got even more excited.
―After you left, the guild master totally lost it. Iglhaus is coming up soon, and the raid team’s a complete mess. I’m getting tons of scout offers from other teams, but I’m holding off in case you come back.
“You think I’d go back there?”
―No, I’m not saying come back here. I mean, if you start a new guild or something, I want to join. A lot of us feel that way. I’m just speaking for them.
“Enough. Five minutes are up, I’m done.”
―Hyung-nim, wait…
I blocked his ID and shut down the messenger entirely. Thankfully, I hadn’t shared my personal number. JangDdo was the exception.
“…”
The chaos from three months ago came rushing back, leaving a bitter taste. As long as JangDdo, the guild master, was around, that kind of talk was bound to spread. Popuri just played the role of a megaphone.
“Tch…”
It’s obvious why JangDdo let it slip. He always wanted to be in that position over me: “The guy who lets a trash class like Druid into the party.” Spreading stuff about my orientation was likely the same deal. “He’s a weird guy who likes guys, but I’m open-minded and treat him like a friend.”
Sometimes, people hurt others over the pettiest vanity.
I set the headset down and rubbed my face. I started regretting agreeing to meet the Black Bear. I wanted to hold onto the good vibes from just talking to him. I think I let things get too close too fast.
I touched my prickly eyes and licked my dry lips. Whatever, it’s not a big deal. His voice might be amazing, but for balance’s sake, the rest of him is probably average. We’ll just awkwardly say hi, talk about the game at a PC bang, and part ways. That’s it.
…Still, I should get a haircut. I brushed back the bangs poking my eyes and stood up. My swirling thoughts were a mess.
“Ugh…”
There was one more unexpected problem.
“What the hell did I even wear last year…?”
It made sense that I couldn’t remember. Around this time last year, I was living for nothing but the game. Outside of eating, sleeping, and working out, it was all gaming. Why did I work out? To build stamina for gaming.
As a result, my closet was full of worn-out T-shirts tossed in the dryer, and I couldn’t find a single clean outfit suitable for this season.
“I guess I need to buy some clothes…”
I scratched my sideburns, found a T-shirt with an unstretched collar, and left the house. The heat had eased, and the days were getting cooler, but after three months of seclusion, summer still felt foreign.
“Ha…”
Thinking about it made me bitter again. Of all days, I noticed the PC bang I used to frequent. Back when I was obsessed, I practically lived there. When guildmates who lived nearby came over, we’d take up a whole row and play together.
It was so fun back then, strategizing raids while joking around. How did it end up like this? Right, it started when JangDdo went off the rails.
JangDdo, real name Jang Kitae, was a classmate from undergrad. Two years older than me, he was quiet, reserved, and barely showed up to department events, so we hardly spoke. Rumor was he was super into the gaming club.
Up until then, I’d mostly played FPS (*first-person shooter) or MOBA (*field battle games), so I didn’t know much about full-on MMORPGs (*online role-playing games). I only approached JangDdo for that reason.
“Hey, do you play RPGs?”
His eyes lit up behind his glasses, and he launched into a rant about the history and tradition of Korean RPGs. After humoring him, I brought up ApPo, and he practically jumped, clapping his hands.
“You play ApPo? Join our guild!”
Apparently, he was a beta tester or something. The guild had been around since launch, with dozens of max-level members and first-clear titles for every new raid. It sounded intimidatingly huge.
“I’m mostly interested in the class stories, so I probably won’t play too seriously… Is that okay?”
“Of course it’s okay. We’ve got plenty of light players. Which class?”
“Druid and Shadow Warrior.”
For the first time, the smile vanished from JangDdo’s face. It wasn’t my imagination.
“Uh… You’re not interested in anything else?”
“Nope, just those for now…?”
“Hmm… Well, whatever. I can carry you through leveling, so it’s fine. Wanna hit the PC bang later?”
Later, when he was drunk and his tongue was loose, JangDdo bragged arrogantly. —Dude, I only let you in because it was you. If anyone else tried to pull that Druid crap, I’d have laughed in their face.
Tragically, that was true. Unless you knew someone, no party would take a Druid. It didn’t matter how much I contributed. I never even got the chance to show it.
“I don’t get people who pick trash classes in team-play games. Are they trying to say it’s not their fault their DPS is low, it’s the class? But if you’re bad, shouldn’t you avoid those classes even more? They’re just attention-seekers.”
…Now that I think about it, he wasn’t gradually losing it—he was never normal to begin with. The past was starting to weigh on my chest. Even when we were having fun, things always went that way once alcohol was involved. JangDdo would suddenly take shots at me, others would glance at me awkwardly, and then he’d raise his voice out of nowhere…
“No, not Haemin! Haemin’s good, so it’s fine!”
And so, I became “the attention-seeking weirdo who picks a trash class in a team game but isn’t quite a burden.” That’s about how it went.
That’s why I dragged a failing party through and cleared it solo. I knew how obsessed JangDdo and the raid team were with “first clear” titles. I thought getting that damn title, no matter what it took, was for the party’s sake, and that they’d appreciate the effort.
Humans can be so stupid…
“Long time no see, sir.”
As I stepped into the salon, the woman at the counter grinned. Her tone was polite and kind, but her expression was full of mischief. I caught the gown she tossed me and narrowed my eyes.
“What’s up…?”
“What’s up? My deadbeat daughter said she’s not feeding me for free, so I’m filling in for her part-time.”
Soojung tied the gown’s belt tightly with a cheeky smile. Oh, that’s the situation. As fellow humanities majors, I couldn’t hide my sympathy and just nodded.
“You didn’t show up for so long, I thought you betrayed us. Turns out you were just living as a shut-in? What’s with your hair?”
“Is it bad?”
“It’s covering your whole face. All our Haemin’s got is his face.”
“That’s all I’ve got?”
“No? Don’t you have a master’s too?”
“…Let’s say it’s just my face.”
Soojung chuckled and led me to a seat inside. With the cape on, I looked in the big mirror and saw it was worse than I thought. My frizzy, overgrown curls were sticking out everywhere.
“Our handsome guy’s here? Hang on a sec.”
The owner—Soojung’s mom—was styling another customer’s hair and greeted me warmly. I replied with a “Yes, ma’am” and leaned back, feeling drained. It’d been so long since I talked to anyone that even a few words left my throat hoarse. Soojung, sitting nearby with a sly grin, suddenly jabbed at me.
“How’s the thesis going?”
“Ugh… I should’ve betrayed you. Why’d I come?”
“What, hitting a wall? You went radio silent, so I thought you were grinding hard.”
Fair enough, most people probably thought that. But I knew they wouldn’t understand if I said I was sulking over my game life, so I just shook my head.
“I’m trying, but it’s not going as planned.”
“That’s life, isn’t it? My mom says she sees red every time she looks at me now. She bragged to the whole neighborhood about sending me to a top university, but all she got was a freeloader.”
“Why not go to grad school instead of being jobless?”
“Why would I do that? I love myself even as a freeloader.”
Chatting like that, my turn came up quickly. As the snipped hair fell to the floor, the face in the mirror got cleaner.
“Wow, so handsome. Why doesn’t our pretty boy become a celebrity?”
The owner, who’d trimmed my hair to a neat length and added a stylish set, said with satisfaction. I heard Soojung scoff from the side.
“Say your daughter’s pretty for once.”
“I worked my butt off to get you through college, and all you do is loaf around eating my food. You think that looks pretty?”
“I just eat your food. He’s eating up grad school tuition too.”
“That’s eating? He’s getting a master’s!”
“Why do you always fight with me in the middle?”
It was a familiar routine, so I quietly pulled out my card. The owner roared at her only daughter but still swiped the card and handed me a receipt with precision.
“Oh, wait, wait. Handsome, take a picture before you go. For our Instagram.”
“Haemin doesn’t want his picture posted. He says he gets too many DMs.”
“Just blur his face!”
I got dragged into taking photos from every angle before I could escape. Soojung followed me down to the first floor and tilted her head.
“You sure nothing’s going on?”
She’d probably been wanting to ask this whole time. I shook my head and forced a smile.
“Check the group chat. The gang’s planning to meet up soon.”
“Oh, I will.”
“If you need help with anything, let me know.”
“Wanna write my thesis for me?”
“See ya.”
She waved without hesitation, and as I watched her walk away, I let out a dry laugh. I felt a bit lighter. I’d been neglecting real life too much. It was time to reconnect a little. Of course, I shouldn’t let real life derail my game life—that’d be putting the cart before the horse.
After dropping off my new clothes at the cleaners and showering, I turned on the computer. Two days remained until I was set to meet the Black Bear. I logged in quickly, hoping he’d be online, but he wasn’t there.
Running late today? I leveled solo while waiting, but even as midnight approached, there was no sign of him. I thought I was used to solo play, but it hadn’t been that long since I got a party member, and I was already bored. Come on, why didn’t he log in without saying anything? Doesn’t he think about the guy waiting?
More importantly, I need him to raise my tiers. If I use the Black Bear right, I could clear a tier 1 quest in a single day. Knowing that, I had zero motivation to grind alone.
Unable to beat the boredom, I shut the game off. Now what? As I pondered, my eyes fell on the thesis draft I’d pulled out. I looked away and flopped onto my bed. A thought hit me when I picked up my phone.