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"Why are we here again?" Goo Kim stuck out his tongue as he plopped down on your bed.

Chungcheong province. Although it brimmed with culture, it was no tourist destination like Jeju.

"One of my students mentioned having family here. I got curious so I looked it up and it seemed fun."

"Emphasis on seemed—ow!"

Gun threw a slipper at him.

"Sorry guys, I know wanted something more exciting." You figured that you've had enough excitement for the year, and you expected more to come, but at least for Thanksgiving, you wanted some peace and quiet.

"Nonsense," Gun said. "I like the atmosphere. It's a nice break from the noise in the city."

You smiled, wondering if he was just saying that to make you feel better.

You grabbed your purse and put on a sun hat. "I'm still carsick so I'm gonna get some fresh air."

"Don't forget your sunscreen."

"I touched up earlier."

"Take care, nee-san, and be back before sunset."

You nodded and closed the door behind you.

Goo cocked an eyebrow. "You're not going with her."

"I know when my sister needs space."

"Do you?"

"You didn't have to come with us. Go to Busan or something."

"Nah. It's no fun when you're not there."

"Gross."

Ignoring Gun's comment, Goo rolled over on your bed. "Besides, she personally invited me, so how can I refuse?"

You can't recall the last time you were able to breathe in pollution-free air. Instead of high-rise condos and glass restaurants, there were rice paddies everywhere.

You were going to thank Daniel—

"Noona?"

You blinked to make sure you weren't hallucinating.

Little Daniel Park, dressed in a black turtleneck and jeans, was standing in front of you.

"Miss nurse, what are you doing here?"

"Hi Daniel! I didn't expect to run into you during my visit." How small was this town? "I'm here with my brother and his friend."

"I can't believe you came after I told you how boring it is here."

"I don't dislike boring."

Just as you uttered these words, several men in white shirts and identical dark green overalls appeared out of nowhere, surrounding you and Daniel.

"Boss never said anything about a woman," one of them said.

"Doesn't matter. Let's take both of them."

Daniel tensed up, but you were oddly at peace. As rude as it was to say, you could tell these guys were NPCs.

In less than five minutes, you were proven right when Daniel took them down, all while protecting you.

"Noona, are you okay?!"

"Yeah. Can't say the same for these guys…" Landing on their skulls must've hurt. You went over each body to check for their pulse. Luckily, no one was dead.

"How 'bout you, kid? No injuries?"

"I'm fine."

You looked for someone who wasn't unconscious and then slapped him across the face, shocking Daniel.

"What?"

"Oh, it's just… you always told us that violence isn't the answer."

"That goes out the window when strange men strike you first. You can't get arrested from self-defense." You glared at your barely conscious would-be kidnapper. You slapped him again. "Who sent you? Why did you attack us?"

"W-we were just following orders!"

"Clearly. Who sent you? Where are they?"

Hmm… the more you talked, the more you can't shake the feeling that you've seen this scenario play out before.

You repeated: "Who sent you? I've got pepper spray in my purse and it stings like a—"

"On the mountain! The man who sent us… he lives on the mountain behind town."

Suddenly, his phone started ringing. You picked it up, gestured Daniel to stay quiet and then answered, "Speak."

The caller was quiet for a beat, then he asked, "Who is this?"

"You're the one calling us. More importantly, how dare you go after a minor?"

"Hey, lady, what the hell's your problem?"

"My problem? How dare you go after people without even knowing their names! Tell your boss—because I know someone like you can't possibly be in charge—tell your boss that we'll be waiting for him at the police station, and don't even think about sending more people after us."

"You're in no place to make dem—"

Beep.

You hung up. "Let's go Daniel. Do you know where the police station is?"

"Yes, it's that way—hold on, noona. Wait."

"Hm?"

"Um…" He didn't know where to start. You were way too calm about this! "Are we really going to the police station? What about the mountain behind town?"

"You can't believe everything people tell you, Daniel."

"Then…"

"Their big boss is going to be at the police station, trust me. Let's go."

The only reason you were this confident was because of that voice; it was Jihan Kwak, the youngest brother of Jichang Kwak. Hearing him made you remember several events from the original plot:

After Gitae Kim dethroned Jichang Kwak as the King of Seoul, Jichang went to Chungcheong, where James Lee defeated him. Crushed by his losses, Jichang retired as a King and became a police officer. For whatever reason, he was devoted to helping Bakgu Noh, Gapryong Kim's former driver.

If real life were to follow the plot, both Jichang Kwak and Bakgu Noh will die at the hands of Charles Choi.

You didn't put much effort in changing the story. Yes, you made choices and associated with the characters, but it wasn't out of some grand reason like "to save the world." You weren't naive. You were selfish.

And you were a hypocrite.

"Daniel."

"Yes, noona?"

"I didn't get to thank you for protecting me."

"You don't have to! It's only natural and… I wasn't able to stop that shovel from hitting you. A-are you sure you're okay?"

"I'm fine, it's just a scratch."

"Okay…"

"To think that the meek boy at the cashier turned out to be a great fighter. Were you afraid?"

"Actually, yeah… I can fight them, but it's always scary. I don't want to hurt anyone."

"Your mom must be so proud to have raised a good kid."

"O-oh… thank you, noona."

"I can't throw people around like you can, but I will do my best to help you." You patted his head, causing him to blush. "Leave this one to the adults."

Daniel explained what happened to you: earlier today, he went and asked the police for the whereabouts of a man named Jinyeong Park, which matched what happened in the manhwa.

"Who's Jinyeong Park?"

"I'm not sure myself."

"Do you have his picture? Maybe I know him."

"Here."

"Jinyeong Park… you look just like him."

Daniel looked offended. "I—"

"And no wonder his name sounded familiar…"

"You mean…?"

"I've met him a few times when I was still in school."

"Really!? Please tell me what you know, please, noona!" He grabbed your arms. "Please!"

You stayed calm even when his grip began to hurt. "I will, Daniel."

Your composure snapped him out of his desperation and he let go.

"I'm sorry…"

"It's all right. Come on, let's talk while we walk."

"How do you know Jinyeong Park? What kind of man is he?"

"I don't know him know him. It just so happened that he was a good friend of the man who paid for my education. When we first met, he was a cheerful man. He gave me snacks and talked to me like I was his friend's daughter."

You smiled at Daniel's confused expression.

"My mother died when I was a baby and I never even spoke with my father. I don't know if he's alive."

"I…I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's okay." There was no point in mourning what you never had. "Anyway, Jinyeong Park was a licensed pharmacist, but he was also studying to be a doctor. He was kind and intelligent, he didn't look down on me even though I was young. He told me to come to him if I ever struggled with my studies."

"Did you?"

"Please, who do you think you're talking to?" You joked. "Anyway, I got busy with my own life and never saw him again, but from what I've heard he's not well."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm unsure about the details myself, but after the death of his friends, Gapryong Kim and Baekho Kwon, he struggled with grief and he is not the same man he used to be. One more thing, like many of peers, Jinyeong Park was—is a talented fighter. I don't know why you're looking for him, but I thought I should warn you. Don't engage him unless you absolutely have to. Fighters from his era are complete beasts. You'll only get hurt."

Daniel's brows arched higher with every sentence. It was like he didn't expect so much information from you.

"Did that help you?"

"Yeah, a lot, actually. Everyone keeps talking in riddles—or they don't talk at all. Mom says she doesn't want me to know so that I'll be safe, and I get that but…" He sighed. "You're the only one who's been straightforward with me. Thank you, noona."

"Don't sweat it. Anyway, we're here."

The police officer who told Daniel that they had no records of Jinyeong Park, the true boss of Chungcheong, and the man who used to warm your bed—

Jichang Kwak stood in front of the police station, his viper eyes were wide as they stared at you.

"I knew it." Daniel glared. "I thought it was suspicious that I was attacked right after our conversation. You even dragged an innocent woman into this—"

You didn't hesitate to approach him.

"Noona, he's dangerous!"

You were close enough to hug each other.

Jichang's eyes tracked your every movement. His mouth remained open, but he didn't utter a single word.

You traced the side of his face. "I'm just as surprised, you know. I didn't come here expecting to see you—I didn't know you were even here."

Daniel: ∘ ∘ ∘ ( °ヮ° ) ?

"Jichang, you once told me that you don't believe in destiny—" in your past life, you were the same "—so if fate isn't real, then what should we call this?"

"…"

You laughed lightly and then shifted your attention to his glasses. "You changed them. I like this pair, makes you look—"

He grabbed your wrist. "Why are you here? And why are you with him?"

"…I'm visiting for the holidays."

"You don't have family in Chungcheong."

"Jeju is too expensive, especially during vacation."

"Who is that brat?"

"That's Daniel Park. He's a student at the high school where I work."

"High school?"

"I'm a school nurse now."

His grip loosened but he was still holding you.

"But that's not important—Jichang, I think there's been a misunderstanding. Daniel's a good kid. He's looking for Jinyeong Park to find answers, not to hurt him."

"Even if it's you, I can't risk it."

"Well, I'm not going to let you take my student."

"Don't get involved, bee."

Your heart ached at his old pet name for you. "He's just a kid, Ji."

Instead of answering, Jichang brushed your forehead. "You're injured."

"You're overreacting. It's literally a flesh wound."

"It could scar."

"So? I'd still be a hottie."

He chuckled.

Daniel stood there, more befuddled than anything else, but he couldn't bring himself to get in between whatever was happening.

Fortunately for him, the senior he encountered on his way here had arrived and broke through the tension. "My, this is quite the twist."

Jichang bowed. "Sir."

"I came back here expecting you to have destroyed the property while fighting this kid over here, but I didn't expect to see you here, young miss."

Jichang looked at you. "Young miss?"

You greeted him with a bow. "Long time no see, Mr. Noh."

"I've always told you to drop the honorifics, young miss."

"And you should that I've always been stubborn."

"That's true." Bakgu Noh turned to Jichang. "We made a mistake attacking that boy, Jichang. He wasn't sent by Charles Choi. I rushed here because I realized too late… this kid here looks just like Jinyeong Park. We even dragged the young miss into all this. I apologize."

He bowed and you waved your hands awkwardly.

"It's okay. Daniel and I managed to survive. I just hope you got your guys to the ER."

"Don't worry about them," Jichang said.

Bakgu Noh nodded. He crossed his arms behind him. "We have more pressing matters to attend to. Daniel Park, was it? I'll tell you about Jinyeong Park. Let's head inside. You too, miss."

"Are you sure?"

"This involves Boss Gapryong's murder. I know that you weren't fond of him the way he was with you but I thought you'd like to know."

"…all right."

Jichang wanted to protest, but he held himself back. For your own safety, you should stay away from all this. However, a part of him yearned to stay by your side a little longer.

Inside the station, Mr. Bakgu Noh shared pretty much everything you already knew. He was on the run from Charles Choi and, with Jichang's help, has been gathering evidence against Charles.

You weren't familiar with Charles Choi in this life. He was no longer part of the Fist Gang by the time Gapryong Kim found you.

"Are you okay?" Jichang asked, snapping you out of your daze. "I know this is a lot to take in."

"No—I mean, yes…" You stared at your reflection on the teacup.

"Don't worry, young miss. We already have the evidence and Jichang has a contact in Seoul who agreed to release it. Boss Kim and Baekho-nim will finally be at peace."

If the events were to follow the original timeline, then tonight, both Jichang Kwak and Bakgu Noh will be murdered.

"Noona, are you okay? You look sick."

"Bee?"

You composed yourself and asked, "When do you plan on sending the evidence?"

"Tonight," Bakgu answered truthfully, "it all ends tonight."

You put down your cup. "I think you should wait."

"What?"

"Mr. Noh, I understand that you want justice for Gapryong-nim, but it can't be tonight. Jichang, you said you have a contact in the media, right? How sure are you that they're not in Charles Choi's pocket?"

"Young Miss, I've kept the Boss waiting long enough. We—"

"You can't beat Charles Choi right now!"

Those panels of Jichang's dying body flashed before you. It was silly. They were two-dimensional cartoons and yet…

"What's wrong?"

"N-noona?"

You clutched your heart.

"Ji—" you gasped "—Ji, you can't—don't let him—"

The world spun around you.

You slammed a hand on the table, toppling your teacup. It shattered on the floor. You were having a panic attack. How funny. You haven't had one in years, but the day you reunite with Jichang, you get one immediately.

You were going to throw up—unless you passed out first.

Jichang was kneeling beside you. You seized his collar.

"Focus on breathing for me, okay, sweetheart?"

You tried to nod.

"What color are my eyes?"

"G-gray—"

"What's the shape of my frames?"

"Circle…"

He asked you a few more questions, grounding you. 

You leaned into his chest as you caught your breath.

Once he was sure that you've calmed down, Jichang turned to Bakgu. "Sir, maybe we should postpone it."

There was a knock at the door and another officer informed them, "There are two men here." They were looking for you.

"That's my brother and his friend." You sent them a text that you'll be out longer. Gun must have grown impatient and used your phone's GPS locator to find you.

When Gun stepped inside, Daniel's eyes widened.

"Hyungnim?"

"Daniel Park."

"Goo Kim?!"

"Do we know each other?"

While Daniel processed what was happening, Bakgu coughed at the sight of Gun.

"It's you…" Bakgu was right beside Boss Gapryong when he brought the Yamazaki boy to his favorite gukbap shop. "You've gotten taller than the last time we saw each other."

Gun, who was surprised to see him, replied, "You've gotten way older."

"Gun," you warned.

But Bakgu didn't seem offended. Instead, he laughed. "This is the third time I've met a ghost from the past today. Am I going to die soon?"

The air suddenly became chilly.

"Don't say that, sir," Jichang said.

You leaned closer to Jichang, who drew soothing circles on your back. The gesture was too quick—too instinctive and soft and intimate, causing both Gun and Goo to grind their teeth.

Gun walked up to you, still in Jichang's arms, and you straightened your back. "This is—"

"I'm Jichang Kwak." 

Your brother glared at his hand like a wary dog.

"Gun, be nice. Jichang is… he's very important to me."

Daniel almost let out an undignified sound—his teacher has always been odd-tempered, and based on his face, he looked ready to kill Jichang Kwak.

However, just Gun clicked his tongue and reluctantly shook hands.

"…a pleasure," he mumbled. Then, he opened his arms, "I'll take my sister now."

Daniel: ( ꩜ ᯅ ꩜;) 

"That won't be necessary." You pulled away from Jichang completely and rose to your feet.  

To keep up the facade, you proceeded to act confused. "I didn't know you Mr. Noh."

"I'll tell you about it at the lodge." Gun grabbed your hand. "Let's go, nee-san."

Goo was already wearing your purse.

"Wait—Ji—" you sent him a look of concern. 

"We'll be fine, bee. I promise."

You can't fight Charles Choi! 

"Let's go, angel," Goo pushed your back. "We left the car running."

Jichang gave you a nod and you silently followed your companions out the station.

"Who was that asshole?" Gun buckled your seatbelt for you.

"He's not an asshole!" you retorted. "He's sweet and lovely and I really wish you would stop being so overprotective."

Gun, reeling from your outburst, stayed quiet. Goo, who opted to sit with you in the back instead of his usual place in the passenger seat, hurriedly asked, "I've never heard you talk about anyone like that before. Just who is that guy?"

"He's my ex…" you trailed off. 

"Ex-boyfriend?"

You didn't say anything. Jichang was never your boyfriend, but you didn't feel comfortable admitting that he was a former fuck buddy.

"He has always been kind to me so don't insult him." He could have been a cold asshole today and you wouldn't blame him. "And while we're at it, be nice to Mr. Noh. He was there for me when I arrived in this country."

Gun already knew your past with Gapryong Kim, but you wanted to remind him that there were other people who helped you out.

You crossed your arms. "Can we please go now?"

Gun double-checked your belt, closed your door and went to the driver's seat.

He started the car and met Goo Kim's gaze on the rearview mirror.

Two days ago…

Charles Choi addressed his two bodyguards. "You're both going to Chungcheong? Why?"

Goo replied, "Why ask why when the more delicious question is 'why not?' Besides, you don't really need to know what we do on our free time, do you, boss?"

Despite his usual playful smile, Goo was sending out a warning. His loyalty to Choi was shaky at best, held together only by their mutual devotion to money. 

"That's true. I shouldn't be prying, nowhere in our agreement does it stipulate that you need to report everything you do to me. What's important is you do your jobs when I asked."

"I feel like you're about to ask us to do something for you."

Charles placed a photo on his desk. "I need you to tie up some loose ends for me."

"Is this another Pre-Generation retiree?"

"Bakgu Noh. I know that he's been gathering dirt to take me down. When you reach the countryside, get rid of him and bring me back all the evidence."

To be continued...

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Disclaimer: The images used are screencaptures from Ep. 434, 440, 441, 247, 292 & 425 - Lookism, Webtoon.

My Baby Brother is the Strongest Character Masterlist

I love that they all look so alike as kids that this little guy can be any of the Yamazaki men. It can even be Baby Yamazaki-Kim (mommy's not dead, she's just out with friends).

Infuriated, she picked a cup of tea from a random table and tried to douse him, but you and Minseon emerged from the kitchen with neatly folded towels.

"I'm so sorry for his behavior," you said, walking over to the girl. "You guys have been planning for this since last weekend, right? I heard you were going to watch that American movie."

The young woman bit her lip. "It was our first official date and I even woke up early to get ready…"

"I can tell." You gently took the cup from her and put it back on the table. "Gapryong told me you were pretty but you're way more gorgeous than he described."

"R-really?"

"Oh, yeah, he talks about you all the time."

Gapryong tilted his head. "No, I don—mmf!"

Baekho covered his mout and you were free to continue.

"He's still too immature to appreciate a lady like you, so I hope you can forgive him just this once. Why don't you two have a meal right now? My treat."—

"Mmphf! MMPH!"

—"Thank you."

"And here—" you gave her the towel "—dry those tears or you'll ruin your makeup."

"Thank you…" she repeated with a sniff. "You're very nice."

You smiled.

"I can see why Gapryong is so obsessed with you."

"He's just attached to me since we've only had each other for so long, but don't worry, despite his irresponsible behavior today, he's a good man." You then whispered, "If he does this again, tell me and I'll beat him up for you."

She giggled. "I appreciate the offer, but… I think I should go. I've caused the restaurant a lot of trouble already."

She gazed at Gapryong, who was desperately fighting against Baekho's grasp. She said his name and he briefly stopped.

The young woman stared at him, then glanced at you, then back at him.

"You're an idiot," she scoffed.

Her heels clacked against the ceramic floor. Once she was finally gone, the restaurant erupted into a mix of laughter and groaning.

"Who said five days?"

"Dammit, there goes my salary!"

The regulars liked to place bets; one was on how long Gapryong's girl of the week would last before they got tired of his shenanigans.

Baekho finally let go of Gapryong.

"Noona, you saved me—hey!" A towel hit his face.

"Pig," Minseon spat.

While those two went at it like cats and dogs, you approached Baekho.

"I'm sorry for Gapryong dragging you all over town, but can you please make sure his date gets home safely?" It was only the afternoon, but with the rise of violence in the city, you didn't like the idea of her walking alone. "I'll have a bowl of soup ready for when you come back."

He smiled. "As you wish, noonim."

Once he was gone, you narrowed your eyes and called, "Gapryong Kim."

He froze.

Minseon covered her mouth. "Heh."

You motioned for him to follow you to a less busy corner in the restaurant, and he trailed behind you with his head hung low.

The patrons pretended to be busy eating while they eavesdropped.

He spoke up first, "I can explain—"

You held up your hand. "How long are you going to keep doing this? You caused trouble for me, for the Kangs and for Baekho and the customers. Worst of all, you humiliated that poor girl."

"It was an honest mistake, I swear!"

"A single mistake is one thing, but this isn't the first time you've chased a girl away because you've left her at the theatre, or at the mall, or because you forgot about the date entirely. I can understand if you don't click with someone, but why do you keep treating them so poorly?"

He was quiet. Was he treating them poorly? He paid for their meals during dates (while noting which dishes you would like), took them to wherever they wanted (while thinking how much he wished you were with him), and kissed them as much as they liked (while imagining it was your lips on his).

"I'm sorry, noona…" he muttered, furrowing his brows and fiddling with the hem of his shirt. "I don't mean to be a jerk. It's just…"

"Just what?"

"I get so nervous, you know?" He averted his eyes, looking like a shy schoolgirl. "I'm approached by all these lovely ladies and… and I'm worried that I'm not good enough for any of them. After all, I'm just a loser."

The audience, in other words, everyone—Minseon, her father, the customers—shared one reaction: (≖_≖ )

However, while they could see right through his bull, you were still susceptible.

Your expression softened. "You're not a loser."

"Yes, I am. I barely graduated high school and I don't have a regular job. I don't deserve to be with anyone."

"Don't say that." You cupped his face. "School and jobs can't quantify your worth as a person, and you have plenty of amazing qualities."

"You're just saying that."

"You're tall and handsome, you have a very cute forehead."

"Is that it?"

"You have nice arms."

"Mm…"

"And legs!"

"…"

"And your nape—I've always told you that you have a great back!"

"I'm only good for my looks, huh?" he mumbled.

"Of course not! You're brave and strong!"

"…go on."

"You're hard-working when it comes to the things you're passionate about."

"I guess."

"You're sweet and thoughtful."

"Am I?"

"Yes!"

"I dunno…"

"F-for example: you let me talk your ear off even when it's the most mundane and boring thing. You always make sure my fridge is full and when I was too exhausted from work, you'll clean my room for me even though you're tired and you hate housework."

"I don't hate housework, it's not my favorite thing, but…" He thumbed your wrist. "If it's for you, I'll do every chore everyday."

You smiled. "See? You're amazing and I know that someday, you will make the woman of your dreams so happy."

"…That's the plan."

"I'm glad. Now go sit and wait for Baekho. We'll eat together when he comes back."

"Hey, why didn't you tell me that you're closing early today?"

"Minseon and her dad came to a compromise, so instead of them leaving for the countryside, business hours have been cut for the foreseeable future."

"Doesn't answer my question."

"I was going to tell you eventually, but today was your date and I knew you'd overreact and probably cancel or leave early."

"I wouldn't have done that."

You cocked your head, skeptical.

"You don't have to worry about those things, noona. If it's related to you, it's more important than any date."

"I want you to be happy, Gap."

"I am happy." Gapryong squeezed your wrist before he reluctantly let you pull away.

The audience talked to each other in hushed whispers. Wads of cash were exchanged between neighboring tables.

"I can't believe she fell for it again. There goes my salary."

One of the newer patrons asked: "Why doesn't he just confess?"

"He's done it so many times, she probably thinks it's a joke—actually, she never took any of his confessions seriously, even the first time."

"But he's so obvious. My parents don't look at each other the way he looks at her."

"What can I tell ya, kid? Love is complicated."

"Oh, shut up, we're the same age. But anyway, do you think it's ever going to happen?"

"How do you think all this betting started?"

Baekho returned just as the last customer had left.

"Welcome back," Mr. Kang greeted. "Just in time for dinner."

"Thank you, boss."

He bowed and then took a seat in front of you and Minseon.

"How was she?" you asked, placing a peeled boiled egg on top of his noodles.

"We ran into a couple of Yamazaki on our way to her house, but I took them down."

"Those damn Yamazakis again, I swear." Mr. Kang shook his head as he put a giant bowl of white rice on the table. He then sat next to his daughter. "Listen, hun, I don't want you leaving this place without me or Baekho or Gapryong. Same with you—" he said, turning to you.

"Don't worry, dad. I don't like leaving the house, anyway. When I do I'm with noona and Gapryong never leaves her alone."

Baekho and the boss nodded in unison. "Oh, yeah."

"You're exaggerating," you interjected as you put an egg on Gapryong's plate.

"We're really not."

"He's way better now compared to when he was younger."

"Seriously?"

"After school, he would come to my house instead of spending time with other kids. I had to lock my door and threaten not to eat dinner with him if he didn't play with his classmates first."

"You're joking."

"I wish I were." You grinned. "So don't tease him too much. His clinginess has diminished with age."

Minseon, Baekho and Mr. Kang thought in unison: No, he just got better at hiding it.

"Think about it, unnie." Minseon pointed at Gapryong. "He has his own place but he only goes there to change clothes and occasionally sleep."

"Actually," Baekho said, "he sleeps over at noonim's apartment every night now."

"Only because he walks me home and I don't want to risk him getting caught after curfew. But… I can see your point."

"Don't listen to them, noona, they're just jealous. Minseon wishes she can sleep on the floor of your bedroom like I do."

Minseon threw a tangerine at his face.

He caught it with ease and stuck out his tongue.

"Next time, it's going to be a watermelon."

"Don't throw your food," Minseon's dad scolded.

You turned to Baekho. "Do you want more soup?"

"Thank you, noonim."

You served him another bowl. "Baekho, do you have a girlfriend?"

"Huh?"

"I'm worried that you won't find love because Gap keeps including you in his dates."

—"Noona, don't talk about me like I'm a jinx!"—

"You have nothing to worry about, noonim. I'm committed to serving Gapryong-hyungnim."

"If you say so…"

—"I was ignored."—

"But I'm surprised," you said. "I thought for sure someone like you would have hundreds of girls knocking down your door."

Baekho froze.

Gapryong began grinding his teeth. Minseon rolled her eyes.

"I'm no catch, noonim," Baekho spouted, hoping you would stop.

Of course, you didn't.

"But you are! You're tall and personally, your scars are super attractive—like I just know from a glance that you're strong and tough—like I can totally feel safe in your arms. Right, Minseon?"

Minseon made a point to look at Gapryong, then she smirked. "Oh, yeah. Baekho is totally husband material. He isn't a slacker who loses control around women. You just know he isn't the type to ask someone else to walk his date home."

Baekho's face and ears were a bright red, partially because his hyungnim looked like he would rip his head off.

Mr. Kang laughed. "You're a lucky man Baekho, getting praised by two lovely girls. Not to brag but when I was your age…" he then went on his usual spiel about how popular he used to be before he met Minseon's mother.

Baekho could finally eat in peace. Minseon threw more fruits at Gapryong, who was now kneeling beside you, telling you that he was way more handsome than Baekho.

You smiled at everyone.

Despite all the bloodshed and violence outside this little shop, you prayed to keep this little piece of happiness forever.

After dinner, you bade good night to the Kangs and told Baekho to head straight home.

"Do you really think Gapryong will let anything happen to us?"

Gapryong was quiet but his expression screamed "GET LOST."

Baekho bowed. "As you wish. Please take care."

"You too."

You and Gapryong began walking home. He pouted the whole time.

"You don't really find scary-looking guys like that handsome, do you, noona? And he's way too big! If you two ever… got together, he would just split you in half—I mean he would just hurt you."

"Gapryong," you warned, "that's your friend."

"Yes, he's my friend, and he'll find a woman who will treasure him as he deserves—but I'm way more attractive than him, aren't I?"

"You're hopeless."

He continued pouting and batting his eyelashes, but you ignored him until you two passed a boarded-up store and you stopped walking. It was one of many establishments that were either abandoned or forced to shut down because of the yakuza. This particlar place sold cheap snacks and toys. The owners, an elderly couple who had been planning to visit the wife's family in the Philippines, were executed because they protected a child from a Yamazaki.

"The first time I got a passing grade, you bought me a whole bag of ice candies." Gapryong said, sticking his hands in his pockets. "I can't believe they're gone."

"…"

"Do you remember that one time I called the old lady 'ahjumma'[1] and she threatened to chase me with a slipper every time? But then she would give us snacks from her country. My favorite was the one with the bananas, what are they called again?"

"Bananacue."[2]

"Yeah, yeah! Bananacues. Man, I'm gonna miss those, but you have her recipe, right? Let's make some for the boss' birthday next week. We need a ton of bananas because Baekho eats his own weight and so does Minseon—don't tell her I said that, she'll stab me…"

He babbled on. You knew he was trying to distract you.

You leaned your head against his arm, shutting him up.

"Gapryong… how long before the Yamazakis think of a reason to kill one of us?" It wasn't really a question. You, the Kangs and Gapryong already put yourselves at risk.

It was only a matter of time now.

"I won't let anything happen to you, noona."

"You can't protect me from everything."

"You underestimate me. Look at these guns—" he flexed his free arm.

You chuckled softly.

"These biceps aren't just for display, but feel free to look all you want."

"Gap."

"Everything will be fine."

You stared listlessly at the wooden planks that covered the door. Trash littered the street where Gapryong used to spin tops with his friends. "The world's going to hell right before our eyes. How can we be fine?"

"Isn't it obvious?" He flashed you a smile brimming with confidence. "I just need to save the world."

***

Three more lives were taken in front of the Yamazaki statues, but there were no more gasps, no more tears from mere onlookers. Children who used to weep at the sight of starving kittens walked past dead bodies like they were wildflowers growing between the cracks in the concrete.

The Yamazakis have taken everything. The world needed to be saved, and Yeonwoo Kim knew exactly who was their hero. [3]

The Liberation Training Corps managed to chase away today's yakuza army of thugs after their captain struck down their leader.

Yeonwoo lowered her camera and watched the team sing praises to their leader. "Congratulations on another victory, Captain Jinyeong Park."

Yeonwoo Kim knew the man's circumstances. He was a pharmacy student who only recently joined the Training Corps. A middle child—his only family left was his two sisters and his brother-in-law.

He was not only strong, but also kind, intelligent and charismatic.

South Korea had many heroes. There was Bakgu Noh, the Fighting Rickshaw Puller who refused to serve any Yamazaki member. There was Lightning Choi, the three free-spirited rascals: Gwang Yu, Beolgu Lee, and Jaesu Noh, brothers Taeguk Han and Gon Kwon, and many others who, while not fighting for justice were still forces who fought the Yamazakis.

There were big shots too. Mujin Jin, who founded bone-grabbing ssireum. Bangho Lee, the successor of the Hwarang Sword. Baekho Kwon, the Fallen Hero. [4]

"Alone, they can't fight against the Yamazaki Syndicate, but together…" Yeonwoo trailed off, looking at Jinyeong Park, who was in the middle of his lunch.

"Captain Jinyeong Park, if it's you, then those fighters will finally be united against the Yamazakis."

He finished chewing and then confessed, "It's not like I haven't thought about it. But it takes everything I have just to survive each day. Saving the country?"

He shook his head.

"You don't give yourself enough credit."

"I appreciate your trust in me, Ms. Kim—"

"Yeonwoo," she corrected. "Call me Yeonwoo."

Before he could reply, a waitress arrived. "Sorry for the wait. Here's your iced tea—oh."

Jinyeong blinked slowly. "Hey."

"Hi." You smiled. "You're that student, um, Mr. Ji-Won Park, right?"

"It's actually Jinyeong—you can drop the honorifics. Oh, and this here is Miss Yeonwoo Kim."

You offered her your hand.

Although initially surprised at the gesture, she recovered quickly and shook your hand. "Hello."

You introduced yourself.

"Are you a friend of Jinyeong-ssi?"

You and Jinyeong answered at the same time: "No." "Yes."

Yeonwoo glanced between the two of you, confused.

Jinyeong coughed and you hurriedly spoke up, "I'm flattered that you see me as a friend."

"N-no, I was being presumptuous."

You explained to Yeonwoo, "We both fell in love with the same book at first sight. Mr. Jinyeong Park was a gentleman and let me have it."

"O-oh."

"Anyway, I should go. It was a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Kim." You bowed. "Wave if you need anything else."

"Thanks, and nice to meet you too."

She then turned to Jinyeong.

He raised his spoon, trying to eat under Yeonwoo's analytical gaze.

"So that's your type, huh?"

"Please."

"I've never seen you get flustered by a woman before."

"I wasn't flustered, and you've only known me for a few weeks."

"Uh-huh."

It wouldn't be an understatement to say that Jinyeong Park was the most handsome man Yeonwoo's ever seen. However, he wasn't a womanizer. In fact, he seemed blind to the heartstruck eyes that followed him around.

"Are you going to ask her out?"

"I don't have time for a relationship."

"Exactly. That's why you need to unite everyone and kick out the Yamazakis so you can have a peaceful love life."

He sighed.

On the other side of the room, Gapryong Kim witnessed the whole exchange. He asked Minseon, who brought him his orange juice. "Who is that pretty boy?"

"Someone hotter than you."

"How does noona know him?"

"Probably her boyfriend," she replied while walking away.

"Very funny—I'd be the first to know if she had one!" He yelled after her, then he turned to Baekho, who had just returned from the restroom. "Hey, do you know that guy? The one in the flashy suit."

Baekho took one glance before answering, "That's Jinyeong Park. He's the leader of the Liberation Training Corps."

"…I need your honesty on something, Baekho."

Baekho's eyes widened. "Are you planning on joining?"

"What? No. Why would I do that?" Gapryong made a face. "I was going to ask: who's more attractive, me or that pretty boy? It's me, right? I'm way more handsome, don't you think—why are you looking at me like that?"

"It's nothing, hyungnim. I'll… I'll go see if our lunch is ready."

Suddenly, a bunch of Yamazakis stormed inside.

"This is it, boys!" The man leading the crew had a bandaged up face. "You grab the owner—I'm gonna drag those two bitches to the statue myself!"

"Boss, that's Jinyeong Park over there! He's been giving us trouble. Whoever catches him will be promoted."

Mummy-Face cackled. "Seriously? Then this must be fate—grab him!"

They charged together, bumping against Baekho, who had just exited the kitchen. His and Gapryong's bowls shattered by his feet.

The offenders didn't notice or didn't care as they raced towards their target.

"Jinyeong Park, you're seriously wandering around by yourself? You're going to regret—!"

Baekho grabbed two Yamazakis by their faces and then slammed them to the ground.

Predictably, the rest of the mob ran away.

Yeonwoo pushed Jinyeong to go talk to him. "It's Baekho Kwon! You need to talk to him right now. If you recruit him and the other fighters in this country, you'll be able to get rid of the Yamazaki Syndicate!"

Jinyeong briefly met the so-called Fallen Hero's eyes, but Baekho Kwon simply walked past him and towards you.

"I apologize for the mess. I'll clean it up immediately."

"Don't worry about it," you reassured him. "I'm just glad no one was hurt. You're not hurt, are you?"

"Not at all."

"Good. I'll handle the cleaning. Take a seat and I'll bring you both another serving."

"But—"

"Listen to her, Baekho. You should relax and take a seat." Gapryong arrived with the broom and dustpan. "Noona and I will clean this up."

"Hyungnim…"

Yeonwoo covered her mouth. "Hyungnim"?! For the great Baekho Kwon to call him hyungnim… just how powerful was this man?

You snatched the broom and dustpan. "No, both of you sit down now. Minseon already has your gukbap ready."

"But—"

"Sit."

Gapryong whined but did as he was told.

Jinyeong and Yeonwoo watched, baffled. The great man referred to as "hyungnim" by Baekho Kwon just whined like a kicked puppy.

Minseon arrived with the food.

"Here you go, Baekho."

"Thank you as always, Minseon-ssi."

She set down Gapryong's bowl in front of him. "Eat up, dipshit."

"Wow. I appreciate the special treatment."

"You do realize they came back because you destroyed their leader's face, don't you?"

"But—"

"Hyungnim," Baekho coughed.

Minseon looked just about ready to dump the soup all over him.

"Fine, fine."

She rolled her eyes and stomped off.

"Don't think too much about what she said, guppy," you said as you passed by their table.

Once you disappeared into the kitchen, Gapryong devoured everything in seconds and then picked up the bowl to slurp every drop of the broth.

He slammed the empty bowl down. "GAAAAAAAH!"

The rest of the customers, including Yeonwoo and Jinyeong, gawked at him.

Baekho shook his head.

"We can't even enjoy the boss' gukbap because of the Yamazaki," he grumbled. "The world is going to hell in a handbasket and it needs a hero. Well, I'm full now. Noona said that light exercise is good for digestion. While I'm digesting, shall I save the world?"

Across the sea, another great man sat on a pile of his sister's clothes. A lethargic dog lay between his legs as he brushed her fur. "I know you're getting tired of waiting, Hinako-san, but hold on a little longer, okay?"

Shintaro knocked on the door.

"You don't have to do that." Shingen sighed. "Don't you remember what onee-chan used to say? 'My door is always open for my dear brothers.'"

"And don't you remember her saying that she didn't mean it literally? We walked into her singing and dancing to those embarrassing songs numerous times."

"Embarrassing? I caught you humming them all the time. What was the one you sang while giving Hinako-san a bath?"

"I don't recall—"

"It was in English."

"Shingen—"

He began to hum. "I got sunshine on a clou~dy day~"

"Shingen!"

"When it's cold outside, I've got the month of May…hm-hm…I guess you'll sa~y what can make me feel this way? Sing with me!"

"No."

"My girl~"

Hinako awoo'd as if reborn. She adored this song.

Shingen started snapping his fingers. He rolled his shoulders as Hinako bounced and howled along.

"My girl, my girl~ Talkin about my girl~" He scooped Hinako into his arms and started dancing around the room.

Shintaro rubbed his temple. "I have some news."

"Did you finally start sending missing posters of nee-chan?"

"As if she would look like she did when she left."

"I'm not an idiot, brother—but they have artists who can predict that kind of stuff, right? Have them draw a more mature version of her based on her photos."

"We don't have a photo of her."

"…right." Shingen continued dancing with Hinako in his arms. "Then you draw an older version of her."

When they were kids, you introduced them to all sorts of hobbies. Shintaro was drawn to the arts. He was very fond of sketching you and Hinako.

"I'm not that talented."

"That's true. You suck."

Shintaro felt something in his jaw twitched.

"So, if it's not about the posters, what is it? Did they finally remove that ridiculous statue?" Shingen hated that thing. You once told him that people who commission statues of themselves were self-absorbed douchebags.

"The executives refused."

You were right.

"Well, don't leave me hanging, brother."

"The other families sent you a gift."

"Ew. It's not another bride, is it?" Shingen lifted Hinako up so she was far above him. "This house already has a young miss, ain't that right, Hinako-san?"

"Please, please don't talk like that in front of the servants—or anybody else," Shintaro pleaded, but they both knew it was pointless. "Anyway, it's not a bridal candidate. It's a tiger."

"A friend for Hinako-san?"

"Brother…"

"I'm kidding, Shintaro." He gently set Hinako back on the ground. "Is the tiger a girl or a boy?"

"He's male. I had the servants place him in onee-sama's private garden." The garden they prepared for you was bigger than the habitats in zoos.

"What should we name him?"

Shintaro smiled. "If onee-sama were here, she would name him after something delicious."

"Haha, you're right. Hm… how about Steak?"

Shintaro frowned. "She would choose something cuter."

"Sushi?"

"…let's use it as his temporary name."

"Arf!"

Shintaro chuckled. "Are you jealous, little miss?"

"Arf! Arf!"

"Don't worry, you're still the most wonderful four-legged creature in this land."

A maid shouted from the other side of the door. "Leader, Vice-Leader!"

"Calm yourself," Shingen said as he stepped outside. "What's the matter?"

"A man—huff—an elderly man arrived and said—and said that he was the captain of the boat your sister boarded."

The twins exchanged glances then ran to meet him. Every servant they passed either fainted or screamed at the sight of two giants moving like bullets.

The boat owner himself almost died an early death when the twins charged towards him, only stopping at the last minute.

"Speak!" Shingen grabbed him by the shoulders and shook him. "Tell me what brings you here, old man! Where is our sister?!"

"Brother, you'll kill him."

"Oh." Shingen put the man back on his feet. "I apologize, I got too excited."

The man wheezed.

"Let's all sit down first."

"Good idea."

The servants prepared the reception room and when the elderly boat captain's soul finally returned to his body, Shintaro asked, "So, what brings you in our home, sir?"

Shingen poured him a cup of tea.

"T-thank you." He warmed his hands with the cup. "First of all, my name is Shu Tanaka. As the maid has probably told you, I'm the owner of the boat your sister boarded years ago. I don't know if you remember me, but I still remember the both of you when you were just boys."

"Of course, we remember you."

"You were the linchpin of our sister's plan. How can we forget?"

The night that you snuck out of the Yamazaki estate, your brothers followed you in secret. They gave you all of their savings and begged you to write to them once you settled down. 

"For years, we returned to that dock, but we never found you."

"The other fishermen said you never came back. They all thought you died at sea or stayed in Korea, which begs the question—"

"—why are you here right now?"

The elderly captain shut his eyes and then he buried his face in his hands.

"Wha—"

"Please forgive me for what I'm about to confess."

The twins' blood froze.

He continued anyway: "That night, we encountered a freak storm. I thought of turning around, but we were already in Korean territory and the waves were too violent, even for an experienced fisherman such as myself, and…"

"…and what?"

His teacup toppled over, spilling all over the table as the man planted his nose to the floor. "Your sister fell overboard."

"That's impossible," Shingen muttered.

"Master Shingen, I —!" The man flew backward and into the wall.

The oyabun eyes glowed under the light. He looked like a hunter cornering his prey. "You must have gone senile in your old age. My beloved sister fell overboard ten years ago and you only told us about it today?"

"The—the truth is that I was afraid! I don't have much time left to live so I wanted to confess my sins before I leave this Earth. Believe me when I say that I spent weeks trying to find her body—argh!"

He was lifted into the air by his throat. "Body? You must be confused. She's still alive. My dear sister promised me, we'll visit all sorts of places together so she can't be dead."

Shintaro understood his brother's fervent denial. Even the Yamazaki's Vice-Leader, praised for his intelligence ever since he was young, couldn't explain this feeling of his that told him you were somewhere in the world, alive and waiting for them.

"Don't kill him, brother. He's not long for this world, there is no point in taking his life now."

Shingen didn't move. The fisherman remained trapped in his grip.

"Shingen."

He finally let go and the old boat captain fell with a thud. He wheezed and gasped as he crawled towards the Vice-Leader. "T-thank you! Thank you!"

"Get out," Shintaro ordered coldly, "before I change my mind."

"Eek! Thank you, thank you!" He scrambled around the carpet before sprinting out of the room.

Shingen put his hand over his face. "She doesn't hate us."

"No, she didn't."

"Does she even know how to swim?"

"I don't know. Her old school didn't have a pool."

"She must have been so scared."

"I know…"

"Shintaro."

"What is it?"

"Onee-chan, is still waiting for us." He turned around, smiling maniacally. "It's about time we get her back, right?"

[1] Ahjumma: Korean honorific used to address middle-aged women.

[2] Bananacue: A Filipino snack composed of fried, sugar-covered bananas. They're typically served skewered, hence their name. (In the Philippines, barbecues are served on skewers.)

[3] Yeonwoo Kim (Yeonwu Kim) aka Reporter Kim. For those who are unaware, she is another member of the Pre-Generation and plays a huge role in securing the evidence (the red paper) against Charles Choi.

[4] That's a lot of names lolol

For the more important characters, I've prepared a brief summary of their lives. Once Webtoon publishes Episode 610, I'll provide photos.

Bakgu Noh: The Fighting Rickshaw Puller and eventually, Gapryong Kim's driver. Current Status: Deceased

Lightning Choi: A dance fighter. He was Lineman's teacher. Current Status: Deceased

Mujin Jin: The founder of the bone-grabbing ssireum (a type of wrestling in Korea). He is Vin Jin's father and Seongji Yuk's former teacher. Current Status: Unknown

Bangho Lee: The successor of the Hwarang Sword. He's probably Goo Kim's teacher. Current Status: Unknown/Deceased

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Disclaimer: The images used are screencaptures from Ep. 380, 411, 520 & 524 - Lookism, Webtoon.

Next Episode: Coming Soon.

Main Series Title/AU: My Baby Brother is the Strongest Character