System Notification
New Reward Granted: Safe Haven – Tier 1 (Personal Housing)
Companions authorized: 2/2 slots filled
Bonus Unlocked: "Shared Sanctuary" effect – Trust gain doubled when cohabiting
The portal closed behind Jiwoon, sealing the battlefield away.
In its place, a shimmering gate opened before him — not to another arena, but to a serene garden surrounded by ethereal mist. A small house stood at the center, glowing softly under the twin moons.
"Congratulations, Champion.
You have earned a moment of peace."
For once… there were no screams. No system countdowns.
Just stillness.
Footsteps Behind Him
"You're here first, huh?" a familiar voice teased.
Jiwoon turned.
Vera stood beneath the moonlight, her armor replaced with a flowing tunic. Her eyes softened the moment she saw him.
Before he could speak, another presence appeared.
"Honestly, took you long enough," Kaelya said, walking up behind Vera. She tossed her hair and smirked. "But fine. I'll allow it. You earned this."
The three of them stood together — for the first time in what felt like lifetimes.
Jiwoon felt warmth rising in his chest.
"Welcome home," Vera whispered.
Inside the House
It was simple, but elegant — two floors, warm wood floors, glowing lanterns, and soft futons. The system had even installed a kitchen… and one large bed.
One.
Kaelya raised an eyebrow. "Really, system? One bed?"
Vera blushed faintly but didn't say anything.
Jiwoon was still frozen near the entrance.
Kaelya smirked. "What, Jiwoon? You planning to sleep standing up?"
Night Falls
They sat together after dinner, watching the stars through the open skylight.
"I missed this," Vera said quietly, curling up beside Jiwoon.
Kaelya leaned against his other side. "Don't think this means we're all lovebirds now. I still plan to out-score you in every challenge."
Jiwoon chuckled. "Good luck with that."
A Quiet Moment
The lanterns dimmed.
Kaelya stood, stretched, and walked past Jiwoon — deliberately brushing her shoulder against him.
"Oh, by the way," she said, glancing over her shoulder, "I sleep with cold feet."
Vera giggled and followed, tossing a pillow at Jiwoon. "And I hog the blanket."
Jiwoon sat alone for a moment longer… then smiled faintly.
"Just for tonight… this feels almost real."