"What a refreshing morning," the old man hummed, gazing out the window. Sunlight spilled over the grass, and a cool breeze brushed against his weathered face.
"Bring the tea, Mira," he called.
"Yes, Grandfather—just a minute," Mira replied from the kitchen, carefully pouring tea into the cups.
Rian, seated near the table, spoke quietly.
"Actually… I think it's time for Yurim and me to return to the city."
The old man turned, surprised.
"But why so soon, Rian? It isn't safe for either of you—especially her. With Yurim being human, life in the city won't be easy. You should stay here and rest. At least for a month."
Rian frowned slightly.
"A month is too long. I need to get Yurim back to the human world before she's noticed here. And I have things I need to take care of too. I can't stay that long."
Mira stepped in, placing the cups down gently.
"Here, Grandfather… and this one's yours, Rian."
The old man sighed, leaning back in his chair.
"The city is very far. You'll need proper transport.
My truck's barely holding together now. I was planning to ask a friend to fix it."
After a pause, he turned to Mira.
"Mira, take Rian to my friend's workshop. Ask him to give Rian a proper ride, and take the truck along to get it repaired. I'll stay back and tend to the crops. Be careful."
Mira's expression shifted at the mention of them leaving. Confusion flickered across her eyes, but she nodded silently.
"Where's Yurim?" Rian asked.
"She's still asleep," Mira replied softly. "She probably hasn't slept properly in days."
"We'll be leaving soon," Rian said. "Could you wake her up for me?"
Mira nodded and went upstairs.
Moments later—
A sharp scream echoed through the house.
Rian shot up and rushed upstairs.
"What happened—?!"
Mira stood frozen.
"R-Rian… something's wrong. Yurim isn't moving.
Her body's stiff—only her eyes are blinking!"
Rian hurried to Yurim's side and gently tapped her cheek.
"Yurim. Wake up."
A few seconds passed.
Then her body relaxed. Her eyes fluttered open, cheeks flushing.
"I… had sleep paralysis," she muttered. "It's nothing serious."
Rian and Mira stared at her, confused.
"Sleep… what?"
"Sleep paralysis," Yurim explained softly. "It happens to humans sometimes. It's scary, but harmless."
They exchanged uncertain looks, still not fully understanding.
Later, the repaired truck rumbled along the narrow road. Yurim sat in the open cargo space beside Rian, the air crisp with the scent of wet soil and pine.
"You're always in such a hurry," Yurim muttered, glancing sideways at him.
Rian rolled his eyes but stayed silent.
From the driver's seat, Mira spoke suddenly. Her voice was calm—too calm.
"You remember the tree I mentioned last night?"
Both of them turned toward her.
"The one that steals souls. My grandfather's friend's workshop is close to it. We need to be careful when we pass by."
"That tree?" Yurim's voice shook. "Is it really safe?"
Rian glanced between them, confused, silently asking for answers.
The workshop soon came into view, standing near the edge of a wide sea. The salty wind filled the air.
Mira jumped down and waved excitedly.
"Uncle! It's been so long!"
An old man stepped out, smiling warmly.
"My little girl—you're back."
Yurim and Rian followed her inside.
"This truck will take at least a week to fix," the old man said thoughtfully. "As for another ride…" He shook his head. "I don't have one right now."
He looked at them kindly.
"You should stay here for a while. It'll be safer."
Rian nodded.
"I understand."
"Good," the man said. "Mira, help me move these things."
Outside, the sky glowed gold.
"The sea is beautiful…" Yurim murmured, sitting on the sand beside Rian as waves brushed their feet.
Mira was still inside. The wind tangled Yurim's hair, and for a moment, everything felt peaceful.
Then—
"Rian…!" Yurim suddenly pointed toward the water. "What is that?"
Rian turned sharply.
"What—where—"
Splash.
Cold water slammed into his face.