Biting back a smile of relief, Jongin inhaled deeply and as his eyes travelled upwards the stream, a flame of determination blazed from his very core. Taking careful steps along the damp soil, Jongin did not dare breathe heavily in fear of awakening the dormant creatures of the forest. He recalled the view of the stream under the setting sun; it looked like a glamorous necklace embedded with golden studs that adorned the slender necks of the most noble queens. Seeing it now under the veil of the night, it almost looked like the tear trail from the Cinnabar itself, guiding Jongin towards his destination to reunite with the one person who’s presence meant everything.

Forgetting his surroundings, Jongin quickly found himself standing in front of the cave buried deep within the forest. The uncertainty of facing the unknown he experienced during his first visit was nowhere to be seen. Instead, his heart was thumping loudly in his chest, pumping blood through his veins and sending an adrenaline rush through his system.

Following the water trail with confidence, Jongin’s steps did not falter even when he was enveloped by pure darkness and the evasive stream became distant droplets on the cold pavement. As the water trickled like pearls over the ground, Jongin took in a deep breath and felt the humidity invading his lungs. That was when he noticed something felt… Off. He could not quite put his finger on it though. Maybe it was because it was his first time visiting by himself; maybe it was because he felt alone and lost; maybe it was because he was completely out of his depth. Whatever the reason was, something simply felt off inside the cave.

Jongin was unable to linger on his thoughts for long though. Just like his previous encounter with the object revered and treasured by everything supernatural, Jongin came to a complete still as he came face to face with the imposing rock standing in front of him.

Like always, the opening in the ceiling of the cave shone a spotlight on the Cinnabar, showcasing all its beauty under the ethereal filter of the moonlight. The ancient shrine surrounded by used candles and sacred talismans were just as they were in his memories — strengthening the impression that the inter