Chapter 143

Deputy Director’s Office of Sehee Research Institute, with a large window overlooking the courtyard.

In that familiar scenery, there was one thing different from usual.

Right in the sunny spot where the warm golden sunlight poured through the large window, a pot sat nestled comfortably as if embraced by the sun’s gentle arms.

At the center of the pot, a soft indigo sprout drooped limply, peeking out like it hadn’t had its morning coffee yet.

“It still looks so lifeless.”

My muttering echoed quietly through the usually tranquil deputy director’s office.

Even though it had what looked like plant-like tendrils, I thought maybe basking in sunlight would perk it up—but the sprout still seemed to be having a bad hair day.

The Golden Reaper even fetched a watering can made of water (don’t ask) and gently sprinkled the droopy sprout’s head, but alas, no luck.

Actually, relocating the sprout’s isolation room wasn’t a first. Initially, thinking it might gain energy from people like the Golden Reaper does, we moved it to the bustling lounge where employees hustled about.

But even amidst all that lively commotion, the sprout showed no signs of recovery.

The sprout wore an expression that looked like it had caught a cold, just pitifully hanging on.

As I observed the sprout, time slipped by unnoticed. The sun dipped into late afternoon, casting a warm amber glow that filled the deputy director’s office like honey.

Basking in the sunlight and the quiet serenity of the office, my eyelids grew heavier and heavier…

And before I knew it, I dozed off.

***

After the 0th Artifact test concluded, I felt like I was riding a hobby horse to the museum.

Looking around at the artifacts being sorted, most appeared to be personal items—notebooks, fountain pens, and the like.

Holding onto the small feet of the Reaper as we circled the artifacts, James slowly approached us after finishing his work.

“We’ve completed all the tests for the 0th Artifacts as planned. Though originally, we were supposed to give you a tour of the research facility and James City…but given recent events, that might not be possible.”

So, does this mean we have to go back already?

It’s such a shame.

Not only because overseas travel isn’t easy these days, but mostly because of the Reaper.

An overseas trip with the Reaper?

Considering it’s a top-tier object, getting export approval from the Object Association and permission from the destination country would’ve been nearly impossible without James’ request.

Guessing how disappointed I was, James offered another suggestion.

“If you’re sad about leaving, have you considered visiting the research outpost near the Rocky Mountains? It’s surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and has a massive spirit barrier—it rivals James City.”

“Ah, is that okay?”

“I invited you as a guest; there’s no reason why not.”

James gestured, and a woman with neatly cut black hair approached.

“Unfortunately, I have too much work in James City to join you. But I’ll assign a secretary to assist you. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

After receiving some instructions from James, the secretary politely introduced herself to us.

“I’ll guide you now. Obtaining entry permits for the Spirit Barrier Research Zone and arranging air transport will take about two days. Please rest here at the hotel until I contact you.”

Looks like we’ll be spending more time at the hotel.

With the prospect of an extended trip with the Reaper, I excitedly checked the hotel map to see what else there was to explore.

There were plenty of facilities beyond the pool, and with the Reaper along, it’d surely be fun.

***

Awoken by the bright morning light, I blinked open my eyes to find the Deputy Director’s Office bathed in late morning sunshine.

I stretched my stiff body in every direction before finally standing up.

Guess all this paperwork has been tougher than I thought.

Who knew catching some rays in an awkward position could lead to such a long nap?

Surprisingly, despite sleeping face-down on the desk for so long, I didn’t feel too bad.

Glancing down, I noticed the Golden Reaper dangling from the pot, resting its chin on the edge with a curious look.

Its gaze reminded me of someone watching something fascinating or perhaps looking at their younger sibling.

Following the Reaper’s line of sight, I saw the sprout swaying gently, brimming with vitality under the sunlight.

“It’s alive!”

Without realizing, I blurted out, thrilled that the problem I’d been worrying about had resolved itself.

The leaves, which had been swaying softly, suddenly stopped as if startled by my voice.

Apologizing silently, I gently stroked the leaves, and they began swaying again under the sunlight.

Still, what exactly brought it back to life?

While exposure to sunlight or moonlight might be a factor, something feels off—it doesn’t seem quite right.

There must have been another variable… Could it be because I slept nearby?

Come to think of it, the first place it appeared was also the sleeping room.

Though I’ll need to monitor it further to be sure, it seems likely.

Then, I’ll need to set aside space in the sleeping room to create a new isolation area for the sprout.

Organizing the tasks ahead while gazing out the window, I noticed something unusual happening in the courtyard.

The Golden Reapers were frantically running away from something in the courtyard.

***

It wasn’t nighttime yet, just early evening.

Yerin, exhausted from playing in the water, fell asleep while cuddling with me in front of the TV.

Nom nom.

Even in her sleep, Yerin happily held onto my tentacle with a content smile.

Slipping out carefully from Yerin’s embrace, I summoned a Mini Hungry Ghost, about my size, and placed it in my spot.

Yerin shifted slightly, replacing my tentacle with the ghost’s and drifting deeper into slumber.

After checking that Yerin was sound asleep, I headed toward Sehee Research Institute.

A prank I used to pull often but haven’t done lately—stealing pudding!

Though initially, the Golden Reapers always managed to snatch the pudding away, recently they’ve become far more agile and skilled at dodging me.

But this time, things are different—I can accelerate time!

Moving stealthily into the Sehee Research Institute courtyard, I spotted cheerful Golden Reapers hugging puddings, patiently waiting for humans to share with.

Sneaking up behind one of them holding a pudding, I prepared my strike.

The Golden Reaper swiftly evaded my hand in a dazzling display of acrobatics.

Their reflexes honed from avoiding my pranks were impressive.

Despite my larger size and speed, I couldn’t catch them.

But then, something strange happened.

Time began to stretch.

The Golden Reaper, holding the pudding like a gymnast, slowed down dramatically in mid-air.

Carefully, I started pulling the pudding from their frozen grip.

It was as effortless as twisting a child’s wrist.

Hehe.

The Golden Reaper’s surprised expression turned into one of heartbroken longing as their precious pudding floated away.

Since Golden Reapers are my clones, they’ll probably learn to manipulate time through their tendrils eventually—but until then, I’ll enjoy this trick to the fullest.

Just then, an unexpected twist occurred.

The Golden Reaper started chasing after me as I moved with the stolen pudding.

And with triumphant flair, the Golden Reaper snatched the pudding bowl back.

No way!!!

All I could do was watch helplessly as the Golden Reapers scattered in all directions with their pudding.

***

The majestic Rocky Mountains, inspiring awe with their rugged grandeur, stood guard alongside a colossal spirit barrier stretching endlessly into the horizon.

Built recently to contain ghost-type objects, the barrier marked the boundary where humans dared not tread.

Perched atop towering rocks, a checkpoint housed six soldiers monitoring numerous spirit cameras.

Through the monitors, countless ghost-type objects moved faintly but clearly beyond the barrier.

As two relief personnel arrived, the two off-duty soldiers rose with relief and fatigue.

Their boots clattered against the stone steps as they descended, chatting about the uncertain future.

“The atmosphere lately hasn’t been normal.”

The soldier with a freshly buzzed head spoke worriedly.

“That’s true. We rarely see ‘Brain Eaters’ anymore, and now it’s just ‘Flaming Pig Heads’ everywhere.”

Recently discovered beyond the barrier, the number of ‘Flaming Pig Heads’ multiplied until now they dominated the other side of the spirit barrier.

Under the long shadow cast by the enormous barrier, they continued down the steps toward their quarters.

“Whatever’s happening inside remains a mystery. We can’t investigate areas packed with ghost objects—it’s a tricky situation.”

“Will the Object Association come up with a solution?”

The soldier tried to sound optimistic, but the buzz-cut soldier shook his head.

“Can we really do anything against ghost objects?”

Behind them, a massive pig’s wail reverberated, shaking the ground, but the soldiers kept walking as if they hadn’t heard a thing.

***

The exhilarating two days at the hotel with the Reaper flew by, and soon we arrived at the ‘Rocky Mountain Spirit Barrier’ airport.

This airport, located deep within a massive research complex, exuded an isolated yet sophisticated vibe.

In the corridors devoid of tourists, only the occasional footsteps of researchers echoed.

Perhaps due to the high altitude, the air was refreshingly crisp, yet the Reaper’s expression remained far from cheerful.

Ever since yesterday, the Reaper’s mood had been sour, wearing a pouty expression whenever encountering Golden Reapers—perhaps they had a disagreement?

While observing the Reaper’s demeanor, our secretary returned carrying our luggage.

“Let’s head to the prepared accommodations first.”

Following the secretary assigned by James, I glanced around. The airport radiated a calming ambiance similar to James City.

Could it be because of the clean, sleek design? Or maybe it’s the faint scent resembling the Reaper lingering throughout the entire airport.

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