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Chapter 2: The Dokebi's Deal
The temple grounds were quiet now, the smoke-beasts gone and their shadows dissolving into the wind. Ji Sok Han stood at the edge of the battle-worn steps, still stunned. The moonlight that had once surrounded him was fading, leaving his hands dim and trembling.
He turned slowly to face Duri, whose small form floated at eye level, arms crossed.
"You okay, glow-stick?" Duri asked.
Ji nodded numbly. "That... that wasn't normal."
Duri chuckled. "Nope. That was ancient moon magic. You've got it now, kid. Which means you've got work to do."
"Work?" Ji blinked. "I don't even know what this power is. Or what it means."
"Exactly why you need me," Duri said proudly, puffing out his tiny chest. "I've trained two Guardians in my lifetime. You're number three. Not the brightest start, but we'll get there."
Ji frowned. "Why me? I'm not strong, or brave. I'm just... ordinary."
Duri tilted his head. "The moon doesn't choose the strongest. It chooses those who carry light even in the dark. You're braver than you think."
Ji didn't answer. He looked down at his hands.
"What now?" he asked quietly.
"Now," Duri said, "we make a deal."
He floated closer and snapped his fingers. A scroll materialized in midair, glowing with silver runes. Ji reached out but hesitated.
"What kind of deal?"
"I help you survive the training, awaken your powers fully, and guide you to the Moon Temple. In return... you follow my instructions. No whining. No quitting."
Ji narrowed his eyes. "That's it?"
"Well... and I get to eat whatever snacks you pack."
Ji cracked a small smile. "Deal."
He reached out and touched the scroll. The silver runes flared, then melted into his palm like ink.
A new warmth spread through his body — deeper than before. Something old. Something watching.
Duri grinned. "Now you're officially marked by the moon."
Ji looked up at the sky. The stars shimmered faintly, as if blinking at him.
"I guess there's no turning back now."
"Nope," Duri said. "Welcome to your fate, moon-boy."
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To Be Continued in Chapter 3: Shadows of the Crown