How to Survive as a Supporting Male Lead - Chapter 13.1
Yuhwa had a way of making things complicated for Iann. Not because of any flaw or unpleasantness on her part—quite the opposite.
“Look! This is my holy power. Isn’t it cute?”
It was because she was too kind. Kind to everyone, but especially to Iann. Seeing her so open-hearted and innocent, even with a face that reminded him so much of his late sister, made Iann feel guilty. Using someone like Yuhwa for his own petty revenge? Even if there wasn’t yet anything between her and Kallian, it still felt wrong.
“Iann?”
“Ah, yeah… wow, that’s really amazing.”
He answered absentmindedly, trying to quell his mixed emotions. But as complicated as things felt around Yuhwa, his grudge against Kallian—fostered over 18 long years—still outweighed any newfound guilt from his new friendship.
After all, as long as he didn’t cause any problems, right? As long as Yuhwa wasn’t hurt or emotionally scarred, what was the harm?
And if Yuhwa started to show interest in Kallian? Well, then he’d back off immediately.
‘Alright, keep it simple. When have I ever overthought things anyway? Besides, if this all plays out like the story, Yuhwa’s bound to get into danger at the hunting festival. But with my knowledge of the future, I can keep her safe. That way, Yuhwa benefits, and so do I.’
“Hey, Yuhwa.”
“Yes?”
“How about joining the hunting festival?”
“The hunting festival?”
“It’ll help you adjust to this world faster.”
Iann added, as though he needed to justify the invitation, feeling a bit guilty about his ulterior motive. Yuhwa, surprised at first, soon murmured an understanding, soft smile spreading across her face.
After all, this was the person who had saved her from the harsh cold and offered her food, shelter, and even a mentor. She had no reason to distrust Iann.
“What exactly is the hunting festival?”
Avoiding her gaze, which was filled with unshakable trust, Iann explained.
“Well… it’s a yearly event held to pray for peace in the empire and ward off bad luck. They give out awards from the imperial family to the participant and their partner who hunt the most. But it’s mostly just a social gathering.”
“Isn’t it only for nobles? Am I even allowed to attend?”
“It’s not exclusive to nobles. Anyone with an invitation can join. I have one, so I was hoping you’d join me as my partner.”
“Oh.”
She gasped softly, looking thoughtful. Iann stole a quick glance, wondering if she might refuse. If she did, he’d go alone—he had no intention of forcing her into it.
“So, if it’s a hunting festival, do they release captured animals for it?”
Yuhwa asked cautiously. If this were a scene in a novel, it would’ve been described as a perfect moment to highlight her compassionate heart. Iann shook his head.
“No, it’s not like that. They set up boundaries in areas where weaker beasts often appear. It’s a chance to train people in dealing with monsters while keeping the empire safe. Basically, it’s a minor monster-hunting exercise.”
“Monsters?”
“Yeah. They’re… basically creatures that harm all living things indiscriminately. You haven’t seen any yet, right?”
“No, I haven’t.”
“So, uh, monsters look kind of… um…”
A particular spider-like monster came to mind, and Iann shuddered.
“I can’t describe it. I think I might have a monster-phobia. Derrick, would you explain?”
“You? Monster-phobia? Then how have you managed to hunt them all this time?”
Derrick replied with a skeptical look. Feigning ignorance, Iann shook his head and covered his mouth, bowing his head as though struck by a sudden fear. While Yuhwa looked at him with a worried expression, Derrick’s gaze turned icy. Tempted as he was to grab Iann and shake some sense into him, Derrick held back. He didn’t want to make a scene in front of Yuhwa.
“Monsters are…”
Derrick tried to recall the appearance of a monster. But, having rarely encountered them in the southern regions and usually disposing of them quickly, his memories were vague. However, he did remember one thing clearly.
“They’re ugly.”
Derrick’s face crumpled.
“Excuse me?”
“Extremely ugly.”
