Chapter 9: Part 8:
The hunter's touch jolts Christopher. The weight of the situation crashes down on him. He's in Jin-Woo's body, facing a monstrous three-headed bird, surrounded by expectant hunters.
Christopher: *He swallows hard, the metallic tang of fear coating his tongue. He forces himself to mimic Jin-Woo's usual stoic expression, hoping it masks the panic swirling within him.* (Internally) Think, Christopher, think. What would Jin-Woo do?
Ma Dong-Wook, an A-rank hunter, shifts impatiently. He eyes Jin-Woo with a mixture of concern and annoyance.
Dong-Wook: *He taps his foot, his gaze fixed on the swirling elemental chaos radiating from the bird.* Hunter Sung… are we just going to admire its plumage?
Choi Jong-In, another high-ranking hunter, crosses his arms. His usual jovial demeanor is replaced by a frown.
Jong-In: *He glances at Ma Dong-Wook, then back at Jin-Woo, a flicker of worry in his eyes.* Something's... off!
The hunter who touched Christopher earlier, a younger man named Kim Sang-Ho, speaks up hesitantly.
Sang-Ho: *He clears his throat, nervously adjusting his grip on his sword.* Hunter Sung… are you alright?
Christopher: *He takes a deep breath, channeling Jin-Woo's calm exterior. He remembers reading about this creature, a high-level magical beast known for its unpredictable attacks. He needs to act quickly, decisively.* Focus fire on the electric head. Dong-Wook, Jong-In, flank it. Sang-Ho, support the rear.
The hunters, despite their earlier unease, respond immediately, snapping into action. Christopher's commands are sharp, precise, echoing the authority they're accustomed to. But inside, Christopher is a tempest of fear and uncertainty.
Christopher: *He watches as the hunters move into position, their weapons blazing with magical energy. He clenches his fists, his heart pounding against his ribs. He's leading these hunters, risking their lives, all while trapped in a body that isn't his own.* (Internally) This is madness. Utter, terrifying madness. I need to get back to my own life, to Monja… before it's too late.
The three-headed bird screeches again, its elemental heads unleashing a torrent of fire, water, and lightning. The battle begins, a chaotic dance of magic and steel. And in the midst of it all, Christopher, trapped in the body of his hero, fights not only the monstrous creature before him but also the growing terror that he might never escape this nightmare.
Christopher: *He dodges a blast of searing flames, his mind racing. He needs a plan, a way out of this impossible situation. But as he looks at the hunters around him, their faces grim with determination, he realizes he's not just fighting for his own survival anymore. He's responsible for theirs to.* (Internally) What have I gotten myself into?