This was a small town.
Jino and Clark pushed open the door to a tavern.
Even in broad daylight, heavy curtains were drawn inside the tavern to block out the sun, creating a uniquely oppressive atmosphere.
Because this was a tavern, and to make money, people had to feel depressed and stifled. When people were in a bad mood, they turned to alcohol to numb themselves.
When Jino and the bewildered Clark entered the bar,
"I'm looking for someone."
The young man spoke to the many burly men seated inside.
"I'm looking for a boy named Billy Batson. Anyone who can provide detailed information will receive one thousand dollars."
Before anyone could react, Jino pulled a wallet from his pocket and flung out Franklins as though they were worthless, letting them fall onto the bar counter.
"Billy Batson?"
The patrons looked at one another, but someone quickly provided information.
"I know!"
"He lives at...!"
Everyone rushed to give Jino clues about the boy's home address.
"So."
After leaving the tavern, which reeked of alcohol, Clark looked at his friend beside him in confusion. "Why are we looking for a boy named Billy Batson?"
"Because he's important." Jino glanced at Clark as he explained.
"The Earth we're on has magical barriers."
"Together, they maintain the stability of Earth's magical energy. You can think of them as a shield."
Jino tapped his temple and looked at Clark. "If you were Hecate..."
"What would you do?"
Clark raised an eyebrow. This time, he understood. "Destroy the shield!?"
"Correct."
Jino nodded. "And this boy, Billy Batson, has come across a certain opportunity."
"He possesses a magical dimension called the Rock of Eternity. It is one of the key nodes supporting Earth's magical shield."
"That's why I need to find him."
As he spoke,