Young-hee and the Pullocho by Mark James Russell

Author:Mark James Russell
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-0-8048-4497-0
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

The demon’s lumpy, flaming armor clanked heavily as it menaced Young-hee and Samjogo with his spear. Large, misshapen fangs jutted from its mouth at odd angles, and three bumpy horns covered its forehead. Long hairs, thick as broom bristles, shot from its eyebrows and sideburns. A cool, blue flame licked its skin and hair without burning, sometimes dripping like water. The monster emanated a foulness and evil Young-hee felt deep inside. I guess there’s no chance this guy turns out friendly like Mansoo, Young-hee thought, eyeing the jagged blade.

“Little bird,” cackled the demon to Samjogo in his hoarse, bitter voice, “who opened your cage?” He gestured, and from his hand, a strand of blue flame dripped and transformed into two thin chains. “I think this creature wants to join you as my guest.”

“Yeonggam, old friend, it’s good to see you again,” laughed Samjogo, shielded Youghee with one arm, and remarked, “I highly recommend against his hospitality—it’s far too permanent.”

“Samjogo,” sneered the monster, “struggling will only make your meat more gamey, and I’ll have to age you all the longer.” As it jostled the magical chains, pools of flame gathered at its feet. “Don’t be rude now. These dark caves are mine, and I have certain obligations as host. Introduce me to your friend. I like to have a friendly relationship with my meals.”

With his shoulder, Samjogo edged Young-hee away. “I don’t suppose you have any sort of blade on you?” asked Samjogo, never taking his eyes off of Yeonggam.

“Not even a sharp stick.”

“In that case, I have what I think is an excellent suggestion,” said Samjogo. “Run! Fast!” Before Young-hee could react, the Samjogo disappeared into the darkness, leaving her with her lantern and the demon. Not good. Then Young-hee ran, too.

“Where do my dainties think they are going?” the demon called out, amused. “There’s nowhere to run. This cave is all mine.” Young-hee sprinted past the tree and ducked behind the stone wall. Coming closer, the demon’s steps crunched on the rocky cave floor. “I can see you,” it sing-songed.

Only then did Young-hee remember her lamp. Stupid! she cursed herself. Covering it, she was enveloped by darkness—except for Yeonggam’s blue glow—coming steadily nearer.

“I’m not a creature of sun,” it chuckled. “I don’t need lanterns to see in the dark. Please, feel free to run and hide. I like a little dinner entertainment.”

She gathered herself, thinking if she couldn’t hide, she could at least run, and took off full speed toward the barn. Shadows from her lantern bounced ahead of her. She hoped Samjogo was lurking nearby, ready to pounce, but he seemed completely missing. More powerful than a dragon. Right, she thought. Maybe a nine-headed ogre would show up to fight the demon for her. Of course, with her luck, the two would be friends, and would only fight over her best meat.

She searched the structures for an escape, but each moment looking was a moment not distancing herself from the demon. Crunch, crunch, crunch came its steady footsteps.

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