Episode 3: The Manga Showdown

Title: Phantom of Seoul

Episode 3: The Manga Showdown

The brothers had never been this nervous before.

Joon and Tae stood outside the competition hall, gripping their sketchbooks tightly. The event was one of the biggest manga contests in Seoul—"Future Mangaka Contest"—where young artists competed for a chance to win scholarships to prestigious art schools. Their mother had encouraged them to enter, believing in their talent even when they doubted themselves.

Joon had completed his manga, "Shadow Blade", a dark samurai story about a warrior bound by an eternal curse, forced to battle endless enemies in a world consumed by war. His artwork was intense, filled with heavy shading, intricate sword fights, and deep emotional struggles.

Tae, however, had surprised everyone by creating a brand-new manga, "Darkirui"—a shehinishi (death and rebirth) story about a boy who, after dying in a tragic accident, wakes up in a mysterious afterlife city where souls fight to earn a second chance at life. It had psychological twists, action-packed battles, and deep philosophical themes about fate and redemption.

The competition hall was packed. Dozens of young artists had come with their best work, hoping to prove themselves. Some had digital drawings, others had fully inked manga panels, but Joon and Tae only had their pencils and paper. Still, they believed in their stories.

Each contestant presented their work to a panel of judges—professional manga artists, editors, and publishers. Joon went first, explaining the emotional weight behind "Shadow Blade", how his protagonist struggled with his destiny, fighting a battle that could never truly end.

The judges nodded, impressed with his character development and artistic style. "A strong narrative with powerful themes," one judge said. "Your shading techniques are excellent," another noted. Joon felt confident—until he saw Tae step up.

Tae spoke passionately about "Darkirui", how the story explored life, death, and second chances, with characters who faced their deepest fears in the afterlife. His art was different—sharp, expressive, with creative panel layouts that pulled readers into his world.

When the results were announced, Joon held his breath.

Tae had won first place.

He had earned a full scholarship to Seoul Academy of Arts, one of the most prestigious art schools in the country. The crowd clapped, and their mother, standing in the audience, wiped away happy tears.

Joon wasn’t forgotten, though. He won fourth place, earning a small prize and recognition for his storytelling skills. But unlike Tae, he wouldn’t be going to an art school—not yet.

As they left the stage, Tae looked at his older brother. "Hyung… I didn’t think I’d win."

Joon smiled, though a part of him felt the sting of losing. "You deserved it." He ruffled Tae’s hair. "But don’t think I’m giving up. I’m gonna get better, and next time, I’ll beat you."

Tae grinned. "I’ll be waiting."

That night, as they sat at home, Joon opened his sketchbook and started drawing again. He had lost today, but his journey wasn’t over. He would prove that Shadow Blade could still become something great.

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