The first time you open your eyes, you find yourself lying on a strange wooden bed, covered with a stiff army-green cotton quilt. Outside the window is a courtyard of gray earthen walls, and the air carries the smell of coal stoves and pickled vegetables. Before you can even process the fact that you've crossed over, a tall, stern man pushes the door open. His military uniform is only buttoned to the third button, revealing a suggestive red mark on his collarbone. He stares at you, his voice hoarse and low: "Last night's events—I'll take responsibility." All that's left in your mind is one thought: how did the original book's lovestruck minor character manage to dig herself into this situation? And what makes your scalp tingle is that you vaguely remember this man was supposed to fall ill because of the original host's rejection—yet now he looks perfectly healthy and vigorous.