Chae Shinhyuk

Chae Shinhyuk is Chae Nayun and Chae Jinyoon's father, the successor of the Chae clan, and a powerful civilian leader within Daehyun. His effort to protect Nayun from the truth of Jinyoon's transformation drives him to conceal evidence that later causes his daughter still greater pain.

Biography

Protecting his children

Shinhyuk first appears at Nayun's hospital bedside, frightened by her injury and gentle when she asks about her comatose brother. When Jinyoon later dies, Shinhyuk confronts the devilized arm on his son's corpse and the prospect that an autopsy will expose him as something beyond an ordinary Djinn. Overcome by grief and determined to spare Nayun another loss, he asks that the evidence be hidden and the body buried quietly. The concealment does not erase the truth; it instead creates the secret that Nayun eventually has to uncover for herself. (Chapters 13 and 127)

After Jinyoon's death

Shinhyuk continues watching over Nayun through her resulting collapse, staying beside her hospital bed and receiving her friends when she finally wakes. During a meeting with Hajin, he appears cold at first but recognizes the cadet's reputation, thanks him politely, and gives Nayun space to speak with him. These scenes establish a father trying to preserve ordinary relationships while the decision surrounding Jinyoon remains unresolved. (Chapters 137–145)

Appearance and personality

Chae Shinhyuk is tall, bearded, and carries an unusual aura despite being described as only average in natural Hero and business talent. His righteous character and relentless self-cultivation earn him succession within the Chae clan. He is warm toward Nayun but can use immense social and economic power when protecting his family. (Chapters 13 and 137)

Gifts and abilities

No named Gift or combat technique is established. Shinhyuk is described as an average Hero who compensates through self-discipline, while his greater demonstrated power is institutional: he leads Daehyun interests and can direct sensitive investigations.

Relationships

• Chae Nayun: His daughter and the person he tries to shield from Jinyoon's condition.
• Chae Jinyoon: His son's death and transformation drive Shinhyuk's decision to hide the corpse's condition.
• Kim Joongho: The forensic scientist whom Shinhyuk asks to keep Jinyoon's condition secret.

Items

• Highlander's Claymore: A historical-grade artifact Shinhyuk gives Nayun. It belongs to her and becomes one of her important weapons. (Chapter 151)