Chapter: 775
Two days passed, and it was just another ordinary day.
The weather was the same as usual, as autumn gradually prepared to transition into winter.
In the meantime, I was walking at a somewhat calmer pace.
By the way, I hadn’t been able to talk to Mo Yong-hee since the incident.
I wanted to go see her, but she refused to meet. She seemed to be avoiding me, so I went to her aunt, the White Lotus Sword, to ask for her.
[Hmm… This is something I can’t really help with, is it?]
Even the White Lotus Sword, who was quite a bit younger than her years, was at a loss at this point.
To this extent, I’m also quite concerned about this.
‘It really seems like she’s genuinely upset.’
It didn’t seem like a mere case of sulking.
What should I do? How can I resolve the current situation?
Those who knew what was going on would undoubtedly not be on my side, so I completely admit that I made my mistakes here.
‘Tsk.’
Damn it, this was just one among many issues I had to deal with.
That was the biggest problem.
This was also why I had to remain calm even while wrapped in deep thoughts.
I walked quietly along the path.
A street in Hyeon-ui bustling with construction.
As before, refugees and merchants were directly fixing the site, and the pace was quite fast.
It can’t be helped.
Not only were two major factions working together, but even the martial artists were there to help out, so how could they possibly be slow?
From the very day construction started until yesterday, they had been rebuilding the area nonstop.
Because of that, there was quite a bit of noise.
But today? Something felt different.
‘…’
I averted my gaze and surveyed my surroundings.
There were still many eyes on me.
This began the moment my title changed, but the reaction today was distinctly different from yesterday.
It was eerily quiet.
The looks directed at me were subdued, the very atmosphere felt different.
Sensing this, I continued walking while straightening my head to look ahead.
As I passed through, some people bowed respectfully or quietly lowered their heads.
If they were jumping up to praise me before, now I had to wonder why they were acting like this.
But I couldn’t say a word, because I understood the reason better than anyone else.
Today felt like one of those days.
Damn it.
-Processing is complete.
While I was walking, I heard Nahi’s voice.
Upon hearing that, I paused briefly.
-As you instructed, I’ve divided some of the assets through Daemukri and will start delivering them within four days while maintaining anonymity.
‘Alright.’
I nodded slightly.
In the past, I had spent more than half of the assets I accumulated from mining iron and steel.
It wasn’t an intended expense, but it was necessary from my standpoint.
‘Don’t follow me any further. Just hang back and wait.’
-I obey your orders.
After sending Nahi away, someone approached me as if waiting for this moment.
“I present myself before the Holy King.”
The figure was a member of the Murim Alliance.
This meant I had come in search of the Murim Alliance.
Unlike last time, I was not here to see Myeong-yeon, nor was it for personal reasons.
Oh, if you call it personal, I guess it is?
“I am at your service.”
The conversation was not lengthy.
The warrior turned his back and moved, and I simply followed him.
Just like the area, a calm atmosphere permeated the Alliance too.
The expression on the guide’s face and the rare glimpse of black from the allies made it more obvious.
He was wearing the official attire of the Murim Alliance on the outside but had a black outfit underneath.
No one pointed out this oddity.
Furthermore, most of the warriors were dressed that way.
After walking in silence for a while, the warrior who brought me to a certain spot seemed to have concluded the guidance and headed back the way he came. Upon my arrival, someone spoke to me.
“You have arrived.”
A warrior who had risen to the rank of king like me. It was the Tiger King, Hwangbo Yeolwi.
He arrived wrapped in bandages, and I asked him.
“… Are you feeling better?”
“I can manage moving.”
Hwangbo replied, slightly grimacing at my question.
In that short response lay hints of pain being endured, and discomfort at the young warrior worrying unnecessarily.
‘Quite impressive, isn’t it?’
Does that tiny expression really manage to seep through me like this?
Even to someone who doesn’t appear significantly injured, he looked as if he were in terrible pain.
I can’t help but feel a barrier.
The acting talent I lack. The Tiger King certainly possesses it.
…Anyway.
As we wrapped up our brief conversation, I could sense more figures approaching me.
“The Holy King.”
I turned my gaze toward the sound calling me.
An unfamiliar yet recognizable face was there. As I looked closer, the name popped into my mind shortly after.
‘Song Yu.’
This was Song Yu, the Grand Lord of the Red Dragon Corps, and one of the few remaining archers in the Central Plains.
He offered a polite greeting as he spoke to me.
“Thank you for taking the time to visit the Alliance during your busy schedule.”
“… It’s nothing. It was just something I had to do.”
At Song Yu’s words, I smiled awkwardly.
Yeah, I had to come. I had to be here, regardless of others.
“Oh, and the Grand Red Dragon.”
“Yes.”
“I forgot to mention, I’m grateful for what you did back then.”
“…!”
Suddenly expressing gratitude caused Song Yu’s eyes to widen in surprise.
He seemed to know what I was reflecting on and was aware of what I meant.
“… You noticed?”
“How could I not? You are the only person in Hanam who could shoot an arrow like that.”
“… Haha….”
The reason I felt thankful to Song Yu is quite simple.
A few days ago, during the fight with the White Monster, an arrow flew in at the precise moment of crisis.
The arrow imbued with strong energy shot directly and struck the monster.
That moment gave us the chance to escape from danger.
“Thank you.”
Of course, the only person capable of shooting that kind of arrow was the one from Hanam.
The Grand Master of the Red Dragon Corps is undoubtedly the wielder.
“No, it’s fine….”
Despite expressing my gratitude, I sensed that Song Yu, who should’ve received it, looked distinctly uncomfortable.
Why that face, though?
He didn’t seem entirely pleased today, did he?
I turned away, pondering this ambiguity.
Aside from this, a few other figures caught my eye.
Along with other Grand Lords like Song Yu, there were figures from distinguished families and sects present as well.
It was similar to the numbers I’d seen at previous martial arts gatherings.
Even though that many people were gathered, the atmosphere was remarkably different from that time.
Should I say it felt quiet?
True enough.
If I were to say it was noisy, that would be even more strange.
On a day like today, this atmosphere felt more fitting.
Just like the calm road, a profound silence enveloped the interior.
Seeing that, I took a quiet breath, reminding myself I was no different.
There’s a simple reason why so many people have congregated here.
Today is.
A mourning ceremony for the casualties from the recent raid on the Alliance.
A mourning ceremony.
It sounds a bit glamorous, but, frankly, it isn’t anything too extravagant.
All it entails is gathering numerous people to express their sorrow and sympathy over the sadness.
The difference is, since it’s held at the Murim Alliance, many are coerced into attending.
It can’t be helped.
While the alliance may be the alliance, the current situation is rather critical.
Everyone is likely in a state of disarray due to the incident; if you skipped out on the mourning ceremony, you’d receive some pretty harsh glares.
Thanks to that, at the ceremony, I noticed quite a few familiar faces I hadn’t seen at the martial arts meet.
From major lords I hadn’t seen during the raid to those who’ve made considerable accomplishments, the attendance was impressive.
The current Sword King of the Namgung family.
Including figures just under him in status as well as heads of the Gu Pailbang.
‘Cheonan.’
I also caught a glimpse of Cheonan, the head of the Shaolin Temple.
‘Oddly enough, I didn’t see him during the raid.’
I had heard news that some Shaolin warriors participated in the fray.
This was to be expected.
Hanam served as the stronghold of the Murim Alliance, but it could also be coined as Shaolin territory.
In that frame, the number of warriors appearing from Shaolin seemed lacking.
I’m not sure how the Alliance perceived their absence.
‘An estimation says it’s less than thirty.’
At most, thirty.
While that may seem substantial relative to other locations, it’s an alarmingly low count given the number of associated sects and the size of Shaolin itself.
There’s no way a faction based right in Hanam sends only thirty.
‘Unless they deployed only elite troops—or maybe not.’
This raised some eyebrows regarding their rationale.
Why did Shaolin choose to handle things like this?
Despite their participation, they received less censure, but it didn’t score them any brownie points with public sentiment.
Could Shaolin have been unaware of this?
‘Absolutely not.’
Regardless of how many ignorant souls there are, there’s no chance they were oblivious to this.
Of course, Pilduma’s people have claimed to have hidden their numbers, but that doesn’t alter the reality of their ineffectual response.
What this boils down to is.
‘There had to have been another motive.’
It signifies Shaolin had a reason for such actions.
‘What could it be?’
I hadn’t yet discerned the reasoning behind their decision.
Should I have Nahi infiltrate?
‘Nah. That’s too much of a hassle.’
There’s a multitude of tasks I need to address right now.
Especially in Nahi’s case, considering her to be included in such a mission would be quite impractical.
Even a thought of lobbing off Cheoljiseon’s head and tossing it away crossed my mind…
‘Hey, that’s not a bad idea…?’
Suddenly, the thought struck me that perhaps, it might not be too shabby.
I contemplated executing it, but…
‘…’
I shoved the notion aside immediately.
It wasn’t simply because the plan was peculiar.
Right now, this kind of thinking was ill-timed.
“……These have been tough times. Yet, we have prevailed.”
Before me, those gathered, and beyond them, countless souls peering on.
There were too many to count.
Though, having had a raid so recently, they had managed to mitigate the numbers from swelling too much; still, it was a significant turnout.
However.
‘Even with this many gathered.’
The only sound came from the voice of the swordsman on the stage.
Not a single other sound could be heard.
With heads bowed, or hands clasped in silent prayer.
The atmosphere suited the solemnity of the mourning ceremony.
“… The memory of that day will remain indelible. No, we must never forget.”
There was no discernible reaction to the swordsman’s words.
The sole feelings detectable came forth in waves of shallow resentment and distrust.
Sorrow was laced with hesitation.
These were not sounds but impressions brimming with emotion.
Amid the dissatisfaction with the Murim Alliance, I intently focused on the words spoken by the swordsman.
Remember.
Remember the sacrifices that transpired during the last raid.
Those words echoed continuously through my mind.
Amongst the shadows of mourning lies the faces of those who lost families or loved ones during the raiding event.
Subtle but transparent feelings danced across their countenance.
I committed each expression to memory.
Thoughts of the words I shared with Shin resurfaced.
‘I said I’d do everything in my power to make sure nothing happened.’
I drained myself trying hard to resolve it, yet ultimately failed to settle the entire matter.
Did I think it wouldn’t escalate like this? No, deep down, I expected it.
From the very moment the attack commenced; from the instance they tried to stage that absurd production.
I foresaw this very outcome.
Now, open your eyes wide and take a good look.
That is exactly why I stand here today.
Those expressions are created by none other than me.
‘Don’t you dare make excuses, saying it was out of necessity.’
I reflect on this.
I had to strive not to forget until my dying breath.
I cannot apologize. Nor can I explain the reasons behind my actions.
This is all I could accomplish.
I provided assistance to the victims in the form of support, and spent to restore what had been lost.
After returning, I hoarded wealth that I never possessed in my previous life, yet half of that fortune evaporated in an instant.
It wasn’t in vain.
After all, that money wasn’t truly mine, and hey, I could always acquire more.
Still, even performing that much won’t shift the circumstances, nor will it lighten the guilt resting heavily on my chest.
Those expressions will likely never soften, and the hollowness of their loss? It won’t be filled.
No, merely a reminder.
‘This is the road I’m treading.’
I will continue walking down the path created by trampling the innocent, accumulating layers of remorse.
Is this what’s termed a way for the world?
That too is just an excuse.
‘From the beginning, I never cared for the world.’
Since when did that even become the goal?
That’s just a side tale.
“Ugh.”
I exhaled softly.
This was supposed to soothe the turbulence within.
Yet, do you want to hear something that’s somewhat fortunate?
‘The fact that now, as a dragon, I can somewhat endure this.’
Maybe it’s because I’m not human anymore, but it feels significantly better compared to before.
In fact, it even crossed my mind laughingly, how insignificant their deaths were in the grand scheme.
‘Not so much for this.’
That thought won’t take root.
It aids me in maintaining my balance but collapsing completely? That’s an entirely different matter.
I shut my eyes.
Amidst the encroaching darkness of the world, I aimed for steady breathing.
This wasn’t a moment of silence or mourning. If anything, it could be best described as mere babble.
‘So, that’s where I draw the line.’
I wouldn’t forget what I’ve done. This is the extend of my abilities.
With that thought, when I opened my eyes again.
“… Today, the Murim Alliance wishes to express condolences while at the same time initiating a significant change due to the recent raid.”
Coincidentally, the swordsman’s narrative was also nearing its conclusion.
‘What’s the last part of it?’
I had been distant, not really listening, so I didn’t catch the content.
Doesn’t matter.
I assumed it was something lacking any real substance anyway.
Almost to affirm it, a weighty narrative began flowing from the swordsman’s mouth.
“From this point on, we intend to eliminate the enigmatic group called the Demonic Sects from our land while also demolishing them entirely from Central Plains.”
With that pronouncement, murmurs began to ripple through the crowd.
The talk of complete eradication of the Demonic Sects.
That statement carried significant weight.
The relationship between the Pure and the Demonic Sects had never been friendly. Yet, it has led to wars already multiple times.
Currently, for some reason, a ceasefire was in effect, but the present words from the Alliance’s leader were…
‘A declaration of war.’
It meant that they would resume the long-stalled conflict with the Demonic Sects for true.
“The Murim Alliance will never back away from confronting the Demonic Sects. As long as they jeopardize our peace, we will fight and prevail. There will be no defeat.”
The voice of the swordsman, resolute, echoed everywhere.
The sentiments were noble, yet the populace remains unsettled.
To declare war in front of those exhausted by the raid? Now that’s sure to cheer them up.
Surely Geomseon realized that too, yet he must have forced those words out for a good reason.
“I understand this is a challenging and arduous task. Thus, I have called upon a distinguished individual.”
With those words, a figure emerged from the back.
“It’s been a while. I am Mukyeon.”
This was Mukyeon, a former strategist of the Murim Alliance.
Once he introduced himself, the murmurs around intensified.
Mukyeon was a figure who had been present during the golden era of the Alliance. Some people even claimed that it was due to him the Alliance climbed to great heights.
An icon of the Murim Alliance appeared amid this moment of crisis.
Just that made the atmosphere around dramatically shift.
‘What a terrific tactic.’
In any organization, when a crisis arises, one of the easiest means of overcoming it is to bring back a figure of the past.
Mukyeon was precisely that type of character.
Rumors of his return had already spread throughout Hanam, and him appearing at the mourning ceremony basically confirmed it.
-Seriously… is that really him?
-I can’t believe I’d see that gentleman again before I die…
The effects were immediate.
-If it’s him…
Doubt and suspicion began to surface.
Perhaps, because of Mukyeon, who had shared in leading the Murim Alliance with the leader in the past, their belief could easily be rekindled.
Just with the act of appearing, hope surged with intensity.
‘Hmm.’
I had anticipated this to a degree, yet the effect seemed to surpass my expectations considerably.
‘Have I underestimated the power of Mukyeon?’
I wasn’t prepared for this level of impact.
Moreover.
“Additionally, we have lost a pillar of the Murim Alliance.”
Besides Mukyeon, the swordsman had prepared more words for this mourning ceremony.
“It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of three brilliant heroes. However, with the Demonic Sects’ fangs bared, we cannot allow ourselves the luxury of grief for too long. The Alliance chose to honor those who have passed while striving to fill the void they left.”
As he spoke with sincerity, the swordsman slightly stepped back.
For what purpose?
“To honor the great contributions made during the raid, we hereby introduce a bright star among stars. The Star King shall walk alongside the Murim Alliance as the new leader.”
It was merely an introduction.
‘What the hell.’
Hearing the swordsman’s statement made my expression sour immediately.
‘What on earth does “star among stars” even mean?’
How is that even a fitting introduction?
A chill surged through me, and I fought the urge to grind my teeth, managing to maintain a poker face.
–…The Holy King is the leader of the Murim Alliance?
–What in the world…?
Those unaware of the rumors sported looks of utter shock.
Meanwhile, those who were already aware widened their eyes, confirming the rumor’s legitimacy.
‘What a surprise.’
The stares from all sides rushed in.
As always, being at the center of attention remains daunting.
What am I supposed to do? Should I wave my hand, at least?
But even so, doesn’t that seem a bit excessive at a mourning ceremony?
As I hesitated, unsure of how to respond.
“The title of the unit you will oversee is the Seongryongdae, which is set to become a key fighting unit during the forthcoming battle with the Demonic Sects.”
Now I also learned the name of the division I’d be assigned to and the reason behind its existence which had thus far remained unknown to me.
‘So they plan to use it in the conflict against the Demonic Sects…’
Is it intended as a hunting party?
What I heard sounds similar.
‘No way.’
Would they truly assign such a role to someone like me?
My gaze shifted to Mukyeon.
‘There’s no way that old man hasn’t gotten involved in this.’
I firmly believed that as long as Mukyeon was around, he wouldn’t assign me such tasks.
The reasoning lay elsewhere.
‘That guy’s suspicious of me.’
He likely has his doubts about any ties I hold with the Blood Demon.
Clearly, Mukyeon harbored suspicions as he looked at me.
Could it be that he entrusted me with a task regarding the Demonic Sect?
‘If that’s truly the case, then what’s the intention?’
What could possibly be the reasoning behind entrusting me with that assignment while harboring doubts?
In the midst of the confusion, my mind began racing through the unexpected turn of events.
“And furthermore.”
Swordsman continued, suggesting his narrative wasn’t yet finalized.
“With the establishment of the Seongryongdae, we wish to re-establish a symbol that shone brightly in the long history of the Alliance.”
Hearing that, my brow furrowed.
‘A symbol?’
They desire to reforge the symbol of the Murim Alliance?
The symbol he referred to could only derive from one source.
At that moment, the swordsman spoke as if confirming my deduction.
“… From today onward, the Shinryongdae shall be resurrected to safeguard the Central Plains.”
As soon as he announced the topic of Shinryongdae, the surrounding sounds intensified.
More so than the fact that a retired strategist has returned and that I have been appointed as the leader of the Seongryongdae.
The mention of the resurrection of the Shinryongdae invoked the most substantial upheaval.
I had to squint my eyes at the unusually profound reaction.
‘Is it really that significant?’
Though I had anticipated some response, I never anticipated a reaction of that magnitude.
I know that the Shinryongdae held symbolic significance within the Alliance…
‘It must have been something really extraordinary.’
Even just the discussion of Shinryongdae during the ceremony led to ripples of commotion.
I was unfamiliar with the time period when Shinryongdae functioned and had no prior encounters with them in my previous life.
This meant, for the first time in my current existence, the talk of the revival became a reality.
That’s why it clicked for me eventually.
‘The Shinryongdae figures were remarkable in their own right.’
Transcending any personal belief about Mukyeon, it dawned on me the Shinryongdae also possessed immense significance.
‘What a bizarre circumstance to bring this fuss up during a funeral.’
As I grappled with the reasoning behind discussing this during a ceremony intended for shared sorrow and comfort, the response finally made sense to me.
A mystical ember flared within the eyes that had been shedding tears of sadness.
A sense of reassurance.
The emotions that had begun to wilt slowly started to rekindle.
They hadn’t even begun to do anything significant yet; they had only heralded their resurrection.
Was the mere mention of the name Shinryongdae enough to spark such a shift?
‘Should I label it as remarkable? I truly am at a loss for words.’
I found myself at a loss for speech due to this overwhelming spectacle that led to involuntary laughter.
“And so, while understanding the nature of these circumstances, I would still like to present an introduction today to offer a glimmer of comfort.”
With that, the swordsman continued on seamlessly.
“A figure who will protect the Central Plains and assume the role of the new sword for the righteous.”
Same moment.
“Let me introduce you to the Seongryongdaeju.”
In the midst of this unexpected announcement, I found myself bewildered.
‘What?’
Shinryongdaeju? My eyes widened at the swordsman’s statement.
‘What are you talking about?’
This was a statement I hadn’t heard before.
I had listened intently, thinking Mukyeon and I would be introduced at the conclusion of the mourning ceremony, but the mention of the Shinryongdaeju escaped me.
I had thought this meant it might not have been selected today.
Yet here he was, announcing the new Shinryongdaeju?
As a moment of surprise surged through me.
Swish.
“…!”
I felt the blurred movement next to me.
Turning my head, I saw someone slip past me.
‘What the…?’
I stifled my surprise at their back.
Clearly, until just moments ago, there had been no one side by side with me.
It had been like that just seconds before, yet where had they come from?
And moreover,
‘Didn’t I notice until they showed up?’
Even when damage loomed over, I hadn’t caught sight of anyone passing right next to me; that was bizarre and utterly odd.
Glaring at the individual who brushed past me, my gaze sharpened.
First and foremost, he wore the white garb signifying the Grand Master.
He stood slightly over seven feet tall, with a slender frame.
With ebony hair briskly tied back, he resembled a well-defined figure.
With a sword strapped to his left hip, he appeared to be left-handed, and his gait looked steady and neat.
Who exactly was he?
I aimed my gaze at his face to glean more insight, yet could find nothing.
He wore a mask obscuring his features.
A yellow mask hiding his identity.
It was said that the Shinryongdaeju concealed his identity under a mask until his position was relinquished.
To validate that, he appeared to be wearing one as well.
Walking calmly beside the leader of the Alliance,
The swordsman smiled gently, introducing,
“Here’s the new leader of the resurgent Shinryongdae.”
As he spoke, the masked man bowed his head briefly.
No voice penetrated the atmosphere.
He merely demonstrated a subtle gesture of respect.
Even with such minimal action, the entirety of the surroundings zeroed in on him.
The new Dragon Lord.
All eyes were drawn to the presence encapsulated in that title.
I too fixated intensely upon his back.
A persona shrouded in ambiguity.
Even someone who had pierced through my defenses lightly.
That, in itself, warranted keen observation.
‘Hah.’
It wasn’t merely because of that.
This so-called Dragon Lord.
With concentrated eyes, I scrutinized him.
It was unavoidable.
‘That’s right.’
From him, a familiar sense seeped through.
‘I’d been wondering why the hell he hadn’t moved thus far.’
And it was nothing less than.
The remnants of the Blood Demon.
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