773 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

Friend of the World's Best Fighter, Chapter 773: Northern Rabbit - Web Novel Archive Ssshhh. The atmosphere around us grows cold as I utter my words. Especially the elderly man in front of me, Muyon, seemed to have an unusual reaction. "Are you speaking of terms?" His eyes convey his response. He's practically saying with his gaze, "Are you serious?" Watching those eyes, I offered a slight smile and said, "Yes." Indeed, that's right. I affirmed that what he heard was correct. Muyon's eyes narrowed even further at this. "Seongwang." "Yes, elder." "Is it perhaps that some of the terms were not to your liking?" The conditions proposed by the Martial Alliance in exchange for assuming a major position. Muyon was questioning if I found any of them displeasing. "No. There was nothing dissatisfying about the terms." How could there be? The terms laid out by the Martial Alliance were, to say the least, incredibly generous. I recalled the contents of the letter that Muyon handed me yesterday. The first term: - You will belong to the Martial Alliance but, except for the Alliance Leader, you are not bound by orders and may act independently. It was a groundbreaking term from the start. The Sword Divisions within the Martial Alliance. Among them, the Eight Sword Divisions are akin to the pillars of the Alliance. Even though they hold high positions, they are still subjects of command. The five leaders within the Alliance. Beyond the Alliance Leader and Muyon, others held positions to maintain the stability of the Martial Alliance, akin to elders in ranking. The sword members inevitably had to follow their orders, and yet here was an offer to act independently, without needing to obey orders. ‘They’re granting me the authority to ignore commands.’ It meant that I could carry on my own way, regardless of what orders they might issue. And the second term: - During the tenure as a major, the Sansungu Clan will be exempt from patronage fees and trade contract payments usually issued to the Orthodox sects. Honestly, this wasn’t much use to me. The patronage fee mandated by being affiliated with the Orthodox sects. The fee scaled with the size of the clan, and being from a renowned clan, it likely required a substantial amount. Moreover, some funds were deducted with the Alliance’s name in ongoing transactions or trade operations. They offered to exclude my clan from these deductions. As a clan head, it’s a fine gesture. ‘Essentially, it means they won't exploit me if I work as a major for them.’ It didn’t quite resonate with me. Moving on to the third term: - When appointed as a major, you will be granted command over a branch, as well as another division excluding the Blue Dragon Division. If anything was tempting, it would be this. A major of the main alliance would gain authority over branch offices in other regions, and on top of that, ‘Command over another Sword Division.’ One of the Eight Sword Divisions, except the Blue Dragon Division, could be commanded. This was indeed a significant advantage. Assuming the position of major removed the costs payable to the Alliance, bypassed orders except from the Alliance Leader, and conferred command over a Sword Division. While there were considerations like the contract duration and the funds to receive from the Alliance, these were also quite generously calculated. All of this could be acquired by becoming a major. It wasn’t a losing deal. The other side clearly understands this, yet upon my insistence on adding more terms, they showed such a reaction. I understand. If I were in their position, I, too, would think that asking for more after being given so much was ungrateful. But say... ‘What could you possibly do if you don't meet my needs?’ It’s unfortunate for the Alliance, but I was very aware of my value. When the Divine Sword was newly called the Little Sword Sage in my past life. I knew somewhat about the terms she received upon being affiliated with the Alliance. It was absurdly cheap. ‘She was too naive about the ways of the world.’ Back then, the Little Sword Sage cared little for such things. Regardless of terms, she plunged into the Alliance to save people, allowing them to secure her under trivial terms. What's the comparison between the Little Sword Sage of then and me now? Though comparing with the Little Sword Sage who showcased the power of demonic arts during the war might be tough, I surely stood several ranks above her current role. Knowing this difference, I must… ‘Receive a hundred times better terms than the Little Sword Sage.’ At the very least, a hundred times better. Extracting a pillar of the Martial Alliance was worth it. Perhaps Muyon sensed my intentions, as his expression didn’t appear pleased. "Elder." Now, what will you do? "If you dislike it, feel free to call it off. I’m fine either way." "…" It was a bold stance. If you don’t like it, just walk away. I don’t mind. That was the attitude. Indeed, this could lead to friction with the Alliance or bring about annoying disadvantages. I was fully aware, but, as previously mentioned, "However, are there any better options you have?" Surely the Alliance acknowledged that utilizing me now was their best approach. The issue was, they weren’t fully aware that I clearly understood this, too. "The terms are really favorable. It's rare to make such an exceptional request to become a major, isn’t it?" "Indeed. Yet does Seongwang still demand additional terms knowing this?" "Yes. While not impossible, it’s still unsatisfactory to me." "…" "If you’re not inclined, just say so." I smiled gently. Having closed my statement, Muyon watched me intently with furrowed eyes. His gaze fixed on me, though he must be fiercely contemplating within. Seconds passed. "Seongwang." "Yes." "The terms I prepared faced considerable opposition, but this old man procured them through considerable effort." I grasped the meaning embedded within his calm tone. - So consider accepting it already. Probably something along those lines. ‘Hmm.’ And so it goes, huh? I quickly employed a similar tactic. "I see. You must have worked hard." - Doesn’t look like my problem. Tell me something else. "If the terms are unsatisfactory... I could offer you different terms. How does that sound?" - It's a stretch. I'd be willing to change the terms to what you desire. "Haha. I appreciate the offer... but I'm not looking for changes." - Is that a dog barking? I'm not interested in empty tricks. "..." "..." The conversations veiled with underlying meanings went back and forth countless times. The discussion wasn't making any progress. If this continued, there seemed to be no end in sight. Realizing that, I acted immediately. Creaaak. I stood up, pushing the chair back. "It seems we can't progress this conversation any further." I'm not one for wasting time. After going in circles, we were back at square one. "Thank you for the generous offer. I look forward to meeting again under better circumstances." If you don't want it, then so be it. My stance hasn't changed, and with the endless conversation, I didn't hesitate to turn away. Just as my steps carried me forward and my hand reached for the doorknob, "...Alright." I paused. Turning my head slightly, I glanced back at Muyon, who spoke up. "...May we at least hear what you have to say first?" The old man grasped his head, as if dealing with a headache. Seeing that, I couldn't help but smile broadly. "Of course. I can certainly tell you what I want." Victory was mine. ****************** Scratch. I wrote down a single line over the parchment. After finishing, I handed it over to Muyon sitting in front of me. "It's all written." Three parchments in total, if you count the pages. I wrote my name over these parchments. Though it was labeled a contract, in essence, I'd only verbally laid it out for now. To formalize it properly, I needed discussions with my clan, so for now, I noted only my intent. Convincing the clan could be done later. 'There's much that might cause delays, but it should be possible.' The contract as a major was set for five years. While re-evaluation upon contract expiration hinges on future circumstances, 'I intend no such thing.' I never planned to fulfill the entire contract duration. Even if I assumed the role of a major, it wouldn't take a year before wrapping things up. 'Yes, that should suffice.' I would gather everything I needed in a year. Anything beyond that was unnecessary. In fact, attempting more would be problematic. For me, it wasn't just a matter of the clan but the "time" itself that was the issue. "Please take good care of things from now on." Having handed over the parchment, I finally did turn away for good. There was no reason for me to linger any longer, nor did anyone stop me. Clack-! The door closed behind me. "...Hmm..." Muyon exhaled the breath he’d been holding in. He massaged his temples, as if fighting off a headache, and put considerable effort into suppressing an impending cough. After taking a moment to steady his breathing, Muyon let out a weary laugh. "Truly, a remarkable young person..." It had been a long time since he’d exerted himself so mentally. Perhaps only once or twice since his retirement had he exerted such an effort. Reflecting on the intense conversation, he sipped his tea. The thirst was unendurable. "It's not an easy task." It was truly difficult. Normally, it wouldn’t have been this tough, but unfortunately, both the situation and opponent weren’t favorable. Of all times, the one they needed knew their worth far too well. The more we talked, the clearer it became. No matter what examples I presented, you had to concede them. The responses were those that deeply reassured that fact. Of course, even with such assurance, some things aren't easily granted. "...He handled it so effortlessly." Rather than being burdened, it seemed he was relishing it. During our discussions, he showed no intention of yielding an inch. ‘He seemed well aware that any misstep meant losing the advantage.’ At a point where he must inevitably yield. Even knowing this, he didn’t let his guard down during the discussion. In essence, “Hmmm.” There was no turning back in this situation. "It's a real shame." Muyon didn’t have any children. Had he had grandchildren more or less, they'd likely be older than Seongwang. Though he felt stripped bare by such a young one, Muyon didn't feel bad at all. How many could walk away with what they wanted without being daunted in a conversation with him? Throughout all of Jianghu, only three stood out in Muyon's memory. One was when the Sword Master was younger, the other was the Medicinal Alchemist, and lastly, the first Baekhwa Guild Leader. And now, Another name was added to the list in Muyon's mind. Though, it might not be a fond memory. "...Never thought he'd take so much." He was thoroughly stripped. Most of the imposed terms were unreasonable. Despite all efforts to filter out a few terms, Muyon had to concede. ‘Ultimately, I had to accept two conditions.’ Unable to filter them all, he had to modify two conditions and one of the existing terms. Otherwise, it was impossible to secure him. "Hmmm..." Was this the right choice? The doubts deepened. It's been seven weeks since I returned as interim tactician. There were countless tasks assigned to Muyon within that time. Technically, they should've been notably fewer, but it was accurate to say Muyon had increased them. It was unbearable otherwise. A mess. That was the word that described the situation of the Alliance. After the Sword Master left, he left as if he were exhausted. What had happened during his absence? If he had known it would be this disastrous, he wouldn't have left. Such was the depth of his regret. Thus, as much as possible, he had to refrain from bringing Seongwang as a major. Other majors might strongly oppose such conditions, and he couldn’t claim to have kept him under his watch. Using another method instead of settling for Seongwang’s inclusion as a major would’ve been wiser. ‘I'm aging, aren't I?’ Muyon acknowledged his mistake. It was an irrational choice. Prideful obstinacy. Being driven by an instinctive sense that he had to secure him somehow. What assurance did I have, considering they’d only met twice? Fearful of the answer, Muyon quickly recalled it. ‘Because I don't know.’ Not because he didn’t know the reason. But because Muyon hadn’t grasped who Seongwang truly was. Two meetings were more than enough to understand a person deeply. Muyon's eyes had always been keen, a trait that remained unchanged over the years. At one point, even the Sword Master had called him perceptive, akin to having the eyes of wisdom. Yet, surprisingly to someone like Muyon, ‘Seongwang remains elusive.’ Understanding Seongwang completely was challenging. His character, his temperament, his core beliefs—all remained veiled and obscure. Could it be because he was too deep and heavy a personality? Or perhaps... ‘Is it because he masks too much beneath the surface, concealing his true self?’ Whatever the reason, it was clear he wasn't ordinary. And that made things all the more burdensome. ‘If only that child weren’t a warrior.’ If he were just a simple vagrant with nothing to lose, Muyon felt an urge to take him under his wing and teach him much about the world. Seongwang, like an enraged bull, used his size to conceal a serpent-like cunning. Ready to strike like a venomous snake, if necessary. Despite his youth suggesting otherwise, there was an uncanny air of experience about him. ‘What did the heavens intend by granting martial talent to someone like him?’ Muyon never had much interest in martial arts, so his understanding was limited. Yet, he could perceive how extraordinary Seongwang was. A formidable intellect coupled with exceptional martial ability ensured he'd make a significant mark on the history of Jianghu. ‘Hence, I hope.’ Thud. Muyon set down the cup he’d been holding on the table. Simultaneously, he looked out the window, a serene calmness settling in his eyes. ‘I hope it's not true.’ He hoped Seongwang wasn't what he feared. That he wasn’t linked to the demonic cult or its celestial demon. Rather, he wished for Seongwang to be a beacon of hope in the crumbling orthodox sects. While this was Muyon's sincere wish, The real reason he went to such lengths to bring Seongwang in as a major was to verify this very suspicion. Thus, a few days later, Through an open announcement, the Martial Alliance declared measures related to the Sword Divisions. The statement came at a time when three majors had fallen, noting the replenishment of the Sword Divisions. The newly appointed major was none other than Seongwang. Having saved Hanan and climbing to the seventh seat, Seongwang, though not yet fully titled, was announced to lead a newly established Sword Division. Moreover, the restoration of the once-fading premier Sword Division of the Martial Alliance was announced. The Divine Dragon Division (神龍隊) was set to be revived.