775 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

Chapter 775: The North Rabbit - Web Novel Archive A couple of days later on another ordinary day. The usual weather persisted. It was a time when autumn was gradually giving way to the preparations for winter. During this period, I found myself walking with a somewhat subdued pace. For the record, I hadn't been able to speak with Moyong Hee Ah since the incident. I tried to meet with her, but she refused. It seemed she was avoiding me so much that even when I sought an audience with her aunt, Baek Ryeon Geom, to ask for her assistance, I was met with reluctance. [Hmm... This is something even I can't help with.] Even Baek Ryeon Geom, who was notably more immature than her age would suggest, seemed to have given up on this situation. It was troubling me significantly at this point. 'I might have seriously messed things up.' This wasn't likely just a simple sulking matter. What should I do? How can I resolve the current situation? Given how everyone who knew the circumstances was on her side, it was evident that I was the one at fault. 'Tsk.' Unfortunately, this wasn't the only issue I was facing. That was the biggest problem. It was also why I had to remain calm amidst my deep concerns. I continued to walk quietly along the path. Construction was in full swing on the streets of the county. Just as before, the refugees and members of the merchant guild were repairing the county directly, and the pace was quite swift. It had to be. Not only were two of the leading merchant guilds involved, but even martial artists were stepping in to help; how could it possibly be slow? Every day, almost without fail, from the first day the construction started up until yesterday, the county was rapidly being rebuilt. This resulted in a considerable amount of noise. However, today was different somehow. '...' I glanced around my surroundings. There were still many eyes on me. Ever since the moment my moniker changed, this had been the case; yet the reactions were noticeably different from yesterday. It was eerily quiet. The gazes upon me, even the surrounding atmosphere carried in the air. Feeling this, my steps didn't falter as I looked straight ahead once more. As I walked by, some offered me a respectful nod or quietly bowed their heads. It was curious how, after previously being praised with enthusiasm, things came to this. However, knowing the reason better than anyone else, I had no words. It was simply one of those days. Unluckily enough, it was indeed one of those days. -The task is complete. While walking, a transmission from Na Hi reached me. Hearing this, I stopped briefly. -As you instructed, a portion of your master's wealth has been distributed through discreet channels. We will start delivering it anonymously within four days. 'Got it.' I nodded slightly. In the past days, I had utilized more than half of the wealth I accumulated from scrounging Jageumju and Mannyeonhancheol. It wasn't a planned expenditure, but it was necessary from my standpoint. 'Don't follow me any further. Stay at a distance and remain on standby.' -I shall obey. After sending Na Hi away, someone approached me as if they had been waiting. "I greet the Star King." The person who appeared was a member of the Martial Alliance. Which meant I had come to the Martial Alliance headquarters. It wasn't as if I had come to meet Muk Yeon again, nor was this for personal reasons like the previous visit. Well, when you think about it, it could be considered personal, then again maybe not. "Please, follow me." The conversation was brief. The martial artist turned and moved, and I simply followed. Like the streets of the county, the Martial Alliance also harbored a somber atmosphere. Not only the martial artist leading me but even the rare glimpse of black beneath the official robe of Martial Alliance members was telling. Although their outer garments were the standard Martial Alliance attire, a black martial garment was visible beneath. It was an unusual situation, yet there was no one to point this out. Furthermore, most of the martial artists wore such attire. After walking in silence for a short while, the guide left, signaling the end of the escort, and someone approached to speak to me. "You've arrived." The voice belonged to Ho Wang Hwangbo Yeol Wi, one of the few martial artists who had attained the title of 'King.' He had already arrived, bandaged but present, prompting me to ask. "How is your condition?" "I can manage to move." His response came with a slight wince, indicating discomfort and impatience at the unnecessary concern from a junior martial artist. 'Impressive.' This subtle expression conveyed all these nuances? However, his condition didn't seem as painful as it appeared. A barrier, indeed. A talent for acting that I lack. Surely, Ho Wang possesses it. …Anyway. As I wrapped up my brief conversation with Ho Wang, I sensed others approaching me. "Star King." Upon hearing my name, I looked in that direction. A face both unfamiliar and familiar at the same time came into view, and it didn't take me long to recall his name. 'Myung Goong.' The man was none other than Myung Goong Song Yoo, the master of the Red Dragon Squad and one of the few remaining archery experts in Zhongyuan. Approaching me, he offered a courteous greeting and said, "Thank you for visiting the Alliance despite your busy schedule." "…No, it's something I had to do." In response to Song Yoo's words, I offered an embarrassed smile. Yes, it was a necessary visit. Regardless of others, I had to come. "Oh, and Red Dragon Squad Chief." "Yes?" "I forgot to mention something before. Thank you for that time." "…!" My sudden expression of gratitude made Myung Goong's eyes widen. He seemed to understand what I was referring to. "…You were aware." "How could I not be? In all of Hanam, the only person capable of such archery would be you." "…Haha…." There was a specific reason I thanked him. A few days ago, during the battle with the white creature, an arrow came flying at a critical moment. It was an arrow infused with internal energy, swiftly piercing and landing a direct hit on the creature. That moment allowed me to escape from a perilous situation. "Thank you." Undoubtedly, only one person I knew of in Hanam could shoot such an arrow. The leader of the Red Dragon Squad was certainly the one. "No, not at all…." However, despite my thanks, Myung Goong appeared visibly uncomfortable. I wondered why he had such an expression. He didn't seem all that pleased. Was he in a bad mood today? I pondered half-heartedly and turned away. A few other figures caught my eye. In addition to Song Yoo, there were other squad chiefs. Figures from the noble families and sect members were also present. In terms of scale, it was akin to the martial arts festival. There were as many people, but the atmosphere was distinctly different. Quiet, one might say. Indeed. A noisy gathering would have been stranger. On a day like today, this kind of hushed aura seemed more fitting. The stillness within mirrored that of the streets, and I adjusted my breathing to match. There was a common reason for all these people gathering. Today was... A day the Martial Alliance held a memorial service for the casualties from the recent assault. ******************** A memorial service. It sounds like a grand phrase, but in reality, it wasn't particularly elaborate. It was simply about gathering a large crowd to express shared sorrow and condolences. The difference was that since the venue was the Martial Alliance, many people were compelled to attend. There was no way around it. It wasn't just about the Alliance; the current situation was tumultuous. Everyone was a mess because of the incident, and not attending such a service would bring fierce glares. Perhaps because of this, there were several figures at the memorial who I hadn't even seen at the martial arts festival. There were squad chiefs unseen during the assault and individuals with significant standing. The head of the Namgung family, the current Sword King. Individuals from the notable Ming family and leaders of the Nine Great Schools, among them the head of Shaolin Temple, Cheon An. Cheon An was also present. 'I didn’t catch a glimpse of him during the assault.' There were reports that martial artists from Shaolin participated. That was expected. Though the Martial Alliance’s headquarters was in Hanam, it was also Shaolin’s territory. Yet the number of martial artists dispatched by Shaolin wasn’t particularly high. I’m not sure how the Alliance assessed this, but... 'From my understanding, it was fewer than thirty.' Barely thirty. That number might seem a lot compared to other places, but given the size and prestige of Shaolin, it was insufficient. Especially when considering that Hanam was their home ground. 'It would make sense if they sent an elite force, but that wasn't the case.' It was puzzling. What was Shaolin thinking? Despite their participation, public sentiment wasn't entirely favorable. Was Shaolin really unaware of this? 'No, impossible.' Even if they were full of fools, there’s no way they couldn’t realize. Others have suggested that the Fiendish Sect had infiltrated Shaolin, but that doesn't change the lackluster response. This implies... 'There was some other reason.' Shaolin must have had some rationale. 'What was it?' I hadn’t identified the reason yet. Should I have Na Hi infiltrate? 'No, that's too much.' There’s already more than enough work to go around. Especially with Na Hi; her plate was full, and this wasn’t the right task for her. Perhaps shaving off Cheol Jiseon’s hair and sending him would do, but... 'Not a bad idea…' The thought suddenly didn’t seem too far-fetched. Thinking of actually implementing it, though, I dismissed it quickly. Not because it was a bizarre idea. But rather, because now wasn’t the time for such thoughts. “…We have endured harrowing days. But we have persevered.” Countless people gathered before me, stretching beyond sight. Although there was a recent assault delineating who would come, a significant number was here nonetheless. Nevertheless. 'Even with such numbers gathered.' The only sound was Geom Seon’s voice from atop the podium. No other noise intruded. Heads were bowed, hands clasped in solemn silence. The atmosphere was indeed suited for a memorial service. “…The memories of that day will not be forgotten. No, we must remember.” Despite Geom Seon's words, no overt reactions could be sensed. What could be felt were faint disdain and distrust. Sadness mixed with tribute. Instead of sounds, subtle traces of emotion lingered. Even amidst the atmosphere of dissatisfaction toward the Martial Alliance, I was focused on Geom Seon's speech. Remember, he urged. Remember the sacrifices made during the assault. Those words spiraled continuously in my mind. Amidst the spreading mourning and Geom Seon’s hollow words, my gaze was fixed forward. It was where those who lost family or friends in the assault stood. Their faces bore shallow yet striking emotions. I took these expressions in one by one. It reminded me of something I told Shin Ui. 'I promised nothing would happen.' I fought fiercely to resolve things, yet I couldn’t save everyone. As such, was it not inevitable? No, I had been aware. Since the moment the assault occurred. Since the instant that theatrical play was conceived. I knew inevitable consequences would follow. Thus, I watched with wide-open eyes. I stood here today for the sole purpose of witnessing those looks. Those expressions are the direct result of my actions. 'Don’t even think of justifying it as necessary.' I mentally repeated this. It was something I needed to remember until my dying day. I couldn’t apologize. I couldn’t explain my reasons. All I could do was acknowledge my limitations. Under the guise of support, funds were sent to those who had suffered losses. Money was spent to help rebuild what was destroyed. After reincarnating, I amassed a wealth I never had in my previous life, yet half of it vanished in an instant. I didn’t feel any regret. After all, it wasn’t really mine, and money could always be earned back. Spending a bit of wealth didn’t change anything or lessen the guilt. The expressions on their faces would not soften, nor could the void of loss be filled. It was merely a reminder. 'The path I’ve chosen leads to this.' To stride a road piled on the harm of innocents, enduring the rot within, for a path forged by such means. Is it a path for the world? That too was an excuse. 'Truthfully, the world means nothing to me.' Since when was that my goal? Those were just the stories that accompanied it. With a subtle exhale, I released a breath. It was to calm the turmoil within. Do you know what the silver lining is, though? ‘The fact that being a dragon makes it somewhat more bearable.’ Being no longer human, sensations don't strike me as harshly as they once did. Sometimes I'd even find myself dismissively thinking, what's the big deal about the death of such insignificant beings? ‘But that's a bit far.’ I must not go that far. While it helps keep me from crumbling, I cannot let myself cross the line completely. I closed my eyes. In a smoldered world, I regulated my breathing without attachment. This wasn't a moment of silent meditation or mourning. More accurately, it was indulging in a useless reflection. ‘So let this be the end of such indulgence.’ Never forgetting the actions taken. That was the extent of what I could do. Thinking thus, I opened my eyes once more. “…The Martial Alliance intends to use this opportunity to enact significant changes following the attack.” Coincidentally, Geom Seon was concluding his speech. ‘What else had he been saying?’ I hadn't been listening, so I was unaware of what he had mentioned. Not that it mattered. It likely wasn’t anything of value anyway. As if to validate this, significant words flowed from Geom Seon’s mouth. “With this event as the turning point, we categorize the mysterious organization, the Magyo, as part of the demonic faction, and we vow to eradicate the demonic factions from the lands of Zhongyuan.” Murmurs accompanied this declaration. The complete obliteration of the demons. This statement carried significant weight. Traditionally, the orthodox sects and the demonic factions were far from friendly. Their history was punctuated by several wars. Though a spiritual yet informal truce existed at present, the words from Geom Seon, the leader, implied... ‘A declaration of war.’ It meant restarting the earnest battle with the demonic factions, which had stopped momentarily for peace and rebuilding. “The Martial Alliance will never back down from the fight against the demonic factions. As long as they pose a threat to peace, we will stand firm and victorious. Defeat is not an option.” Geom Seon's resolute voice echoed everywhere. While the declaration was firm, it still wasn't enough to captivate the public sentiment. Announcing a war in front of those weary from the assault wasn't going to help. Geom Seon knew this all too well. So why did he bother with such words? “For I am aware of how daunting and arduous a task it is. Thus, the Alliance has invited a special guest.” With Geom Seon’s statement, a figure stepped forward from behind. “It’s been a while. I am Muk Yeon.” It was Muk Yeon, formerly the tactician of the Martial Alliance. His introduction stirred greater whispers among the crowd. Muk Yeon, who had witnessed the Martial Alliance's golden age alongside them. Some even credited the pinnacle of the Alliance’s power to his presence. In this moment of crisis, one of the Alliance’s heroes re-emerged. His mere presence altered the atmosphere. ‘It’s quite an effective method, indeed.’ When organizations face crises, the easiest way to break through is this. Bringing back one of the symbols active during their heyday. Muk Yeon fit that description precisely. Rumors were already spreading in Hanam that Muk Yeon had returned. His appearance at the memorial service was akin to an official confirmation. -Really… is he really the tactician? -Never thought I'd see him again in my lifetime…. The effect was immediate. -If he’s involved…. Mistrust and doubts wavered. Perhaps, if it was Muk Yeon, who led the Martial Alliance alongside Geom Jeon in the past, things might be different. Just his appearance wrought hope. ‘Hmm.’ I had anticipated this somewhat but underestimated the impact it would have. ‘Did I underestimate Muk Yeon?’ I needed to reassess Muk Yeon's value. I hadn't expected such a transformation from mere presence alone. Moreover. “We have lost certain pillars of the Martial Alliance.” There was another card Geom Seon had planned for this memorial service besides Muk Yeon. “While it's devastating to have lost three brilliant heroes… thinking of the demonic factions sharpening their fangs, we cannot afford eternal mourning. In remembrance of those who departed, we’ve sought to fill the places they left.” Delivering this speech, Geom Seon stepped back slightly. For what purpose? “To introduce our new shining star among stars. The Star King has agreed to walk alongside the Martial Alliance as a new leader.” To introduce me, of course. ‘…Damn it.’ Hearing Geom Seon’s words made my expression sour immediately. ‘Star among stars? What nonsense.’ The manner of introduction was absurd. My skin crawled, and I fought the urge to grit my teeth, forcing myself to maintain a neutral expression. -…The Star King as a leader in the Martial Alliance? -Why would he do that…? Those unaware appeared astonished. Those already informed recognized the rumors as truth and widened their eyes. ‘Great.’ I felt the weight of their gazes from all directions. As always, their stares were burdensome. What should I do? Should I wave? No matter how I thought about it, waving during a memorial seemed inappropriate. As I hesitated, unsure of how to respond… “The name of the battalion to be led by the Star King is the Star Dragon Battalion. This formidable unit will play a crucial role in the battle against the demonic factions.” A name I hadn’t heard before, and now I understood the reason for the unit I was to lead. ‘Using it for the fight against the demonic factions….’ Could it be a hunting dog role? From the explanation alone, it seemed no different. ‘No way.’ Would they really entrust such a role to me of all people? My eyes darted to Muk Yeon. ‘There's no way that old man didn’t have a hand in this.’ I was confident Muk Yeon wouldn't allow such a task to be placed on me. The reason was simple. ‘He’s suspicious of me.’ He might suspect I have ties to Cheonma. I was sure Muk Yeon was considering that possibility. Would they really assign me to a unit devoted to countering the demonic factions? ‘If they truly did, what was the intent?’ What could be the reason for handing me such a role while harboring suspicion? Just as my mind was beginning to race through this perplexing situation. “And furthermore,” It seemed Geom Seon wasn't done speaking. “Along with the establishment of the Star Dragon Battalion, we aim to resurrect a momentarily dormant yet shining symbol of our great history.” I frowned at the mention of a symbol. ‘A symbol?’ What Geom Seon referred to as the symbol of the Martial Alliance was unmistakable to me. Sure enough, his words confirmed my suspicion. “…From this day forward, the Divine Dragon Battalion will be revived to protect Zhongyuan once again.” Upon Geom Seon's announcement, the surrounding noise intensified considerably. The notion of Muk Yeon's return and my appointment as the Star Dragon Battalion leader paled in comparison to the impact of the Divine Dragon Battalion’s revival. The reaction was significant enough that I had to squint slightly. ‘Is it really that big of a deal?’ I anticipated repercussions, but I hadn’t expected this level of response. I was aware of the Divine Dragon Battalion's reputation as a symbol of the Alliance, but… ‘It must have been truly remarkable.’ The buzz alone from mentioning it during the memorial service was extraordinary. I barely knew anything about the Divine Dragon Battalion’s active period, having never encountered them in my previous life. This was the first time in this life I had even heard of their revival. So now, I realized belatedly. ‘The Divine Dragon Battalion was indeed a revered force to these people.’ Just like Muk Yeon's value exceeded my expectations, the Divine Dragon Battalion's worth was immense. ‘I had wondered why they'd bring this up during a memorial service.’ I now understood why they chose such an occasion to announce it. Subtle sparks of reassurance seemed to rekindle in eyes once weeping. Hope. Emotions that had been waning began to reconvene. Despite not having formally emerged yet, simply mentioning the Divine Dragon Battalion’s comeback had sparked such change. ‘Impressive, or perhaps overwhelming—I’m not sure what to say.’ I was at a loss for words, struck by the astonishing sight before me. Before I could let out a surprised chuckle. “Hence, though it may not fit the circumstances perfectly, we wish to offer some comfort by introducing him to you today.” Geom Seon continued. “The figure who will protect Zhongyuan and become the new sword of the orthodox factions.” Simultaneously. “I present the new leader of the Divine Dragon Battalion.” An unexpected announcement reverberated. ‘What?’ Divine Dragon Battalion leader? Geom Seon's words made my eyes widen. ‘What does he mean?’ This was news to me. I was told the plan was to introduce Muk Yeon and myself at the memorial, alongside announcing the Divine Dragon Battalion’s revival, but nothing about their new leader. I assumed either they hadn't decided yet or wouldn’t introduce one today. And now, suddenly, introducing the new Divine Dragon leader? As I stood there, wrapped in amazement at the suddenness. A soft rustle. “…!” A presence brushed past me. Turning my head, I saw someone walking past. ‘Who is this...?’ Sensing their back, surprise took hold. There was no one beside me until just now. Just a moment ago, the place was empty—where did they come from? More baffling. ‘To think I didn’t notice their arrival?’ Even considering my injured state, not noticing someone that close was peculiar. I turned to scrutinize the person passing by, almost glaringly. They wore a white martial uniform associated with high rank. Their height slightly over seven feet, with a somewhat lean build. A man with his black hair tied back tightly. A sword hung from his left waist, suggesting he was left-handed; his gait was stable and composed. Who could this be? I tried to discern his face but couldn’t identify him. Because he wore a mask. Yellow, concealing his face. Wasn’t it said that the Divine Dragon Battalion leaders wore masks to conceal their identities until they stepped down? This seemed to corroborate that claim. The man walked composedly to the leader’s side. Geom Seon smiled gently at him and spoke. “He is the new head of the revived Divine Dragon Battalion.” At this introduction, the man bowed shortly. His voice wasn’t heard. He simply offered a slight nod as a gesture of respect. Even this minimal action commanded the full attention of all present. The new Divine Dragon leader. Such was the presence held by the title. I too was staring intently at his back. An unfamiliar figure. Moreover, a strength that effortlessly eluded my senses. That alone warranted enough reason to take note of him; however, ‘Ha.’ That wasn’t the only reason. As I narrowed my eyes while observing his back—particularly because it felt familiar. ‘Indeed.’ From him emanated the distinct traces... of the Blood Demon (혈마).