798 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

## Chapter 798: Northern Rabbit **Clank-** On an arena yet to be cleared, a man places his hand upon the sword at his side. A single sword tied at his waist. This cherished sword of his is named Euna Jeolgeom (恩娥晢劍), a legendary blade crafted in Tang's workshop. Just like its name suggests, this beautiful sword is counted among the finest examples. The martial artist skilled in wielding it is renowned for his graceful swordsmanship that rivals the sword's own beauty. **Swooosh-** The Euna Jeolgeom slides out of its scabbard, revealing its exquisite blade to the world. “…Oh…” “Wow…” Those observing express their admiration as if to confirm the stories of its fame. Even the aura emanating from it is striking. “…Is this the leader of the League?” Standing below the stage, Yeoltujeon Geom mutters a low observation. The draw of the swordsman's blade saturates the surroundings with its commanding presence. The conceited arrogance that could be felt ebbed away, replaced by instant humility. Suppressing a cold sweat, Yeoltujeon Geom watched the man who wielded the sword. ‘A master.’ Though he himself was never one to be cowed, facing this opponent felt trivial. One of the swords leading the main division of the Alliance. A combat unit opposed to the demons. The leader of the Iron Dragon Squad, Silver Wolf Sword. When he held his sword, a hush fell over the surroundings. Ranked among the one hundred great masters of Zhongyuan. A position attainable only after ascending to the so-called peak, known as the realm of transcendence. Except for the now-deceased leader of the Phoenix Dragon Squad, all leaders of orthodox factions were among the hundred masters. Silver Wolf Sword was no exception. The Hundred Great Masters is often hailed as the ultimate aspiration for martial artists. Those who ascend to this position earn an unassailable status, coveted by all. Furthermore. “…Huh… The aura…” “It’s impossibly sharp…!!” Eventually, one can only reach that position through skill. Upon the arena, Silver Wolf Sword was vividly demonstrating this truth. He clearly showed he wasn’t just a leader of the Iron Dragon Squad, but a master who had reached transcendence. **Rumbleee---!!!** The chilling vigour of a martial artist at the leader level. It engulfs the entire arena, no small stretch of space. The air sank heavily and those nearby frowned at the oppressive weight. Feeling stifled by it, Yeoltujeon Geom swallowed dryly. ‘…Is this really okay?’ Was this situation truly acceptable? With trembling eyes, Yeoltujeon Geom cast his gaze somewhere. Beyond the broken examination table only a chair remained. Quietly sitting there, watching the arena, was a young man. ‘Star King…’ Star King Gu Yangcheon. Yeoltujeon Geom contemplated the individual responsible for this situation. ‘Is there truly some significance to this?’ Of course, the thoughts were not meant to be heard. ****************** **Hummmm.** **Sssss—-!!** The sword hums powerfully as its presence permeates the air. A fierce force swirls, the owner of the chaotic aura, Silver Wolf Sword, slowly opens his eyes. "…Hmm." He emits a soft sigh, clearly displeased. Yes, Silver Wolf Sword was not fond of this situation. ‘Truly irritating.’ Standing upon the arena under many eyes. Drawing his cherished sword he wished never to wield unnecessarily. And even his opponent, whom he faced with his drawn sword. None of it sat well with him. He cast a gaze tinted with this discomfort straight ahead of him. Standing across was a woman. Long, bluish-white hair, azure eyes, dressed in navy attire—a striking beauty. A figure so alluring that even Silver Wolf Sword, who had seen countless battles, couldn’t help but gaze repeatedly. Her nickname was Sword Dancing Fairy, having made her mark during a friendly martial arts exchange a few years ago. Her sword dance was likened to an elegant choreography, and her beauty contributed to her name, Sword Dancing Fairy. Recalling this, Silver Wolf Sword nods. ‘Indeed.’ It seemed like an unexpectedly fitting nickname for someone of her abilities, but seeing her in person changed his perception. ‘She is strong.’ It was evident from the onset. To Silver Wolf Sword, the woman before him was exceptionally powerful. Too powerful to be merely termed a rising talent of the younger generation. Possibly. ‘She might be the next Sword Queen.’ Even without crossing swords, it was apparent. A formidable successor to the Plum Blossom Sword Queen. In Silver Wolf Sword’s view, Sword Dancing Fairy possessed such value. It was unfathomable. ‘The generation of meteors they call it.’ From the Sacred Dragon Division to the Lunar Sword, a successor of Sword Master… All referred to as prodigious beyond their years. ‘And among them, the most bizarre is…’ Silver Wolf Sword turned his head slightly to the side. The creator of this bizarre situation. A true monster hailed as the representative of the meteor generation, sat observing impassively. ‘Star King (星王).’ Ruler of the stars. Certified as the greatest among the young prodigies. Star King Gu Yangcheon. He was watching him. **Grind-!** The scrutiny made Silver Wolf Sword grit his teeth. Even his intrigued gaze was unwelcomed. No matter his status, Silver Wolf Sword saw him as merely a child. A younger member even among the so-called meteor generation, yet… ‘A monstrous boy indeed…’ Looking at him made Silver Wolf Sword shudder. Being the youngest king meant little. Many doubted Star King's skills, and Silver Wolf Sword shared that uncertainty. However, he wasn’t reckless like the Double Claw Sword Demon who dismissed him with disbelief. After all, it was reported he defeated Blade King decisively. This was fact transmitted among hundreds. Silver Wolf Sword pondered this tale. ‘If it were me…’ If it were him. Could he have defeated Blade King as decisively? ‘...’ Silver Wolf Sword inwardly shook his head. He had confidence in a victory. Silver Wolf Sword believed he could beat Blade King. Yet claiming an absolute victory felt ambiguous. It wasn't just him. Among all the leaders, only two were believed to decisively beat Blade King. Guardian Leader Sword Emperor. Azure Dragon Leader Ilcheonggeom. Only those two. ‘Yet Star King achieved it.’ Meaning... ‘Does this mean Star King is at least on par with Ilcheonggeom?’ It was an unbelievable notion. That young brat was on the level of Ilcheonggeom, who was said to be among the top ten masters? Truly, it was absurd. ‘...’ Yet despite the disbelief, Silver Wolf Sword refrained from further denial. Such was the reality. Regardless of personal opinion, the facts remained unyielding. Squinting, Silver Wolf Sword scrutinized Star King. A young man watching with his chin rested in his hand. No matter how he tried to gauge his aura, it eluded discernment. This indicated a level at least equal to his own. ‘Damn it.’ With this realization, Silver Wolf Sword grimaced. Out of nowhere, this unknown entity had appeared and occupied a leader position, looking down on and provoking them. To Silver Wolf Sword, it was infuriating. Even now, it was vexing. ‘Having to engage in such rubbish.’ While flourishing his aura and drawing his sword, it all felt unseemly. It was even laughable. “Hoo…” Here he was. Silver Wolf Sword, leader of the Iron Dragon Squad. All because he was caught in the playful machinations of that brat. -“Let’s make a wager.” Star King had suggested to him with a smile, proposing a wager. And if Silver Wolf Sword won, the Star Dragon Division would be his, so he said. Additionally. ‘He said he’d lick my feet.’ As vulgar as it sounded, the proposal was intriguing. So the response was natural. -“…I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to listen.” He’d unintentionally found himself saying this. - “Oh? Really?” Star King had beamed as though waiting for this response. - “Then would you spar with her?” - “What?” He gestured toward the arena as he spoke. Silver Wolf Sword followed the gesture and frowned. - “You mean Yeoltujeon Geom…?” Yeoltujeon Geom, a renowned swordsman anticipated to reach the realm of transcendence soon. Was he meant to engage in a spar with him, Silver Wolf Sword wondered, eyeing Star King with interest. - “What? No, I mean the one next to him.” - “…Next to him…” Surely not. - “…You mean the Sword Dancing Fairy?” - “Yes.” He was told to spar with the Sword Dancing Fairy, according to Star King. Upon hearing this, Silver Wolf Sword’s face distorted even further. - “Star King, are you in your right mind?” - “Why? Do you not wish to?” - “This is an affront to me.” Not even facing Yeoltujeon Geom, but a rising talent alongside her. Moreover, considering the verified future of the Sacred Dragon Division and the promising successor of Sword Master. Yet he was told to spar with the Sword Dancing Fairy. It was an insult, bordering absurdity for Silver Wolf Sword. As he was about to voice his affronted feelings. - “So what? You don’t want to? Then don’t.” - “Star King.” - “If you don’t wish to, just don’t do it. Do I force you to fight? I just want to prove something.” Pointing at the Sword Dancing Fairy, Star King emphasized. - “That your ignorant view, in assuming she’s not worthy of attention, is wrong. And I intend to demonstrate that to you, staking my pride on it.” - “…Huh.” Finally, Silver Wolf Sword realized. It was his own words that had led Star King to orchestrate this situation. - “If you detest it, just stop. Otherwise, just sit in silence.” - “…” Hearing those words, Silver Wolf Sword slightly loosened his gaze. - “You may regret those words.” - “I will handle my decisions.” - “…I heard she is your fiancée. Even so, will you force this?” - “You do talk a lot. So, will you accept the challenge or not?” - “…” A momentary silence. Countless thoughts emerged, yet ultimately Silver Wolf Sword was left with Star King’s mention of yielding the Star Dragon Division. He didn’t truly believe he’d acquire the Star Dragon Division. Nevertheless. ‘It’ll provide enough justification.’ The words of Star King, the resultant occurrences. The resulting outcome to be gained. Judging by everything, there was little to lose if he won the wager. - “…In terms of sparring, you’re not simply suggesting winning. What form should it take?” - “Do as you wish.” - “Huh?” Whatever he wanted? - “Does that mean just winning the spar is sufficient?” - “That is up to you.” - “…” What was the intention? Did Star King genuinely believe the Sword Dancing Fairy could win? If so, he might assume that since he is a monster, others would be too. Not that it mattered. If the opponent was consumed by arrogance, all the better. Yet. There was still one question unanswered. - “Star King.” - “Yes.” - “I’ve heard your conditions. Conversely, what would I lose if I fail in the wager?” Considering it a wager meant both had something at stake. If Star King was wagering such a thing, naturally he’d risk something too. Thinking about this prompted him to ask. - “Ah, that part. Yes, about that.” Hearing this, Star King smiled and responded. “...” Having heard that, Silver Wolf Sword made his decision. And the result of that choice was this. “Young lady.” “…?” At the call, Namgung Bia looked up at Silver Wolf Sword. Such beautiful eyes. The thought occurred instinctively. “I bear no ill will towards you. Particularly due to my acquaintance with your father.” The father of the Sword Dancing Fairy was the Sword King of Namgung Ga. They weren’t deeply connected, but Silver Wolf Sword was aware of him. “So, even now—” **Swoosh-!** “…!” The sound made Silver Wolf Sword’s eyes widen. Even now, it’s not too late to stop. The words, filled with concern, were answered by Namgung Bia with her drawn sword. Witnessing this, Silver Wolf Sword asked. “Do you genuinely intend to spar with me…?” “...” “…Are you presuming victory over me, even considering Star King?” The Sword Dancing Fairy was strong. As he had noted before, Silver Wolf Sword could confirm this. However, strength didn’t equate to surpassing him. Silver Wolf Sword knew her level well. Impressive, but that was it. Far from reaching him. That was his judgment. “Truly, what is this about…” Were these two merely scornful toward him? **Clench-!!** Silver Wolf Sword gripped his fist tightly. “Very well.” Fine, show me what you’ve got. Though Star King's intentions were unclear, retreating was not an option at this point. Given the situation, Silver Wolf Sword knew he had to show his worth. **Hummmm.** The Euna Jeolgeom hummed quietly with anticipation. "Before the spar, I’ll grant you three seconds." “...” "Proceed." A concession of three seconds. Speaking with a lowered aura, Silver Wolf Sword made the offer, sparking interest and excitement in the eyes of all who watched. Exactly three seconds. Silver Wolf Sword intended to give way for three seconds before striking on the fourth, bringing this pointless spar to an end—so he thought at that moment. "Three seconds?" Namgung Bia tilted her head, pondering aloud. "Indeed. Three..." **Whoosh-!** Suddenly, Namgung Bia swung her sword. Once. **Swoosh-!** Then twice. **Swoosh-!** And then a third time. Having swung her sword a total of three times, Namgung Bia assumed her distinctive expression and faced Silver Wolf Sword. "Three seconds." Her calm statement prompted all onlookers to cover their mouths in silent shock. “…Th…!!” **Grind.** Silver Wolf Sword’s face turned red in an instant. Anger surged within him, ready to erupt in a loud outburst, but— "Even if I offer charity, are people to be this dismissive—!" **Thud.** “…!?” Silver Wolf Sword found his words cut short. A cold sensation traced his throat. The blade was against his skin. "Concession?" Upon hearing the voice, Silver Wolf Sword lowered his gaze. The voice that had seemed distant was now right before him. A subtle floral scent wafted in the air. Silken white hair cascaded down. Simultaneously. "Who was it..." Namgung Bia whispered to Silver Wolf Sword.