784 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

Translated and Implemented Instructions Epoch of the World's Greatest: Chapter 784 (784/820) * Thud-! As soon as Mok Yeon's (묵연) words were spoken, a movement was sensed from one side. “What do you mean…!” “Mok Strategist! What do you mean by that?!” Two figures emerged. Specifically, the Golden Dragon Squad Leader and the Iron Dragon Squad Leader slammed the table and stood up. Their expressions were full of intense dissent. “Bringing in individuals from outside rather than choosing from within?” “That goes against the Alliance's regulations…! How can this be permitted?!” There was a firm indication that this was something they could absolutely not accept. Or, perhaps it was disbelief. “What exactly do you mean by this?!” It was the muscular man, Dongcheon (동천), also known as the Dual Righteous Illusion Sword Leader of the Golden Dragon Squadron, who shouted out. His face clearly exhibited emotion. However. “Mok, the Strategist-!” “Golden Dragon Squad Leader.” “…!” When Mok Yeon, looking at him, called out softly, the Dual Righteous Illusion Sword, who had been raising his voice repeatedly, quickly closed his mouth. ‘Oh.’ My eyes slightly widened at this scene. Mok Yeon was merely an ordinary person with no internal cultivation, while the Dual Righteous Illusion Sword had reached the Fusion Realm. Despite being a martial artist of high standing, he was subdued almost instantly by the old man's call. Was such a sight even possible? ‘His presence is no joke.’ The appearance that Mok Yeon momentarily showed was more than enough to make it believable. A frail, emaciated, and sickly old man's body. A light touch could easily shatter it to pieces. It should have been of no value to fear. “Please calm yourselves. The same goes for you, Iron Dragon Squad Leader.” The presence Mok Yeon exuded made it impossible to think such thoughts. I know nothing about this old man. Only that he is considered great, judging by his past and history that I've heard about. Although I have yet to properly comprehend everything about Mok Yeon, even I could sense that this old man was no ordinary individual. What of those who have seen him up close, even for a moment? “…Ugh….” In reality, the Golden Dragon Squad Leader, who had just been angry, and the Iron Dragon Squad Leader, both bit down on their lips and returned to their seats. ‘Impressive.’ How could he make them react this way? In my past life, Cheonyeorang-ja (천유랑아) was like that too. How many of the most formidable demonic beings met their end by his words alone? However, Cheonyeorang-ja had the Heavenly Demon behind him, so even the demonic beings reluctantly listened to his words. They too must have known. Cheonyeorang-ja's words meant that there was a high chance of victory. Some of them would wager their lives for just that one shred of hope, and it was no different with Mok Yeon. Of course. ‘Without power, nothing can be achieved.’ It was a form I could not easily comprehend. If that is considered power in its own right, then it is power. ‘Ultimately. Concrete power is essential.’ No matter how intelligent and brilliant the mind is. In the face of overwhelming power that disregards it, it holds no meaning. That’s always been my conclusion. Though Mok Yeon’s words temporarily calmed the atmosphere, it didn't resolve anything, only suppressed it for the moment. “However... Mok Strategist. No matter how you look at it, what you’re saying is nonsensical.” “That’s right. Even if you’re Mok Strategist, it’s difficult to accept what you’re saying.” The reactions signifying absolute refusal. It was inevitable. ‘To test them directly and bring them in must be difficult to accept.’ The Alliance consists of eight squadrons. Although some have collapsed and their number is not maintained, even if there are eight within the Sword Squad, not all belong to them. Only the elite of the elite may enter the formal Sword Squad. Martial artists must enter the Alliance, build their prowess and presence, to have the opportunity to join the Sword Squad. Yet suddenly, a young lad would be plucked from outside to stand before them. Recruiting even the members from outside? “Isn’t this too excessive a privilege?” To them, it was something incomprehensible. And truly. “Yes. That’s right. It is a privilege.” It indeed was a privilege. “…Strategist…?” Faced with this confident statement, everyone wore a dumbfounded expression. Only Mok Yeon and I maintained calm appearances. “The issue concerning the Star Dragon Squad is indeed a privilege.” “Are you acknowledging this...?” “There is nothing to acknowledge. Iron Dragon Squad Leader. This was necessary in the process of enlisting the Star King (Seongwang / 성왕) as a squad leader.” “How could that be—!” “That is the will of the Alliance.” “…!” The will of the Murim Alliance. The Iron Dragon Squad Leader’s expression crumpled at those words. “That was the will of the Alliance Leader verified through the meeting of the internal elders.” “Such….” “Let me ask you, then. Are there personnel available in other Sword Squads to reassign into the Star Dragon Squad?” “…” No answers came forward. That question implied asking if there was anyone who could be taken from their own Sword Squad to be absorbed into the Star Dragon Squad. “More precisely…. Are there any leaders who can allocate members of the fourth grade or higher?” “Fourth, fourth grade you say!” The Golden Dragon Squad Leader hastily shouted. Fourth grade (四級). It's the rank received upon entering the Murim Alliance. The lower the number, the higher the value, with squad leaders ranked first. Deputy leaders were assigned between third and second grades. It meant that the fourth grade signified the best of the elite. At the very least, they must far surpass the Peak Realm. “To send fourth-grade members elsewhere is utterly unreasonable.” “Yes, I am aware it is unreasonable. Therefore, I proposed forming the Star Dragon Squad with external members.” “Instead of that. Wouldn’t it be possible to send those still unaffiliated with any group?” “Iron Dragon Squad Leader. Have you forgotten the reason for the Star Dragon Squad's creation?” A unit exclusively against the Unorthodox Sect. Declaring a purge under the guise of war, even if merely for show, one couldn't just fill the Star Dragon Squad with incompetents. Fourth-grade members were at the Peak Realm, and individuals like that were rare, even crucial within the Sword Squad. Yet, to send them to me? ‘How could anyone do that, it would be a waste.’ No one would comply unless forced. Oh, and just as a note. The proposal to bring them from outside was one of my conditions. It was one of the terms I appended when Mok Yeon voiced his intention to recruit me. Translated and Implemented Instructions “If I am to become a Squad Leader, you must allow me to personally select my Sword Squad members.” That was my desire. I was willing to accept the guise of a trial, with the condition that not all members can be excluded, and some must be from the Alliance. It was only natural for them to oppose this. ‘Those guys don’t care about the Alliance’s traditions or history.’ I’ll form the Sword Squad my way, so don’t interfere. That was the intention behind these words. With that, perhaps... ‘My Sword Squad might end up being quite sizable.’ Regardless of how things unfold, it would never birth a small squad, a testament to its potential size. This foresight is why they ardently opposed it... ‘What will they do if they're already reacting this way?’ If this simple matter elicited such a response, how will they withstand the next discussion? As I fathomed this and quietly observed the situation unfold... “This topic has already been decided. I won’t entertain any further discussion.” “Strategist…!” “And another thing.” Despite the Squad Leaders’ resistance, Mok Yeon remained deaf to their protests. I was struck with a sense of curiosity watching him. ‘Is it okay to be so reckless?’ Even if Mok Yeon’s status is quite high, this blatant stubbornness could be perilous. Just as I harbored this concern... “Excluding the Azure Dragon Squad, one of the currently existing Sword Squads will assist the Star Dragon Squad in its missions.” Mok Yeon added this statement. In that moment, the heated atmosphere in the room cooled. Everyone froze as though they’d turned into statues. Perhaps they misheard? As questions arose, each of them pondered. “…Strategist.” Large beads of sweat formed on Dongcheon’s forehead as he spoke in a stiffened manner, the harsh attitude from before now transformed into one burdened with tension and anger. “Are you saying... that we must join the Star Dragon Squad?” “Not join, but assist—.” “Isn’t that essentially the same thing?!” Bang-! Dongcheon banged on the table with a forceful roar. Crash-! The table crumbled under the impact, and the Dual Righteous Illusion Sword began glaring fiercely at Mok Yeon. Dongcheon’s interpretation was correct. While labeled as support, it essentially meant serving as the Star Dragon Squad’s subordinates. This was astonishing. ‘Has that old man gone mad…?’ How could he say it out loud so brazenly? I had expected him to be more subtle with his words, yet Mok Yeon bluntly delivered it to the Squad Leaders. The idea of assisting the Star Dragon Squad. This was another condition I appended. Traditionally, as a Main Alliance Squad Leader, you’re granted several commands when appointed. Naturally, your own Sword Squad is included. A notable privilege is... ‘The authority to command local branches.’ There was also the right to transfer command of particular regional branches. The branch leaders manage each branch, but if the Main Alliance Squad Leader issued a command, they had to comply. There were many such commands, though none were particularly critical. If I were to take on a Squad Leader role, I requested the power to mobilize an entire squad. The response was, naturally, rejection. They likely realized they could not withstand opposition from other Squad Leaders. I anticipated that. However, I, too, did not accept the rejection. I declared I wouldn’t assume the role if they didn’t comply with this. Mok Yeon offered a compromise, not as an authority, but under the guise of assistance. Yet... ‘Did he really say it like this?’ Though articulated differently, it meant the same—more or less ordering them to serve. “Even if I understand an incompetent person joining as a Squad Leader and receiving privileges, how can you treat us like this?!” The term ‘incompetent person.’ I emitted a sarcastic laugh upon hearing that. ‘As expected?’ I figured my arrival wasn’t sitting well with them. Dongcheon gnawed his teeth, struggling to contain his anger, while the Iron Dragon Squad Leader looked ready to storm out. ‘How is he going to handle this?’ What approach would Mok Yeon take? If he resolved even this, then he truly was a remarkable figure. Curiously, I stared at him. ‘Hm?’ When I turned my eyes, Mok Yeon was also looking at me. With the reaction of Dongcheon and the Hidden Wave Sword, why was he watching me? What purpose could there be to his gaze? Quietly, I continued to meet Mok Yeon’s eyes. ‘Oh.’ Could it be? A thought flashed through my mind—was this related? Tap…! Tap. Tap. Mok Yeon gently tapped the table three times. “Ha.” Seeing this, I concluded my thought was correct. ‘This old man?’ If my assumption was right, the conflict with Ilcheong Sword (일청검) earlier and everything that ensued was part of this old man’s plan. The linkage might lie in the third condition I had posed to him. “…Haha.” Realization brought forth a constant stream of laughter. “…?” As I laughed aloud, the surrounding gazes converged on me. Though trying not to laugh, it was unavoidable. “Wow, truly impressive.” “…What?” My reaction made Dongcheon frown in displeasure. “…What’s so funny?” “No, isn’t it amusing?” I chuckled as I stood slightly from my seat. Though it irked me, thinking I’d been played, it seemed fitting to partake a bit. Once standing, I addressed Dongcheon directly. “The real joke is when useless nobodies are so busy protecting their own plates... How could it not be amusing?” “…What did you say?” “What are you—!” “You should be grateful even if you are assigned to support. Know your place.” Screeeeeech. As I shoved the table aside, I glanced at Dongcheon, the Hidden Wave Sword, and the other Squad Leaders. “You seem to misunderstand something. It’s not about you entering under me.” Nodding my head slightly, I gazed ahead. “It’s about me accepting useless people like you. How could you not realize that?” Rumble-!! No sooner had the words left my lips than a surge of Fighting Qi erupted. It came from Dongcheon directly before me. “This bastard.” Accompanied by coarse curses, his fighting spirit began to deepen. “You act as if the world is yours just because you’ve been humored? Mind your words.” Translated and Implemented Instructions "That's exactly what I mean." Step. I strode forward, unperturbed by the surge of fighting qi. I didn't hasten my pace. "It seems that being a Squad Leader has spoiled you. You have no understanding of the world." "You insolent brat, how dare—!" Thunk-! “…!!” As the Dual Righteous Illusion Sword moved to draw his weapon, his eyes widened. His hand couldn't reach the hilt; it was knocked away. Because I had swung and deflected it with my arm. "Don't delude yourself. Even if someone of your caliber begged on their knees, I wouldn't have taken them in." Clang-! Next to him, the Hidden Wave Sword unsheathed his blade upon witnessing this. Ignoring it, I advanced a few more steps. My position was now at the room's center. There was a table in the way, but I paid it no mind. Once positioned in the center, I faced those with hostile gazes. "You seem to have many grievances about someone like me becoming a Squad Leader." Addressing them, I beckoned with my finger and spoke. "Come up one by one. I'll make sure you’re satisfied." I said this with a bright smile. And immediately, Growl-growl-growl. Killing intent erupted from all sides.