810 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

Translated and Implemented Instructions "The Childhood Friend of the World's Greatest" Chapter 810 (810/820) A familiar yet somewhat strange name caused my eyebrows to furrow. 'Why is that name suddenly being mentioned?' Gyecheonmun (계천문). It is one of the sects located in the region of Sichuan (사천). Once a fairly reputable place, it boasted many disciples and had some recognition in the area. However... 'That's about it.' Unfortunately, it had significant obstacles in becoming renowned throughout Sichuan. The chief issue was the presence of Tang Clan and Emei Sect (아미파) in Sichuan. The Tang Clan, once famed as one of the Four Great Clans, and the Emei Sect, a prestigious member of the Nine Great Sects, were established in Sichuan. Just these facts alone posed a problem for Gyecheonmun to wield any significant power. However... 'An anomaly occurred.' In my past life, something quite unusual happened. It was that... 'Gyecheonmun discovered the secret records of the Geumcheon Saga (금천연가).' More precisely, it was the sect leader of Gyecheonmun who unearthed these secret records. Whatever fortuitous encounter he had from those records, the sect leader's martial level rose significantly above what was known. Not just him, but even the members of the sect grew stronger and began to assert their influence. Up to that point, everything seemed to go well. Soaring high with newfound fortune seemed like a good outcome. However, the problem was... 'Gyecheonmun was an unorthodox sect.' Whether they turned to the unorthodox path after gaining their fortune or were already part of it remains uncertain. My intelligence was too limited to discern that much, but from what I know, Gyecheonmun was unorthodox and... 'Shortly after the appearance of the Heavenly Demon, it was incorporated into the Demonic Cult.' The Gyecheonmun leader joined the Demonic Cult and became a demon being, later aiding in the invasion of Sichuan. Having been established in Sichuan for a long time, they were well-versed in the terrain. This knowledge provided significant advantages for the strategies crafted by Cheon Yuran (천유랑아). 'Hmm.' These memories brought a question to mind. 'Why suddenly?' Why is such a Gyecheonmun being mentioned out of the blue now? And being associated with the Demonic Cult? 'It shouldn't be.' It is possible. In my previous life, they were deeply related, but... 'Not yet, at least.' This moment was earlier than when the Heavenly Demon appeared in the past life. More importantly... 'There shouldn't be anything they've gained from the secret records.' The secret records of the Geumcheon Saga had already been dealt with by me. Frankly, there wasn't much worth calling a fortune there anyway. Even if the Gyecheonmun sect leader found his way there, nothing would change particular circumstances. 'What is it?' Why is Gyecheonmun being abruptly mentioned here? It was an incomprehensible situation. "Did you say it was Gyecheonmun?" "Yes, that's correct." Yet again, when I queried, the answer remained the same. There was information that Gyecheonmun is related to the Demonic Cult. That was what Mok Yeon (묵연) had said. 'How did that happen?' I couldn't grasp this part at all. What on earth was happening? Moreover... "...So, why are you telling me this from the morning...?" What was the reason for telling me this specifically? Could they be suspecting something about me? That didn't seem right. 'This individual isn't foolish enough to probe in such a dumb manner.' If probing were necessary, he'd choose another approach entirely, not this one. Then why? As I pondered, Mok Yeon told me. "Since an issue involving the Demonic Cult has arisen, I thought it apt to relay it to the Star Dragon Squad (성룡대)." "Does that mean it's a mission?" "That's correct." On hearing that, it all made sense. If Gyecheonmun is linked with the Demonic Cult, entrusting it to the Star Dragon Squad was logically sound. After all, the Star Dragon Squad had originated in response to the Demonic Cult... so it was fitting. "The condition allows for refusal if you don't wish to accept it." "…Hmm." The depth in Mok Yeon's following words settled within me. Refusing the mission wouldn't be a problem. That was a stipulation when the Star Dragon Squad was founded. I could refuse if I wanted, but... 'Gyecheonmun...' There was something unsettling about the words I'd heard. Of all things, Gyecheonmun. Though a bit earlier than the time the Heavenly Demon appeared in my past life, the fact that Gyecheonmun is now being tied to the Demonic Cult was an odd phenomenon. "Strategist Mok Yeon." "Yes, please go on." "If I accept this mission, what then?" "It's simple." With those words, Mok Yeon retrieved a letter from his bosom and placed it on the table. "You may gather your team and depart today once we've provided the information." "Today?" "It needn't be today if unnecessary... But it appears to be an urgent matter, so the sooner, the better, it seems." "…Hmm." "Subsequently, if the Star Dragon Leader finds that the information aligns with the reality of Gyecheonmun..." Tap, tap. Mok Yeon tapped the letter with his fingers as he spoke. "You may place them all on the extermination list." "…" A chill ran through me at his sinister tone. Based on the information, eliminate them all. Those words were hauntingly low and ominous. Eliminate the opposition. Judging by the command, it's indeed fearsome but nothing out of the ordinary. The Orthodox Factions don't particularly seek nonviolence. The opponents belong to an unorthodox sect and are linked to the Demonic Cult. Should the information match, eradicating them is justified. However... 'Hmm.' I discerned a peculiar hint from Mok Yeon’s gaze and voice. 'Is this a test?' Involving issues with the Demonic Cult. If the information is accurate, exterminate them. Was this a way to probe my loyalty? An inkling of suspicion crossed my mind. 'Probably not.' There must be some underlying suspicion since he's probing, though not fully convinced of non-involvement. What should be my course of action then? 'Ignore it, perhaps.' There shouldn't be any association, so perhaps I should simply decline. Contemplating that, my hand moved unconsciously. I grasped the letter on the table and spoke to Mok Yeon. "Alright, let's do it." "…" Upon my acceptance, Mok Yeon's composed eyes turned to me. "In that case, I shall depart tomorrow, not today." "Understood." Even with the urgency expressed, there were no additional words when I said I’d depart the next day. Whether it was a belief in my discretion or something else, I couldn't tell. 'Perhaps trying to rectify the last mistake.' During our previous discourse, there were rampant miscalculations. As if reminiscent of that time, Mok Yeon does not relent anything. 'Tch.' Regrettably, I can do nothing about it. With a light nod, I turned and exited the room. ****************** -Gyecheonmun (계천문). -A sect located in the eastern region of Sichuan. -The total number of members, including the sect leader, is about eighty. -The sect leader goes by the name Dae Hwan (대환) of Gyecheonmun. Translated and Implemented Instructions - His martial prowess was estimated to be at least at the Peak Realm but recent information suggests he's reached the Fusion Realm. - Characterized by combat using multiple swords rather than single confrontations. The letter rustled. - Originally, they had reduced activities due to suppression by the Tang Clan and Emei Sect, but appear to have resurfaced with the absence of the Tang Clan. - Information from the Flying Dragon Squad (비룡대) indicates contact with unidentified individuals. - It is suspected that among the identified individuals is the Demonic Evil Spear (귀악창), known for having slain the Blade King (도왕). “…What?” I paused momentarily as I read the words inscribed on the letter. Gyecheonmun was in contact with specific individuals, and within those appeared the name Demonic Evil Spear. Therefore, a connection with the Demonic Cult is expected... or so it was written. 'It sounds like nonsense.' Why it has come to this is somewhat puzzling. Demonic Evil Spear, or more specifically, Tang Deok (당덕), being in contact is certainly false. ‘He’s still in Hanam.’ I’ve made sure he’s kept under wraps, merely breathing, so he couldn't possibly be in Sichuan so suddenly... ‘Perhaps they mistook someone else.’ Meaning, this is misinformation, or even if it’s beyond that... ‘Gyecheonmun is meddling needlessly.’ Either they’re plotting something suspiciously, suggesting it’s one of these three possibilities. ‘I wonder which it is.’ It’s annoying no matter the case. Even if they aren’t linked to the Demonic Cult, something still feels off. That’s why I decided to see it firsthand. ‘Beyond this.’ The letter included several more details, specifically about their power. ‘Oh.’ Information on confirmed members was abundant. In addition to their appearances and names, descriptions about their martial prowess, habits, and fighting styles were all there. Reading this, I couldn’t help but express admiration. ‘Quite the intelligence network.’ Is this the central force of the Orthodox Factions? The details were far more meticulous than I anticipated. Which, honestly, makes it even more amusing. ‘With this level of intelligence, why are things such a mess?’ No matter how shabby Gyecheonmun may be, gathering this much information seems ridiculous. This implies that the information wasn’t collected overnight. Surely, they'd been collecting continually. Furthermore... ‘There must be even more of this sort.’ There must be data on other forces within the alliance. How much, and to what extent are they accurate? ‘Is the Flying Dragon Squad managing it all? Or perhaps, the Beggar’s Sect (개방)?’ I'm well aware of the importance of information. No matter how powerful one is, without intelligence, you’re rendered inactive, hence my curiosity here. ‘I suspect it’s not the Flying Dragon Squad.’ While the Flying Dragon Squad is indeed capable and efficient... ‘They aren't responsible for everything.’ Saying this intelligence was solely gathered by the Flying Dragon Squad isn’t plausible. They’re competent and tidy, but not deep enough. They probably assisted, but attributing it entirely to them seems unreasonable... ‘The Beggar’s Sect is involved too.’ That’s the reality, but what’s critical here is... ‘The intelligence of Murim Alliance is definitely not inferior.’ That’s the observable fact. ‘Could it be...’ Contemplating, my brows furrowed. ‘Is this what he wanted to show?’ Mok Yeon’s demonstration of the alliance's not-insignificant intelligence capabilities. I considered it momentarily but promptly brushed it aside. ‘That’s stretching it.’ Such interpretations didn't hold much water. It was hard to chalk this up to mere coincidence, but the evidence was still too flimsy to be definitive. Tucking the letter back into my bosom, I realized I’d seen everything needed. Committing it to memory would take some time, but it shouldn't take long. I’ve often surprised myself with my memorization skills. After tucking away the letter, I looked straight ahead and spoke. “You’ve all worked hard since the morning.” Reactions followed my voice. Immediately after finishing my talk with Mok Yeon, I’d entered the Star Dragon Squad. The squad members were already gathered. “Did you have a good rest yesterday?” Though there was a sensation of awareness, no response came. I didn't mind. “Vice Commander.” “Yes, Commander.” The voice responding belonged to Tang So-yeol. Perhaps because she was chosen yesterday, a band was affixed to Tang So-yeol’s shoulder. A symbol denoting her status as vice commander of the squad. Behind her, Wi Seol-ah and Namgung Bi-ah were visible, having finished their treatment. Wi Seol-ah bore a somewhat pouty expression, while Namgung Bi-ah appeared rather indifferent. Their expressions differed, but the outcome was one of compliance. That’s why they stood here, ready and in position, I suppose. “Is everyone present?” Glancing around, Tang So-yeol's expression shifted. “…Ah. Let me confirm.” Hearing her reply, my brow creased instantly. “Haven't you checked beforehand? You’re the vice commander. Until a group leader is decided, this is your responsibility.” She widened her eyes slightly at my pointed yet fair reprimand. “My apologies.” “Let’s do this well.” “Yes…” She offered no excuses, just an apology. Not a poor response. “Next up. As vice commanders, have you all made a decision as I instructed?” I directed the question at the martial artists from the alliance standing nearby, and after a pause, one person stepped forward. “S- Third-Rank Member Song…” “Song Ho-jung. Is it you?” “…Y-Yes." "Confirmed. Make sure to collect your band later." "Understood…" Song Ho-jung. From what I recall, he was from the Red Dragon Squad (적룡대). His martial strength was polished within the Peak Realm. I know he uses a sword... ‘Was he a group leader in the Red Dragon Squad?’ I think so. “Alright, since both vice commanders are appointed, I’ll get to the point...” I reclined into a chair, crossing my legs. “I’ve received a mission. We’re to engage with a sect in Sichuan and eliminate any issues we encounter.” “A mission, you say, already…?” “Yes, already.” My declaration startled the squad members. We’ve just been established; it’s been a mere few days since the point of formation, and we’re being dispatched on a mission to Sichuan – this, despite having barely begun proper training or operations within the sword squad. “I heard there’s a connection to the Demonic Evil Spear…” “If it’s the Demonic Evil Spear…” “The unorthodox figure who killed the Blade King…?” As soon as I mentioned his epithet, an aura of tension permeated the surrounding air. Having killed the Blade King and left his descendant, the Flying Star Blade (비성도), half-dead, denotes considerable strength. And hearing about a conspiracy brewing in Sichuan naturally put everyone on edge. Translated and Implemented Instructions "We'll proceed with the task we've been given, but I can't take everyone with me... I'll need to selectively choose who goes. Raise your hand if you wish to volunteer." "…" "…" I noticed a few people hesitating. "Stop being shy and raise your hands quickly. Not many will be going anyway." As soon as I said that, several raised their hands. Namgung Bi-ah and Wi Seol-ah, as well as Tang So-yeol, were naturally among them. In addition... 'The Fiery Sword (열투전검)... Altogether, eight of them?' Among the volunteers, there were about that many. From the alliance members we selected... 'Two or so.' Most of them did not raise their hands. Seeing this, I smirked and spoke. "Alright, now that I've confirmed. Among those who raised their hands, I'll take five. The rest, I'll bring the ones who didn't raise theirs." "What. What does that—!" "Commander…!" "What." The complaints started to rise, so I addressed them with irritation. "When did I say I'd take the ones who raised their hands? I just asked who wanted to go." "...Really...!" "Ah, stop whining. Or do you want me to make sure you can't whine by ripping out your tongue?" "…" With a hint of hostility in my voice, their mouths snapped shut. Really, they seem to understand only when I do this. Tsk. I clicked my tongue shortly and waved my hand. "We're done selecting the personnel, so let's move on to other matters." As I spoke, a presence was felt from the back. Step. Several people crossed the door into the hall. Exactly five of them. The unexpected arrival caused curiosity to flicker across others’ faces. "They're the last group to be added. Get along with them." These were individuals I had requested from Mok Yeon to be brought along. Regardless of any circumstances they had... Even if their identities were a bit ambiguous... They were the ones I had to forcibly bring along despite stipulations.