659 - The Outcast Writer of a Martial Arts Visual Novel

I can't believe a letter from Yunho oppa has arrived. Cheon Salseong's hand moved with lightning speed, not giving him time to be surprised. He aimed for the letter held in Seol Ja's hand. He wanted to read it quickly. Just as he was about to snatch it, Seol Ja's hand became elusive like an illusion. "No!" "This letter is a bargaining chip," she declared, brushing off Cheon Salseong's hand with confidence and straightening her shoulders. "Hand it over." "Eek! It's scary when you glare like that! I’ll give it to you as soon as you make a promise." With Cheon Salseong's eyes glinting, he quickly backed down. "What promise?" His eyes remained fixed on the letter. Yukiko saw Cheon Sohee tilt her head slightly and swallowed dryly. Giving up was not an option. 'If this journey is not to become difficult, we need to enlist Cheon Salseong's help!' The journey to Yodong Fortress is long. Who knows what might happen along the way? They had to set things straight from the outset. "The leader of this journey is Yukiko. Please follow her words." “Why?” "It's a journey you're on together! Ok Bun is too individualistic. She needs to learn how to travel together." Yukiko. This time, she was committed to educating Cheon Salseong on socialization as well. Seol Ja recalled her conversation with Dan Seolwol, fueling her determination. “I prefer being alone.” His voice was cold, as if piercing ice without a drop of blood. Ah. Yukiko almost had her spirit broken. But who is Yukiko if not a woman who doesn't know defeat? Fortunately, Seol Ja knew how to handle Cheon Salseong. She waved the letter and spoke. "Would the owner of this letter prefer you think that way?" "That’s... not the case." Predictably, Cheon Salseong's face softened like a woman in love. Inside, Yukiko laughed contentedly. "For the future of Ok Bun, think of it as learning from me." "...Understood." Seeing Cheon Sohee nod in agreement, Yukiko barely restrained herself from cheering like someone who'd achieved a hard-won victory. "Hahaha! So, promise! From today, number 5 declares to be number 6’s subordinate! We're finally overtaking number 5 for the first time!" “Can I cancel it?” "No, you can't! Do you know how long I've waited for a letter from Ok Bun's lover? I ran all the way here to give it to her, only to find Ok Bun angry. It was really tough." “Thank you.” "Huh?! That's it! Words of gratitude! A woman who is moved by small gestures knows how to be loved! Such sweet-sounding words!" Yukiko was so moved by Cheon Salseong's unexpected thanks that she almost clapped in delight. “…Quickly, hand it over.” "Haha! Are you embarrassed now? Good behavior should be seared into one's memory." "..." "Ugh. The atmosphere is becoming chilly. This doesn't seem worth it. Still, Yukiko! She has a big heart, so I will give it to you. But in exchange, we're staying at an inn today!" “Understood.” "Let's do our best!" Yukiko. By the end of this journey, I'll transform him from Cheon Salseong to the tender-hearted swordsman known for his emotional composure. Seol Ja looked at the blank slate-like woman she had so much to teach, fully fired up with enthusiasm. —— "Ok Bun! You look like you're in a good mood!" The next day, Yukiko spoke to Cheon Sohee, whose face, while maintaining its usual expression, somehow seemed to radiate vitality. “I slept well.” Cheon Sohee answered with a small smile, causing Yukiko to inadvertently voice her admiration. What a daunting smile. It's like a flower blooming on snowy peaks. "Haha! It seems your eyes are shining. What was in the letter?" "Yunho oppa told me not to overdo it and to always be careful. He said he's working hard too." Even a simple greeting from Kang Yunho cast a warm spring light over the frozen snowfields. "He is a good lover!" Cheon Sohee nodded and stood up. “Let’s head out.” “What?! Are you saying we should start running already?” “I won’t push myself today.” Because oppa told me not to overdo it. Somehow, Seol Ja’s chattering yesterday seemed similar, but oppa's words were the most important. "The road to Yodong Fortress is a foreign and distant one. If we keep walking, we'll end up exhausted and collapsing." "Then?" “I have a good method!” “A method?” “Look over there!” At the inn's first floor, Seol Ja pointed to a group of travelers who seemed to be their companions. "Leader, I'm not sure if it's going to snow more." "Guard, we're almost there." "What a hardship in the middle of winter. I wonder if we can safely transport the goods." "We're nearly at the first destination. Trust me." “...A security troop?” It looked like they were having their meal. “Haha! Even though Ok Bun didn’t hear, we are headed in the same direction.” “I heard.” What difference does it make to be headed in the same direction? Cheon Sohee realized the difference between her and Seol Ja with the coming suggestion. "Haha. The expression that says, 'I don't know what's going on' is amusing. We can hitch a ride in their cargo compartment." “How?” Yukiko pounded her chest, urging Cheon Sohee to trust her. “Haha. It's finally time to show Yukiko’s ninja skills in action.” Ninja skills? A thought flitted through Cheon Sohee's mind. "The Kunoichi’s art of seduction?” “That’s right!” Cheon Sohee shook her head at Yukiko’s proposal. It wasn't because she disliked Seol Ja’s suggestion. “This place isn’t friendly to Koreans.” The two women had black hair. Although skilled in martial arts, they weren't subject to disdain; however, receiving kindness was difficult. Besides, they were dealing with armed guards. Why would they offer help to unknown outsiders? Especially since helping might turn them into thieves? “Don't worry. Just watch with your eyes as Yukiko’s allure makes them sway!” Cheon Sohee couldn’t bring herself to stop Yukiko, who was determinedly approaching the guards. The proposal was reasonable. After all, it wasn't feasible to run every day all the way to Yodong Fortress. "Oh my, such hearty voices from such vibrant gentlemen." Yukiko's voice suddenly oozed with allure. Cheon Sohee, surprised by the change, inadvertently furrowed her brow. Would the seduction technique work? Though Cheon Sohee's beauty was notably exceptional, Yukiko, being a beauty in her own right, might just pull it off. However, there was one concern. "You little barbarian lass, don’t try imitating adults. If you have business, go fetch one." "Phuhuh!" Yukiko still hadn't completely shed her youthful appearance to pull off a seductive voice. Predictably, this was the outcome. “Hey! What do you mean by this insult? I am an adult too!” "The more mature-looking one seems to be behind you." It was evident that Yukiko suffered a significant blow to her pride as she scowled. Seeing this, Cheon Sohee decided it was time to stand up. With a heavy thud! "What the?!" The guards' gazes turned to the woman who tossed a purse of coins. Did they over-tease the suddenly appeared girl? The impending aura of the woman, presumed to be a guardian, urged the guards to reach for their weapons instinctively. Could she be a master? There's a saying in the martial world: Be wary of women, the elderly, and children. Someone gulped audibly from somewhere. This is a world where swords clash for any number of reasons. Was a showdown inevitable? The tension in the air was palpable. "I'll pay for your meals." "Pardon?" "Give us a lift on your way." The woman achieved her goal effortlessly and straightforwardly. —— "I bet it was the money!" Inside the cart's luggage area, a voice grumbled. “...” "Who doesn't love a free meal?" “True.” A silence followed. At this rate, the leader's dignity might be compromised. Even muttering could be heard leaking out. Ultimately, after experiencing a failed attempt, Yukiko pointed at Cheon Sohee and complained. “Ugh! What's the difference? Is it really that detestable flesh? Some alluring mass more impressive than any kunoichi's seduction technique? What’s it like living with such a magnificent trait?" “It's inconvenient.” "Tch. People who have it all..." “Huh?” "Oh! Nothing at all. Anyway, getting a ride is good!" Accidentally letting her true feelings slip, Yukiko realized she had a long way to go in terms of self-discipline. She quickly shook her head to dispel her thoughts and, smiling again, addressed Cheon Sohee. "Hope you're not uncomfortable." Seeing Yukiko smile, the leader of the guards, who had just offered them a ride, approached the two. “It’s all very nice!” "Good." "Apologies for the late introduction. I'm Ok Dae-am, the leader of Okcheon Escort Agency." "Ok Bun." "Oh! Yukiko! I've heard of it. It's said to be an escort agency that prioritizes the safety of its goods and faces all sorts of dangers!" Though to be honest, I’ve also heard of their notoriety. The three exchanged brief introductions. "That sounds familiar somehow. Anyway, it's an honor to escort young heroines from the martial world." “Traveling in this harsh winter was quite difficult. I'm very grateful." "Winter is indeed not the best season for escort missions. If any emergencies arise, we would greatly appreciate any assistance." Winter is not favorable for escort missions. Even walking solo on snow is challenging, let alone maneuvering a cart on snow-laden roads. Moreover, when everything turns white, it's easier for bandits to spot you. Visible smoke or the movement of guards becomes obvious from afar. “Of course.” The leader, Ok Dae-am, didn't accept a woman who appeared to be a martial artist as a companion for no reason. —— “Leader.” The location felt off. It was the perfect place for an ambush. As the leader walked cautiously, one of the guards approached him. “Yes?” “We're nearing our destination.” “Be prepared.” Leader Ok Dae-am raised his hand, signaling the guards to halt. “They’ve suddenly stopped in the middle of the mountains. Something seems to have happened.” Stopping in the mountains. What could be happening? Seol Ja cautiously peeked out from the cart's luggage area, surveying the surroundings. “Seol Ja. Be careful.” “A killing aura?!” Among the escort group, Cheon Salseong, aka Cheon Sohee, was the first to notice something wrong. Next was Seol Ja, the number six assassin. “Ha ha ha ha ha! The grace of Buddha approaches.” Bandits encircled the guards as if they’d been lying in wait. “We’re surrounded!” “Maintain formation!” “Ok Bun! It's bandits!” “I see them.” What should they do? Should they act immediately? As Cheon Sohee pondered, the leader of Okcheon Escort Agency took the lead. "I am the leader of Okcheon Escort, Ok Dae-am!" I wondered who would stick their head into the tiger's mouth. Turns out it's Okcheon’s useless man, Ok Dae-am! "The one only heard of in rumors?!" "Ha ha ha ha!" Though his face flushed at the unwanted moniker, Ok Dae-am maintained his composure and shouted. “Watch your mouth! Even if you're from the Green Forest faction, calling me by that nickname in front of me will cost you a fight!” “Keh! It's been a while since I last received any blessings from Buddha, so I might need to collect high tolls today. What say you, oh noble useless man of Okcheon?” “Yikes! Looks like I’ll have to draw my sword even on my day off.” Yukiko appeared surprised, but her sword-drawing motion was flawless. “Prepare yourself.” The situation was turning unfavorable. It was time for Cheon Sohee to ready herself too. “Wait!” Yukiko stopped Cheon Sohee. “Why?” “Shhh! Something’s not right.” The scene seemed excessively calm. Yukiko's observation was sharp. "Are you Ex-Chief Bae Il-ung of the White Tiger Faction?" As if he expected it, Okcheon’s so-called useless man, Ok Dae-am, called out the bandit leader's name. “Who dares to call my name?” Bae Il-ung, appearing bemused, glared at Ok Dae-am. Yet, Okcheon’s useless man, as if handling a bothersome task, pulled something from his possession, announcing loudly. “This is a letter for you.” “What...?” A letter? A letter for a bandit? Bae Il-ung momentarily couldn’t trust his ears. "I will open and read the letter as per the client's request now that it has been verified." "This situation is getting quite intriguing!" Just what kind of letter could it be, for them to brave an ambush just to deliver it? The guards, bandits, and assassins all tuned in closely. "Surrender. If you return, no sins will be held against you." The letter seemed to have been sent by someone who knew Bae Il-ung, the former head of the White Tiger Faction. "What...?" "Traitors are not forgiven. How could you believe you could live outside his shadow?" "N-no way!" The eyes of the former faction leader widened to their limit. "W-wait, wait, just a moment!" What kind of sorcery was this? Why did the bandits suddenly lose their composure? Why did hands clutching weapons, more precious than life, begin to tremble? "You gathered at Gong-san mountain, engraving the value of liberating the poor in your hearts. Bae Il-ung, the reason your heart beats can only be one." "N-no way the person who sent this letter... No! The one who sent it...!" With just a single phrase. Just one phrase was enough to drain Bae Il-ung's face of all color. "He requested to be called Seo Gi-jang."