Side Story: Episode 16-3 - Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Episode 16. The Butcher of Madness (3) "If you don't bring me what I want right now, I'll summon my master." The stars in the sky began to chatter upon my clear and decisive proclamation. [Constellation, 'Bald Patriot', smiles at your audacity.] [Constellation, 'Goryeo's First Sword', nods with interest.] [Constellation, 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon', asks who that guy's master is.] [A certain Constellation without a known Modifier wears an intrigued expression.] [A Constellation keen on Murim trends is startled at the return of Baekchung Sect.] Admittedly, my words were all nonsense. I wasn't truly a disciple of Baekchung Sect. But now, I claimed to be the disciple of Kyrgios, self-declared as 'Kim Dokja,' and thus, was confident any [Lie Detection] would be in vain. Yet, instead of using [Lie Detection], the Beggars’ Sect Lord gave me a quiet look. "Are you threatening me right now?" "It's not a threat, just stating facts." "If you don't hand over the Elixir, you'll call 'Paradox of White Purity'?" "You must not have heard me clearly, let me repeat." I replied with a shameless voice. "One summoning grade Elixir and a Flag—give me both." "......" "I think you've enjoyed the early scenarios enough. It's time to return the stage to the Incarnations and retire back to the audience quietly." "......" "The era of the Nine Great Sects is over. This is no longer the stage you lived on." Even after my harsh words, which should have elicited some emotional response, the Beggars’ Sect Lord's face remained devoid of expression. Honestly, I was a bit surprised. No matter how mighty one once was, or how much dignity was lost, a Constellation is a Constellation. A being who has defeated countless competitors, endured distant scenarios, and built their own Legend. His anger was taken up instead by the four beggars glaring at me from behind. It seemed they, too, were aware of the estrangement between Kyrgios and the Beggars’ Sect. Precisely four beggars guarded the leader of the Beggars’ Sect. A phrase suddenly sprung to mind. "The Beggars’ Sect Lord was always accompanied by Elder 'Sa-geol.'" Perhaps these men were the 'Sa-geol' recorded in the Ways of Survival. They didn't seem to be avatars of Constellations but if they had inserted the Legend of Sa-geol through some kind of sorcery― "Disciple of Baekchung Sect." Finally, the Beggars’ Sect Lord, who had stayed silent, spoke. "I know my time on stage is over. This era does not belong to me, and the Murim I remember is nowhere to be found. Your pompous master destroyed the most glorious era of the Beggars’ Sect." Unexpectedly, he accepted his situation straightforwardly. "I still fear your master. The heights he reached would remain unreachable for me, even if I were reborn countless times." I thought of the Master of Baekchung Sect, Paradox of White Purity, Kyrgios Rodgraim. "A being born a mortal, who achieved a great stature through relentless refinement, rejected the seat of Constellations, and reached transcendence to confront the heavens." Though I had never met him, just recalling these words let me slightly empathize with the despair faced by the Beggars’ Sect Lord. An idea crossed my mind. Perhaps this lie might allow me to smoothly acquire the Elixir and the Flag? "But that's why your threat won't work." Damn it, of course. "Paradox of White Purity will never come here." "Why do you think that?" The Beggars’ Sect Lord smiled. It was a sinister smile that crept like an unpleasant moss around us. "Because he's too strong." Kyrgios is too strong. I knew this fact as well. In fact, because of that strength, Kyrgios was unable to protect 'Piece Land' during the sixth scenario, watching powerlessly as his planet met its end. "Beings with great stature possess powerful Legends. But to interfere with a scenario here, they must abandon the Legend they've lived. Yet no being in the world dares to make such a choice. Except me." I then understood why this personage-level Constellation could maintain an Incarnation body. To be here, he had offered the Legend he had accumulated over countless years as a sacrifice. Like how Yoo Joonghyuk had chosen to regress, the Beggars’ Sect Lord also laid down his entire history to restart his 'scenario.' [Constellation, 'Goryeo’s First Sword', clicks his tongue.] [Constellation, 'Bald Patriot', questions why an old star resorts to mingling with children.] [Constellation, 'Maritime War God', shakes his head.] Beyond the gaping ceiling of Seoul Station, fiercely twinkling stars were visible. Yet, despite the Constellations' criticisms raining down, the Beggars’ Sect Lord remained nonchalant. "Nonsense. Those too frightened to lay down their Legends, lacking confidence to create new ones, sit frozen in place—what right do they have to criticize me?" [Some personage-level Constellations criticize the 'Last Beggars’ Sect Lord’s attitude!] [A minority of personage-level Constellations click their tongues at the 'Last Beggars’ Sect Lord’s notion.] "If dissatisfied, why don't you descend here yourselves? Lay down everything you have and start anew from the sludge of the scenario if you dare." [Constellation, 'Two-Timer Expert', mocks that a loudmouth with few Legends talks a good game.] [Constellation, 'Rice-Puffing Tiger', points out that this is basically a reincarnation.] [Constellation, 'Lazy Dragon', praises the courage but announces no coin sponsorship should be expected.] [Constellation, 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband', observes the personage-level Constellations' skirmish with amusement.] As the audience on stage turns into a spectacle for other audience members, the Beggars’ Sect Lord had now become prey for the other stars. Nevertheless, he smiled. As if to say that he, on earth, was far prouder than the stars above. Terms and Translations: - 수식언 (Modifier): In this context, it refers to a descriptor attached to a character or entity, often used in world-building or narrative branding. - 영약 (Elixir): This was kept literal as it fits the mythical and alchemical undertones. - 사걸 (Sa-geol): Translated with its name kept intact since it's evidently a name dependent on the context of the text. The literal translation could be "Four Instances," but that wouldn't capture the intended mythical figure reference. - 깃발 (Flag): Literal translation preserved, with "flag" often signifying a quest item or symbol of power. Note: Some puns or expressions include the Constellation names, such as mocking or jeering terms like "Two-Timer Expert." Gender Clarifications: - Kyrgios Rodgraim is He. - 'Sa-geol' is likely referencing multiple male figures given the guardian context. Note: The character list appears mostly accurate; more clarity on infrequent or newly introduced characters may require minor adjustments in context. “No matter how much I am criticized, I'm starting anew here. I intend to reclaim the Murim of that era and revive the Beggars’ Sect of those days. I remain the ‘Last Beggars’ Sect Lord,’ and my tale shall continue here." A Constellation who relinquished all his Legends and returned to the start of the scenario. Perhaps it’s akin to abandoning the omniscient status of a ‘reader’ to become a ‘character’ instead. His quietly resonating Legend whispered in my ears. “Paradox of White Purity and Breaking the Sky Sword Saint. Someday, I’ll meet them again, and they will recognize me.” “Though you mockingly dismiss Beggars’ Sect as weak, it’s anything but.” I could feel the harsh currents of his past flood over me. A story unread by anyone. It was the story of an extra, pushed to the fringes by the ‘protagonists' of Murim. “Why can’t we become like them? Why does the sky allow only Kyrgios and Namgung Minyoung to be extraordinary?” “I will become a Constellation. I’m willing to sell all my martial arts if only I could stand alongside the stars in the sky.” “Oh, great stellar stars, I willingly become your vassal, so grant me the blessing to ascend as a Constellation.” Just as Master Jeong Mun-ho pledged to the Beggars’ Sect to survive, so did the Heavenly Beggar, Cheon Gaey, devote himself to the Grand Nebula. He borrowed their Legend, endured unspeakable humiliations, and finally rose to the status of Constellation. But too late, he realized that wasn't the story he desired. “Did I endure such disgrace to end up at this mere height?” He renounced even the beliefs of his human days to become a Constellation. But as a Constellation, he witnessed a new perspective. Above personage-grade were narrative-grade, and above those were mythical-grade. Even upon reaching the celestial echelon, the edge of the universe remained unseen. Heavenly Beggar Cheon Gaey, who had always gazed up at the heavens, looked down at the ground for the first time. He recalled the forgotten dreams of his human life as a Constellation. The times he thrilled over small incidents, thirsted for minor realizations, mingled and conversed with mortals who lived barely a century, and built stories. It was a dazzlingly splendid and breathtaking mortal history. “It’s curious, isn’t it?” Heavenly Beggar Cheon Gaey gazed at me. “You understand me, disciple of Paradox?” He was right. At this moment, I understood him. The distinct emptiness a Constellation feels, the profound void he encountered—I deeply comprehended through my thorough narrative. His eyes formed a gentle arc as he regarded me. “How can you, who have lived such a brief history of mere decades, understand my Legend?” A tone almost as if consoled by some expectation. I smirked bitterly, shaking my head. “I understand that threats don’t work on you. You returned here to become that kind of ‘person.’” The Heavenly Beggar nodded in affirmation. “That’s right.” “It won’t be easy. Just because you laid down your stature, doesn’t mean all that happened before disappears.” “What do you mean?” “Even if you start everything anew, the history where your Beggars’ Sect was defeated by my master or Breaking the Sky Sword Saint won’t vanish.” Even if he builds a new ‘Beggars’ Sect,’ the stars won’t forget the former one. All they’d remember would be the pitiful Beggars’ Sect that was driven to the outskirts by their defeat to Kyrgios and Breaking the Sky Sword Saint. For the first time, Heavenly Beggar Cheon Gaey furrowed his brows. “I’ll change it. Achieve deeds here and garner more star attention. I’ll create a Legend untouchable even by Paradox of White Purity.” The Sect Lord was exhilarated as if blinded by the scenario—like an aged actor revived by the stage lights. Indeed, looking at the situation alone, his confidence wasn’t unfounded. He had already achieved the ‘purple flag’ and was on the brink of ‘King’s Road.’ The new Beggars’ Sect, rooted in Seoul Station, was steadily growing into a prominent group. But I knew. “His failure was already recorded.” He wouldn’t become the main character of the new world, nor would he succeed in his revenge. He would be forgotten. It would become a story nobody reads. “In the beginning, you asked if I knew the future.” Thus, I decided to do what I do best, [Activating Unique Skill, ‘Incitement Lv.5’!] “Reborn Beggars’ Sect will thrive in the early scenarios.” At this rate, Beggars’ Sect was doomed. The star, descending to earth with grand ambitions, would eventually self-destruct while being mocked by the Constellations. The beggars would lose their home; the children who only learned theft and deceit would face brutal deaths at the hands of adults who no longer fell for their tricks. “Beggars’ Sect, on a favorable plateau compared to other groups, will finish the ‘Flag Contention Battle’ and you'll, at last, enter ‘The Absolute Throne Showdown’ walking the ‘King’s Road.’” “Indeed.” As if he anticipated it, Heavenly Beggar nodded. My story began from here. “But your luck runs out there. Fighting with an Incarnation body, you'll bear the penalty of not borrowing the stronger power of your sponsor. For the moment it may appear that you’re outpacing other Incarnations, but before ‘The Absolute Throne Showdown’ ends, you and Beggars’ Sect will hit your limits.” “That’s impossible. The Constellations involved in this war are merely at the personage-grade—” “A disciple of the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint is among the participants of the throne war.” At my words, a profound tremor shook the Heavenly Beggar’s eyes. “Is that true?” Nodding, I continued. “You will suffer a crushing defeat at his hands. Beggars’ Sect will fall, and its members disperse. The one who will cut down your fallen neck will be an unnamed Incarnation waiting for your downfall.” I thought of the Beggars’ Sect that vanished without a trace in the Ways of Survival and imagined the ‘Butcher of Madness’ that might have existed here. “Thus, Beggars’ Sect will face eternal destruction.” “That can’t be true! You are—" “If you wish to avoid such a future, you have one choice.” Terms and Translations: - 설화 (Legend): Referring to legends or tales of historical or mythological significance, often forming the cultural narratives surrounding characters like the Constellations. - 깃발 쟁탈전 (Flag Contention Battle): Describes a competitive scenario where participants fight over a symbolic item or crown-like flag. - 절대 왕좌 쟁탈전 (The Absolute Throne Showdown): Implies a high-level contest or battle to claim supreme authority or power. - 운명 (Fate/Destiny): Frequently used to discuss the guidance or eventuality predetermined for individuals. Note: The narrative showcases the internal reflections of Cheon Gaey and the metaphorical transition from a Constellation’s perspective to reliving mortal struggles. The tone evokes a tragic grandeur as well as a desire for redemption despite past missteps. Gender Clarifications: - Cheon Gaey, or the Heavenly Beggar, is He. - Breaking the Sky Sword Saint is Left unchanged for clarity. Updates on existing list: The "Heavenly Beggar (천개)" entry can be added to denote the character portrayed by Cheon Gaey. The Heavenly Beggar's beard trembled slightly. Even he couldn't remain calm in the face of the word "eradication." “Are you suggesting I bow to the disciple of Baekchung Sect?” “No.” I smiled broadly as I spoke. “Let’s form an alliance.” “An alliance?” “If you hand over the flag to me, we can become one group.” The flames of understanding flickered in the eyes of the Heavenly Beggar, who had been staring at me blankly. “Do you dare propose this to me now.” The waiting area began to faintly tremble. Sparks flickered in the air. Despite having relinquished so much, he remained a Constellation of the heavens. I interrupted before his anger could continue. “You said you wanted to build a great Legend befitting the new Beggars’ Sect.” I understand what he truly desires. “Paradox of White Purity and Breaking the Sky Sword Saint. Someday, I’ll meet them again, and they will recognize me.” A Constellation who most wanted to surpass Kyrgios and be acknowledged by him. That's why resisting this temptation would be difficult for him. “If you hand over the martial arts Elixir and the flag of Murim to me,” all I could offer was a worthless lie. [Activating Exclusive Skill, ‘Incitement Lv.5’ to its utmost limit!] But if he were to believe my words, “The ‘disciple’ of the one who drove you to downfall, 'Paradox', will willingly lose to Beggars’ Sect here today.” This could become a new story. Terms and Translations: - 용두방주 (Heavenly Beggar): This is translated from "용두방주 천개," maintaining the character’s title and cultural anchoring. - 동맹 (Alliance): Directly translated, fitting the narrative as a significant proposition between two factions. - 대합실 (Waiting Area): Literal translation retains clarity of context whereby the scene takes place. - 전용 스킬, ‘선동 Lv.5’ (Exclusive Skill, ‘Incitement Lv.5’): Skill names are maintained with literal translations to ensure clarity, reflecting character abilities and their usage dramatically. Contextual Note: This scene exemplifies negotiation through manipulation and understanding desires, tapping into the deeper narrative themes of recognition and legacy. The ongoing theme ties into the meta-context of narratives written and unwritten within the world of starry constellations and mortal lives. Gender Clarifications: - Cheon Gaey/Heavenly Beggar is he. Updates: None required; all new terms and translations have been added for narrative consistency and accuracy.