Side Story: Episode 17-3 - Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Episode 17. Storm in a Teacup (3) The following morning, I gathered the people at Seoul Station in one place. In the midst of the chaotic atmosphere, people looked up at me standing on the stage. The beggars who followed the Heavenly Beggar (천개) and the soldiers under Commander Jung Munho were present. The spotted boy and his father, Myung Sewoon, were also visible. Myung Sewoon was now completely freed from the possession grip of the Heavenly Beggar. ―"Thank you so much. Inseok, thank him too... I don't know how to repay this kindness..." ―"Thank you, hyung." They thanked me early at dawn. Although the Heavenly Beggar was still his sponsor, he wouldn't exploit him as a possession vessel anymore. This was because he found the story he desired here. [During the night, 67 Incarnations have left your group.] [With the power of the 'Purple Flag,' you can activate 'Punishment' on those individuals.] Looking around, it was evident that the overall attendance had decreased significantly compared to yesterday. I chose not to enforce punishment on the deserters. What would be the point in forcibly holding onto those who intended to leave anyway? I slowly opened my mouth as I looked at the gathered people one by one. "I'll be honest with you." There were still about two hundred Incarnations left here. Though I had spoken grandly to the Heavenly Beggar, I wasn't confident in leading all of them. "I cannot take responsibility for all of you. I can't promise safety even if you stay in my group. There will be no separate [Punishment], so those who wish to leave may do so now." At my words, the crowd stirred greatly. The whispers of the homeless were blatantly audible. "Let's just leave. I don't think this is the place for us." "I heard there are decent groups at Dongdaemun and Dobong Station. All the homeless from that area moved towards Dobong-gu." While I wasn't sure about Dongdaemun, I had a guess about Dobong-gu. That's where the 'Tyrant King' resides. "The new leader seemed pretty strong too." "It was just luck. My sponsor says his real skills are just average." "Wasn't the woman with the sword quite strong? She seemed like his subordinate." Jung Heewon, who hadn't regained consciousness yet, was sleeping inside a makeshift tent prepared by Sergeant Kim. Fortunately, her internal injuries weren't severe. Having absorbed the energy of the elixir, she would become much stronger once she awakened. Jung Eunho, who woke before his sister, peeked outside the tent. "If we stay here, we'll just die in vain. In times like these, having a strong leader is important." "Exactly. We should stay under someone strong and with leadership skills. Frankly, doesn't that young guy look like a swindler?" Public opinion at Seoul Station was gradually dividing. About half of the beggars decided to leave. A man, representing the group, smiled awkwardly with a bow. "Well, then, we'll be on our way..." I nodded lightly and let them go. Most of them were middle-aged men, considered the strongest Incarnations in terms of current combat power. It was a loss, but perhaps a necessary one. Those who remained were mostly youths or elderly who had nowhere else to turn. In a sense, they were the true 'Beggar’s Union.' "What happens to those who are left behind?" A girl, who was with Jung Eunho, raised her hand and asked. These were the children who had been looting adults, with nowhere else to go, looking at me. "Those who remain will become part of my group. The original name of the Seoul Station Group is ‘Beggar’s Union,’ so you'll continue under that affiliation." The faction created by the Heavenly Beggar will continue to live on in this scenario. "But then we..." The hint of disappointment registered on the children's faces. I raised a hand and interrupted. "However, the new Beggar’s Union will no longer resort to 'looting.'" The children's eyes widened at my words. "The new Beggar’s Union will not continue its past ways. It is no longer merely a den of beggars. If you stayed here expecting the old ways, please leave now." Another ten or so people left the station. Finally, I addressed those who remained. "You all may already know; in the new world, you can't survive by looting alone. That's only possible early in the scenario. The grouped Incarnations won't succumb to it anymore. If anything, you'd be lucky if you’re not robbed yourselves." "Then—" "Begging is also not an option. The Constellations won't simply dole out charity. Honestly, isn't it somewhat shameful even from your perspective?" Some of the children and elderly lowered their heads at my words. "Then what are we supposed to do now?" "Build your own Narrative." Group members wore puzzled expressions, unsure of what I meant. Well, these people still didn’t know what a 'narrative' was. Telling them to 'build their Narrative' was like advising children with no understanding to 'dream big.' They would eventually come to understand what it meant to build a narrative, to create their own story. What I could do now was teach them how to hold the pen to write their first sentence. I clapped my hands lightly as I spoke. "First, let’s eat before we begin." With my signal, Sergeant Kim and the soldiers appeared at the entrance of Seoul Station. They carried food prepared outside. It was 'Barbecue Earthworm' and 'Grol Soup' cooked with the heat of magic stoves. The appetizing aroma drew the people in, who had not enjoyed proper cooking since the scenario began, in exclamations. "We'll start distributing meals. Everyone, please form a line," Sergeant Kim instructed. I also received a plate of barbecue and soup from him. "This looks delicious." "Oh, it’s nothing. I used to do some cooking." **[Translations and Terminology]** 1. **Seoul Station (서울역)** - A key location where the events unfold. 2. **Heavenly Beggar (천개)** - 천개 literally means "Heavenly Beggar," which is a title indicating a beggarly leader in the narrative. 3. **Beggars' Union (개방)** - Translated from 개방, which implies an organization formed by beggars. 4. **Narrative (설화)** - 설화 can be translated to "Narrative," referring to an individual’s own story or mythos they build. 5. **Tyrant King** - An unspecified figure foreshadowed to be significant in Dobong-gu. **Additional Context**: This text offers a glimpse into the societal and power dynamics amidst a post-apocalyptic scenario setting, where traditional roles and expectations are both collapsed and reconstructed. Terms like "Heavenly Beggar" suggest a blend of hierarchy and spirituality. The introduction of the 'Narrative' suggests a meta-literary theme, encouraging individuals to craft their own identities through personal stories or myths, fitting with a larger literary universe trope where characters possess unique backstories or powers linked to their personal narratives. **Puns/Wordplay**: The phrase "Storm in a Teacup" implies much ado about seemingly minor or contained problems but signals deeper, underlying tension in the narrative, aligning with the organizational and identity upheavals hinted in the episode. **Necessary List Adjustments**: No changes needed. The current names and affiliations are consistent with this context. Sergeant Kim offered a bashful smile as he chewed on a piece of meat, seemingly a bit embarrassed. I had requested his help with cooking early this morning. At daybreak, I used the 'exchange' to purchase parts from monstrous species sold at a low price and requested Sergeant Kim and the mess duty soldiers to prepare breakfast for everyone. "But how did you learn this cooking method?" "A friend told me." The monster cooking techniques followed were based on the 81st regression Yoo Joonghyuk's recipe from "Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World." As expected from that iteration of Yoo Joonghyuk, who was genuinely passionate about cooking, even basic ingredients like 'Grol' and 'Barbecue Earthworm' turned into a sumptuous meal. "By the way, did you add the elixir I gave you into the dish?" "Yes, of course." A unique element of this cooking was the blend of martial arts elixirs into the sauce. "Did those elixirs belong to the Beggar's Union?" "Yes, that's correct." In the early hours, Myung Sewoon, the father of the spotted boy who visited me, handed me three roots of 'Hundred-Year-old He Shou Wu.' I immediately recognized the elixirs as those the Beggar likely intended for me. However, Jung Eunho's internal injuries were already fully healed. After some thought, I decided to use the three roots of Hundred-Year-old He Shou Wu in the meals for the group members. "Wow, this is really delicious. Can I have another bowl?" "Mr. Park, your biceps seem to have grown!" "Haha, just joking. But, indeed, it feels like there's warmth flowing inside." Their chatter was louder, and their faces were noticeably brighter than before. The 'Hundred-Year-old He Shou Wu' was an elixir left behind by the Beggar for the Beggar’s Union. With two Summoning Orbs still in my possession, I intended to use the elixirs to enhance the survival abilities of the group members. [The Constellations originating from the Murim are impressed by your consideration.] [The Constellation 'Maritime War God' nods at your thoughtful actions.] [1,000 coins have been sponsored.] The group members enjoyed a hearty breakfast, leaving them with much more relaxed expressions than before. With most people's plates nearly empty, I began speaking again. "For those who remain here, you will be taught the skills and hunting methods necessary for survival." Of course, I had no intention of teaching my own skills, mostly because there weren't any suitable ones to teach. Fortunately, the Beggar’s Union leader had left a substantial number of skills, including [Treading Tiger Fist], in the storage lockers at Seoul Station. It seemed they intended to train Beggar’s Union members further as they developed. While the martial arts from the Beggar’s Union might lag behind Kyrgios Rodgraim's [Complete Transformation] or the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint's [Breaking the Sky Swordsmanship], with relentless practice, they could reach the pinnacle of <Murim>. "Sergeant Kim." "Yes." Having learned the martial arts from the skill book I gave him earlier, Sergeant Kim performed a light demonstration with the Treading Tiger Staff. The children in the front rows uttered exclamations of admiration. A martial art used only by the leader and adept practitioners. The children looked thrilled at the chance to finally learn these martial arts. Sergeant Kim cleared his throat lightly before speaking. "From now on, I will be serving as your martial arts instructor. Even if you don't have natural talent, you can learn through skill books, so don't worry too much." Elderly folks in the back rows exchanged unsure glances. They appeared somewhat doubtful. "Can we really learn such things?" "No problem. I learned it in just a day." In this world, whether young or old, anyone could become stronger if they set their mind to it. What the Beggar’s Union members, who had entrusted their lives to an organization, needed most was the assurance that they could transform themselves through effort. "Soon, the 'War for the Absolute Throne' will erupt at Gwanghwamun." When the time comes, these people will have to stand at the forefront of the scenario, willing or not. I don't know how many will survive in this world, but even so, I hope to leave a spark here. Admittedly, the mere presence of one group like the Beggar’s Union won't drastically change the narrative. Even if some of them train in martial arts, learn skills, and acquire sponsors, an impossible scenario won't suddenly become possible. Everything might just be a storm in a teacup, and the conclusion of the 41st regression might remain unchanged. "One! Two! One! Two!" Yet, while observing the children following the martial forms, I found myself thinking long and hard about Yoo Joonghyuk, who had repeated his life more than 1,863 times in that empty teacup. The lives of characters in stories may remain unchanged in the end. But the world of whoever reads their stories will transform. At least, that's what I believe. * "I will leave Seoul Station in your hands for the time being, Sergeant Kim." "Are you sure I'm suitable for this?" I nodded. "You trusted me with your flag." Sergeant Kim handed me his 'Red Flag.' [Using the exclusive authority of the representative.] [Seoul Station Representative Cheon Inho has transferred part of their authority to group member 'Kim Heonryeol.'] [Group member 'Kim Heonryeol' has become the 'Deputy Representative' of Seoul Station.] [From now on, group member 'Kim Heonryeol' can administer 'Punishment' to group members on behalf of the representative.] With the Purple Flag, I can appoint as many 'Deputy Representatives' as needed. Had Commander Jung Munho survived, he would have been entrusted with this role, but for now, Sergeant Kim was the best choice. + <Character Information> Name: Kim Heonryeol Age: 33 Sponsor: None (Currently, 1 Constellation is showing interest). Exclusive Attribute: Righteous Soldier (Rare) Exclusive Skills: [Gunblade Technique Lv.3], [Camouflage Lv.1], [Sense of Justice Lv.2], [Comradeship Lv.1], [Leadership Lv.1] Stigma: None Overall Stats: [Stamina Lv.23], [Strength Lv.21], [Agility Lv.20], [Magic Power Lv.19] Overall Evaluation: An overall evaluation has yet to be written. + Righteous Soldier. It reminded me of Lee Hyunsung, making this choice a fitting one for Deputy Representative. With Sergeant Kim managing the station, it would be well taken care of until Jung Heewon regained consciousness. "Are you really going to leave just like this? Wouldn't it be better to depart after Heewon wakes up?" **[Translations and Terminology]** 1. **Exchange/거래소** - Refers to a system or place where trades and purchases occur. 2. **Hundred-Year-old He Shou Wu/백년 하수오** - 백년 하수오 translates to He Shou Wu, a traditional herb known for its longevity benefits. 3. **Treading Tiger Fist/타구봉법** - A martial arts technique from the Beggar’s Union. 4. **Grol** and **Barbecue Earthworm/땅강아쥐** - Grol is possibly a fictional ingredient, with Earthworm being an unusual, mythical ingredient. 5. **Gunblade Technique/총검술** - A technique involving the use of a gun and blade. 6. **Camouflage/위장** - A skill for concealing oneself. 7. **Sense of Justice/정의감, Comradeship/전우애, Leadership/지도력** - Attributes detailing Kim Heonryeol's character and abilities. **Additional Context**: The narrative explores themes of transformation and hope in a post-apocalyptic setting where people scramble to protect and strengthen themselves. Used mainly for thematic elements that highlight the importance of individual narratives in shaping characters' identities and their impact on their surroundings. **Changes to the List**: No updates are required as the current translations and character affiliations are consistent with the new details provided. Originally, I planned to wait a little before making any moves. However, I had already lingered around Seoul Station for quite some time, and most importantly, the Hidden Scenario had already arrived. [A Hidden Scenario has arrived!] [The ‘Path of the King’ begins!] + <Hidden Scenario - Path of the King> Type: Hidden Difficulty: A Clear Condition: Achieve the ‘Black Flag’ within the stipulated period. Time Limit: 10 days Reward: Awakening of the ‘King’s’ Attribute Failure: If conditions are not met within the period, you and your group members will perish. + The scenario content had somewhat diverged from the main story of “Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint.” To be precise, the difficulty had increased from that time. From now on, not only my life but also the lives of my group members rested on my shoulders. [A new ‘King’ candidate has begun to walk their path!] Fortunately, combining the stations occupied by the Beggar and Sergeant Kim left us with quite a few secured stations. [Current Occupied Stations: Seoul Station (Main Base), Chungjeongno Station, Aeogae Station, Namyeong Station, City Hall Station, Samgakji Station, Hyochang Park Station, Sookdaeipgu Station...] [Occupying a total of 12 stations.] Already holding twelve stations. Yet my flag was still purple in color. How many more flags must I obtain to make the ‘Black Flag’? I do not know. Nonetheless, I now have to face the representatives of other stations. And my final destination for that was decided. "Gwanghwamun." I will have to make my way there soon. Not to mention, someone was waiting to meet me there. "Hyung." I turned at the tug on my sleeve, meeting the eyes of Jung Heewon’s younger brother, Jung Eunho. I patted his shoulder lightly and said, “Take good care of your sister.” Jung Eunho looked at me with uncertainty before nodding silently and letting go of my hand. Behind him, I saw the spotted boy and other children coming to see me off. I waved to the children lightly. Jung Eunho and the children would become the key figures of the forthcoming scenarios. I hoped the apocalypse in this world would be delayed enough for them to explore their own narratives a little longer. As I finished my goodbyes and turned away from Seoul Station, my phone vibrated in my pocket. ―Inho, are you there? When I opened the phone, Yehyun Woo's name was displayed. We had exchanged numbers just in case, and it seemed there was a rare burst of internet connectivity. Just as I was about to reply with joy, a distant explosion reached my ears. A colossal sound as if an entire building crumbled. I quickly dashed up to a nearby high-rise to grasp the situation. From afar, a plume of smoke rose. Towards Gwanghwamun. More precisely, the direction of the National Palace Museum. ―We failed to secure the ‘Sign of the Calamity Sword.’ Perhaps nobody will wield that sword this time. I stared blankly at Yehyun Woo’s message. ‘Failed to secure the Sign of the Calamity Sword.’ The Sign of the Calamity Sword was the sword Kim Dokja used to destroy the ‘Absolute Throne.’ Kim Dokja knew that utilizing the ‘Absolute Throne’ wouldn’t lead to the right conclusion. Hence, he destroyed it and declared himself the ‘King of a World without a King.’ But in this regression, there was no weapon that could destroy the ‘Absolute Throne.’ As I looked up, the stars in the sky swirled in a tumultuous dance. "The downfall of the 41st regression begins with the birth of the owner of the ‘Absolute Throne.’" This story yearned for the birth of a king. **[Translations and Terminology]** 1. **Hidden Scenario/히든 시나리오** - A special narrative episode with greater difficulty and stakes. 2. **Path of the King/왕의 길** - A title indicating a journey of ascension and leadership. 3. **Black Flag/검은색 깃발** - Represents a peak status or condition that must be achieved. 4. **Sign of the Calamity Sword/사인참사검** - A mythical weapon crucial for challenging the ‘Absolute Throne’. 5. **Absolute Throne/절대 왕좌** - An ultimate symbol of power that dictates the narrative's climax. **Additional Context**: This narrative illustrates high-stakes decisions and confrontations typical in epic storytelling, emphasizing themes of leadership, destiny, and the burden of choice. The introduction of the "Hidden Scenario" with its dire consequences highlights the gravity of the story's progression and the protagonist's evolving role. **Changes to the List**: No new changes required. The existing character translations and affiliations remain consistent with the new details added.