370 - Childhood Friend of the Zenith

### The World's Greatest Warrior's Childhood Friend - Episode 371: Northern Rabbit - Web Novel Archive It was just past noon. Hanam was typically bustling with people, but today, it felt especially crowded. Every tavern was packed to the brim, with no more room for a single soul. Chairs had been dragged from somewhere to make additional seating. The inn workers were experiencing an exceptionally busy day, beyond the usual. -"Another Bamboo Leaf Green, please!" -"Yes! Coming right up!" Amidst the crowded people, the murmur of voices filled the air. With significantly more people gathered than usual, it was bound to be lively. Yet, there was something different today—amidst the bustling crowd, a path was carved out. Perhaps it was this arrangement that made it feel like more people had gathered. A route seemed prepared, orderly, yet chaotic, as if for a cart or people to pass through. And people watched, careful not to cross the line into the path. The reason for such organized chaos was no secret. -"They're here... They've arrived!" At someone's shout, the murmuring crowd fell silent almost instantly. On the path leading to the Wulin League. From the entrance, those who confirmed something turned their gaze in one direction. Thump. From afar, someone was walking forward—not just one, but a group of people moving in. They were all clad in similar martial attire, swords hanging from their waists. Seeing this, someone exclaimed. -"It's the Wudang…!" The people who appeared in a group were from Wudang Sect, part of the Nine Great Schools. They had traveled from Hubei for the sect meeting to be held today. That meant the person at the forefront of that group must be… -"The Wudang Sword Immortal…!" An elderly man with long white hair neatly tied, wearing the unique Taoist robe of Wudang. He emanated a sharp gaze and an understated yet profound presence. Known for predominantly using sword technique. He was always counted among the top five swordmasters under heaven. Passing through the crowd, the Wudang Sword Immortal was led into the Wulin League by the waiting alliance members. Though it didn’t take long for the Wudang Taoists to enter the league from the entrance, the spectators enjoyed the moment. How often does one get to see the sect leader of the Wudang, a top-tier master of the martial world? Furthermore, there were still many martial artists yet to enter the path aside from the Wudang Sword Immortal. That's precisely why so many people were maintaining their places and watching the streets. The fact that the sect meeting meant numerous prominent figures were attending. And that one could see them up close like this. Watching from a distance, I couldn't help but make a face of disbelief. “They could easily travel by carriage. It's obvious they're doing this on purpose.” I wondered why. Wudang wasn’t lacking in money. Why would they deliberately choose to walk instead of using carriages? It seemed the gathered people were indeed here to watch. Perhaps it was an implicit understanding? A spectacle for those gathered to see them? ‘A farce.’ An incredulous laugh escaped me. If it were a martial arts tournament or a festival, such behavior might be understandable. Those are truly for enjoyment, so such actions might make sense. ‘Is such theatrics necessary for a meeting?’ A gathering meant to decide the future actions and plans of the Wulin League. I questioned the need for such clownish behavior. Even if it were justified as a move for public opinion, I have little to say. ‘I was told to come to the entrance as well.’ Thankfully, I had an uneasy feeling and decided not to go, a stroke of good fortune. Had I gone, I might've received the same attention as the Wudang Sword Immortal just now. ‘They might not even know who I am.’ Then again, my name was the most frequently heard among the martial artists in Hanam. What a headache. Suppressing a frown, I turned my attention to the fellow beside me who was trembling uncontrollably. “Friend, stop trembling like that. You’ll bring the roof down.” “Uh…uhhh….” Was that supposed to be an answer? I sighed at his pitiful appearance. The one trembling as if about to drop dead was Cheol Ji-seon. Surprisingly, Cheol Ji-seon's name was among those attending the sect meeting. That caught me off guard. Namgung Bi-ah and Tang So-yeol hadn’t been called, so why suddenly Cheol Ji-seon? “You’ve been like this since yesterday.” “...No…I wasn’t?” “Don’t lie. Do you remember how much you were shaking while eating?” “…” Cheol Ji-seon’s eyes darted wildly from tension. Going to the Wulin League with this guy was a dizzying thought. ‘I’d rather take Pae Woo-cheol or Goo Jeol-yeop.’ In such circumstances, those two might be better suited. “Sigh.” What a headache. Just as I ran a hand through my hair, another wave of cheers erupted from below. -"It's the Tang Clan…!" There had been a few cheers after the Wudang, but not as loud as this. And rightly so. The person who appeared was none other than a representative of the Four Great Clans. My gaze naturally shifted to the street. The Tang Clan’s robes, often worn by Tang So-yeol, were visible in a line as they entered. Here, the distinction between a martial faction and a clan was clear. Unlike the relatively unadorned Wudang, who are considered Taoists, the Tang Clan, known for being the highest supplier of weapons to various factions and warriors, showcased their wealth. Seeing them, it was evident that Tang So-yeol didn’t go out wearing overly adorned clothes. ‘That person.’ A middle-aged man was walking at the forefront. A man dressed in a deep green silk robe that seemed to glisten. Just looking at him, one could feel a pungent aura, almost tingling on the tongue. ‘The Poison King, Tang Cheon-gi.’ The head of the Tang Clan, renowned as a master of all poisons. Until Tang So-yeol, known as the Invincible Poison Immortal, emerged. ‘Though he looks rather virtuous.’ ### The World’s Greatest Warrior’s Childhood Friend - Episode 371: Northern Rabbit - Web Novel Archive Given that Tang So-yeol belongs to the Tang Clan, which is infamous for poisons and dark techniques, I wondered why he seemed so mild-mannered. His demeanor became clear upon seeing the man who looked like him. Despite the clan's fearsome reputation, Tang So-yeol’s build was relatively small compared to other martial artists—a tad shorter than myself, which spoke volumes since I was already considered quite short. ‘I must not have observed him properly last time.’ It was during the Tang family assembly a few years back. Busy with countless tasks, it seemed I hadn’t even made time to greet the Poison King back then. Reflecting on that, a wry smile formed on my lips. ‘I must’ve been crazy back then.’ What kind of fool from a famed family visits one of the Four Great Clans and doesn’t even meet the clan leader? Though I was unaware due to my haste at the time, even I acknowledge how reckless that must have seemed in retrospect. ‘How father didn’t reprimand me is a mystery.’ My trip to Sichuan was indeed somewhat impulsive, yet I hadn’t been sent there just to experience serendipity, as it happens. In hindsight, that I returned only with newfound skills and fortune is rather miraculous. While I mused on these thoughts, Cheol Ji-seon called to me with a trembling voice. “Hey… Yangcheon….” “What.” “Are we going to stay here…?” “Isn’t it quite entertaining? Don’t you like it?” “…I feel like I’m going to throw up.” “...” Hearing this caused me to frown deeply, and at my expression, Cheol Ji-seon flinched. “N-no, it’s fine to stay longer.”“Don’t be scared, it’s not because of that.” True to Cheol Ji-seon’s words, there really wasn’t a pressing need to stand and watch. ‘Who else is coming next?’ From what was mentioned, those attending from the Nine Great Schools included representatives from Kunlun, Wudang, and Shaolin, as well as the Beggars’ Sect. The rest had reportedly declined to participate. ‘What could be the reason?’ It struck me as odd. Given the nature of the meeting, it wouldn’t be strange for everyone to attend. Most surprising was Mount Hua’s decision to abstain despite the presence of Yeongpung and the Sword Queen. I should be more astonished by that. "Hmm..." Perplexity filled me. This wasn’t something I could understand by just pondering it over, so I slowly rose and turned to Cheol Ji-seon. “Let’s go.” “Huh, really?” “Yes, it wouldn’t do for juniors like us to arrive late.” “Alright.” With such significant figures arriving, it would be notably awkward for juniors like us not to attend. In this society where such etiquette is heavily scrutinized, there was no avoiding it. ‘I really don’t like it.’ That wasn’t the only thing bothering me. Going meant facing Baekcheon Sword Master again. That certainly was a concern. Nonetheless, there was no avoiding it, so I bit my lip and, with a slight leap, landed smoothly from the building. And then. “That leaves me?” The bewilderment in Cheol Ji-seon's voice was palpable as he watched me disappear. And rightly so. After all, it was Gouyangcheon who had brought Cheol Ji-seon up onto the roof. Cheol Ji-seon lacked the ability to descend in one go. ******************************* Inside the waiting room prepared within the Wulin League headquarters. The air was heavy, prepared meticulously for the important guests. It wasn’t the interior itself creating that atmosphere. Instead, the presence of those gathered exuded an imposing weight. This room was designated for the heads of great clans. Naturally, those present were leaders of renowned and prestigious houses known as great clans. One man, small in stature compared to others, was sipping tea calmly at a table which seemed to be of a higher status. He was the leader of the Tang Clan, Tang Cheon-gi, known as the Poison King. The surrounding clan heads felt the need to remain on edge, watching his every move. Such is the status held by the head of one of the Four Great Clans within the central provinces. Tang Cheon-gi, well aware of this, continued to drink his tea in silence. As he took a sip, the door slammed open. Bang-! The sound was conspicuously loud and rough. “Ah, seems I’m quite late, huh.” The figure entering contrasted starkly with the diminutive Tang Cheon-gi; a man with an immense build. His dark martial robes and scarred face marked him as a fearsome figure. Upon recognizing the man, Tang Cheon-gi internally sighed. He had no desire to engage with that brute. However, having met him face-to-face, he couldn’t act childishly dismissive. Tang Cheon-gi forced a smile as he greeted the man. “It’s been a while, Head Peng.” “Good to see you, Head Tang. Have you been well?” The large figure was Pyeong Zhou, the Sword King, head of the Peng Clan from Hebei. “Of course, always well as usual.” “That is good to hear.” They exchanged pleasantries filled with subtle tension. Pyeong Zhou casually sauntered over and took a seat opposite Tang Cheon-gi. “Head Tang, I heard you arrived yesterday.” “That’s correct.” “What made you arrive so early? You traveled far; you should have taken your time.” ‘Were you in such a rush that you came early, what was the hurry?’ was the underlying tone. Understanding this, Tang Cheon-gi chuckled softly and replied. “Since I came from afar, I put in the extra effort to ensure I arrived on time.” The subtext implied, ‘It’s basic courtesy to do so, you nitwit.’ Having exchanged silent words, they shared a fleeting pause. “Hahaha!” “Hahahaha!” As if on cue, they laughed together. “You haven’t changed a bit, Head Tang.” “I could say the same. You seem just the same, Head Peng. Though, I do sense a touch more finesse.” -As time passes, your martial prowess remains staggeringly unchanged. -Look in a mirror, your face appears to be melting. The exchange of hidden meanings added to the tension emanating from the two. The onlookers—both members of the league and waiting clan leaders—held their breath, fearing a conflict might erupt. Just then. Creak. The door opened, and another person entered. This time, it was Baekcheon Sword Lord, Moyong Tae. In stark contrast to the ragged appearance he wore in the past, Moyong Tae came dressed in an ostentatious manner befitting the head of the high-standing Moyong merchant guild. The quality of his attire made it clear that he was not to be trifled with. ### The World's Greatest Warrior's Childhood Friend - Episode 371: Northern Rabbit - Web Novel Archive Jewelry adorning his waist and arms gleamed beautifully as Moyong Tae made his entrance. In response, Tang Cheon-gi rose from his seat. “It’s been a long time, Head Moyong.” His greeting was vastly different from the one given to Head Peng earlier. It couldn't be otherwise; the Tang Clan was currently collaborating with the Moyong Commerce and the results were very promising. Thus, Tang Cheon-gi had every reason to be welcoming towards Moyong Tae. Seeing this, Moyong Tae also responded with a slight smile. "Have you been well, Head Tang?" “Please, come have a seat.” Following Tang Cheon-gi’s invitation, Moyong Tae naturally took his seat. Watching this, Peng Zhou let out a scoff. “It’s been a while.” “Pleasure to see you, Head Peng.” Despite the warm greeting from Moyong Tae, Peng Zhou’s gaze remained somewhat frosty. Moyong Tae didn’t comment on the icy stare and simply returned the greeting. Perhaps it was this perceived indifference that irked Peng Zhou. He frowned and moved his lips as if tasting sarcasm. “Head Moyong.” “Yes.” “I heard you were in the area about seven days ago. Is that correct?” “Indeed.” Peng Zhou chuckled briefly at Moyong Tae’s nonchalant response. An obvious gesture of disdain. “What was so urgent that you hurried to Hanam soil?” “My daughter faced a difficult situation. It was only right I come immediately. That’s my duty as a father.” Upon Moyong Tae’s explanation, Peng Zhou’s eyebrows twitched. “Are you implying that, as fathers, we fall short?” Clinging onto Moyong Tae’s words, as though picking a fight, Peng Zhou’s voice dripped with challenge. Anyone could hear the provocative tone in Peng Zhou’s voice. Yet, Moyong Tae, with his sharp features, simply smiled softly and replied. “I didn’t mean it that way. But if that’s how you perceive it.” The sound of tea pouring into Moyong Tae’s cup rang loud and clear. “That must be the case.” Peng Zhou’s shoulders bristled with hostility at Moyong Tae’s response. Recognizing the potential for things to escalate, Tang Cheon-gi sighed, prepared to rise and diffuse the tension between the two. Suddenly, a powerful presence washed over the waiting room. “…!” All the clan heads present turned their heads simultaneously towards the door. There was an unmistakable aura emanating from it. Thud…thud. Perhaps due to the perceptible presence, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed uniquely, sounding distinctly loud despite their softness. Then, Creeeak. The door slowly opened, unveiling the source of the presence. Strangely, the room seemed to fill with a sense of heat the moment the door swung open. Upon recognizing the one who entered, Peng Zhou’s eyes widened. It was an unexpected individual. ‘That man… truly…?’ The reason for surprise was simple. Though there had been word of his coming, seeing him outside of Shanxi was astonishing. To feel such a tension from him was equally intriguing. The man stepped in, his fierce eyes sweeping over the assembled group. The clan heads he locked eyes with found themselves involuntarily flinching. His gaze was chillingly cold. "…" Was he finished surveying the room? The man advanced, the silence uncomfortable, towards the seating area designated for the leaders of the Four Great Clans. One would be expected to pause in front of such a distinguished group, but the man nonchalantly continued forward and, with ease, scooted the chair at the head seat aside and took a seat himself. The event transpired so quickly that the occupants of the room couldn’t utter a single word. The man, perhaps savoring the silence, glanced around before speaking in a deep, resonant voice. “Pleased to meet you.” “My name is Gu Cheol-un.”