Chapter 287: You Won't Be Able To Catch Up (2)
Translator: RaidenTL
Chapter 287: You Won't Be Able To Catch Up (2)
The winter night was not particularly cold, the chill kept at bay by a rising wave of heat.
The dense, powerful Combat Qi made the events unfolding at its source perfectly clear.
Crunch.
Wi Seol-Ah stepped on a leaf as she walked away from the heat, leaving it behind her. She felt a pull to find a place where the moonlight shone clearly.
-Are you sure you don’t want to see it?
She ignored the voice in her head. Though it sounded concerned, her current circumstances made her dismiss it. The test was only paused momentarily, meaning she would have to return soon, so she didn't venture far.
Fortunately, after a short walk, she arrived at a clearing bathed in moonlight.
Just as she reached her destination…
“This is unexpected.”
The person who had been following her finally spoke. She had known he was there all along.
“I thought you would have been watching him.”
“…”
“Guess you’re not that curious, huh.”
She could sense the ugly emotions simmering beneath the surface as the smiling man’s facade began to crack.
Wi Seol-Ah saw no need to exchange words with him and remained silent.
“Even though you left without listening to my request.”
“I have no obligation to listen to your requests.”
Her sharp retort gave Jang Seonyeon pause.
“I’ve always felt like this, but I still don’t understand.”
“About what?”
“The reason you despise me this much.”
Wi Seol-Ah’s expression remained a cold, emotionless mask.
“I haven’t done anything to you, so why the hatred?”
“Not yet.”
“…Ha.”
A bitter smile twisted Jang Seonyeon’s lips at her firm response.
“You seem pretty certain that I’ll do something.”
“Am I wrong?”
Her voice was calm, utterly certain. The question forced Jang Seonyeon to fall silent.
“…How cruel of you.”
“You aren’t denying it, though.”
“Would you believe me if I did?”
“No.”
Chuckle.
Jang Seonyeon chuckled, but his mind was now occupied by thoughts he had previously brushed aside.
It’s twisted.
It felt as if a path that was once smooth and easy had become tangled and knotted.
Since when?
When had things started to go awry? His thoughts and plans had always been perfect. Moreover, he was confident he possessed the talent necessary to stand by her side.
But then, why…
While the other Young Prodigies and those around him admired him, the one person he truly desired did not. He wondered how it had come to this.
Even though he knew the answer, Jang Seonyeon refused to believe it.
It’s because of that bastard.
His thoughts turned to a certain someone—a person he had paid little mind to at their first meeting. The only thing he remembered clearly was the intensity of that gaze.
Murderous intent.
The bastard’s eyes had been filled with a blatant, unconcealed murderous intent, laced with sheer contempt. Jang Seonyeon could not forget that moment; it was the first time anyone had ever looked at him that way.
Why?
He couldn’t understand. He hadn't done anything to him ‘yet’. And even if he had, he would have ensured it could never be traced back to him. This was just pure, unadulterated hatred.
Unaccustomed to such a gaze, Jang Seonyeon didn't dwell on it for long.
It’s because he’s jealous.
He convinced himself that those eyes were merely looking at him with envy.
Sigh.
Jang Seonyeon sighed internally. He felt pathetic for ever believing that.
‘Jealousy, huh.’
That bastard, jealous of him? Impossible.
It was supposed to be his stage to shine, but a different bastard had stolen the spotlight.
The True Dragon.
Just the mere thought of that title churned his stomach and set his heart racing.
Why?
Why is that bastard in the same generation as me?
Such thoughts haunted him every night. He never imagined he would one day utter such shameful words.
Just like his title suggested, the bastard was a dragon hiding amongst a nest of snakes. Every time he shook his colossal body, the snakes clinging desperately to him were sent flying. That was the impact of his debut.
‘The Beggar’s Sect turned their attention away from me, and I was given the title Meteor Sword. But how far will that really take me?’
Jang Seonyeon knew the answer all too well. Especially when he witnessed such overwhelming excellence from a distance.
…Is he trying to show me?
Jang Seonyeon clenched his teeth, pondering the bastard’s intentions. Was he unleashing such an overwhelming presence and Combat Qi just to flaunt his strength?
Jang Seonyeon was certain of it.
-You hate me as well.
That was what Gu Yangcheon had said when Jang Seonyeon once asked why he was so despised. The rude manner of speaking, the taunting expression—it was infuriating, but it also made him wonder.
How did he know?
It was as if Gu Yangcheon knew everything about him, even though they had never met or heard of each other before the Dragons and Phoenixes Tournament.
I’m not fond of him.
How could he be? That bastard had stolen his spotlight.
Furthermore,
I also hate the fact that he has the talent to back it up.
Though he loathed to admit it, compared to the other Young Prodigies, that bastard was in an entirely different league. He was like a brilliant star shining alone, as if cast down from the heavens themselves.
A star? How ironic. Even if the geniuses of their generation were called stars, that bastard existed on a completely different plane.
And that was why…
I have to get rid of him.
He had to be erased. After all, Jang Seonyeon was the one who deserved to shine the brightest. The Sword Dragon and the Sleeping Dragon were bothersome, but they were nothing compared to the nuisance that was Gu Yangcheon.
Still frustrated, Jang Seonyeon stared at the lady standing before him. Though a face cover hid her features, she was undeniably beautiful. He hadn't felt it strongly at first, but as time passed, her beauty seemed to radiate its own light. It was a beauty that complemented the sun more than the moon, ironic given that her sword art was born of moonlight.
She grew more beautiful with each passing day, and her background was especially intriguing to him. The sole disciple of the Sword Emperor, a lady of immense talent.
Even if Gu Yangcheon is talented…
Was he truly more impressive than the lady who had shattered her bottleneck in just a year?
“I hope you still remember it,” Jang Seonyeon said.
Wi Seol-Ah bit her lip.
“If I manage to get the top spot here, you will be mine.”
He was referring to the wager they had made before coming to the Academy.
In response, she asked, “…Did you forget what happens if you don’t?”
“Oh, that?” Jang Seonyeon smiled.
Seeing the emotion hidden behind that smile, Wi Seol-Ah frowned.
“If I fail, I will gladly listen to your request.”
What was it she wanted? His father’s assistance to enter the Heavenly Abyss of Birth, and one of the precious treasures of the Taeryung Clan.
“Can I ask you something?” he ventured.
“…”
Wi Seol-Ah seemed disinterested, but Jang Seonyeon continued regardless.
“Why do you like him so much?”
“What?”
At the mention of Gu Yangcheon, her voice and gaze turned icy. But Jang Seonyeon pressed on.
“I know you were his servant, but is that year really such a precious memory?”
“What do you know to speak so rashly?”
“I’m asking because I don’t know. But it seems I’ve hit a nerve.”
Even grinding her teeth in anger, she was still beautiful.
“Moreover, I heard he is engaged to someone now.”
“…”
“Even if some affection grew during your time as a servant, do you really think there’s a place left for you?”
Wi Seol-Ah reacted furiously. It was always like this. Whenever that bastard was mentioned, she became vulnerable. Did she love him that much? Desire him so deeply? Even if he disliked this method, it was the easiest way to provoke her.
“You…”
“It seems you accepted our wager because you believed I wouldn’t be able to clinch the top spot with him here.”
She probably thought the wager would be easy, especially since the True Dragon was also attending the Heavenly Dragon Academy. With her own attendance, she likely believed victory was assured.
But it seems you don’t know yet.
If Gu Yangcheon was blocking the path to the top, then all he had to do was drag him down. It seemed she was still unaware of such simple realities.
It seems your mind is filled with flowers.
The world was not a peaceful place, but unfortunately, she still seemed to think it was.
If I go any further, she will draw her sword.
Jang Seonyeon knew Wi Seol-Ah was at her limit, barely holding back her emotions. He was curious—would she be able to contain herself if he pushed just one more step?
“Watch carefully. I will destroy him and make him look up to m– “
Clack.
A sudden, cold sensation made Jang Seonyeon charge his inner Qi instantly. As expected, if this continued…
Tap.
“…Huh?”
Jang Seonyeon froze, stunned by the turn of events. It wasn't Wi Seol-Ah who had drawn her sword, but someone else who had appeared before him like a ghost. He hadn't sensed their approach at all during his conversation.
Wi Seol-Ah was equally surprised by the sudden appearance.
A gentle breeze blew as silence and shock lingered in the air.
“…Sis…?” Wi Seol-Ah’s voice was carried on the wind.
The sudden intruder turned towards her.
Bluish-white hair that seemed to contain the moonlight, a blue outfit, and the faint crackle of Lightning Qi surrounding her.
…That lady.
Jang Seonyeon identified her immediately. Though she wore a face cover, her image was etched deep in his memory.
Sword Dancer…?
It was the same lady he had defeated in the Dragons and Phoenixes Tournament.
The Sword Dancer, Namgung Bi-ah, stared at Wi Seol-Ah. Then, she waved her hand and spoke.
“…Hi.”
Her voice was quiet, matching her ethereal atmosphere. Wi Seol-Ah looked on in shock.
“Sis… why are you…?”
“…I’ve been looking for you. I’m glad… I found you.”
“You were looking for me…?”
“Mhm…”
Wi Seol-Ah’s eyes trembled at Namgung Bi-ah’s response.
Still staring intently, Namgung Bi-ah spoke slowly. “I haven’t had the chance to greet you yet…”
After explaining her reason for seeking her out, she spoke again. “It’s been a while.”
“…Indeed, it has been a while.”
“Have you… been well…?”
The more Wi Seol-Ah listened to her monotone voice, the more she felt a strange warmth emanating from Namgung Bi-ah, as if she had genuinely been looking forward to this reunion.
Yet, Wi Seol-Ah couldn't bring herself to respond. She fidgeted with her lips, remaining silent.
Seeing this, Namgung Bi-ah took a step towards her…
“Sword Dancer.”
But Jang Seonyeon interrupted.
“…It’s nice to see you, but I wasn’t finished talking to her yet.” His voice was unusually cold. The series of unexpected events was fraying his control.
“So, how about you talk to her lat– “
“And you are?”
“…Pardon?”
Jang Seonyeon was speechless as Namgung Bi-ah turned slowly and asked. He must have misheard.
“What did you just…”
“Who… are you?”
She repeated the question, erasing any doubt. She truly did not recognize him.
Jang Seonyeon stared, tilting his head in confusion. She dared to ask who he was? Struggling to calm his boiling emotions, he forced a smile onto his face and took a step forward.
However, he was stopped.
“Please stop joking, Sword Dancer.” The lady who swung her sword at me so desperately… she can't possibly have forgotten me.
“There is no way Sister has forgotten about me…”
“…Don’t get any closer.”
Namgung Bi-ah warned him, gesturing with her hand. Her face cover hid her expression, but her voice suggested she was struggling with something.
Jang Seonyeon’s expression wavered as he tried to comprehend what was happening…
“…You smell… so don’t come any closer…”
Her cold, final words shattered his mask completely.
Blaaaze!
A sea of flames surrounded the area. Giant flames with a pinkish hue raged as if possessed of their own will, turning the surroundings into chaos.
Slam!
“Aghhh!”
A Young Prodigy was caught by a gust of wind, lifted into the air, and slammed into the ground. This scene repeated itself over and over. The instructors were at a loss, scrambling frantically to regain control.
Craaack.
A tree was engulfed by the passing flames and…
Blaze!
…turned to ashes as the monstrous inferno swept by.
Bi Eejin watched the area engulfed in flames and was reminded of hell.
Incredible.
He admired the sight from a distance.
His control of Qi is amazing.
Despite the storm of monstrous flames, only specific targets were set ablaze; most of the surroundings remained untouched. The display of power coupled with near-perfect control was astounding.
At his age, no less?
Wow.
The Dishonored Venerable smiled, thinking of the owner of these fierce flames. He had exceeded all expectations.
Blaze!
“Eeek!”
As the heat washed over them, Bibi, who was accompanying Bi Eejin, yelped in surprise and hid behind him.
Woong.
Seeing this, Bi Eejin discreetly erected a Qi barrier.
“…Wow…” Feeling the heat lessen, Bibi peered out with eyes sparkling. “Isn’t he amazing? How can he be like that…?”
“Is it fascinating?”
“Of course!”
Even though he was just a Young Prodigy facing the great Sword Queen, his flames were so dense and hot that the outcome was completely obscured.
Awesome…!
Bibi’s eyes shone with awe. She believed only her brother was capable of such a feat. Were all the Six Dragons and Three Phoenixes like this? The sheer gap in level was disappointing, yet it made the spectacle all the more fascinating.
“I never imagined the Sword Queen would be pushed back.”
“Who’s being pushed back?” Bi Eejin cut her off.
“Well, it seems like the Sword Queen can’t do anything. That means she’s…”
“She can’t do anything, huh…” Hmm.
Bi Eejin stroked his chin, though he had no beard, and reacted strangely. When he did that, it usually meant Bibi had said something odd, or he simply couldn't be bothered to correct her.
“Ugh…” Annoyed by his reaction, Bibi was about to tickle his hips when…
Rustle.
The monstrous sounds of destruction suddenly grew quiet. A flower petal drifted through the air and landed on Bibi’s nose.
“Oh?”
She reached up curiously to touch it, but the petal shone for an instant, turned to dust, and scattered away.
“Brother, just now…” she began hurriedly.
“Watch carefully. This is where it gets interesting.” Bi Eejin replied, as if he had been expecting this.
Bibi pouted but obeyed, turning her attention back to the center of the flames. She still couldn't see much, but then she noticed a change.
Huh?
Amidst the violent flames, she could see flowers beginning to mix within.
That’s…
What petals were they? She thought for a moment before realizing.
They were plum blossoms.
The plum blossoms rode the currents of flame, gradually surrounding the area.
Seeing this, Bi Eejin thought to himself. It’s not bad… but it’s not perfect either.
The strength and control of his Qi were unbelievable, but his attacks felt like they were lacking something. The only reason it seemed the Sword Queen was being pushed back was because she was deftly dodging the violent flames, creating distance.
Then…
Swish!
The plum blossoms coalesced into a gust of wind that swept up all the flames and blew them high into the air.
Woah…
Bi Eejin exhaled in admiration. The flames vanished, leaving no trace behind.
She changed, huh?
He observed the Sword Queen. The old her would have chosen a kinder method, but the current her was treating her junior rather violently. She seemed like a different person.
It was probably because the Sword Queen had high expectations for that child. It felt like she was telling him that this much was disappointing and demanding he show her more. Her standards were extreme.
Even Bi Eejin himself was satisfied with what he had just witnessed.
‘It seems she became a bit senile due to her age.’
If he said that out loud—whether he was the Dishonored Venerable or not—the Sword Queen would undoubtedly draw her sword. But it was fine since he only thought it.
Seemingly enjoying himself, Bi Eejin turned his attention from the Sword Queen to her opponent.
So, what will you do now?
His flames were extinguished, though the heat still lingered. Gu Yangcheon simply stared at the Sword Queen, a deep frown etched on his face. He likely knew this wasn't an Academy exam, but the Sword Queen’s personal test.
I wonder what his next move is.
He looked genuinely annoyed, standing there frowning before the almighty Sword Queen. If Bi Eejin had to guess, it looked like Gu Yangcheon was asking if this was enough, but the Sword Queen’s expectant expression remained unchanged.
“Sigh.”
Seeing her steadfastness, Gu Yangcheon let out a sigh. It seemed he had given up.
Bi Eejin felt a twinge of disappointment. Not because Gu Yangcheon had conceded, but…
He’s going to hide it.
Because he was still planning to conceal his true strength. That was what disappointed Bi Eejin.
But if it’s this much, that child is certainly the most…?
Whether he was disappointed or not, just as Bi Eejin was about to confirm that Gu Yangcheon was the perfect choice…
“Sword Queen, I hope you will handle the aftermath.”
“…Hmm? What do you mean by that?”
“It’s been an honor to fight against you.”
No sooner had Gu Yangcheon muttered these cryptic words…
Swoosh!
“…!”
Both Bi Eejin and the Sword Queen’s eyes widened in shock.
As Gu Yangcheon opened his palms and closed his eyes, the very air around him began to change.
“Flaming Sphere.”
And the night sky changed with it.