Chapter 307: What's that doing here? (2)
Translator: RaidenTL
Chapter 307: What's that doing here? (2)
Several years ago, not even a full year after my regression, I visited the Tang Clan's Military Exhibition with Wi Seol-Ah.
My objective had been to locate the secret vault hidden within Sichuan's Golden Sky Yeon Clan, and I succeeded thanks to her help. Wi Seol-Ah discovered the space concealed by formations with an almost unsettling ease, allowing me to achieve a goal that could have taken much longer.
You might wonder why I'm recalling this now. It's because what I'm witnessing is a perfect echo of that moment.
Is she perhaps…?
Wi Seol-Ah was moving her hands through empty air, yet the space around them felt distorted, different. It was as if she was creating ripples in the very fabric of the air. There was no way I could mistake what was happening right before my eyes.
Really…?
A formation.
I had to recognize it, especially since I'd learned in my past life about a secret vault hidden beneath the Heavenly Dragon Academy. That formation was the key, connecting the hidden space to the outside world. Every morning after winning my bet against Cheol Hwanho, I had searched everywhere but came up empty-handed.
Yet she found it so effortlessly?
Which made me wonder…
Was it really a formation?
I wasn't entirely sure. Given its proximity to the Headmaster's building, it was equally possible this was a protective measure for his safety.
First, I moved closer to Wi Seol-Ah and tapped her shoulder to announce my presence.
“Ah…!”
Startled by my touch, she whipped her head around. “What were you doing?” I asked.
Wi Seol-Ah looked genuinely shocked, as if she had no idea I'd been watching. She immediately stopped her strange hand movements. “Um…”
“Is there something there?”
“I just… felt like something was here, so I was trying to make contact.”
I couldn't help but smirk at her response. She was doing it for no reason, huh? Wait, she shouldn't even be able to perceive it, so how was she? I couldn't comprehend it…
I reached out, attempting to touch whatever Wi Seol-Ah had felt.
But there's nothing here?
Unlike her, my hand passed through the air without encountering any resistance. Seeing I was aiming at the wrong spot, Wi Seol-Ah gently took my wrist and guided my hand. “Not there… but around here.”
She barely moved it. Just a slight adjustment. Then, she minutely corrected the angle of my fingertips.
That tiny, almost insignificant movement was all it took.
Woong-
“…!”
I began to feel it. A formation, faint but unmistakable, materialized before my senses. It was a remarkably crafted piece of work.
It’s really here.
I didn't know what kind of formation it was, but its existence was now a certainty. I could sense it was designed to conceal something, not to protect. A protective barrier wouldn't feel like this.
So this is the formation hiding the secret vault?
That was the most likely answer. To be sure, I'd need to break through it and see for myself.
But I can't afford to do that right now.
I had to remind myself that the Qinghai Sword wasn't far away. Even if he wasn't the one who created this formation, forcing my way in would cause it to tremble, and he would undoubtedly notice.
Of course, it justhadto be near the Headmaster’s building.
In a way, this was the safest hiding spot, but based on my knowledge, this vault wasn't created by the Heavenly Dragon Academy. It wasn't placed here by design. If I wanted to enter safely, I'd have to wait until the Qinghai Sword was far from the area.
Then I’ll see if this formation really guards the vault I’m looking for.
For now, I was satisfied just knowing it existed. Even if I wasn't the one who found it—that credit went entirely to Wi Seol-Ah. Despite this, she herself seemed utterly indifferent to the formation. Should I be glad about that?
“Aren’t you surprised?” I asked bluntly, surprised by her lack of reaction.
“Huh?”
“This.” I gestured toward the invisible barrier.
After rolling her eyes in thought for a moment, Wi Seol-Ah parted her pink lips. “…Everyone has a few secrets they want to hide, after all.”
If it required a formation to protect it, it probably wasn't a trivial secret. But putting that aside, Wi Seol-Ah, for some reason, didn't seem to care. It was also far too risky for me to attempt a breach now.
I guess I should be glad about it, right?
It would have been a problem if someone else had found it, but since it was Wi Seol-Ah, I considered myself fortunate.
“That’s that, but what’s your reason for avoiding me recently?”
“…Pardon…?”
The formation was one thing, but I had to ask the question that was weighing on me. It was my primary concern. Maybe because it was so sudden, Wi Seol-Ah flinched.
“I-I didn’t avoid you.”
“Huh? Don’t lie to me, did you think I wouldn’t notice?”
Does she think I'm stupid?
She dodged me every time, averted her eyes, and was never around when I looked for her. She was clearly avoiding me, but why?
“Did I do something wrong?”
I knew I wasn't the nicest person, but I couldn't recall doing anything specifically bad to Wi Seol-Ah. At least, not in this life.
“…”
Wi Seol-Ah gave no response. Instead, she tried to look away…
“Ough…!?”
So I grabbed her chin and held her head in place, preventing her from escaping my gaze. “What’s your problem?” I had to know. I could only fix the situation once I understood what was going on. The girl who used to follow me everywhere was now avoiding me? I couldn't let that slide. I had no intention of letting her escape this time.
Wi Seol-Ah stared at me, her pupils trembling. Unable to look away, her eyes darted around in a panic. Yet, she made no effort to push my hand away.
I waited. I had no intention of letting go until she spoke.
After a long moment, she slowly parted her lips, speaking with palpable hesitation. “…I’m embarrassed.”
“Huh?”
Her voice was barely a whisper, but I heard it clearly. Embarrassed?
“What are you embarrassed about?”
Why would she suddenly feel embarrassed? She'd done something similar before, saying she didn't want to show her changed self, yet she had stopped wearing the cover that hid her hair. This seemed to be a different kind of embarrassment.
As I pondered this, Wi Seol-Ah added, “I became embarrassed about… seeing you, Master Gu.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know.”
Do I look funny or something? I suppose I don't go out of my way to present myself well.
“…It’s hard to look into your eyes.”
“Is it because I look scary?”
“That’s not it…! You don’t look scary at all!”
“Why are you the one getting angry when I'm the one being insulted?”
Should I be thankful she's mad on my behalf?
“Anyway… it’s not like that.”
“Okay, then what do I need to do for you?”
“…G…Give me some time.”
“What time? So that you can avoid me even more?”
“Yes… So, please, just a little time.”
Huh? She needs more time to avoid me? What kind of nonsense is that?
She's the one who said she wanted to see me, who even watched me secretly from afar, and now she's asking for time.
“So? How much time do I need to give you?”
“It won’t be long… I-I’ll be done quickly.”
I couldn't understand why she looked so serious. What did she mean by 'getting it done' quickly?
“Do you want to go back to how we were in the past?”
Back to our relationship as Young Master and servant. It was only a few years ago, but was she saying she wanted to return to those times? For a second, I believed that was it…
“No.”
But Wi Seol-Ah responded firmly. “That’s not it. Back then, we had lots of good memories… but now, instead I—”
“Instead?”
“I want to change, so I need some time. Enough time to make up my mind.”
She made up so many things, silly mistakes, and excuses, and now her mind was going to be one of them. The amusing thought flickered through my mind. Heh… If I made that joke now, Wi Seol-Ah might not look at me for days out of anger.
“You know that, Master Gu?”
“Know what?”
I still wasn't used to her calling me by that title. It felt especially strange coming from Wi Seol-Ah, even though it was technically what she should have called me all along.
“It’s called greed if a person tries to possess something they can’t have.”
“That’s greed?”
That isn't necessarily greed, though it's understandable to a certain extent. But putting that aside, it was a completely out-of-the-blue statement. What did she mean by bringing up greed all of a sudden?
I stared at her in confusion, but Wi Seol-Ah wore an expression I couldn't decipher. It looked like a forced smile. “You know,” she said.
“Hmm?”
“I want to be a little greedy myself.”
“What?”
That was an odd response. Wi Seol-Ah wants to be greedy? When I thought about her, she didn't completely lack ambition, but did she mean something else? Her face and body were that of an adult now, but Wi Seol-Ah still had a childish side. Technically, she was still a kid, not even twenty yet.
“So please wait for me. It won’t take long.”
Finishing with that, Wi Seol-Ah forced a smile. I wanted to ask more, but her smile told me not to press further. I decided to let it go since she promised it wouldn't take long.
“…Fine, that’s that, but I have a question.”
“Yes.”
“Why were you called to the Headmaster’s room?”
“…”
For a brief moment, the words 'Oh, right' were written all over Wi Seol-Ah’s face. She had forgotten about it.
“You said you caused some trouble, so what was it?”
“I-I didn’t cause any trouble.”
“You had 'Oh! I made a mistake!' written all over your face just now, though?”
“…N-No?”
She closed her eyes and turned her head away.
Sigh… How can I believe her when it’s so obvious?
I didn't think Wi Seol-Ah had the kind of personality to go around causing trouble like I did. She was more the type to hold herself back, not explode.
“Aren’t you going to tell me? Should I go ask the Headmaster then?”
“…”
Of course, the Headmaster wouldn't tell me about another student's affairs, but with her eyes still clenched shut, she began to confess. After I heard her out…
“…You hit a person? You? And not only that, but—” I asked, wondering if I had misheard for the first time. It was utterly unbelievable. “Your own bodyguards or whatever?”
“…”
Wi Seol-Ah avoided eye contact, biting her lips. That was her obvious way of saying yes. It seemed Wi Seol-Ah really had hit someone. A lot of them, at that.
* * *
The second son of Sichuan's Pe Clan, Pe Woocheol, was a young man who had just turned twenty. He was relatively famous among the other young prodigies, and everyone believed he had a bright future due to his exceptional talent that stood out from the rest. He wasn't ranked among the Six Dragons or Three Phoenixes, but he was an outstanding snake in a den of snakes.
He knew he was talented. How could he not, when those around him seemed so lacking in comparison?
I will stand in the same ranks as them.
That was what Pe Woocheol believed when he first arrived at the Heavenly Dragon Academy. The Six Dragons and Three Phoenixes were powerful monsters, but he was convinced he wasn't far behind. Having reached the level of a First-Rate martial artist thanks to his father's training, he was brimming with confidence.
Truthfully, the Academy's entrance exam wasn't difficult for Pe Woocheol. In fact, it was easy.
Isn't this a bit too easy?
He thought it was light work. He was confident he would earn a top spot, but ironically, Pe Woocheol didn't even come close. More surprising was that he had expected the top three to be Dragons or Phoenixes, but that wasn't the case. First place was taken by a Dragon, but second and third went to an unknown girl without a title and a swordsman called the Meteor Sword.
Pe Woocheol had to nod in acknowledgment after seeing those two. their qi was outstanding; they were clearly different from the rest. He wondered if he could catch up to them with enough effort. His competitive spirit burned.
But during this time…
What's that bastard?
Pe Woocheol observed the Dragon who had taken first place. He was young. Definitely younger than himself, and even young compared to the other prodigies. This bastard was not only a Dragon—something Pe Woocheol had failed to achieve—but he also took the top spot at the Academy. He even had a poor attitude. He bounced his leg during the Qinghai Sword's speech and looked around as if the whole event were a tedious chore.
That was Pe Woocheol's first impression of the infamous True Dragon. That same afternoon, Pe Woocheol lost consciousness after being struck by him. He didn't even get a chance to use his strength.
The next day, Pe Woocheol angrily charged at the True Dragon as soon as he woke up, only to be beaten once again by his fist. It was an ambush while the Dragon was asleep, but the True Dragon got up immediately, as if expecting it, and beat Pe Woocheol violently.
Only then did Pe Woocheol realize the difference in their power. He couldn't see a thing, nor was he able to land a single touch. How could his fists be so heavy and fast without even using qi?
A wall.
That's what Pe Woocheol felt. But of course, that didn't stop the True Dragon from beating him up.
-I-I get it now… so please stop.
-What do you mean by 'stop,' you bastard? Why would you mess with a person when they're trying to sleep?
-Agh! N-Not there!
-Don't tell me what to do. You better stay still, you know? You might not be able to have kids if you move right now.
-W-Wait! Senior Brother! B-Brother, please…! Agghhh!
He didn't want to remember what happened that morning. Just thinking about it gave him chills.
Ah shit, this bastard is batshit crazy.
Pe Woocheol realized then. He had thought he was the crazy one, but it was the True Dragon who was truly mad. He couldn't forget the look in the True Dragon's eyes as he delivered the beating. He was definitely enjoying the whole process. Pe Woocheol was forced to call him 'Senior Brother' in a desperate attempt to curb the violence.
He had sought revenge at every opportunity, but that changed after he witnessed the first group training session with Cheol Hwanho.
The hunt for a Demon.
Pe Woocheol felt utterly powerless as he and the other young prodigies fought Instructor Cheol Hwanho all at once. No matter how much they charged, they couldn't even touch his clothes.
…So this is an instructor, huh?
Pe Woocheol's arrogance and pride, built upon reaching the First-Rate level, were crushed in an instant. As everyone lay rolling in the dirt, Instructor Cheol Hwanho spoke.
-Why are you standing still?
He was addressing the True Dragon, who had stood in silence behind him, merely watching the others fight.
-The training would become too easy if I joined in.
How could he remain so arrogantly confident after witnessing Instructor Cheol Hwanho's strength? Pe Woocheol himself was crushed, both mentally and physically. He was fascinated by the True Dragon's unwavering smile.
Is that why he was a Dragon?
He sincerely believed that to be the case. Wasn't it cool? To remain so confident in a situation like that.
However, Instructor Cheol Hwanho seemed to disagree and offered a bet. He called it a bet, but he was clearly trying to crush the True Dragon. The other prodigies believed even the True Dragon couldn't stand against the monstrous instructor. Pe Woocheol was no different. Cheol Hwanho was the Vice Captain of the Blue Dragon Army and a Peak Realm martial artist well-known throughout the Central Plains. How could a young prodigy win against such a figure?
Their spar began, and Pe Woocheol watched, holding his breath.
-Flaming Sphere.
He gasped at the monstrous power emanating from the True Dragon's hand.
He had hidden such power?
It was something Pe Woocheol had never seen from him before. The heat was overwhelming, distorting the space around it. Cheol Hwanho recognized the danger immediately and charged at the True Dragon in an instant. This meant the technique was dangerous even to him, but he wasn't able to stop the True Dragon's attack.
While Pe Woocheol couldn't even track Cheol Hwanho's movement, the True Dragon read it effortlessly and dodged. As if he had been waiting for that moment, the True Dragon instantly withdrew his qi, placed his hand on Cheol Hwanho's chest, and emerged victorious. Even that immense power had been a feint all along. He had been playing mind games.
“…”
Pe Woocheol's eyes widened. As he watched the True Dragon smile at Cheol Hwanho, clearly enjoying the shock on the instructor's face, Pe Woocheol had a new thought. It wasn't jealousy or a surge of competitiveness. It was a sense of awe. Their levels were far too different. He couldn't look down on him anymore. That man's very existence was on a different plane.
With that thought, Pe Woocheol made a decision.
I want to be by his side.
The monster who continued to soar higher, beyond the sky's limit. Now was the time. He had to stay by his side.
This was a chance.
His pride had long been crushed, and any jealousy had faded. The monster had folded his wings and decided to spend his time in this land for a while. There wouldn't be another opportunity like this.
Pe Woocheol didn't hesitate.
“Eldest brother!” he shouted, running towards the True Dragon as he was talking to Cheol Hwanho.
He promptly fainted again after being struck in the chin by the True Dragon's fist.
A few days passed after that. Pe Woocheol continued in his self-appointed role as Gu Yangcheon's right-hand man. Due to his sheer stubbornness, Gu Yangcheon eventually gave up trying to get rid of him.
Slam!
After striking a wooden dummy during a solo training session, Pe Woocheol withdrew his qi and steadied his breath. “Phew…” Drip-! Drip-! He felt refreshed training alone for the first time in a while, but he wasn't satisfied.
This much isn't enough if I want to follow his path.
After watching Gu Yangcheon for a few days, Pe Woocheol realized he was even greater than he'd expected. The Poison Phoenix, the Snow Phoenix, and even the Sword Dancer were by his side. Did women naturally gravitate toward him because of his power and talent? For it to be those three women of all people made it even more impressive.
And then there was the time he went to another training group and taught them a lesson. He didn't seem to care what others thought of him. Pe Woocheol felt nervous when Gu Yangcheon was summoned by the instructor. Even he could tell the trouble caused wasn't minor. Yet, Gu Yangcheon himself seemed completely unconcerned.
Yes, that must be it. My Senior Brother is such a man after all!
As Pe Woocheol smiled in satisfaction at that thought, “Hmm?” He considered heading back to his room after finishing his training, but he spotted a familiar figure in the distance.
“…Brother Jiseon?”
It was Cheol Jiseon, Gu Yangcheon's friend. Though his martial level was much lower, Gu Yangcheon had told Pe Woocheol to treat him as a Senior Brother. Believing Gu Yangcheon was fond of him, Pe Woocheol made sure to show him utmost respect.
Where is he going in such a hurry?
As Cheol Jiseon hurried into a forest, Pe Woocheol recalled when Cheol Jiseon was being bullied. Out of concern, he hid his presence and began to follow him. Thankfully, Cheol Jiseon didn't seem to notice.
Pe Woocheol followed him to a secluded spot where someone was waiting. He had to hide his shock when he saw who it was.
That bastard!
It was someone Pe Woocheol knew well: the Meteor Sword, Jang Seonyeon, one of the most frequently discussed young prodigies at the Academy.
Why is he meeting with Brother Jiseon?
From what he'd seen, Gu Yangcheon and the Meteor Sword didn't have the best relationship. Rumors said the True Dragon was jealous of the Meteor Sword, but to Pe Woocheol, it seemed to be the other way around. The rumor was absurd, but Gu Yangcheon had told him not to worry about it. Yet now, Gu Yangcheon's friend was meeting Jang Seonyeon in secret.
Pe Woocheol sharpened his senses, exerting precise control to avoid detection. When he enhanced his hearing, he caught Cheol Jiseon's quiet voice.
-I’m sorry to call you so late at night like this, Master Cheol.
-…Why did you call me here?
-I have something to ask of you.
Jang Seonyeon wore a kind smile, but for some reason, it didn't seem trustworthy. Why was that? Pe Woocheol didn't know.
Smiling, Jang Seonyeon spoke to the nervous Cheol Jiseon. -First, Master Cheol. Wait, no, I should call you by a different title.
For a moment, Jang Seonyeon's mouth moved, but no sound came out. He had erected a sound barrier.
Darn.
Jang Seonyeon hadn't noticed Pe Woocheol, but he clearly didn't want anyone overhearing. Since there was a risk of discovery, Pe Woocheol turned and headed back. Cheol Jiseon and Jang Seonyeon were having a secret conversation? Pe Woocheol didn't know what it was about, but he knew he had to inform his Senior Brother.
He quickly ran back, found Gu Yangcheon, and told him everything he had seen. It seemed like shocking information.
However…
“Oh, is that so?” Gu Yangcheon remained perfectly calm.
This left Pe Woocheol feeling confused. “B-Brother?”
“I was a bit disappointed that he hadn't made any moves yet, but thankfully, he's finally starting.”
“…Pardon? What are you…?”
“Forget all that you saw today.”
“Huh?”
After saying this, Gu Yangcheon made his bed and lay down. “Stop standing there and lie down. I'm going to sleep now.”
“U-Understood.”
“Oh, right. Woocheol.”
“Yes, brother.”
“What's for breakfast tomorrow?”
“I don't know.”
“…From now on, instead of secrets like that, make sure you learn about what's for breakfast.”
“Understood.”
It had certainly felt like important information, but Gu Yangcheon reacted as if he had expected it all along and seemed more concerned about breakfast.
…Isn't that strange? Is this normal?
Pe Woocheol wondered, but quickly forgot about it and fell asleep.
By the way, despite saying he would, Pe Woocheol never once remembered what was for breakfast, even until the very end.