Chapter 423
## Chapter 423. The Price of Fame (3)
—
Eun-ho watched with a heavy heart as Jin So-un was escorted away by the representatives from the Alliance, stepping into action without a moment’s delay.
‘I have to discover a path forward.’
As a student of the Tai-eul Sect who had thrown himself into the massive, sweeping systems of both the Murim Academy and the Murim Alliance, danger had been his constant companion. Yet, the current crisis weighed upon his spirit with an unprecedented, suffocating urgency.
‘The Sa-jes and the respected elders of our Tai-eul Sect!’
The trials they had faced in the past were hardships they possessed the strength to endure and conquer. However, the coordinated hostility the Tai-eul Sect was now facing from the entirety of the Murim could escalate into something far more devastating than any localized assault they had previously withstood.
Eun-ho was well aware that the designated hour to unseal the gates was drawing near. Nevertheless, initiating the unsealing in an era of tranquility compared to doing so in the midst of this volatile storm was as contrasting as the heavens and the earth. If a single misstep occurred, the foundation of the Tai-eul Sect could be utterly shattered the very moment the barriers came down.
‘Granted, with Jin Sa-hyeong present, such a catastrophe shouldn’t manifest, but still…’
Paradoxically, that exact reality intensified his anxiety. If disaster struck the Tai-eul Sect, he could not begin to fathom the reckless, chaotic lengths to which that man—who routinely acted like a wild colt with its tail ablaze—would go to exact vengeance.
“Ugh… no. That cannot happen under any circumstances!”
For the sake of preserving the stability of both the Tai-eul Sect and the wider Murim, such an outcome had to be prevented at all costs. He needed to activate his wits; he had to formulate a brilliant strategy. Let’s see…
“Is prevention not the ultimate strategy?”
Unfortunately, as a novice newly integrated into the Mantong-bu who was still grasping the fundamentals of the office, his current responsibilities were restricted to mundane tasks, such as auditing various departments to check for financial waste. Consequently, he resolved to leverage the web of personal relationships at his disposal.
—
*Thrum.*
The location was a training field belonging to the Academy, though it was situated in an isolated, distant sector far from the main campus. Because only a single individual had frequented this particular ground during their school terms, that very same person remained its sole occupant now that the Academy’s operations had ceased.
*Thrum.*
Accompanying a vibration that mirrored the snapping of a taut, vibrant wire, a brilliant flash erupted and climbed into the heavens.
*Pop.*
Moments later, a singular detonation echoed from the ascending projectile, and a beam of radiance vanished into the distance with accelerated velocity.
“Are you deep in the middle of your practice?”
Detecting Eun-ho’s arrival, Moyong Jae-hwa turned around, a radiant grin gracing his features.
“Ah! I was just about to assess the impact site. Would you care to accompany me?”
In the immediate space around Moyong Jae-hwa, who was focusing on his marksmanship, there were no visible bullseyes or scattered projectiles. Encircling the practice area was an immense barrier raised high into the air, rivaling the height of a grand estate, completely obstructing the view beyond. The true destination could only be reached by scaling that towering barrier, traversing an entire mountain ridge, and descending into a hidden hollow.
‘Both the mastermind who concocted such an absurd regimen and the individual who actually executes it…’
It required no guesswork to identify the author of this logic-defying training method.
Jin So-un.
And Moyong Jae-hwa was faithfully executing this bizarre routine without a single complaint.
They scaled the barrier and moved rapidly across the elevated terrain. As they did, Moyong Jae-hwa spoke with a breathless effort.
“Eun-ho… could we perhaps moderate our pace a bit?”
“Huh?”
Eun-ho, suddenly snapping back to reality, finally noticed that he had pulled several strides ahead of his companion. In contrast to his own effortless, gliding movements, Moyong Jae-hwa was exerting himself to the absolute limit to keep pace.
“Ah…! Forgive me.”
“It is truly remarkable. To think your movement techniques have ascended to such heights.”
To think his friend had outpaced the renowned agile footwork of the Moyong Clan. Eun-ho felt a surge of astonishment. He recognized how immensely his capabilities had matured relative to prior years. Yet, even alongside that realization, a drop of dissatisfaction lingered.
‘This is still insufficient.’
He had undoubtedly attained the level of skill he had passionately pursued since his youth, yet his influence failed to extend as far as his ambitions required. Traveling onward while immersed in these reflections, they eventually arrived at the secluded valley where the impact markers were positioned. Slowing their steps to a walk, they engaged in conversation.
“Why in the world does the Dae-sa-hyeong compel you to endure this type of training? Has he lost his mind?”
Inevitably, their dialogue centered on Jin So-un.
“I, too, was completely baffled when he first proposed it.”
Baffled was putting it lightly. Had Eun-ho been the one subjected to such a demand, he would have openly questioned whether the man was suffering from a severe case of Qi Deviation.
“Yet, his reasoning completely won me over: if an assailant launching an arrow from a visible position instills dread, how much more paralyzed with fear would one be by a strike originating from an completely unseen domain?”
Reflecting on it, the circumstances were indeed peculiar. Unlike their own situation, Moyong Jae-hwa’s lineage faced no imminent peril, and did his family not command an overwhelming array of martial forces? Given that reality, what drove him to pursue martial excellence through such grueling, unorthodox means?
Responding to Eun-ho’s unstated curiosity, Moyong Jae-hwa spoke with absolute conviction.
“Because the terror I experienced in Sichuan was absolute. It was the first instance where I truly understood that my family’s prestigious name and our inherited martial techniques were incapable of shielding me.”
“…”
It appeared that regardless of their backgrounds, every practitioner of the martial arts confronted identical existential vulnerabilities, differing only in when that realization struck. As they neared the designated markers, the devastation wrought upon the terrain came into full view. Eun-ho could not suppress an involuntary gasp at the sight.
“Wow…”
An immense number of trees and boulders were punctured with deep craters, the topsoil was completely torn away, and the perimeter surrounding the targets was reduced to absolute ruin.
“As I feared, my precision still requires significant refinement.”
“Is this performance not already extraordinary?”
Eun-ho tilted his gaze upward, tracing the trajectory back toward the distant point from which the projectiles had been unleashed. Predictably, the intermediate mountain completely obscured the view. A projectile descending from above in a manner that masked its origin… he could not fathom the defensive technique required to intercept such an assault.
From his flank, Moyong Jae-hwa’s voice reached him, carrying an underlying strength despite a hint of self-consciousness.
“He emphasized that it is paramount to maximize precision now, in anticipation of expanding the range to an even greater distance.”
“…”
What would occur when Moyong Jae-hwa’s archery attained absolute perfection? Would there exist a single warrior who would not tremble before his marksmanship? Eun-ho mused that if a single archer was destined to alter the balance of power across the land with a bow, it might very well be the youth standing beside him.
“But did you journey out here merely to observe my progress?”
“Ah! There is a specific favor I wished to ask of you.”
“What might that be?”
“Your revered ancestor, the Elder Moyong Gang. Would it be possible to secure his presence at the upcoming opening ceremony of the Tai-eul Sect?”
“Huh?!”
Moyong Jae-hwa, who had been conversing with an easy smile just moments prior, instantly locked up like solid ice.
“M-M-M-My Grandfather?”
He stammered over the title repeatedly, his expression mirroring that of a child who had stumbled upon a terrifying Jiangshi.
“W-W-W-Why him?”
Witnessing his companion, usually so articulate, reduced to a stuttering mess by a mere mention made Eun-ho feel a touch of remorse.
‘Ah, of course. His dread of his grandfather is absolute.’
Moyong Jae-hwa, after contemplating the predicament confronting Eun-ho and the Tai-eul Sect, lapsed into profound concentration before exclaiming with sudden resolve.
“I-I-I understand!!! I shall endeavor to convince Grandfather this once!!!”
He displayed a fierce determination, though his trembling posture didn’t inspire total confidence.
“Hmm…”
Eun-ho suspected that in reality, the greatest terror Jae-hwa could face was indeed his own flesh and blood.
“H-However, the likelihood of success is minimal. He is a man who utterly despises performing any action requested of him by others.”
Naturally, that was the most probable outcome.
—
The atmosphere within the Murim Alliance, which he entered under the escort of the staff member, had visibly transformed from his previous visits.
‘It is oppressive.’
The environment appeared deflated, as though its vital energy had been thoroughly drained, yet simultaneously it felt frigid due to apprehensions sharpened to a razor’s edge. He comprehended the underlying cause perfectly. The hierarchy of the Alliance had been utterly upended by the fallout surrounding Dam-ak. Word had reached him that every official overseeing operations connected to the Hall of Enshrinement had been summarily dismissed.
Even so, the hostility in the eyes tracking his progress remained constant. The individuals appointed to replace the ousted officials were, when all was said and done, the most trusted inner circle of the high leadership. Yet, what did that matter? This was simply the method by which the old guard was gradually replaced. Knowing he had to focus on the long game, he drew a deep breath and…
“Please lower your intensity.”
“Sigh… but are those individuals not glaring at me with blatant disrespect?”
When the escort shifted his gaze to observe the surrounding crowd, the onlookers hastily averted their eyes with embarrassed expressions.
“An immense number of eyes are fixed upon Instructor Jin at this very moment. Please remain mindful of your every action.”
“Understood!”
Regardless of the tension, securing the termination of the Master of the Cheonmok Pavilion stood as a monumental triumph. As a consequence of that removal, the exclusive intelligence arrangement with the Beggars’ Union had been shattered. Furthermore, capitalizing on the missteps of the Beggars’ Union, the Ha-o Gate had subtly managed to insert its own influence within the Murim Alliance. With the monopoly on data dismantled, there would be no repetition of the dark timeline from his previous existence where critical intelligence regarding the Demonic Cult was deliberately suppressed.
‘Exactly, I merely need to alter the course of events one piece at a time.’
Already, a vast number of developments were shifting far beyond his initial prognostications. Before long, he stood before the grand entrance of the Alliance Leader’s Palace.
“You may proceed inside.”
The escort delivered the instruction and remained stationary, observing him closely.
“My gratitude. You are dismissed.”
“I shall depart only after witnessing your entry.”
“…”
Did the man genuinely anticipate that he might attempt an escape? Stepping through the threshold, a different Alliance representative was waiting to receive him.
“Follow this path.”
As the repetitive protocol of guidance and transition persisted, a sensation of anxiety began to creep over him. It wasn’t due to the physical grandeur of his surroundings; he had interacted with Jegal So-myeong frequently without experiencing intimidation. However, encountering Hyeok Mu-gang, the Supreme Leader of the Alliance, evoked a distinctly different pressure.
‘He is also the architect who barred my assignment to the White Wolf Pavilion.’
Setting aside personal grievances, Hyeok Mu-gang was the monumental figure who had steered the Murim Alliance at the absolute forefront of the conflict against the Demonic Cult. Although his own accumulated wisdom and lifetime surpassed the chronological age of the Alliance Leader, the profound aura etched into his memory could not be easily dismissed.
“The Leader expects you within.”
The guard stationed outside the final doors paused briefly. It was a silent courtesy allowing him a final moment to compose himself. After swiftly adjusting the set of his attire and signaling his readiness, the guard unlatched the heavy doors.
“Enter.”
In the inner chamber, Hyeok Mu-gang offered a warm reception, whereas Jegal So-myeong sat with a deep scowl, looking thoroughly displeased. For some inexplicable reason, the pleasant countenance of Hyeok Mu-gang felt considerably more menacing than the overt irritation radiating from Jegal So-myeong.
“I offer my respect after a considerable absence. I trust you have enjoyed excellent health?”
As he brought his fists together in a formal salute, Hyeok Mu-gang erupted into a booming, cheerful laugh.
“This is hardly our initial acquaintance, so why bind ourselves to such rigid protocols? Step forward and take a comfortable seat.”
While the Alliance Leader spoke those welcoming words…
‘Does he truly believe one can relax in this environment?’
Regardless of personal comfort, defying the direct invitation of the Supreme Commander of the Murim Alliance was not a viable option for a subordinate. Just as he lowered himself into a kneeling stance while attempting to ease the tension in his legs…
“He persists in that rigid behavior even after being invited to relax…”
Jegal So-myeong shot a piercing look in his direction, clearly finding his conduct preposterous.
‘Seriously, what exact demeanor do you require from me…’
Perceiving his frozen, intermediate posture, Hyeok Mu-gang intervened.
“It is perfectly acceptable. Assume a comfortable position.”
Jegal So-myeong clicked his tongue and turned his gaze away, visibly annoyed by the entire exchange.
‘Now I fully comprehend the origin of his moniker, Narrow-Minded.’
As he settled into his seat, a vessel was filled with premium tea, poured with astonishing humility by the hands of the Murim Alliance Leader himself.
“I understand you have endured substantial adversity.”
Predictably, Hyeok Mu-gang’s character mirrored his persona from his previous life. He possessed an innate mastery over interpersonal dynamics and human management.
“What adversity? From the outset, did that individual not deliberately volunteer for that assignment? Why then did you fail to submit an official report!”
“…”
On the contrary, Jegal So-myeong was single-mindedly focused on discovering faults, completely ignoring the successful resolution.
“What! Do you harbor some objection to my words!”
“…”
The omission of the report was a direct concession to Dam-ak’s explicit plea. What alternatives did he realistically have?
“Control your temper, Chief Strategist. Why display such hostility today when you were singing his praises incessantly until yesterday evening?”
“Ahem! When did I ever utter words of praise for him?”
The core purpose behind his summons was clear.
“Is this gathering not intended to review the occurrences to date and formulate our future trajectory? There is no further utility in lambasting past decisions.”
“Kh-hemmm!”
It was time to balance the scales of achievements and infractions.
“Certain factions might label his conduct as reckless, yet did the Murim Alliance not narrow avoiding a catastrophic blunder? Averting an escalation that could have plunged our alliance into a total war is an achievement that commands recognition.”
Faced with the objective and equitable reasoning of Hyeok Mu-gang, he found himself nodding in agreement.
“This recognition must transcend mere verbal commendation; the Alliance itself must bestow a fitting recompense.”
As expected, a ruler of a vast domain possessed a grand perspective. Excellent. What prize should I request? The Gold Vault? The Silver Treasury? No, the most pressing matter currently is…
“Nonetheless, he deliberately withheld mandatory communications and operated entirely on personal whim, inciting widespread panic across the Alliance hierarchy. Furthermore, he must be held accountable for completely compromising our internal defenses by rendering the entire contingent of the Outer Pavilion unconscious simultaneously.”
“…”
What was unfolding here? Was this esteemed official truly this petty and vindictive? Was this individual genuinely the Chief Strategist of the Murim Alliance, the overseer of the Mantong-bu and the Sim-hyeon Pavilion?
“Hmm… it is undeniable that the outrage within the Jeongdo Association remains potent at this juncture.”
Hold on a moment, Alliance Leader! How can your perspective be altered so effortlessly!
“Moreover, does the list of infractions end there? Quite apart from his absolute humiliation of the Wudang Sect within Eun-hyeon, his actions upon returning to Wuhan, where he thrashed them mercilessly, cannot be dismissed lightly.”
No, that transpired solely because those individuals initiated the confrontation.
“Was that clash not provoked entirely by Wudang’s aggression?”
“Yet his retaliation was grossly disproportionate. Observe him closely. The youth has returned without bearing a solitary mark of conflict. Even if the initial blame rests with Wudang, do you honestly believe their leadership will permit this slight to go unchallenged?”
“Pardon me… I did sustain an injury.”
He rapidly rolled up his sleeve to display the mark. Jegal So-myeong leaned forward, scrutinizing the skin intently, but…
“What injury is there to speak of?”
Confound it, the vitality of the Ten-Thousand-Year Earth Bear! The regenerative capabilities were inconveniently efficient. Pulling back, Jegal So-myeong calmly smoothed his robes.
“Let us resolve this predicament by allowing the merit of his achievements to neutralize the weight of his penalties. After all, containing the fury of the Wudang faction will demand a considerable expenditure of our influence.”
“Hmm… then let us proceed with that arrangement.”
Wait, what sort of negotiation is this! Could it be that they had orchestrated this entire sequence beforehand… As the conversation flowed smoothly toward this conclusion, a wave of irritation washed over him. He had risked everything to resolve that crisis. And their resolution was to declare a wash?
‘These elders are playing games!’
If he remained passive under the weight of Hyeok Mu-gang’s formidable presence, they would permanently categorize him as a subservient tool.
“Surely you harbor no grievances regarding this decision.”
“Naturally.”
When he complied so readily, both Jegal So-myeong and Hyeok Mu-gang betrayed a flicker of astonishment mixed with a tinge of regret. Given that he had never previously accepted a slight without a countermove, their reaction was logical. Therefore, was it not incumbent upon him to satisfy their expectations? Offering a radiant smile, he elevated the teacup sitting before him.
“In that case, I presume there is no longer any necessity for me to deliver the personal missive that Strategist Dam-ak entrusted to my care for you.”
“What? If such a document existed, you ought to have surrendered it instantly!!! I have been enduring immense anxiety due to the complete lack of intelligence.”
Jegal So-myeong lunged forward with an open palm, but the youth simply shook his head.
“Regrettably, I seem to have misplaced it.”
“W-What?!”
“Well, considering he indicated it contained detailed terms regarding the future alliance between our organization and the Four Black Lotus… if the contents are genuinely critical, he will undoubtedly initiate contact once more. My, the aroma of this tea leaves much to be desired.”
“You… actually… lost it…!”
Naturally, there was no earthly reason for Dam-ak to initiate communication after enduring such immense tribulations, but…
“Since you have decreed that my merits and infractions are perfectly balanced, let us consider this lost document a part of that equilibrium.”
“Y-You audacious brat?!”
Jegal So-myeong gripped the nape of his neck as though on the verge of an apoplectic stroke, but what remedy remained? The document was lost.
‘It is an immense blessing that I refrained from revealing my cards prematurely.’
—
