Chapter 40: 39 – Kingmaker

I arrived back at Carpe Diem's building as the sun rose.

Yesterday's... Well, this early morning's activities with Teresa had been a bit draining, but it didn't do anything for me specifically. 

I mostly did a lot for her, so after leaving her worn out and dropping the pink diamond bracelet in her dresser as an apology gift, it was time to get back to working on me.

The others were still missing... It seemed really likely now that they were on a group mission. And it also reminded me that I needed to make a communication crystal for everyone.

But that meant I was alone by myself... So that meant I had dedicated time for proper training.

Claire said she would come over eventually, so the important thing would be to get my physical ability back up to par. Or at least, get comfortable with how I moved.

So, with that in mind, I walked into the training facility and threw off my shirt, preparing to train.

xxx

...After a day of training, I realized that it wasn't helping. I'd reached the point where mere weight lifting and exercises wouldn't bring much improvement. At least, not without some stupid thing like gravity chambers... but I wasn't sure how the science on that worked and didn't want to wreck my body more than I had to.

As a result, I thought about a different tactic.

[Synthesis Blade]

That was the class ability I had after leveling up. While I hadn't learned it properly, I knew the principles to use it. Of course, on closer inspection of the skill...

[Synthesis Blade - Lowest]
An ability that draws in every aspect of one's being into the blade, unifying it as one. All possible skills and experiences become inscribed in the sword.

In short, it was definitely the same as those stories. The path where a Wuxia cultivator stepped upon the Dao of the sword, throwing everything inside of it.

I had brushed it off at first, setting it aside because it was a granted power... but now that I read its description, I seriously pondered it.

My main concern at this point was the imbalance I had between my mana and body. But the ability said it drew in every aspect of one's being into the blade, 'unifying it as one'. Taken in other words, it harmonized everything.

So with that in mind, if I properly learned the technique, it would improve my physique. I was sure of it.

Kind of like how sword intent in novels and how achieving the 'dao' could refine one's body as well, I was sure that everything would balance out if I mastered it.

The problem came with that part: mastering it.

"Damn. Is this how it is for those guys?"

I lowered my sword and glared at the unchanging skill rank.

"What am I doing wrong?"

The sword slashes were true and firm. I was using spells in tandem... Maybe I had a fundamental misconception?

I was seriously tempted to use my insight skill to find out. But I also had a feeling that it would defeat the purpose. An insight into an insight telling me that this was something I had to learn on my own, with my own experience and knowledge. Not something I should glean with a cheat sheet.

With a sigh, I raised my sword again, contemplating on the meaning of my skill.

xxx

Around noon, when the sun reached the highest point in the sky. At that time, the streets of Haramark were filled with an uproar.

"Slaughterer! It's the Slaughterer!"

"Oh my god, Sicilia's bloody maid is wandering around!"

"Run! Run for your life!"

Screams rang out as people ran away and cleared the path for a certain person, trying to not only avoid her presence, but to get rid of any risk of drawing attention to themselves- No, they had given up on that point and were just desperately running away.

But the person responsible for this mayhem didn't pay them any attention, her mind on other matters.

Lost in thought, Agnes walked along the road towards the office of Carpe Diem. As she did, she pondered the person- Rather, the young man that she was going to meet, idly brushing the ring on her left hand.

Sparring. That was what Jihu requested of her. That was also something that she could provide, in contrast to her failed attempts at training him in the Neutral Zone. However, she wondered about that.

Would she be able to do it? After all, his stats were undoubtedly higher than hers at this point. Even if he held back, there was the probability that it would be futile.

Also, he succeeded where they hadn't... She hadn't. On his own, Jihu fought his way out of the laboratory, cut down hordes of monsters and Parasites, and then made his way back alive.

And all that Agnes did was... No. She couldn't think like that. Even if she wasn't able to completely repay him, at the least she had to make the attempt. Moreover...

Again, she subconsciously brushed the ring on her left hand.

As she did, a wry smile crossed her face.

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. She was the one who gained infamy in Haramark because of her cruel methods and actions in the past. The blood on her hands was enough to stain all of Haramark crimson when considering how many lives she took.

Even so, for once, she found herself acting off. Like a shy maiden, wondering if she would disappoint.

"...Just what have you done to me, Jihu?" She stood in front of Carpe Diem's building and muttered. As she did, she spun the ring around her left ring finger, a slight flush on her face as she recalled the words and gaze he had when he gave it to her.

"Hoh?" Suddenly, a rough, elderly voice flowed out. "It's been a while."

Agnes blinked and spun around. She would have been embarrassed and furious if it was anyone else that saw her, but the voice and the face that she saw as she turned around prevented from doing so. Instead, a relaxed smile crossed her face and she cupped her hands together to bow. "I didn't expect to meet you here, Master."

A man wearing a fedora, with neatly brushed white hair beneath. A dark blue coat, making it apparent he just entered Paradise. In one hand, there was a wooden stick. But rather than a staff, it looked to be a typical walking cane carried around as a habit. Wrinkles on his aged face showed the passage of time, but the fire in his eyes seemed to be untouched.

He smiled and said, "I see that you are still not talking to me comfortably."

Agnes raised her body and then shook her head. "I believe I've addressed that before. Someone as esteemed as yourself deserves respect, especially considering my lowly position."

The elderly man nodded. "I wouldn't consider the right hand of that woman being a lowly position... But I suppose it can't be helped." He chuckled and said, "It's also quite nostalgic."

Agnes smiled and said, "Indeed. It feels like only yesterday that I was crying tears and snot after receiving Master's lessons."

The old man gave her a blank look. "You? Cry? The Agnes I remember always knew what to do even without someone to guide her and didn't even let out a single complaint."

"That is because I cried when I was alone at night. Crying in front of others would hurt my pride."

The old man's jaw dropped and then he chuckled. "I see you learned to make jokes."

Agnes shrugged.

The old man shifted and then glanced at her, frowning in thought. "But it's odd... Have you finally flown away from the nest?"

"Ah." Agnes shook her head and said, "No. I am only here because of a..." She paused, rubbing the ring on her left hand. "Personal matter."

"Personal matter, eh?" The old man chuckled again and said, "To think I'd see the day that the infamous Agnes acted like a maiden in love."

Agnes froze and then realized what she was doing, quickly hiding her hand behind her.

"There's no need for that. I'm happy for you." The old man smiled and said, "But I'm also curious. Is it Dylan? No, Hugo? Hm... but I didn't think your tastes lie there-"

"No." Agnes quickly shook her head and said, "Even if I died a thousand times, it would be neither of those."

"How harsh. But I agree. It would be a waste for someone like you. Then who-"

"It's someone you haven't met."

"Someone I haven't met?" The old man frowned, pausing in thought. He seemed intrigued, pondering about who it could be. But after a bit, he raised his head and walked towards the building. Opening the door, he looked at Agnes and said, "Let's go in. Since it's been a while, why don't we have some tea?"

Agnes paused, thinking about the young man inside, and shook her head. "It's fine. I will come back at a later time."

More specifically, at a time when she had her composure back. Meeting the Master and then getting teased like that... it would be a disaster meeting Jihu in that state.

"Are you certain?" The old man tilted his head and said, "Didn't you say you were here on a personal matter?"

"I am... but it is nothing urgent."

Jihu never specified the exact timeframe, and he wasn't one to hold grudges over something like this.

Agnes gave the old man a courteous bow and then quickly left... Though it seemed more like she was making a hasty retreat than a swift departure.

xxx

"Hm..." The old man watched his former student run away and was curious. "She isn't the type to act so cute... Is this new person that amazing?"

To stand in front of the building in a daze, playing with a ring on her left ring finger that must have cost a fortune from the magical energy radiating off it. And then to be flustered and run away at the thought of entering with him...

"Interesting." The old man faced forward.

The building was the same, but some renovations had been done to connect it to the one to its left. Seeing that, the old man frowned. "Did those brats score it big while I was gone?"

The amount of money needed to do that... Well, his questions would be answered when he walked inside.

A sense of nostalgia welled up in the old man as the door closed behind him.

Despite the outside, everything inside was the same as ever. And up ahead, through a glass window, he could see the first-floor training ground. A place he painstakingly constructed with passion and effort, carrying countless memories.

And there was currently an unknown young man inside, arduously training with his eyes narrowed in focus.

'Is he the person?'

The old man was curious, so he didn't enter the training ground and watched the youth.

He had to have been the one Agnes was talking about. Not only that, but someone that personally passed Dylan's screening and gained Agnes's attention as well as affection... He couldn't have been an ordinary person.

As the old man watched, he rubbed his chin in thought. 'He's decent- No, he's really good.'

Since the face was new, the young man had to have been a recent addition to Paradise. A newbie. Even so...

'Was he professionally trained?'

Although his training was unorthodox, with varying speeds and rep schemes that seemed worthless, it was clear that the young man put thought into them.

After trying out a set, he would pull out a notebook and jot quick notes before going over to work on another group of muscles.

And from his lean body and taut muscles, it was clear that he wasn't simply playing around. To get to that level of fitness would be impossible without meticulous crafting and training.

'Hm...'

The old man watched for a while until the young man picked up his notebook and then walked to the backyard.

Was he lost in thought?

The old man followed after the young man, but the latter didn't once turn back, only flipping through his notebook.

In the backyard, the young man had picked up a sword from somewhere. It was plain, a simple, one-handed iron blade that could have been found anywhere in Haramark.

But that wasn't all. On the ground, countless notebooks were littered, filled with various diagrams and notes.

Even though the old man was in view, the young man didn't notice.

Holding the sword parallel to the ground, the young man stepped forward and slashed, exhaling at the same time.

A ripple. The sword cut through the air with ease, sending a slight shockwave.

The old man's eyes widened when he saw that. But not because of the strength of the blow, but rather...

'Is he... an idiot?'

An attack without any finesse, simply trying to throw everything out at once. While it was clear that he put his entire body into it, the movement was a waste. His physique was enough to make up for that lack of technique, but if it was an ordinary person...

"Oi." The old man called out.

He wasn't one to be nosy, but it was a different matter if it concerned a member of Carpe Diem.

The young man didn't notice. But did he realize his mistake? He paused, as if reflecting on his actions. But like before, he took up a stance and then slashed with everything he had.

The old man's eye twitched. "Oi!"

This time the young man noticed. He drew his sword back and looked at the old man, tilting his head.

Deep eyes and slightly tan skin, bronzed from the sun. A face that seemed delicate, but at the same time heroic.

Just from appearance alone, he didn't seem half bad. At the least, the old man could understand why Agnes might be attracted to him. But...

"Square your legs and relax your waist."

He seemed confused at the old man's presence, but immediately followed the suggestions.

"When you slash, don't throw everything at once! A sword isn't a club, but a blade! Follow the flow and cut, not smash!"

"Cut...?" The young man muttered under his breath, tilting his head in thought. And then his eyes widened and he stepped forward again, raising his sword.

The old man saw the young man's body tense up and was about to yell again, but then he froze.

A fluid motion releasing the force of the body in an instant. Not in a straight line, but a smooth arc.

An invisible ripple spread out, followed by a high-pitched screech as wind howled and a deep gouge appeared on the wall where it collided.

The young man was silent, his eyes staring at the wall in disbelief. And then he quickly turned to look at the old man.

The old man coughed, realizing that he had meddled in something unnecessary. "I forgot to introduce myself." To cover up his embarrassment, the old man took off his fedora and started an introduction. "I'm-"

Before he could get out another word, the young man had dashed in front of him and bowed.

"Elder!"

"W-What?"

"Guide me!"

"O-Oi. Calm down first and-"

The young man immediately kowtowed. "Great Master, I beg of you to bestow your wisdom upon this lowly practitioner!"

"Dammit, kid! Hear me out first!"

xxx

"Are you sure that Jihu won't mind, Mister Ian? What if he comes back before we get back?"

A carriage on Zahrah, heading back to Haramark. There, Flone and Ian were returning from a trip on a recent private expedition.

The Alchemist shook his head and said, "Jihu will be fine. Even alone, I'm sure our friend will sort things out. Moreover, it's better for him to take his time with things like this."

Flone frowned. "But it's been a month, hasn't it? Do you think something happened to him?"

"No." Ian shook his head. "I'm certain of it. Jihu likely took his time to handle things on the other side. I'm not sure if you're aware, but since his arrival in Paradise, he's only gone back to Earth once. His family and friends are likely worried about him."

"Ah." Flone nodded, brushing her silver hair out of the way.

Ian smiled and said, "What? Is your heart yearning for him already?"

Flone stuck her tongue out at him.

Ian laughed.

For a while, only the sound of the moving carriage and the horses echoed. And then Ian frowned and spoke up.

"That creature... Could you tell what it was, Miss Flone?"

Flone frowned, remembering that odd monster. "No. I know it took over the Forest of Denial now that I left... But I don't know what it is. Since Jihu scared it off last time, it didn't bother us, but... It's dangerous." She shivered and said, "It's stronger than me."

Ian's frown deepened.

A monster formed from malevolent intent that was stronger than a vengeful spirit born from hundreds of years worth of resentment... That was a terrifying thought.

"It seems like it's stuck to the Forest of Denial though and the connected mountain range though." Flone looked up and added. "I'm not sure why, but it doesn't seem like it can leave it."

"Hm..." Ian rubbed his beard and said, "Could it be a spirit like yourself? Ah, pardon. Like your former self."

Flone pulled up her legs and hummed. "I'm not sure. Jihu said it was a being like a darkness spirit... He also seemed to recognize it. But the moment he did he desperately tried to get us away."

"Odd..." Ian was even more lost in thought.

Jihu had insight that rivalled on miraculous. Not only that, but he was a young man capable of pulling off incredible feats that Ian could say with confidence no other Earthling could do.

If that person was cautious about something, it truly was important to keep in mind.

"Well, it doesn't matter, right?" Flone smiled and said, "We grabbed everything from my tomb and never need to go back there!"

"Yes. That's true." Ian nodded.

Flone was right. Whatever the case may be, there would not be a reason to return to the Forest of Denial in the future.

"...I should make a report of this, however."

It would be bad for some unfortunate party to enter and be ripped apart by that monster.

Flone shifted her attention to the bag in front of her and giggled. "I wonder how Jihu's going to react when he sees all of these?"

Ian laughed. "I suppose he might hole himself up in research for a few more days."

"E-Eh? But...!"

"I'm just kidding, Miss Flone. I'm certain that he values you more than some trinkets."

"Meanie." Flone crossed her arms and pouted.

Ian shook his head, giving her an expression like a grandfather staring at his petulant granddaughter.

xxx

Chohong smiled, clutching shopping bags close to her chest.

'He'll like it, right?'

Since she took longer than expected to come back, she had gotten presents to make up for it to Seol.

It wasn't much, but she was certain that he would appreciate them... At least, she hoped.

Either way, he would appreciate the news that she had become a High Ranker.

After everything that happened, she had taken the time to apply to become one when she got back and was approved by Goddess Ira.

Paired with Ian, Carpe Diem now had two High Rankers in its ranks. Considering how many teams didn't even have one, it meant they wouldn't have to worry about other people pressuring them.

In short, everything was going well.

Humming to herself, Chohong made her way down the temple stairs and back to Carpe Diem, a bright smile on her face.

The people that saw her quickly got out of her way, a few even muttering something about it being twice now that members of Haramark's crazies acted out of character and walked down the streets.

Of course, Chohong didn't notice, too wrapped up in her thoughts of Jihu.

Ah, and Hugo was completely forgotten.

Soon, Chohong reached Carpe Diem's office. She paused at the door, wondering if it was alright to only bring Jihu a gift. Ian and Flone had joined too, and she had forgotten about them...

After loitering around for a few seconds at the entrance, Chohong threw caution to the wind and opened the door-

And then the entire building shook.

Chohong froze, wondering if it was just her imagination. But when the building shook again, her complexion became stiff.

Another shockwave. And then Chohong realized that it wasn't from the building being struck directly, but rather an aftereffect from shockwaves.

Quickly putting her bag down inside, she ran around to the back to see what was going on...

"Kuh!"

...And saw an elderly man fly through the air before bouncing on the ground and rolling away. He groaned and hefted the heavy shield he was carrying, using it as a crutch to stand back up.

"Sifu! Are you alright?"

The old man glared into the backyard and said, "Who told you to worry? Pick up that sword if you have time to think!"

"Yes!"

The old man brushed himself off and then picked up the fedora that had fallen off his head. After frowning at the dirt, he shook it a few times and placed it back on his head.

That act made Chohong realize who he was. And when she did, her jaw dropped.

"Hm?"

Did the old man notice her? He turned his head slightly to the side and then his gaze softened. "Is that you, Chohong?"

xxx

"Did you want some warm tea? Or would you like something cold to drink, Sifu?"

"Mm, something cold would be nice."

Jihu looked to Chohong and said, "What about you, Chohong?"

"Whatever's fine."

"Then I'll be right back." Saying that, Jihu vanished into other building.

Seeing the usually calm and confident young man act so meek threw Chohong for a loop. Shaking her head, she looked at the old man sitting across from her to see if there were any clues there.

As she did, the old man shook his hands and let out a groan. "Dammit. That hurt." After that, he massaged his arms and back.

Chohong let out an empty chuckle and said, "You're the one who yelled at him to give it all he had."

"Give me a break, brat. I heard he was a Level 2! Why the hell is he so strong?"

Chohong let out a wry smile. 

That was a question that everyone would like to know the answer to.

Still, she shook her head and said, "Just tell him to go easier on you. I'm sure he'd do it considering your age."

"What did you say?"

"I-"

Before she could respond, the old man's cane struck her head.

She immediately covered her head and screamed. "Why'd you hit me?! I was just worried about you?"

"Worried? Tch. That's the tone of someone ready to make offerings to send me off!" The old man brandished his cane again.

Chohong flinched and hurriedly backed off. "As if! I already tried that and it was useless!"

The old man scowled and then looked thoughtful. Then his scowl deepened and he said, "You traitorous kids. I was wondering why flower pots kept falling on my head and why I kept tripping. So it was all the fault of you two idiots."

Chohong snickered, but then quickly stopped and said, "No, no! We were tricked too! That dumbass Maria lied with a straight face and said she was a Chief Priest!"

"Is that something to be proud of?! Are you bragging?! Huh?!" With each sentence, the old man lashed out with his cane.

Chohong dived into the couch to avoid the blows. But she couldn't avoid being smacked on the head three times before she did. After reaching the couch, she glared at the old man and said, "Come on! Think of how desperate we were! Wouldn't you do the same if you were being beaten day and night?!"

"You idiot! If you were half as smart and earnest as Dylan, I wouldn't have needed to work you so hard! Your birdbrain couldn't understand a damned thing even after I explained it to you a hundred times. What else was I supposed to do but make your body learn it on its own?!"

"But Dylan-!" Chohong started to talk but then abruptly shut her mouth.

Seeing that, the old man sighed and lowered his cane. He sat back down in his chair, suddenly seeming ancient. After a while, he looked up at Chohong and said, "I heard what happened. It looks like you've been through a lot."

Chohong sat back up and said in a softer voice, "You should have visited earlier. Do you have any idea how much Dylan wanted to see you?"

"Hmph. You and your callous way of talking..." The old man gave a curt reply and then shook his head. "But... Well done. It sounds like the Parasites came up with a frightening plan, but you not only managed to save Dylan, you even managed to stop them." He smiled and said, "You should be proud."

Chohong flinched and shook her head. "No. I didn't do anything. If anyone, it's that guy who should be praised since he took care of everything." Saying that, she glanced back at the corridor leading to the other building.

"Everything? That guy?"

Chohong looked back and nodded. "Seol- Ah. I guess his name's really Jihu. The guy you were training before." She paused and then gave him a weird look. "And speaking of that, what were you doing? I thought you retired."

The old man looked surprised but then he shook his head and said, "Well... he kowtowed to me and pleaded desperately to hear my advice, so I couldn't bear to say no. Not to mention that he looked like an absolute idiot lacking any know-how... But his body was good and he seemed pretty quick on the uptake, so I thought I'd do it as a past time until you guys were back."

"Huh. Considering the old man twisted to his bone marrow, I would have thought you- W-Wait!" Seeing the old man raise his cane, Chohong quickly held up her hands and said, "Can't I say what's on my mind?!"

The old man clicked his tongue and lowered his cane. After that, he looked up at the ceiling and said, "What a hassle. I left in peace knowing I could entrust Carpe Diem to Dylan, but now that he's gone it'll only be a matter of time until Carpe Diem vanishes into history."

"Hmph!" Chohong crossed her arms and said, "Don't ignore us. I'm a High Ranker now too."

The old man gasped. "W-What? Someone like you, a High Ranker?"

Chohong puffed her chest out and said, "Yep! A Templar."

The old man shook his head. "How?"

"It's easy. I amassed more than enough experience points while I was stuck at Level 4. And as for Enlightenment..." She hesitated.

The old man shook his head. "Enlightenment isn't necessary. More than that, what about the mission from the royal family?"

Chohong shook her head and said, "Since I participated in that mission, they wrote it off... Well, that's what I want to say. But it's more likely that guy had a hand in it, huh?" She muttered, remembering how close he was with the princess.

The old man muttered to himself and said, "Right. Since you're a High Ranker now, you have the qualifications to take on the mantle of the leader."

"Eh?!" Chohong's eyes grew wide and she shook her head. "No way. I'm leaving that to Jihu and Mister Ian."

"Mister Ian?" He blinked and said, "As in *that* Ian? Ian Denzel?"

"Uh huh." Chohong nodded and grinned. "Did you know? He's part of Carpe Diem now too. Ah, though I guess it's only because Jihu joined..." Her grin faded and she said, "Still, I guess it counts?"

The old man blinked non-stop and said, "What made that lecherous pervert decide to join Carpe Diem of all places? Didn't he have it good as the Royal Magician?"

"He did, but this led to that and... Well, he'll probably be back later. You can talk with him about it."

The old man shook his head, still astonished.

Chohong sighed and waved her hand. "Anyway, things will be fine here. You should just quietly head back to your retirement, old man. Just meet everyone you came to meet and go back. Don't go sticking your nose where it doesn't belong."

The old man looked hesitant, but nodded. "Of course. So, when's Hugo getting here?"

Chohong paused and said, "I thought he would be back by now since we returned around the same time... but since he's not here, he should be here soon. But aren't there other people you have to see?"

The old man shook his head. "Just Hugo's enough."

Chohong frowned. "Geez... Clean up after yourself properly if you're going to leave like that. Do you know what we had to go through when you were gone? How many people asked when you were coming back or if you really retired?"

The old man bitterly waved his cane around and said, "Alright, alright. I'll do it properly this time. Stop nagging."

xxx

The following few days were busy in Carpe Diem.

While Jihu resolved himself to bitter training, the old man spent the time meeting various people.

"It's been a while, Old Boy."

Cinzia and Agnes visited.

"I hope you've been well, Sir Jang Maldong."

Kazuki dropped by.

"I've wanted to see you, Master Jang."

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Even King Prihi came to visit.

The extent of the old man... of Jang Maldong's terrifying connections were on display. But more than that-

"Oh? You're delving into Sword Ki already? You keep bringing me more and more surprises, huh, Kid?" Cinzia's praise of the young man.

"I don't dare try to interfere with Master's teachings, but Jihu, you should remember your strengths and trust your intuition as well. After all, I believe that- I mean to say, you are fairly talented in your own regard." Agnes's fumbling words and advice.

"Yui is doing well, Benefactor. While she still has nightmares about what happened, she mentioned that they are becoming fewer and fewer... It appears that your method of saving her is slowly restoring her mental state as well. Thank you, truly." Kazuki's humble and earnest gratitude.

"Hoho. I knew that you were formidable from our last meeting, but to think that you are training this much even now. Indeed, you are indeed a man worthy of taming that lioness of a daughter I have." And then King Prihi's high regard.

"Damn, man! Did you level up that much after you saved my ass or what?" Even Hugo, that muscle head that was hard to impress, spoke highly of him when he got back.

So Jang Maldong was curious. No, to say it was merely curiosity didn't cover it.

xxx

Late at night. After meeting with everyone, Jang Maldong sprawled out on the sofa, lost in thought.

He already met everyone he needed to and wanted to head back, but people kept visiting him nonstop. It was already a chore to meet them, but then that newbie kept coming up...

Maldong glanced out the window at the orange sky and sighed. "I'll need to go back soon." He mumbled and sat up. "If I stay any longer than this..." After some thinking, he picked up his tie and coat before anyone else could bother him. Intended to quietly slip away and return to Earth, he headed to the door.

And then a knock echoed.

With a groan, Maldong plopped back on the couch and said, "Come in. The door is unlocked."

The door swung open. Maldong narrowed his eyes, preparing himself for another visitor... but he was surprised instead.

"Jihu?"

An old voice rang out. The visitor was someone who looked just as old as Jang Maldong. But not only that, he was a person Jang Maldong had never met before.

The visitor looked at Maldong in confusion and then quietly asked, "Pardon, but is there an Earthling named Jihu here? Ah, Seol Jihu."

'Right, it was Jihu...' That newbie's name came back to Maldong at the visitor's words. But then something else caught his attention. 'Wait. Earthling?'

Maldong shook his head and stood up. "He seems to be out... Ah, come in."

"I see. Excuse me then, I'll be troubling you for a bit." The old visitor walked in and sat across from Jang Maldong.

Since they appeared around the same age, Maldong was courteous and said, "Would you like to drink some tea while you wait?"

The old man shook his head. "I'm fine. Plus, I'm not an Earthling."

"Does it matter whether you are an Earthling or a Paradisian?" Maldong chuckled and brewed two cups of tea before handing one to the visitor.

The two shared typical pleasantries, as expected of two old men.

But eventually, Jang Maldong stared at the visitor and said, "Pardon me, but who might you be? Why are you trying to find that young man?"

"...The third time, is it?"

"Pardon?"

The visitor shook his head and said, "It's nothing. As for me, I'm the village head of Ramman Village. I came to see him for a few reasons, but primarily I came to thank him on behalf of the village."

"Excuse me?" Maldong was taken aback by the visitor's reason for stopping by. Just as he was going to ask a follow up question, the door creaked open.

A young man walked inside, holding a notebook in his hand and writing notes. But then he noticed the people sitting there and looked up. "Hm?" His gaze flitted to Maldong for a bit before turning to the old visitor. "Mister Mu- I mean, Village head? What are you doing here?"

xxx

Jihu joined the two elderly men with his own cup of tea. But the moment he did, the village head frowned.

"You must be a fool, telling the king to use your reward for us. Didn't I tell you of your value last time? You should be more selfish in times like this! You earned those three gold bars on your own merits and-"

"And I told you, I don't need things like that. It's better to put them to use for those that do."

'What?' Maldong was listening half-heartedly, but when he heard that he raised his head.

The village head frowned. "Even so, it's better to stockpile resources while you can rather than squander them on those that can't repay you."

Jihu shrugged. "Who says I need to be repaid? If it really bothers you, then consider it my repayment to you for helping with the mission. It would have been a lot more complicated if it wasn't for your help."

"Even then, that's more than enough! Just how did you even convince the king in the first place? No matter the amount of gold you turned over, it couldn't have been an easy decision for him to make."

"It wasn't... But I somehow convinced him after mentioning your circumstances and contribution."

"Hmph. So that's why he came to see me personally and asked if I would lend the royal family a hand."

"...Did I trouble you?"

The village head waved his hand. "It's fine. He said he wouldn't mention my past and I told him I'd think about it. As for the other matter-" He paused, suddenly realizing that Maldong was there.

"Ah." Jihu glanced over and said, "This Master is-"

Before he could say anything else, Jang Maldong opened his mouth. "I'm Jang Maldong, an insignificant villager."

"A villager?" Jihu muttered before a faint amusement entered his eyes.

As for the village head, he was startled. "Jang Maldong?" He paused and then said, "Could you be Haramark's famous martial arts master?"

"It's a false reputation."

"False reputation? Ah, I see that you're humble." The village shook his head and said, "Even among us Paradisians, there are few who have not heard of your name." With that, he held his hand out and said, "This insignificant villager is named Arbor Muto. May I have the honor?"

"Insignificant villager?" Jihu muttered and shook his head.

For a while, the two did a little dance of pleasantries, trying to say that the other person was honored. And then they finally shook hands.

But soon, Arbor Muto had to leave.

Jihu looked up and said, "Are you sure you're fine heading back this late? You can stay if you want, you know? We have plenty of rooms."

"Mm." Arbor Muto nodded and said, "I would like to stay and talk for a bit more, but the entire village has been busy preparing for the migration. More importantly..." He looked at Jang Maldong and said, "I was wondering why you were so different. To hold such talent and yet remain so modest, it could only due to a humble master like yourself." Saying that, Muto bowed to Jang Maldong.

"N-No." Maldong held up his hands to disagree.

Before he could, Muto lowered his head and said, "Thank you. You helped save the lives of hundreds of villagers." After raising his head, a bright smile was on his face and he said, "You have an excellent disciple. I'm envious."

Faced with those words, Maldong couldn't bring a retort.

Arbor Muto walked up to leave, but before exiting, he glanced back at Jihu. "There's one thing I forgot to mention." He walked back over and handed a paper over to Jihu.

The young man frowned and opened it. "This is...?"

"A request. I have one of my hideouts in Huge Stone Rocky Mountain. While I don't know how much help the things will be there, I would like to ask you to retrieve the worn-down equipment and books there."

Jihu nodded. "When do you need them?"

Arbor Muto waved his hand and said, "There's no rush. I'm still working on the other thing and I know how busy you've been. Just go when you're bored and want a fresh breath of air... Ah, and take whatever you find interesting inside."

"Are you sure?"

"What, do I have to hand them to you myself?"

Jihu gave a wry smile.

"Then I'll be off." Arbor Muto waved and then gave a farewell to Jang Maldong as well.

Jihu tucked the map away in his pocket.

Jang Maldong looked at the door and then turned to Jihu. "What kind of person is he? I doubt that he's the kind of man who belongs in a remote village."

"Mm... It isn't my secret to tell and who he was doesn't matter. What does is that he's an old man devoted to protect the people who took him in as best as he can."

"Hoh." Maldong gave Jihu an appraising look and then stared at the door, his mood contemplative.

xxx

Despite making himself up to leave, after meeting Arbor Muto, Maldong couldn't bring himself to do so. And the reason for that was the young man who kept coming up no matter where he turned.

As a result, today was a repeat of the past week. In the morning, after giving the young man instructions, Jang Maldong stood back to watch him train.

In the beginning, he had to yell at the young man to drill it into his head. But after a while, a bit of instruction was enough for him to understand.

No, to call it like that was undermining his talent.

To compare it, his situation was like teaching someone addition and seeing them derive not only multiplication, but calculus from a single equation.

A monstrous talent. But at the same time, a humble one as well.

Neither brushing off Jang Maldong's words nor putting in half-hearted effort.

'This guy...'

Seeing him, Jang Maldong felt his heart burn.

He could see it. A person capable of reaching a brand new realm.

And he was only level two. Knowing that...

"You want to train him, don't you?" A familiar voice, light-hearted and teasing.

Jang Maldong blinked and looked over to see a familiar face- Or rather, a fact that seemed to be familiar.

A middle-aged man with a beard and flowing robes. Although he carried a rapier on his left side now, there was still a staff attached to his back.

Jang Maldong frowned and hesitantly said, "Ian?"

"In the flesh!" Ian smiled and glanced over at Jihu. Specifically, at the silver-haired woman that ran up to him and pulled him into a hug.

"Now, why don't you give the guy a break so he can catch up with his lovely female friend and hang out with your old pal?"

Jang Maldong's frown deepened and he gave Ian a wary look. "Every time I've hung out with you has been a disaster. Not to mention with how you look now..."

"Come on!" Ian slung his arm around Maldong's shoulders and said, "Once more, for old time's sake?"

Jang Maldong sighed. "Fine. I suppose I can spare you at least one drink."

xxx

Eat, Drink, and Enjoy.

At the pub there, the pair of old men... Well, one old man and one man that used to be old until he de-aged himself, sat around a table in the corner, nursing a pair of drinks.

Ian took a sip from his glass and said, "I thought you would have already left by now. When I got back, I was surprised to hear that you've been here for a week already."

"You're surprised?" Maldong shook his head and said, "I'm the one who should be surprised. What made an old fart like you decided to join Carpe Diem?"

"Hey!" Ian tapped his chest and said, "I might be old, but I'm young on the inside... And on the outside now too!" He waved at his face for emphasis.

"I can see that." Maldong smiled and then said, "Did you finally cross it then?"

Ian nodded. "Mm. A certain friend gave me a hint and handed me the key. After that, it was only a matter of walking down the path before me." He grinned and said, "Now I'm a Level Five Grand Alchemist!"

"Hah. Grand Alchemist? I would have thought you would have been Grand Architect with the work I've heard you doing." He held up his glass and said, "Haven't you been working with the princess on that fortress?"

"I was. But after certain events, I'm no longer necessary. Mm, I guess you could say that I was forcibly let go?"

Maldong blinked. "The royal family let you go? No, they voluntarily released you?"

"Yep."

"...A lot has happened since I was gone, huh?"

"Yeah." Ian took a long sip from his drink and said, "You've missed out on a lot, Maldong."

The two shared a long silence and then shared a deep sigh.

Ian stared into his drink and said, "Roy, Erik, Dai... There aren't many left who know the old Paradise."

Jang Maldong nodded his head. "It's been dozens of years. It's obvious that-" Suddenly, he furrowed his brows. "Wait. Ro- Who?" Maldong looked up at Ian.

Ian laughed and took a sip from his glass. "Guess you haven't gone senile just yet, eh, Old Pal?"

"Tch." Maldong shook his head and said, "I see that you haven't lost your habit of spouting nonsense... You still watch those animations?"

Ian nodded. "Of course I do. You should too, you know? Anime is fun."

"At my age?" Maldong shook his head. "I won't nag you about watching them, but even you should be doing it in moderation. Isn't is embarrassing to spout nonsense like that?"

"Advice from a friend?" Ian nodded and smacked the table. "Fine! I won't see it from now on." His eyes flickered with light and then he leaned forward and said, "So you should come back."

Maldong let out a tired sigh and held his face. "You sure are persistent... Is that why you joined Carpe Diem? To try and force me to come back?"

Ian paused. "That's a brilliant idea...! Dammit, I should have done it sooner!"

Maldong sighed again.

Ian smiled and then put on a serious face. "Joking aside... Do you know why I'm not giving up and pestering you until the end, Maldong?"

"I don't." Maldong lifted his glass, intending on emptying it.

"It's because I know you regret it."

Maldong paused and then set his glass down, looking at Ian with a solemn gaze.

Ian stared back and said, "The Jang Maldong I know is sure about tying and cutting off connections, but your visits mean that you still have lingering feelings here. That there's something you can't let go."

"What do you know?" Maldong downed his glass and then shook his head.

"I doubt there's anyone in Paradise who knows you better than me, friend."

"..."

Ian straightened and said, "Not helping the Beastman Alliance. The revolts and internal conflicts. The countless Paradisians who died as a result."

"..."

"I don't think any of that is your fault."

"You're right." Maldong readily agreed and nodded his head. "But..." Pain crossed his face and he said, "At the very least, I played a role in them. I... shouldn't have given them power so easily." He stared off in the distance and said, "How humans change once they obtain power... I've never been so regretful of my profession in my life."

Ian shrugged. "If that's what you really think, then I won't stop you. But." He looked into Maldong's eyes and said, "The friend I know isn't someone who would forget about his mistake and abandon it. No, he's the type to fix it and make up for it."

"...You've been watching too many of those animations."

Ian smiled.

Maldong shook his head and said, "Let's stop talking about this. There's no reason for me to stay in Paradise."

"No." Ian leaned forward and said, "There is. You still have a dream to achieve."

Maldong let out a bitter sigh. "It's an unachievable dream. It's too late. Paradise now is already-"

"You're wrong." Ian interrupted and leaned back. After thinking a bit, he said, "If it was before, I might agree. But you know, life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get... And recently, there've been nothing but crazy surprises."

Maldong narrowed his eyes and said, "Enough. If there's something you want to say, say it clearly."

"Fine." Ian nodded and said, "It's Jihu."

"That young man? What about him?"

Ian was quiet for a while and then he said, "After he's arrived, Paradise has changed, my friend. And only for the better."

Maldong shook his head. "You make it sound like he will return Paradise to what it used to be."

"He will. And I'm looking forward to it."

Jang Maldong straightened and stared into Ian's eyes.

That person liked joking around. It was part of his natural mannerisms, and he was just that type of person.

But right now, that person was nowhere to be seen.

Because of that, Maldong didn't brush off Ian's words and paid attention.

Ian continued. "Every time we think it can't be done. Every time we think it's impossible. Jihu has made it come true. And when he returned from the mission alive, I was convinced. Not only that, but he's... Well, I can't say it in any other way than he's special."

Maldong licked his lips and then said, "That guy... I know. I know he's special. And I acknowledge that he's good- No, he's a monstrous talent. But..." He looked up at Ian and let out a wry smile. "You never know. Who knows if he will change in the future like the rest of them?"

"I believe he won't... But if you're concerned, why don't you come back? A young man like that needs someone to guide him, to keep him on the right track. And I'll be honest, friend, I'm not that person."

Maldong was quiet.

Ian downed his cup and placed it back on the table. After that, he stared at his friend and said, "Maldong. In the four seasons of life, spring won't come just by waiting."

"..."

"You have to endure the bitter cold and struggle to break the through the frozen earth. Only then can you see the light of day and welcome spring."

Maldong didn't respond.

Ian sighed. "I'm not telling you to do anything. I'm not telling you to return to the front lines or train new Earthlings. But." His gaze sharpened and he said, "If you still hold onto the dream we once held... Then go all in. One last time, place your chips on this final hand."

"So that's why you picked it up again, huh?" Maldong glanced at the rapier sheathed at Ian's left side.

Ian smiled.

"...Tch." Maldong pulled down his fedora and muttered, "Easy for you to say, you damned bastard."

xxx

Late at night, Jang Maldong left the pub, leaving Ian behind.

The Alchemist said he wanted to linger a bit to reflect, and so didn't accompany Maldong back.

Perhaps because he was drunk, Maldong's feet staggered side to side as he made his way to Carpe Diem's office. But when he reached the door, he paused.

Maldong didn't have a reason to go in. He just had to turn back and leave Paradise. Then, everything would be over.

But-

On the first floor in the training area, a young man was still training. With a sword in hand, he carefully and deliberately traced out sword motions, putting his entire being into the act.

Off to the side, a silver-haired woman pleaded with him to sleep, but he turned her down and continued with his work.

Seeing that, Ian's voice echoed in Maldong's head.

[It was incredible. He stood there and said, 'That's right. I'm keeping these high and mighty morals. And if someone's going to try to force me to bend them... Then let's see who's better. This level 1 or you greedy bastards.' God, I can still remember it clearly.]

[He's an idiot. Do you know why he volunteered to be bait for Arden Fortress? He said that if one person could handle it, there wasn't a need to risk anyone else. And when I asked him about it later, he said he didn't want any harm to come to the royal army!]

[He's a unique Earthling. How should I put this... You can tell from the way he acts. You, me, the king, and other people. Instead of treating this place like a game, he's treating it like the real thing. Hell, even that tomboy princess fell for him.]

But most importantly...

[You have an excellent disciple.]

They were words that Maldong had heard countless times before. Platitudes echoed countless times for the countless Earthlings he trained.

But this was the first time he felt like this.

[I know you regret it.]

Clutching his cane, Jang Maldong looked up at the night sky and muttered, "You bastard... I didn't have any regrets until just now."

If only the young man was an ordinary genius. No, even if he had just normal talent.

Maldong could have been fine with walking away in those cases. After all, he had trained plenty like that in the past and watched them all fail or change from how they began.

But that young man... Seol Jihu was more than that. He was the type of person that would reach unknown heights on his own.

Even so, if it was just that, Maldong could leave him be. A person like that didn't need a teacher.

But Jihu wasn't just a genius and a monstrous talent. He was a person that wouldn't disappoint the expectations placed upon him. A person that could run far ahead, but still looked back and reached out his hands to those behind him.

[It isn't my secret to tell and who he was doesn't matter. What does is that he's an old man devoted to protect the people who took him in as best as he can.]

A man who thoughtfully cared about those he was related to.

"Dammit."

Maldong could still leave.

He knew it. That person was someone who didn't need him. Even without Maldong's guidance, Jihu was sure to become a bright sun to guide the path forward. Not only that, but since Jihu managed drew that pervert over to his side, he already had someone to advise him. A person who experienced just as much as Maldong had and could give counsel accordingly.

But...

"Dammit, dammit, dammit!"

If Maldong could teach him this. If Maldong could teach him that. Just how far could he go? Just how much would change?

A brilliant sun that blazed bright. A talent beyond every other that Maldong had seen in his entire life.

A force that would irrevocably change Paradise for better or worse.

Jang Maldong pulled his fedora down over his head and marched inside the building.

xxx

I sighed, finally convincing Flone to go to sleep before me.

She had valid concerns. I *had* been skipping out on a lot of sleep recently.

But how could I lose time when I was advancing so much? When I was on the verge of understanding it?

Jang Maldong was a godsend.

I thought that he wouldn't have anything to teach me because of my insight, but a few words from him let me instantly figure out what I was lacking.

Of course, I couldn't just tell him that I was training a unique skill, but it seemed like he could easily tell my intentions and give me just the right advice to find the rest of the way there.

So I wanted to make sure I had everything settled before he left.

After all, I wasn't going to keep him around... Or rather, I couldn't.

I was different, after all.

That guy stayed with Seol because Seol lacked talent. Seol worked hard, trained earnestly, and didn't disappoint... but ultimately, he was someone who would flourish only because of Jang Maldong.

I wasn't like that. Not only that, but I could sense it when training with him.

While I tried to build up affection by calling him 'Sifu' this and 'Sifu' that like how Seol called him Master, Maldong's heart wasn't moved.

So, I was making sure that I was squared away. If I only had a limited time with that guru, I was going to make sure I made the most of it.

Sitting on the bench in the training facility, I wrote out the compiled notes I gleaned from the training sessions.

And, just as I filled out a page...

The door opened.

I looked up to see Jang Maldong enter. His eyes were bloodshot and he looked a bit disoriented. From that, and the strong scent of alcohol, it seemed like Ian had taken him to town and drank all night.

Still, I respectfully stood up and said, "Sifu?"

He walked inside and then looked at me. After a moment, he muttered, "You said your name was Seol?"

"It's Jihu, but yes?"

He staggered over to the bench next to me and sat down. "There's something I want to ask you." Looking me straight in the eyes, he said, "What's the reason you came to Paradise?"

A seemingly casual question, but his burning eyes told me it was important.

Still, I only really had one answer. "Because I can't give up on this place?"

"Why?" He smacked his cane down on the floor and said, "Give me something more concrete! Money! Fame! Women! Things like that!"

I shook my head. "It's nothing like that."

"It's not?" He gave me a sharp glare. "You don't like money and fame?"

"It's not that I don't like them. After all, you can't do much in any world without them... And there's nothing wrong with wanting them."

The old man nodded, staring intently into my eyes.

"But that's not the reason I come here."

"Then why?" Jang Maldong stared at me, as if trying to look at an impossible to solve puzzle. "You have the talent. The connections. The resources. So... Why? You said that you can't do much without money and fame, but you have both. So then... What keeps you here?"

The same question asked by Seonhwa. It was a different person, but the intent was the same.

Why?

They were both right. There was no reason for me to come here. After all, it would be trivial to build my resources on Earth with my abilities.

But...

"I guess you can say... I want this place to be what it could be." I stared at Jang Maldong and didn't think about my words, just saying what I really thought. "I hate that it's come to this. The people here deserve to live just as much as anyone else, but because they've been driven into a corner, they have to endure all of these hardships and even arrogant bastards who treat this place as a game."

My heart throbbed, remembering Roe Scheherazade and the Eva Kingdom.

Jang Maldong's eyes glimmered and then he said, "But so what? Do you think that you're a hero or something that will save them all?"

"I would love to say that I am, but..." I thought about it. How much I could change, how much I didn't change. "Truthfully... I just don't want to disappoint the people I've come to know. A dear friend once told me that he thought I was a righteous man. A person I worked with told me that my life was worth more than others. The princess called me her hero... I'm not any of that. But if they give me these expectations, I have to meet them somehow, don't I?"

And that was the simple truth of the matter.

I had no reason to be here other than the fact that I had ties I couldn't break- No, wouldn't break.

Moreover, this was a place strictly my own. Ties and relationships I built up on my own merit rather than the identity I subsumed.

So...

A hoarse voice. "...Is that true?"

I stared at him and said, "Yes. But..." I tilted my head and said, "Why are you asking me that?"

Jang Maldong didn't respond. His wooden cane, which had been tapping the ground nonstop while I answered, finally stilled. And then...

"Damned brat."

...He suddenly cursed and gritted his teeth. "Appearing now of all times...!"

Without another word, the old man bit his lips and then stomped out of the room.

Did my words reach him? Or did he decide to leave?

I didn't know, but I didn't follow after him. Instead, I focused on what I could change, what I could affect: my own training.

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