Childhood Friend of the Zenith

As I headed to the designated location, a middle-aged man wearing the Martial Alliance’s uniform greeted me.

“It’s been a while.

” It was Bumdong, whom I had seen previously.

“Yes, it’s been a while.

” When I greeted him with a reluctant expression, Bumdong chuckled.

“I apologize for coming so suddenly.

” His expression didn’t look apologetic at all.

“You’re telling me.

You showed up right when I was about to eat.

And I was already hungry.

” I didn’t bother to give the typical polite reply about it being fine.

Because it wasn’t fine.

“I felt I didn’t introduce myself properly last time, so I decided to visit.

” “Then why not come later?

Why now, of all times...?

” “I am Bumdong, the commander of the Flying Dragon Unit of the Martial Alliance.

It’s an honor to meet you, So Yeomra.

” “...

” I almost snapped, but hearing the nickname made me change my expression instead.

It had been a long time since anyone had called me that.

‘Well, look at this?

’ I wondered why Bumdong had come to see me, but it seemed he had gathered some information and decided to show up.

‘He figured out who I am.

Is that what this is about?

’ Well, seven days and nights were plenty of time.

And considering the intelligence department’s capabilities...

‘They probably didn’t just figure out my identity.

’ I was starting to get curious about what exactly had brought him here.

Creak.

I pulled out a chair and sat down.

Then, I spoke to Bumdong.

“I am Gu Yangcheon of the Gu family.

” “So, I finally get to hear your real name.

Initially, you called yourself Gui Jeol-yeop, which made it a bit difficult to track you down.

” Hearing Bumdong’s words, I smirked.

‘This guy didn’t even try to hide his intentions, huh?

’ Gui Jeol-yeop was a fake name I had used when Bihyeonhwa approached me.

And for Bumdong to bring it up so openly...

It was a clear sign he had no intention of hiding the fact that he had been investigating me.

“I was surprised.

I didn’t expect you to be the legendary So Yeomra.

” I stayed silent, simply looking at Bumdong, and he continued to speak.

“They say you’re the young master who once caused an uproar in Zhongyuan.

But honestly, I didn’t believe the rumors.

” “Why?

Were they too outrageous?

” “Exactly.

The youngest to reach Hwagyeong, defeating the Grand Magus single-handedly—it all sounded like nonsense.

” Half of it was true, and half of it wasn’t.

“But now that I see you, I realize you’re far more extraordinary.

” “Why do you keep throwing out compliments that sound more like mockery?

” “From what I’ve found, you’ve only just passed twenty.

At that age, to have suppressed others to this extent...

” Bumdong seemed to swallow whatever words he was about to say.

“This is purely out of curiosity, but...

are you an elder who reversed his age with Banrohwandong?

” “...

” I almost spat out the tea I was drinking.

“No matter how I look at it, your level of mastery doesn’t make sense for your age.

” “You’re aware of the side effects ❖ Nоvеl?ght ❖ (Exclusive on Nоvеl?ght) of Banrohwandong, aren’t you?

” “Yes, I am.

” Banrohwandong was a technique that allowed martial artists to reverse their physical age, but it came with significant drawbacks.

The meridians would weaken, and the vessel would shrink.

Unless one underwent several cycles of rebirth, it was impossible to regain their original physical state.

“Who in their right mind would resort to such a thing, knowing the side effects?

” “You’re right about that.

” “Only a complete idiot would do something so reckless—a real moron or a brainless sea slug.

” “Alright, I get it.

You can stop now.

” “If such a person really existed, they’d not only be stupid but downright pathetic.

” “...

” As I continued my tirade of insults, Bumdong let out a small, awkward cough.

I stared at him quietly and then asked: “So, why are you here?

” Clink.

I placed the teacup I had been holding back on the table and continued.

“If you’ve gathered information, why not investigate further before coming here?

What exactly are you trying to accomplish?

” “Haha.

” Bumdong laughed.

For some reason, that laugh felt like it was deliberately scratching at my nerves.

“We’re still gathering information.

About you, about the Baekhwa Trading Company, and several other matters.

The investigation continues without pause.

” “Then why?

” “Because there’s something that required me to meet you directly.

” So he openly admitted to investigating me but said he had another reason to meet me?

What could that reason be?

“Recently, some strange things have been happening around you.

Are you aware of them?

” “Interesting.

I’m listening.

” Around me?

“The first involves a woman who approached you.

” “Hm.

” Hearing Bumdong’s words, I raised an eyebrow slightly.

I was genuinely surprised.

‘I didn’t expect him to bring that up so openly.

’ It seemed he was referring to Bihyeonhwa.

I didn’t think he’d mention it so casually.

“I was certain you already knew about her.

Compiling the information led me to that conclusion.

It’s fascinating—most men your age wouldn’t have been able to resist her.

” Bihyeonhwa was undoubtedly beautiful.

As Bumdong mentioned, her allure was enough to leave most men dazed.

But...

‘The people around me are overwhelmingly more beautiful.

’ I had built up such an immunity that it didn’t even faze me anymore.

“How did you know she was part of the Martial Alliance?

” “I didn’t necessarily think she was from the Alliance.

She just seemed suspicious, so I kept my distance.

” Of course, I had already figured it out and played along, but that was a secret I intended to keep.

“Was there a problem with her?

” She had left in a hurry, so I hadn’t bothered stopping her.

But was there an issue after all?

Hearing my question, Bumdong stared at me silently before muttering: “...

So that’s how you’re going to play it, huh?

” And then, out of nowhere, he started spouting nonsense to himself.

“No problem.

” “What are you talking about?

Don’t keep it to yourself—share with me.

” Had he lost his mind?

“The second issue is...

members of the Martial Alliance have been disappearing one by one.

” This was the first I’d heard of such a thing.

“Disappearing?

” “Yes.

Especially...

” Bumdong narrowed his eyes as he looked at me.

His gaze was becoming increasingly irritating.

I stared back at him, then let out a small sigh and spoke.

“Are you suspecting me?

” “It’s not exactly suspicion.

I’d say I’m keeping an eye on you.

” “That is suspicion.

” It was ridiculous.

If I were being suspected of something I had actually done, that would be one thing.

But to suspect me of something I’d never even heard of?

‘And there hasn’t been a single report about this.

’ Could this be the work of someone else?

Even so, I hadn’t received any such reports.

“So, you’re saying you came here because you suspect me?

” “That’s not the only reason.

This visit is also partly a courtesy.

Besides, if not today, the Martial Alliance will soon issue investigative authority.

” ‘Investigative authority?

’ My brow twitched at Bumdong’s words.

“In addition to certain circumstances that have come to light...

” Circumstances?

What circumstances?

As questions filled my mind, Bumdong continued.

“Your earlier attitude toward me may also become an issue.

” My eyebrows shifted slightly at his words.

‘So that’s what this is about.

’ Despite the fact that I’d spared him last time, it seemed like he was holding a grudge.

“So, before the investigative authority is issued...

I suggest you visit the Martial Alliance yourself and cooperate with the investigation.

” “I didn’t do anything, yet you want me to go to the Martial Alliance and quietly submit to questioning?

” “If the investigative authority is granted, it’ll only cause more trouble for everyone.

Wouldn’t it be better to handle this more smoothly?

” “Well, well...

” I let out a sound of amusement as I listened to Bumdong.

But it wasn’t admiration for his reasoning.

‘This bastard is just the same as always.

’ He spoke as if he knew everything about me, brought up the investigative authority and so-called circumstances, and subtly flaunted his position within the Martial Alliance.

This was, in essence, a battle of wills.

No matter how strong martial artists were, the orthodox factions were still bound under the Martial Alliance.

And even if someone stepped out of line, the Alliance’s involvement could create countless headaches.

In his previous life, Bumdong used to apply this kind of pressure when he was working.

This was meant to crush the opponent’s chi and force the situation into submission.

“Fuck you, seriously.

” Of course, that kind of shit wasn’t going to work on me.

“That shit doesn’t work.

” Boom!

As I stood, I spoke with a sharp edge in my voice.

“If you’re going to accuse me of something, at least bring evidence.

This half-assed way of doing things is laughable.

And to top it off, you showed up just as I was about to eat.

Makes me want to sprinkle salt all over you.

” Sure, having a commander visit in person was a rare occasion, but wasting more energy on this nonsense was unnecessary.

If I just waited, they’d come crawling to me eventually.

Why were they so eager to shorten their own lives?

‘Not like I can deal with him yet since I still have a use for him.

’ As irritating as this was, I had to bear it.

As I said, it wasn’t time to act just yet.

Bumdong had to be saved for a critical moment.

“Looks like you’ve got a lot of women around you.

” I froze mid-step.

Without turning my head, I kept my ears open.

“I see four in total.

Three of them are daughters of prestigious families...

well, one of them isn’t anymore, so let’s exclude her.

” His words grated on my nerves.

Should I turn around now?

No, hold it in.

If I turn now, I might end up killing him.

As I tried to muster patience, I thought: “You even have the descendant of a former leader of the Martial Alliance by your side, don’t you?

” “...

Haha.

” At that, I couldn’t stop myself from turning my head.

“And so?

” “Oh, it’s nothing significant...

It just seems like you’re quite close with these young ladies.

” “No, seriously.

” Creak.

I pulled my chair back, rested my hands on the table, and leaned closer to him.

“What’s your point?

” “Hahaha.

” Looking me straight in the eyes, Bumdong laughed.

“No point, really.

It’s just that it seems So Yeomra has a bit of a misunderstanding.

” “What misunderstanding would that be?

” “You seem to think that since the Martial Alliance stands for justice, it wouldn’t do anything ridiculous.

” At his words, I tilted my head.

“If that’s what you’re implying, then you’re correct.

The Alliance upholds justice and would never act in a way that goes against it.

” I stared at Bumdong as he spoke and asked: “What do you mean by ‘ridiculous’ or ‘against justice’?

” “I mean illegal acts.

” “Oh, I see.

I get it.

Please, continue.

So, the Alliance doesn’t engage in underhanded or petty behavior.

But?

” “Well, that might be true for those acting under the Alliance’s name...

but as of late, with members going missing, it’s not uncommon for uncooperative individuals to face unfortunate circumstances.

” “Unfortunate circumstances?

” “Yes, things like their families being harmed...

or their loved ones getting hurt.

” As Bumdong continued, my gaze turned cold.

‘These bastards never change.

’ Perhaps that made them easier to deal with.

“And so?

” “That’s why I’m telling you this out of concern.

If you continue to act uncooperatively...

something bad might happen to those important to you.

” “So, what you’re saying is...

” Clink.

My hand moved, brushing against the teacup.

At the same time, I felt a presence behind me—a presence only I could sense.

“Don’t act out and keep your head down.

If you keep pushing your luck, I won’t leave the people around you alone.

Is that what you’re saying?

” “Oh no, you misunderstand again.

This isn’t the stance of the Alliance.

This is merely—” “Fucking bastards.

” “...

What?

” At the curse that slipped from my lips, Bumdong’s expression contorted.

“So Yeomra, what did you just—” “Don’t make me repeat myself, you fucking piece of shit.

” It seemed I was done holding back.

“Orthodox sects, my ass.

At least demonic sects are upfront about their filth.

You assholes don’t even know how to evolve.

” At my vulgar insult, Bumdong stood up.

Or rather, he tried to.

Wham!

Bang!

“Guh—!!

” Grabbing him by the hair, I slammed his head down onto the table.

Tea spilled from the overturned cup, dripping onto the floor.

The table, thankfully, didn’t break.

That was because I’d reinforced it with Qi beforehand.

“What the hell—!

” Before he could shout, my fist collided with his face.

Boom!

“Gahhhk!

” The impact split his lip, and several of his teeth flew out.

“I was already pissed, and now what?

You’re threatening me with ‘unfortunate circumstances’?

” “Ghh...

How...

dare...

you...

to a commander of—” Before he could finish, I yanked his head back by the hair and slammed it down again.

Bang!

Bang!

Bang!

I repeated the action several times before muttering quietly.

“Nahi.

” “Yes, my lord.

” “...!!

” Nahi appeared behind me, and Bumdong’s eyes widened in shock.

“Close the doors.

” “Your orders will be carried out.

” The moment I finished speaking, the surrounding doors and windows began to shut one by one.

Woooooong!

Once all the doors were closed, a barrier enveloped the room.

The soundproofing ensured that no noise would escape.

Bang!

Thud!

I continued slamming Bumdong’s head into the table until I lost count of how many times I’d done it.

Finally, I stopped.

“Ghhh....

” The room fell silent, save for Bumdong’s labored breathing.

Drip...

drip....

Blood dripped from his mouth, staining the table.

Looking at the pathetic sight before me, I spoke.

“I was willing to let you off without touching you.

It wasn’t the right time yet.

” That was the truth.

Bumdong still had his uses.

At least until after the martial arts tournament.

“So why do you keep provoking me?

Why do you make me want to kill you?

” “Ghhkk...

” “Hmm?

I’m asking you.

Why do you keep doing this?

” “Hhh...

hhgh...

” Through trembling lips, Bumdong finally spoke.

“D-Do you...

really think you’ll get away with this...?

You...

dare to treat...

a commander of the Alliance like this...!

” “Yeah, yeah.

Sure.

The great commander of the Martial Alliance.

” Unable to listen to his bullshit anymore, I grabbed his face.

His blood smeared onto my hands, but I didn’t care.

“I know damn well that this won’t be easy to brush off.

I know that better than anyone.

” I understood all too well what kind of organization the Martial Alliance was.

As Bumdong said, the Alliance was meticulous when it came to dealing with its own members.

And for someone of his rank, they’d take things even more seriously.

“But you know what?

” I stared into his eyes as I spoke.

“Knowing all that, don’t you think someone who acts this way either doesn’t care...

or has a way to deal with the consequences?

” “...!

” Bumdong’s pupils trembled violently.

“So don’t worry about me.

I’ll handle myself just fine.

” Instead, worry about yourself.

That would be smarter.

I gave him a smile as I thought this.

Clink.

At the same time, I grabbed a glass of water from the side.

“Gahhh?!

” Gripping his cheeks, I forced his mouth open and shoved the glass inside.

Bumdong struggled to spit it out, but he didn’t have the strength to break free.

“Keep your eyes open from now on.

If you close them even once, you’re dead.

Got it?

” After giving him this short warning, I raised my fist and struck his cheek with it.

Crack!

Shatter!

“Gahhhhhaaa!!

” The glass shattered into pieces inside Bumdong’s mouth.