Chapter 27

<Chapter 28> Let me just say, the master-student genre is one of the most cringeworthy out there.

A little while later, Yu-jin headed toward the training grounds where Tae-jin Kim was said to be staying.

Even Biseo Park seemed different from his usual self that day.

Throughout the journey, he kept pouring out his worries nonstop.

“Master, are you sure it’s alright? The relationship between Tae-jin Kim and our faction, Hwagcheon, isn’t exactly great.”

In the past, Tae-jin Kim fought against a Strong Hero-class warrior from Hwagcheon.

The result? A crushing victory for Tae-jin Kim.

It was not only a blow to Hwagcheon’s pride but also a clear declaration that Tae-jin Kim wanted nothing to do with them.

Even if it’s just for a week, becoming a disciple of such a man isn’t something Hwagcheon welcomes.

‘If things go wrong, I might even leave a bad impression on the organization’s executives.’

Even as the heir to Hwagcheon, it’s not like everyone in the organization fully acknowledges that status yet.

Especially the renowned executives—they haven’t officially recognized Yu-jin due to his lack of achievements.

One misstep, and there could even be a coup.

Worse, Yu-jin’s own mother, the current leader, might revoke his qualifications outright.

Because of all this, Biseo Park was unusually worried.

‘Besides, Tae-jin Kim isn’t someone to underestimate. Even an esteemed Strong Hero would have to bow their head to him.’

Tae-jin Kim was a genuine powerhouse—someone even Biseo couldn’t easily handle.

If anything goes wrong, it could spiral into an irreparable disaster.

But Yu-jin himself was lost in thought, gazing out the window.

‘Shit! Why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?’

Deep down, he regretted everything.

‘I just thought he was some tough and scary guy! I had no idea our factions had such bad blood!’

Had he known, he’d have found an excuse to decline for sure.

Hating Hwagcheon was one thing, but dealing with a Strong Hero-level martial artist?

This was practically walking into the tiger’s mouth.

Would he really get crushed by a single punch?

Yikes! This was terrifying!

Yu-jin genuinely felt like crying.

And yet, backing out now wasn’t an option either.

All the arrangements were already made.

If he ran away now, Tae-jin Kim might show up later shouting, “How dare you ghost me!” and beat him to a pulp.

Either way, he was screwed.

Nietzsche style, looks like I’ll be meeting my maker before God.

‘To begin with, I didn’t even want to meet this Tae-jin Kim guy! Why should I endure all this trouble when I’m too busy making friends?!’

He muttered those words over a hundred times—but only in his mind.

Of course, the real reason was because Yu-jin lacked the guts to voice such complaints aloud.

‘Ugh… It feels like standing in line outside a haunted house that I don’t even want to enter.’

Regardless, it was too late to turn back now.

Biseo’s constant worrying only added to the dread.

So, perhaps ignoring it altogether was the best option.

“Secretary Park.”

“Yes, Master!”

“You don’t need to say anything more.”

“A-ah! Forgive me! I spoke out of turn!”

Secretary Park bowed deeply, startled.

‘Of course, Master must already have everything planned out.’

Over time, many of Yu-jin’s actions seemed incomprehensible at first glance…

But they always turned out to be part of some grand scheme.

Surely this was another piece of Yu-jin’s master plan.

‘I wonder what strategy he has in mind against Tae-jin Kim…’

Instead of worry, Secretary Park now looked at Yu-jin with eyes full of anticipation.

From his perspective, Yu-jin’s gaze carried an unfathomable depth, far beyond what he could comprehend.

Of course, the truth was Yu-jin was just stressed out of his mind.

‘Yeah! While Master Yu-jin is away, I’ll focus on doing my job! Master Yu-jin always moves forward, looking towards the future!’

With newfound determination, Secretary Park saluted sharply before rushing off.

Ah… I kinda hoped he’d walk with me a bit further.

Who knew he’d bolt without looking back like that?

Now there was truly no turning back.

‘Damn, even he’s scared of Strong Heroes, huh? Just you wait—I’ll get revenge later! You better stick around after school!’

With half-lowered tears, Yu-jin stared ahead.

There stood a massive hanok mansion, resembling a palace.

Why the heck would someone live here instead of in the city?

High-level martial artists’ minds were impossible to fathom.

‘Is it okay to just barge into a place like this? What if I get beaten up for entering without permission?’

Yu-jin paced nervously in front of the gate.

Even entering a random shop usually took ten minutes of hesitation.

This was on a whole new level.

‘Alright, breathe. My homeroom teacher already arranged everything. Just give myself more mental prep time!’

After pacing for thirty minutes, he finally mustered the courage to knock on the enormous door.

It was so big, he wondered if it was even meant for humans to open.

“Excuse me.”

No answer. It felt eerily quiet.

Was this place abandoned?

Hehe, guess I’ll just have to leave then!

Oh wait, I don’t even remember the way back. Shit.

‘Wait, if this place is empty, am I stranded here?!’

Suddenly, panic set in.

Even if Strong Heroes were terrifying, starvation sounded worse.

On impulse, he pushed the door slightly.

To his surprise, it creaked open.

‘Well, it’s open anyway. What difference does it make now?’

Since no one answered earlier, he figured there wouldn’t be much objection.

Peeking inside cautiously, he spotted someone.

It was a small girl dressed in hanbok, carrying a heavy yoke filled with wood.

‘Cute!’

For shy guys like Yu-jin, there were only two types of beings he didn’t feel intimidated by: kids and cats.

Thanks to that, he approached her relatively calm.

“Uh, hi…”

“How did you get in here?”

Before he could speak, the girl cut in first.

Her tone was unexpectedly fierce, making him flinch.

“I, uh, came through the door…”

“That door? It’s not supposed to open easily.”

“Oh? It opened fine for me…”

Yu-jin scratched his head, confused. His strength stat exceeded 50, so maybe that’s why?

Still, he wondered if entering without permission was a mistake.

But since no one stopped him earlier, surely it was fine, right?

Thinking about it, he realized he only knocked once.

“Um…”

“Are you the successor of Hwagcheon?”

Wait, she knows who I am?

Frowning, Yu-jin suddenly pieced something together.

‘Ah! So she’s also one of Tae-jin Kim’s disciples!’

That explained her slightly arrogant tone and intimidating presence.

‘Poor thing, having to endure under such a terrifying Strong Hero must’ve worn her down.’

Look at that yoke! Way too heavy for someone her age!

That Tae-jin Kim guy is basically exploiting child labor—it’s outrageous!

“Heh, yeah. I’m Yu-jin Kim from Hwagcheon.”

“Hmph… Quite cocky for a newbie, aren’t you? Don’t even know how to use honorifics properly.”

Yu-jin almost chuckled.

She looked so adorable trying to act tough.

‘Hmm, does she expect me to treat her as a senior since she entered first?’

Despite being a disciple of a hero, she still retained some childish innocence.

But Yu-jin prided himself on reading atmospheres well.

Quickly adjusting his stance, he performed a respectful fist salute.

“Forgive me, Senior. I failed to recognize your presence.”

“Pfft, calling me ‘Senior’? Well, technically, as a hero, I suppose I am. Not bad for someone from Hwagcheon.”

“Glad you approve.”

Nice! I’m actually handling communication properly!

Even though she’s a kid, this proves I’m growing as a person!

The girl studied Yu-jin for a moment before shrugging.

“Surprising. You didn’t react to my killing intent at all.”

“Killing intent? What’s that?”

Yu-jin tilted his head, genuinely clueless.

He had never experienced such a sensation in his life.

Does failing to sense it mean automatic disqualification?

Uh… Can I leave now?!

“Hmm, whatever. Considering you’re that woman’s son, it makes sense. Anyway, welcome aboard—for now.”

Though disappointed, Yu-jin hid his expression.

They’d be spending a week together, so it was better not to make a bad impression.

“You seem pretty determined, and breaking into the place like that shows initiative. Your teacher deserves credit.”

“My teacher?”

“The one who recommended you.”

Ah, you mean my homeroom teacher.

True, without her recommendation, I wouldn’t be here.

…Thinking about it, this situation feels kinda strange.

While I appreciate the special attention due to being an awkward guy, please don’t lock me away in the mountains like this.

Shy people are sensitive creatures—we need space and gentle care!

“Well, whatever! Anyway, come inside. I still have work to finish.”

“Let me help… I mean, I’ll carry it.”

Yu-jin stopped the girl from moving further and forcibly took the yoke, placing it on his own shoulder.

“Huh? You’re serious?”

“It’s my job.”

How could he let such a young girl do heavy labor?

As a responsible member of society, he couldn’t allow it.

The girl watched silently, scratching her cheek.

…

…

……

“Are you really from Hwagcheon?”

“For now, yes.”

“Wow, you’re certainly an odd one. Fine, I’ll guide you. Follow me.”

“Yes, ma’am!”

With renewed vigor, Yu-jin shouted and followed the girl, hands behind his back.

Thus began the first day of his training.

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