Surviving as a Genius on Borrowed Time

Chapter 442

The fortress of Ipwang stood in serene radiance, its silhouette outlined in a soft white glow even against the thick darkness.

The stone walls stretched outward, devouring the vast land on either side. Marble imported from the distant southwest boasted an elegant, timeworn texture.

Yet the citadel itself was silent.

And it wasn’t merely because of the late evening air.

“……”

Since entering the fortress, Jeong Yeon-shin had not seen a single warrior.

Not even the faintest trace of bustling activity reached his senses.

Typically, the remnants of the Seventeen Martial Divisions and the families under the fortress’s command never left the training grounds empty, even past midnight. It was a sight that would puzzle any master returning home after a long absence.

Indeed, the martial artists of Seomye’s Wumaek, who had followed him from Nokok Sword Pavilion, were glancing around uneasily.

Jeong Yeon-shin had not expected any grand welcome. Especially after receiving the silent tribute from the commoners of Yangyang.

But if one were to return home after hardship only to find it deserted, would they not feel a certain emptiness? Like water slowly soaking into cloth.

Still, he did not show such thoughts. He was the Purple Rank now. The days when he had barely managed to reveal his emotions to Ma Gwang-ik were long past.

“Other than those stationed for guard duty, everyone is out on missions.”

Hahoe Wi-jin’s deep voice carried respectful deference.

Jeong Yeon-shin awkwardly nodded at his senior’s unfamiliar manner.

It was not that he looked down on those outside his clan.

But the Cheonrim Daeju of Ipwang Fortress was a man who held hierarchy as sharp as a blade. Even back when he had shown utmost deference only to Jeong Yeon-shin’s grandfather, Ma Yeon-jeok, the young man had aspired to learn from his senior’s rigid sense of duty.

Most of the Black Ranks shared this trait, aside from his uncle.

Reliable. There’s much I still need to learn.

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