As the Grand Master's words settled over the gathering, I found myself lost in contemplation. The situation wasn't unfamiliar – the clash between idealism and pragmatism had been a constant companion in my journey.
The Master's gaze swept over the room, his eyes carrying the weight of experience. "Life on this continent is both a challenge and a test of character. Just as nature molds landscapes, adversity molds us. You're equipped with skills and knowledge, but what you'll face out there will test your heart and resolve."
His words resonated with me deeply. The path I'd chosen, leaving behind the familiarity of my old life for the uncertainty of this new world, had indeed been a test of my mettle.
"The choices you make, the alliances you forge, and the moments of bravery you exhibit will shape your destiny. Some may rise to greatness, while others may find their strength in quieter ways. Remember, survival isn't merely about staying alive – it's about adapting, evolving, and thriving against all odds."
The room buzzed with anticipation, each trainee wrestling with their own thoughts and emotions. I knew the truth in the Master's words – surviving here demanded not just physical prowess, but also cunning, diplomacy, and resilience.
"Embrace the challenges ahead with open hearts and unwavering spirits. Forge bonds, seize opportunities, and never forget the camaraderie you've built within these walls."
The Grand Master's speech drew to a close, leaving an air of determination hanging in the room. As the trainees exchanged glances and murmurs, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The Azure Enclave might not be actively recruiting, but the bonds formed here were invaluable.
However, I couldn't hold them accountable. Given the time, money, and effort required to develop skilled personnel, their guild struggled to attract more than a handful of members for improvement.
If the Blue Guild hadn't enlisted our party, they might have stood a chance. However, they had already paid a significant price to have us on board. This meant that others had almost no chance of being selected.
'I'm grateful I haven't displayed any signs of incompetence...'
At this announcement, the trainees lowered their heads. But a few opted to maintain unwavering gazes, locking eyes with one specific member.
"Hyunsung!" one of them called out.
"That we... You were with us... Take us in... Please."
'How absurd.'
Naturally, I recognized the person speaking. He was one of the individuals we had encountered back at the shelter. His name escaped my memory, but I vividly remembered his association with Kim Hyunsung's generosity and his intense aversion to Jung Hayan. Despite his refusal to provide assistance and his close relationship with Jung Jinho before his demise, here he was, asking Kim Hyunsung to take him in again. Even the instructors seemed taken aback by his audacity.
In a way, wielding influence over such a person felt satisfying. Despite my weaker stats, I wouldn't have dared to speak so boldly even if our roles were reversed. I remained silent; this wasn't my battle to fight – it belonged to Kim Hyunsung.
'Would Hyunsung truly be so softhearted?'
Anxiety gnawed at me.
I knew that Kim Hyunsung was aware of his responsibilities as a new Blue Guild member. Yet, creating a haven for fellow survivors within a dungeon wasn't something any ordinary person would willingly undertake.
"In the end... You have to take responsibility for us..."
'What nonsense is he spouting?'
Desperation could cause a person to act irrationally, but it often led to foolishness.
Lee Sang-hee turned to Hyunsung, curiosity apparent on her face. She seemed to be pondering how he would treat his companions from the tutorial dungeon.
"Yes, alongside us...!"
With the initial outburst, more voices began to echo the sentiment. I resisted the urge to scoff.
"You won't abandon us like this, right?"
"Hyunsung!"
"Hyunsung, let us join you..."
Kim Hyunsung approached them with deliberate slowness.
Anxiety gripped me, but my tension ebbed as I observed him biting his lip. I recognized this response. Who could blame him? Even a monk would struggle to remain calm in such a situation.
Unsurprisingly, Kim Hyunsung dipped his head slightly before speaking.
"I'm sorry."
"W-What?"
"Seems our connection has come to an end."
"You can't mean..."
For a fleeting moment, I thought I might burst into laughter. This spectacle proved even more entertaining than I had anticipated.
"Starting anew in a different environment might be preferable to being with me. Though brief, I valued our time together."
"That... It can't be..."
Laughter aside, it seemed that I needed to step in.
"We have no obligation to shoulder your burdens elsewhere."
"Huh?"
"The city should provide safety. Although it might not offer the most comfortable existence, at least your lives won't be at constant risk."
"N-Nevertheless..."
"Once more, there's no obligation for me to care for you. Nor for Hyunsung."
Despite my attempt at a considerate explanation, the man remained oblivious. His expression conveyed the deep-seated sense of injustice he felt.
'How foolish.'
Did they not understand that gains came only through sacrifices? From my perspective, this individual had much to learn before realizing this truth.
With a sigh, I decided to offer a final gesture of kindness. Retrieving money from my pocket, I handed it to him.
"It's not much, but I hope it aids you down the line."
The man's expression was priceless. He maintained his betrayed demeanor, yet was cautious as he pocketed the money.
Suppressing another chuckle, I marveled at how gratitude could coexist with such disillusionment.
"Thank you."
"I wish you well. Strive to survive."
"Yeah..."
He hadn't grasped my underlying intent. Did he not comprehend that the city, too, had its dangers? In my estimation, I'd just given him one more reason to be targeted by thieves.
Lee Ji-Hye regarded me with astonishment. Unlike the man, I knew she recognized my intention. I wondered why she hadn't participated in the plea for assistance. Eventually, I deduced a likely reason.
'Lee Ji-Hye...'
She must've received an offer from another guild. Given her resourcefulness, such an opportunity was entirely plausible.
'I apologize...'
It felt wasteful to let her go, but she held no place in the Guild. Then again, I recalled her audacious self-assurance during our time in the dungeon.
'I don't have to stick with you.'
This sentiment seemed to emanate from her. Yet, a quick scan of her abilities revealed she lagged behind me.
Still observing her, I spoke softly. "...We'll meet again."
"Yeah... Yeah."
The words were directed at the man, yet Lee Ji-Hye knew they were meant for her.
Her lingering eye contact with me conveys her message. 'Though I might not join Blue, we'll cross paths again someday.'
Before I could retreat fully, voices arose once more.
"Kee Miyoung is quite warm. The guild's basic support fund doesn't seem too shabby, but..."
"Hmm. Considering they shared the tutorial dungeon, are you headed to Lindel now?"
"Yes. We've mostly wrapped up the cleanup. I want a bit more time, though. I need to prepare."
"Ah, the trainees..."
"You'll be joining us straight to Free City. Let's head out first."
"Sure."
And thus, the entire Blue Guild set off. The physical exertion was somewhat bothersome, yet it was enjoyable. Spending time with Park Deokgu, Jung Hayan, and Kim Hyunsung made it worthwhile.
"So... I tested a new spell today..."
"Oh?"
"I witnessed it firsthand, and it seemed impressive. Oh, the lake cracked when Jung Hayan chanted the incantation. It reminded me of stories Ajimae used to tell. Can't remember them now..."
"Perhaps it was the story of Moses."
"Ah! Yes, I think that's the one. You're sharp, Kee. Anyway..."
Park Deokgu continued prattling on, while Kim Hyunsung maintained a contented expression. Jung Hayan clung to my hand as we walked. Concentration proved challenging, but I managed, occasionally squeezing Hayan's hand.
After a while, a tall clock tower came into view. Glancing at Kim Hyunsung, I noticed a peculiar expression on his face.
This marked a fresh start for me, but it was also the beginning for him. The complex emotions he displayed puzzled me, but I understood that he carried concerns about the past, present, and the future – for both the Blue Guild and our party.
Meanwhile, Jung Hayan and Park Deokgu stared at the tower in awe.
"Over there..."