Chapter 280 (1/2)

‘It isn’t going to be easy.’

At that time, Park Muyeol really appeared like a hero. The wooden sword wielded by the old man no one paid attention to didn’t forgive the enemies in front of it. They would either be beaten by the wooden sword or humiliated by having their hair shaved. There were some funny aspects, but it wasn’t enough to make fun of his swordsmanship.

‘...Stick Sage.’

Now he was called Stick Stage by the people. Park Muyeol grew stronger as he fought. The first time Zhen Sulong saw it, he felt that this person was really crazy. It was like watching a monster grow without limits. Now Park Muyeol was his opponent. Zhen Sulong felt his heart beating faster and he was extremely thrilled. This was the competitive feeling.

[The user ‘Park Muyeol’ has entered the stadium.]

A man appeared on the other side.

“Um, I think this is the first time I’ve seen you alone? It is nice to meet you. I am Park Muyeol.”

Zhen Sulong politely shook the hand that Park Muyeol extended. Thick and crude hands—the rough palms that contained the marks of the years made him realize this was a craftsman who had been practicing in his field for many years. Zhen Sulong admired it.

‘It is a well-deserved reputation!’

It felt like meeting another Choi Chuntaek and Zhen Sulong couldn’t help lowering his head. However, today he was a man with his country’s pride on his back. Zhen Sulong represented China and he introduced himself to Park Muyeol of South Korea, “I am Zhen Sulong. It is a pleasure. I really wanted to meet you once.”

The countdown message appeared as the two of them shook hands. They slowly stepped back and moved away from each other. Park Muyeol swung the wooden sword through the air and spring came out of nowhere. In the midst of the fluttering petals, Park Muyeol was surprised.

‘Umm, he is truly deserving of Chuntaek’s praise.’

The Zhen Sulong he faced in front of him seemed to be a very powerful warrior, reminiscent of the Choi Chuntaek he faced 20 years ago. He realized it the moment they shook hands. Maybe it would be a difficult fight.

‘I have to do it right if I want to avoid being disgraced.’

Beeeeep—!

The match started and Park Muyeol swung his sword in front of him while using Stick’s Protection. Park Muyeol felt the surge of power and thrust his domineering sword forward. The sword energy created a fascinating illusion like a mirage as it aimed at Zhen Sulong’s stomach and lower body. It flew toward both areas indiscriminately.

‘It won’t be easy.’

Behind him, the Twelve Zodiacs lightning stared at Park Muyeol.

* * *

At a hospital in Yangpyeong, in the Gyeonggi province... A luxury sedan was parked in a corner of the hospital parking lot. Yoo Minseok stepped out of his car and looked around the spacious yet stylish, secluded hospital. Perhaps it was because it was evening, but the surrounding area was very quiet. It would be a great place to live when older.

‘...This is Jaeseong Hospital.’

It was right after Yoo Minseok’s call with Joseph. This was the place where they had made an appointment to meet each other. Moreover, Yoo Minseok had special memories of this place. This hospital was established by Kang Jaeseong, who was the most important figure in the development of Arkstar. The hospital was named ‘Jaeseong’ after him and was now looking after the vegetative Kang Jaeseong.

‘I never thought I would come here again.’

Yoo Minseok sighed as he neatened his collar and stepped inside. At the opposite counter, he saw the nurse he had met a year old. “What brings you here?”

“I came to visit Kang Jaeseong in Room 802.”

“Did you contact us in advance?”

“Yes. Please confirm it. I am Yoo Minseok.”

“Wait a minute.”

The nurse picked up the phone in an accustomed manner and called Room 802.

“Yes, yes. I understand. Yes—”

The call didn’t take long.

“The guardian has given me permission so I’ll direct you right away. Wait a moment.”

The nurse stood up and hung something like a pass around Yoo Minseok’s neck. The word ‘visitor’ was clearly on it.

“You can go up to the 8th floor.”

“Thank you.”

Yoo Minseok entered the elevator and pressed the button to the eighth floor. His body felt like it was floating and complex thoughts filled his mind.

‘Is it really true?’

He could ask Joseph in detail over the phone, but Yoo Minseok wanted to confirm it with his own eyes. According to the old man, Joseph had things to prove it. However, Yoo Minseok couldn’t believe it unless he saw, heard, and felt it. Perhaps it was natural since it would be denying his youth.

Dding-!

The elevator door opened and he found Room 802. It was the same place the staff of the company had come to visit as a group two years ago.

Knock knock.

Yoo Minseok knocked on the door without hesitation. A gentle voice was heard saying, “Come in.”