The Reincarnated Assassin is a Genius Swordsman - Chapter 322

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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Chapter 322

Tacheon gazed at the map of Owen Royal Castle spread across the wooden table and let out a soft chuckle.

“A failure….”

To ensure complete annihilation, I had even twisted the spatial coordinates, yet chaos never materialized. Not a single soul perished—not Raon, not anyone. It was an unambiguous, total failure.

“Did you say failure?”

The Red Ghost Knight turned to face Tacheon, his eyes widening in disbelief. He gripped the table tightly, as if unable to comprehend.

“Could it be that Glen Zigheart….”
“No. It was Raon Zigheart. He erased the yin-yang energies before chaos could take hold.”

Tacheon raised his hand gently. Light and darkness swirled softly above his palm.

“He must have only seen what happened when I fought Glen, yet he grasped the flow of chaos. Truly, he is no ordinary being.”
“That is precisely what makes him so terrifying.”

The Red Ghost Knight nodded gravely.

“Every time he came at me, his strength differed from the day before. His power is not yet a true threat, but it won’t be long before he ascends to greater heights.”

Before the Branch fell, Raon had sent blades my way daily, demanding combat, and with each encounter, his prowess transformed as though he were a different person. I have witnessed countless martial artists, but never such insane growth.
I’ve seen many skilled fighters, but I’d never witnessed such insane growth before.

“Growth potential, huh…”

The Severed Soul Sword remained motionless, gazing out at the ocean in the same posture as before.
The Severed Soul Sword gazed out at the sea, his posture unchanged from before.

“What will you do? If we’re going to eliminate him, it’s best to do it as quickly as possible.”

The Red Ghost Knight looked at Tacheon with sunken eyes. Raon Zigheart’s growth was unpredictable. He had to make a firm decision to kill him.

Unfortunately, I don’t have much room to spare. I’ve had quite a bit of expenses recently.

Tacheon slowly shook his head and lifted his gaze.

“Let us look a bit further ahead.”

He gazed at the moonlit sky above the beach and gently closed his eyes. His fingers twitched as if savoring music, and when his eyes opened again, they gleamed with heterochromatic brilliance—each iris a different hue.

“I must change my approach to dealing with Raon.”
“What do you mean….”
“Not elimination, but utilization.”

Tacheon’s lips curled into a thin smile.

“It seems he will aid our cause quite nicely.”

*

*

*

Screeeech!

The Red Ghost Knight’s thermal beam shattered Borini Kitten’s longsword like glass. The scorching heat that followed transformed the Sparring Arena into a blazing furnace.

Whoooosh!

Even as his blade shattered, Borini Kitten’s eyes remained alight with determination. Gripping the fractured longsword, he charged across the shimmering arena.

Uuuuung!

From the broken blade erupted the most brilliant light yet. A flash of aura surged forth, targeting Raon’s throat.

Raon matched his intensity without faltering. Like a swallow in flight, I lowered my knees and waist, then swept the Heavenly Sword upward from below.

Whoooosh!

Undying flames danced along the blade’s edge, flowing in a crescent arc as I mercilessly tore through the aura Borini Kitten had poured forth with his final strength.

Crackle!

Borini Kitten’s sword crumbled to dust without even leaving a hilt behind, and the brilliant silver armor twisted and was torn away.

I swung the Heavenly Sword to disperse the intense heat that filled the Sparring Arena and prevent any further damage.

“Phew.”

Borini Kitten removed his torn armor and exhaled deeply.

“I have been defeated.”

He acknowledged his loss and bowed respectfully.

“There is something quite satisfying about losing after giving everything you have.”

True to his words, Borini Kitten’s eyes were clear and bright. His expression showed the satisfaction of having poured out everything within him.

“I learned much from you.”

I smiled and bowed in return.

“No. I learned far more.”

Borini Kitten shook his head. Not a trace of selfishness flickered in his eyes.

“F-Quarterfinals, Round One! The victor is Raon Zigheart of the Legend Sword Association!”

The Announcer, who had been watching for his moment, climbed into the Sparring Arena and announced the result of the duel.

“Ooooooooooooh!”
“Raon! Raon! Raon!”
“We knew the Legend Sword Association would deliver!”
“He showed us what a true martial artist really is!”
“I’ll support you for life! Raon Zigheart!”

The spectators roared with such intensity that the Sparring Arena trembled, their voices calling out my name in unison. The deafening chorus was so overwhelming that a ringing sound echoed in my ears.

I glanced toward the leaders of the Six Emperors seated below the Sparring Arena.

“Hmm.”

Glen gave a small nod of acknowledgment. The fact that someone as reserved as him showed such a gesture meant he was genuinely satisfied.

“That was a magnificent duel.”
“You’re just as insane. A handsome madman!”
“Both of you have truly embodied the spirit of warriors.”

King Lecross offered his applause, Chamber laughed heartily, and Ogram smiled broadly with evident approval.

“It was a feast for the eyes.”

Derus Robert was smiling as well. To any observer, it would appear to be a genuine, delighted expression, but in reality, it was nothing more than a facade.
Right now, he was too preoccupied suppressing the fury boiling beneath the surface.

‘Damn the Robert Family….’

Memories from my past life surged forth.

While I toiled in the shadows, staining my hands with blood and filth, Derus basked in the sunlight, savoring the cheers of the masses.

While I executed those who defied the Robert Family in the darkness, Derus saved people and earned the epithet Cheongeomseong.

While I raided nobles and stole their wealth and secrets to secure funds, Derus distributed grain and received praise as a benevolent ruler.

While Shadow and I suffered through hell itself, Derus grew stronger, built his reputation, and then boiled alive the very hound who had made all his achievements possible.

He was garbage—unforgivable in life, and unforgivable even in death and rebirth.

All the power and fame you gained were because of me.

‘I’ll strip it all away.’

I bit the inside of my cheek hard as I watched Derus’s smile.

‘This is just the beginning.’

True vengeance hasn’t even started yet. Only after I crush his son Cardis utterly and completely will I truly stand at the starting line.

“Thank you for everything.”

I buried my true feelings deep and bowed my head to Derus and the leaders of the Six Emperors.

“Raon Swordmaster.”

As I turned to leave the Sparring Arena, Borini Kitten called out to me. He didn’t just use my title—he added an honorific suffix as well.

“Yes?”
“Would you wait a moment, please?”

He said he couldn’t make such a decision on his own and approached King Lecross. After a brief conversation with him, he climbed back into the Sparring Arena.

“Raon Swordmaster.”

Borini Kitten stepped forward and dropped to one knee, bowing his head.

“I, Borini Kitten, swear before all gathered here that I shall fulfill any three requests you make of me, whenever and whatever they may be.”
“What?”

My eyes widened at this unexpected turn of events.

“What are you saying…”
“Through our duel, Raon Swordmaster, I came to understand three profound truths. In repayment for enlightening this foolish man, I offer my life and pledge to fulfill your requests.”

Borini Kitten lifted his face. His expression shone as brightly as if the sun had risen anew.

“Three truths?”
“First, that saving a life knows no bounds of time or circumstance. Second, that you showed me what a true warrior truly is. And third, that even encouraging an enemy can be of service.”

He smiled and counted them off on his fingers one by one.

“In truth, beyond all of that, the fact that you saved my life and the lives of everyone here would be reason enough to follow you for the rest of my days. But I already have a liege to whom I have pledged my life, so I ask your understanding.”
“Hmm…”

I narrowed my eyes. Borini Kitten was a knight whose future held far greater promise than his present. The ability to call upon him three times was a gain worth more than any treasure.
Being able to use him three times was a gain that couldn’t be exchanged for any treasure.

“His Majesty has already given his permission. Please accept it.”

Borini Kitten bowed his head again. It seemed that the conversation he had just had with King Lecross was now his oath.

‘I can’t believe he’s allowing this….’

It seemed King Lecross had taken quite a liking to me.

-What are you doing?

Wrath burst forth from the ice flower bracelet and furrowed his brow.

-Free labor! You should accept it immediately!

Like a brainless cotton candy, he had a weakness for anything free.

‘Wait a moment.’

I shook my head and stepped forward, meeting Borini Kitten’s gaze.

“May I ask you one thing?”
“Of course.”
“If I were to make a request that goes against a knight’s honor—or rather, something I couldn’t ask of someone wearing human skin—why would you swear such an oath?”

I was genuinely curious. I had only planned to irritate Derus, yet accepting Borini Kitten’s oath felt burdensome.

“Because you just said that.”
“Pardon?”
“It might seem presumptuous, but if I swore to grant a request, most people would be too busy accepting that oath to worry about what they’d ask for later. They’d focus on accepting it first.”

Borini Kitten smiled gently and lifted his head.

“But you didn’t accept my oath. Instead, you worried first about a knight’s honor. That’s precisely why I believe I can trust you.”

He struck his own chest with his right hand.

“I trust that you won’t ask me to abandon my humanity or the path of a knight. Please accept my oath.”

I exhaled softly and closed my eyes.

-He keeps talking like that, so just accept it already! When I was in the Demon Realm, countless fools rushed at me, but your reputation is pitiful….
‘Be quiet.’

I pushed Wrath away since the conversation seemed like it would drag on.

‘I still don’t fully understand it.’

I had never intended to move Borini Kitten emotionally. I had merely provoked him to grow stronger, yet this situation had unfolded.

Still, his words of trust warmed my chest. It was my first time receiving such faith from someone I had met not long ago.

I made my decision and opened my eyes.

“I accept.”

I met Borini Kitten’s gaze.

“I swear as well. I will never ask you to do anything that would bring dishonor to your name. Sir Borini Kitten.”
“I trust you. Sir Raon.”

I extended my hand. I grasped Borini Kitten’s hand and pulled him to his feet.

“Uuuaaahhhhh!”
“This is a warrior’s battle, and this is a warrior’s friendship!”
“Magnificent!”
“Spear Point Sword! Spear Point Sword!”
“Legend Sword Association!”

The spectators erupted in cheers once more, calling out my name and Borini Kitten’s.

I raised my hand in acknowledgment of their roars and descended from the Sparring Arena. I observed Derus forcing a smile and Borini Kitten genuinely beaming, then smacked my lips.

‘I still seem to know so little about people and the world.’
-True enough. Your mockery rivals that of a Demon King, yet your humanity falls short of even the True Demon King’s….
‘Be quiet.’

*

*

*

Even after all the Round of 16 matches concluded, conversations throughout the Training Ground centered solely on Raon and Borini Kitten.
This Master-class duel had become a stage belonging entirely to Raon and Borini Kitten.

Glen smiled at the chaos of the Training Ground. Hearing nothing but praise for his cherished grandson from every corner lifted his spirits naturally.

‘I should restrain myself.’

He had considered having Roen assassinate the spectators spouting nonsense about Raon, but his good mood made him decide to let it slide.

“Let’s head back now….”
“I’ll come with you!”

Just as I was about to lead Sheryl and Roen toward the Medical Office where Raon was, Rimer leaped down from the Spectator Stands.

“Where have you been and what have you been doing all this time?”

Sheryl glared at Rimer with eyes that promised a strike if he didn’t answer properly.

“Heh heh, surely not gambling again….”

Roen chuckled softly, but his gaze turned sharp and piercing.

“No, no, that’s not it.”

Rimer shook his head rapidly.

“Though you all might not realize it, I’m the primary architect behind Raon’s name spreading right now.”

He grinned and raised a finger.

“If I hadn’t pushed Raon forward, everything here would have been swept away by the chaos Tacheon caused.”
“….”

Glen stared at Rimer for a moment, then turned and headed toward the direction of the Medical Office.

“What nonsense.”

Sheryl clicked her tongue at Rimer, her expression the very picture of disdain.

“This won’t do. From now on, you’re going to take hits from me and go flying.”
“No, really! Roen! You believe in me, don’t you!”
“Heh, I must follow the Head of House.”

Roen bowed respectfully and followed Glen Zigheart.

“Help? Nonsense! You were probably gambling the whole time! If I search your pockets, I bet I’d find dozens of gambling vouchers? You’re not getting off easy today….”
“Heavenly Sword Master.”

Glen turned around just as Sheryl was about to strike Rimer.

“Let’s be on our way.”
“Yes? Yes!”

Sheryl tilted her head in confusion and fell in behind Glen Zigheart. Her eyes narrowed with surprise.

“Phew….”

After everyone had left, Rimer let out a sigh.

“That was close.”

He grinned, gazing at the gambling vouchers stuffed in his breast pocket.

“I almost got caught.”

*

*

*

After receiving treatment for my lower back at the Medical Office, I made my way to the Training Ground. The empty Training Ground was shrouded in darkness, but the bright moonlight allowed me to move without much difficulty.

Shing!

I moved to the center of the Training Ground and drew the Severed Soul Sword.

-Could it be….

Wrath swallowed hard and lifted his head.

-Training again?
‘Of course. Why ask the obvious?’

I nodded immediately.

‘After learning, one must review.’

Today, facing Matheus and Borini Kitten, not only had my Blade of Madness and Snowstorm Sword Technique improved, but even my Preliminary Sword and Perfect Sword achievements had risen. If I didn’t verify my growth before sleep, the hard-earned strength I’d accumulated would diminish.

-Beyond being tedious, now I’m tired of you….

Wrath shook his head and sighed.

‘Mastering tedious things is how one becomes an exceptional warrior.’
-That’s not it! You relentless bastard!

He let out a sharp cry before frowning and settling onto my shoulder. His expression suggested he was too exhausted to even speak.

‘I’ll only train until Dorian brings him.’
-Him?

I didn’t answer and brought down the Severed Soul Sword. The fierce yet sharp form of the Blade of Madness cut through the night air.

‘Excellent.’

As my Preliminary Sword and Perfect Sword achievements rose, sharpness and precision infused the Blade of Madness—once a beast unleashed without restraint.
Each sword strike emanated an eerie killing intent.

‘The greater transformation lies in the Snowstorm Sword Technique.’

The Snowstorm Sword Technique, which had lacked practical combat from solo training, now bore terrifying fangs. Sharp blades that could bite through and sever an enemy’s flow were etched deeply into the Training Ground.

‘This isn’t the end yet.’

There was still more I could achieve.

I unleashed the Blade of Madness and Snowstorm Sword Technique in succession before lowering my sword. As I smiled with satisfaction, a small Sparrow flew down from a tree and perched on the flat of my blade.

“This guy….”

I recalled hearing that a swordmaster who had reached an elevated realm possessed a natural quality in their blade that drew wild beasts to approach them.

‘Am I at that level?’

I still had a long way to go.

Not even understanding what a natural blade truly meant, I found it strange—yet somehow my mood lifted.

“All this training has finally borne fruit….”
“Well done.”

As I formed a faint smile, Sparrow tilted its head and opened its beak to speak in human words.

“Ah….”

My jaw dropped. That tone alone was unmistakable. I quickly deployed my aura barrier to prevent the sound from leaking out.

“M-Merlin?”
“You recognize me now.”

Merlin laughed teasingly through Sparrow’s beak.

“Didn’t you leave?”
“How could I go when you’re in danger?”

She turned her head away as if questioning why I would ask something so obvious.

-Hueok!

Wrath trembled at the sight of Merlin.

-M-Mad woman! A true mad woman! An obsession blade is lodged in her very mind!

He swallowed hard and hid within the ice flower bracelet.

“Shaving away mana before Chaos completed—a perfect response. It was beautiful.”
“Ha….”

A headache was coming on. I thought that if she said goodbye like that, I wouldn’t see her for a while, but she showed up right away. And in Sparrow’s form, no less. It was absurd.
She was truly incomprehensible.

“Since I’ve earned the trust of both Borini Kitten and King Lecross, I’d say this is the best possible outcome.”

Merlin, in Sparrow’s form, grinned mischievously. It was a strange experience to feel both cuteness and chills simultaneously.

“Now Tacheon won’t be able to move recklessly either. You’ve worked hard.”
“Since when were you watching?”
“From start to finish. I’m always watching over you.”
“Ugh….”

Her soft voice sent goosebumps racing up my forearms.

“I can’t hold this form for long while watching your fights.”

The wings of the Sparrow carrying Merlin trembled slightly.

“I’ll be looking forward to seeing you soar even higher.”

She raised her trembling wings in a final farewell. Yet I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that she would appear again soon regardless.

“Oh, and give this little one some grain. We had such an agreement.”
“Why do you keep pushing your promises onto me….”

Chirp.

I was about to argue, but the Sparrow—its spirit apparently switched—looked up at me with dark, beady eyes. It hopped onto the flat of my blade and tilted its head, its expression clearly demanding I produce grain immediately.

“Sigh….”

As I exhaled and shook my head, the Training Ground door opened and Dorian entered.

“Master Raon. You called for me. I’ll be right there.”
“Perfect timing.”

I offered Dorian an awkward smile and gestured to him.

“Do you happen to have any grain?”
“Grain? Of course I do!”

Dorian grinned widely and pulled ten cylindrical containers from his spatial pouch.

“What would you like? Barley, rice, millet, beans, sorghum, wheat, corn? I have more. Just say the word!”
“I’m exhausted….”

I exhaled sharply. Whether it was Merlin appearing at random intervals or Dorian carrying everything under the sun, I was growing weary of it all.

“This one needs to eat, so could you pick something out for it?”

I pointed to Sparrow. I’d heard before that birds enjoyed feed made from millet and sorghum, but since I didn’t know what Sparrow preferred, I’d asked for everything.

“Ah, you’re feeding this little one!”

Dorian opened the containers and poured out all the grains as he watched Sparrow perched on my hand. He arranged them in a line across the table, creating a proper buffet.

Chirp!

Sparrow fluttered its wings and eagerly sampled the grains it desired from the buffet.

“Hehe, this little one is adorable, isn’t it?”

While Dorian chuckled at Sparrow sprawled out with a plump belly, the Training Ground door opened quietly.

I turned and offered a cold smile.

“You’ve arrived.”

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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