The Reincarnated Assassin is a Genius Swordsman - Chapter 648

Raon calmly closed his eyes as he stared at the burning campfire.

‘It’s a bit tricky to use the Sword Saint’s martial arts as they are.’

The Sword Saint was from an ancient era and had reached a high level, so his martial arts weren’t entirely suitable for the Light Wind Division.

‘Should I really try to modify them?’

Raon had memorized all of the Sword Saint’s martial arts and had even fought him, so he thought it might be a good idea to create martial arts that would be more fitting for the Light Wind Division.

“What are you thinking about so seriously?”

While he was contemplating what to do, a cheerful voice came from his right.

He turned to see Rimmer coming out of the tent, running his hand through his disheveled hair.

“Aren’t you going to sleep?”

“I slept on Dorian’s back during the day, so I can’t fall asleep now.”

Rimmer looked up at the gradually brightening sky and then sat down beside Raon.

“I was thinking about the Sword Saint’s martial arts.”

“The Sword Saint’s martial arts?”

“Yes. I want to pass them on to the Light Wind Division, but as they are now, they’re not very useful. I’m considering making my own…”

“That’s a good idea!”

Rimmer nodded as if he thought it was a great idea.

“You know, learning advanced martial arts doesn’t automatically make you stronger. It’s important to find something that fits the person.”

He twirled his finger in the air.

“You know those kids well. I’m sure you can create martial arts that suit them perfectly.”

“I do know the members of the Light Wind Division well. But…”

Raon sighed lightly as he looked at the tent where the Light Wind Division was sleeping.

“I’m not sure if I can successfully modify the Sword Saint’s martial arts to create something suitable.”

He knew he had become stronger, but the Sword Saint was an extraordinary warrior. The thought of deconstructing his martial arts to create something new was daunting.

“Well, you might fail.”

Rimmer laughed as he looked up at the sky.

“But so what if you fail?”

“Pardon?”

“If it breaks, fix it. If it’s completely unusable, throw it away and make a new one.”

He patted Raon’s shoulder with a smile.

“You have the skill and time. No matter how great the Sword Saint’s martial arts are, there’s nothing you can’t do.”

“Hmm…”

Raon narrowed his eyes as he looked at Rimmer.

“I don’t have any money.”

“Why are you bringing up money all of a sudden!”

Rimmer yelled as if he couldn’t believe it.

“Aren’t you pretending to give advice so you can ask for money?”

“No! And what do you mean pretending to give advice! That’s too harsh!”

He gritted his teeth as if asking Raon if he thought he was a scammer.

“You’re not a scammer. But you’re a gambler, a slacker, and a man without a future…”

“Enough!”

Rimmer covered Raon’s mouth, telling him to stop.

“Anyway, if you approach this like you did when you created your swordsmanship, you’ll be able to create martial arts for the Light Wind Division without any issues.”

He nodded, as if giving Raon a boost of confidence.

“Vice-captain.”

“Huh?”

“Is something wrong with you lately?”

“Why?”

“You’re quiet when you’re with the kids, but when you’re with me, you give advice. I’m not used to it.”

“That’s my job as an advisor.”

Rimmer nodded as if it were obvious.

“But…”

“Yes.”

Raon leaned in, expecting more advice.

“Do you really have no money? I can pay you back next month…”

“No, I don’t have any. Even if I did, I won’t.”

Raon quickly turned his head away. He had expected something insightful, but it was just the usual.

-Yawn, that earboy is right.

As Raon sighed, Wrath yawned widely and climbed up onto the bracelet.

-It won’t break just from using it a bit, and you can keep experimenting. It might take some time since you’re not as talented as I am, but it’s not impossible.

Even while boasting about himself, Wrath nodded, encouraging Raon to try.

‘Yes, it’s best if I make it myself.’

After all, they weren’t strangers.

Raon had spent nearly ten years with the Light Wind Division. He knew not only their martial arts but also their preferences and personalities.

Creating martial arts for them wasn’t much different from creating his own.

‘It’s best to discard the framework of swordsmanship and blade techniques first.’

He activated the Ring of Fire, focusing as he began to deconstruct the Sword Saint’s martial arts. He analyzed what was strong, what was weak, and what should be kept or discarded.

As he organized his thoughts, a white light flickered in the night sky.

No, it wasn’t white light. It was a raven, black and white mixed together, rapidly descending.

“This bird…”

“Doqua’s bird?”

Rimmer widened his eyes as he recognized the raven. As he said, the raven was a familiar spirit used by Doqua for communication.

“What’s going on?”

“There’s a letter tied to its leg.”

Raon untied the small scroll attached to the raven’s leg and unrolled it.

[The Deputy Head of the Elder Council is causing trouble at the annex. If possible, return quickly.]

It was indeed Doqua’s handwriting, confirming that he had sent the message.

“Causing trouble, huh…”

Rimmer frowned as if he could already guess the situation.

-What does that mean? Causing trouble? How dare they!

Wrath’s face turned red with anger at the thought of trouble at the annex.

‘They’re probably abusing their authority, using something like the right to inspect.’

The Elder Council, though primarily a place for retired officials, also held the power to oversee and keep the family in check.

It seemed they were using this authority to harass the annex.

‘And the reason is…’

It’s likely because of me.

The Elder Council wasn’t targeting the annex because they disliked Sylvia. They were clearly using it as a means to pressure Raon, given that Karoon, who usually took such actions, was out of the picture.

-Those old bastards! If they want to mess with someone, they should come after you! How dare they lay a hand on my mother! Let me go at them, and I’ll rip out every one of their beards!

‘I’d like to do that too.’

Wrath was right. If they wanted to pick a fight, they should have come directly to him, not gone after the empty annex. Their behavior was akin to that of back-alley thugs.

‘This needs to be handled differently than before.’

As Raon’s power and status increased, more people would likely target the annex.

Handling things as he had in the past wouldn’t solve the problem anymore.

“Raon, you’re going, right?”

Rimmer asked, already knowing the answer.

“Yes, I need to go immediately.”

Raon looked at the rising sun as he burned the letter in his hand.

‘I’ll make them regret this.’

***

After returning to Zieghart, Raon headed straight for the annex. As soon as he saw it, he couldn’t help but grit his teeth.

‘They’ve destroyed the annex itself.’

The garden, which used to wave in greeting with its flowers and trees, had been uprooted and scattered across the ground. The well-maintained land was dug up, leaving yellow mounds of dirt like a battlefield.

Even the annex building itself was in ruins, with parts broken and collapsed. Window frames had been ripped out, and the walls were full of holes, resembling a beggar’s ragged clothing.

What was even more ridiculous was that the Elder Council’s warriors were giving orders, but the actual digging and destruction were being done by the maids.

Even Sylvia and Helen were digging up the garden.

Raon bit his lip as he looked at the old man sitting at the center of the garden. The old man didn’t bother to stand up, even when he noticed Raon’s arrival, casually sipping his tea instead.

‘So that’s the Deputy Head.’

Raon recognized him from various family events. He had always sensed the man’s disdain for him, treating him like an insect. Raon had never spoken to him before, and he hadn’t expected to meet him under such circumstances.

-Is that old bastard the Deputy Head?

Wrath clenched his fists.

-Let me descend right now! I’ll carve ice into every wrinkle on that old man’s face!

He grabbed Raon by the collar, demanding to be let loose immediately.

“This is a mess.”

Aris twisted her lips as she surveyed the state of the annex.

“Ha, this is far beyond what I expected.”

Rimmer also let out a hollow laugh, shaking his head in disbelief.

“I can’t stand it. I’ll take care of it all.”

Aris rolled up her sleeves and started to move forward.

“No.”

Raon stepped forward, stopping Aris and Rimmer with a shake of his head.

“This time, I’ll handle it within the annex.”

This wasn’t the first time trouble had come knocking at the annex.

The reason they kept coming was because the annex was seen as weak. This time, the annex had to resolve the issue itself, building an impenetrable wall that no one would dare to challenge again.

“I see.”

Aris understood the meaning behind Raon’s words and stepped back, though she clenched her fists in frustration.

“I’ll stay out of it, then.”

Rimmer also crossed his arms and nodded, signaling that he would just watch.

Hooooo.

Raon activated the Ring of Fire. Instead of revealing a powerful aura or displaying his anger, he suppressed it, walking calmly toward the Deputy Head.

“…Young Master.”

“When did you return?”

Judiel and the maids, who had been digging, looked up in surprise, their eyes wide.

“Raon.”

“Young Master!”

Sylvia and Helen also dropped their shovels and rushed over to him.

“Did you return after completing your mission? You came back sooner than expected.”

The Deputy Head of the Elder Council smiled faintly as he gestured with his hand.

“I’ve heard the story. It’s quite impressive that you managed to retrieve the Sword Saint’s martial arts. Well done.”

“……”

Raon ignored the Deputy Head’s words, instead focusing on Sylvia and the maids.

Their faces were streaked with dirt and sweat, their hands bruised and swollen. Their shoes and skirts were covered in mud from hours of digging.

“So, you’re the Deputy Head?”

Raon suppressed his urge to draw his sword and split the old man’s head, instead shifting his gaze to him.

“And what if I am?”

The Deputy Head didn’t flinch, even though Raon was speaking informally to him. He simply smiled.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

“This is an official inspection by the Elder Council!”

A middle-aged man, who seemed to be the Deputy Head’s subordinate, stepped forward instead of the Deputy Head.

“There’s been a report of illegal activities at this annex, and we’re conducting an investigation under the authority of the Elder Council…”

“I’m talking to your master, not to a dog. Stay out of this.”

Raon didn’t even spare the man a glance, keeping his eyes on the Deputy Head.

“You…!”

“Step back, Crisson.”

The Deputy Head chuckled and waved Crisson away.

“Indeed, we received a report of illegal activities at this location, so we’re using the authority of the Elder Council to conduct an inspection.”

“What illegal activities?”

“I can’t tell you that.”

“And who provided the information?”

“You know that informants must be protected. I can’t disclose that either.”

He twisted his lips into a mocking smile.

“Judging by the state of this place, it seems you haven’t found anything. So why are you still here? The inspection period must be over by now.”

“We might not have found anything yet. Besides, the Elder Council’s inspections can be extended up to three times. We’re following the rules.”

The Deputy Head waved a document in his hand, emphasizing that they were acting within legal boundaries.

“This has nothing to do with the inspection, but I am the Deputy Head of Zieghart’s Elder Council. I expect you to show some respect.”

“The only reason your head is still attached is because I’ve shown you respect.”

“They say thunder has no substance, and you’re proving them right.”

The Deputy Head maintained his expressionless face as he sipped his tea. He was clearly an experienced man who wouldn’t be easily provoked.

“Today, I’ll let this slide in honor of the Light Wind Division Captain, who has completed a great mission.”

At his signal, the warriors of the Elder Council gathered behind him, ready to leave.

“Don’t hold a grudge against us. Rules exist to be followed.”

“You’re going to regret this.”

Raon narrowed his eyes as he watched the Deputy Head turn to leave.

“I’ve heard that before. To be honest, I’m a little disappointed. I thought you’d at least draw your sword when you arrived.”

The Deputy Head smiled, his eyes filled with ridicule.

“I’ll make sure to meet those expectations soon enough.”

“I’m looking forward to it.”

With a casual wave, the Deputy Head departed from the annex.

-Are you just going to let him go like that?

Wrath ground his teeth.

-Go after him and smash his head like you always do!

‘Not yet.’

Raon bit his lip as he watched the Deputy Head’s retreating back. Since they were acting within the law, reckless action would only backfire.

“Raon.”

Sylvia approached him, her head bowed.

“I’m sorry. I said I’d protect the annex, but I couldn’t do anything…”

She trembled with frustration, her head hanging low.

“…It’s okay.”

Raon gently held Sylvia’s trembling shoulders, shaking his head. If she had lost control and drawn her sword, things would have escalated.

Thanks to her and the maids’ endurance, a way had opened to legally break that old fox’s head.

“Young Master.”

Judiel, who had gone inside the annex, returned with a black notebook in her hands.

“This is…”

“It’s a compilation of information provided by the black market and Sir Doqua.”

As she spoke, Raon opened the notebook. It was filled with shaky handwriting, all detailing information about the Deputy Head.

Judging by the uneven handwriting, it seemed that Judiel had worked on it late into the night after toiling with a shovel during the day.

“I hope it helps.”

“Thank you.”

Raon quickly read through the notebook and nodded.

“Thanks to this, I can see the path forward.”

“A path?”

“Yes.”

Raon twisted his lips into a smile as he looked at Sylvia and the maids.

“A way to ensure that those thugs never mess with this annex again.”

***

After ensuring that Sylvia and the maids were able to rest, Raon headed to the main hall of the Zieghart family. The members of the Light Wind Division and the Sky Sword Division were all waiting in front of the hall.

“Has it been resolved?” Burren asked, swallowing nervously as he approached Raon.

“Why are there so many people these days who don’t know how to act their age?” Martha muttered, her brow furrowed in irritation.

“Are you alright…?” Even Runaan, who was usually quiet, had a hint of concern in her eyes.

“Yes,” Raon nodded, reassuring not just the three of them but all the members of the Light Wind Division who were anxiously watching from behind.

“What exactly happened?” Burren pressed.

“We’ll talk about it later. For now, let’s focus on the report,” Raon replied, waving his hand dismissively as he took his place in front of the group.

As they entered the grand hall, the members of the Light Wind Division erased their confusion and replaced it with determination, adopting a stoic demeanor as they followed Raon.

The massive doors of the audience chamber were already open. Inside, the senior members of the Zieghart family were lined up on either side of the pillars.

Among them was the Deputy Head’s subordinate, Crisson, who had taken a place among the direct line of the family.

Hooooo.

Glenn, as usual, sat on the throne with his chin resting on his hand, but there was a different kind of intensity in his gaze this time.

Tsk.

Aris clicked her tongue as she nodded toward Glenn and moved forward first. She took a position next to Crisson, her expression showing that she was ready to strike if necessary.

Standing next to her was Chad, who greeted Raon with an unusually warm and friendly look, as if seeing an old friend.

Raon closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to calm his mind. Then, he signaled the Light Wind Division to follow him as he entered the audience chamber.

The red carpet was immaculate, with not a speck of dust, as Raon advanced and knelt before the dais.

“The Light Wind Division has returned after successfully completing its mission.”

“The Light Wind Division has returned after successfully completing its mission!”

The members of the Light Wind Division echoed Raon’s words, the sound of their knees hitting the floor reverberating through the chamber.

“Rise.”

At Glenn’s steady command, Raon stood up, meeting his gaze.

“Light Wind Division Captain.”

“Yes.”

“Wasn’t the mission assigned to the Light Wind Division a patrol of Zieghart’s territory?”

“That is correct.”

It was a question Raon had expected, so he answered calmly.

“Then why did you go to the Sword Saint’s tomb?”

“There were reports that martial artists drawn by the discovery of the Sword Saint’s tomb were causing significant damage to villages near Zieghart. After handling multiple incidents, I determined that the best course of action was to eliminate the source of the problem by securing the tomb first.”

“I see.”

Glenn nodded briefly, as if he had anticipated this explanation. It seemed that he was asking for the benefit of the other leaders present rather than for himself.

“Then report on what transpired inside the tomb.”

“Understood. We encountered and engaged the Snow Queen, the Sixth Apostle, and the Ghost Sword Master in battle. After receiving word that the tomb had been discovered, we immediately…”

Raon recounted the events that had transpired, detailing the battles fought and the alliances formed. However, he omitted the parts concerning the ancestral memories, as those were meant to be kept secret.

“…Afterward, we paid our respects to the Archmage of Balkar and the King of Owen, then returned.”

As Raon finished his report, the audience chamber was filled with the sound of people catching their breath.

Although they had heard some of the details before, the full scope of Raon’s accomplishments left the gathered leaders stunned.

“Good heavens…”

“To think he defeated the Snow Queen in single combat…”

“Not just that—he also faced the Sword Saint. Even if the Sword Saint was weakened by his undead state, it’s incredible that Raon fought him and survived…”

“If what he’s saying is true, this is nothing short of miraculous.”

The senior members murmured among themselves, their disbelief evident in their voices.

“Ahem!”

Glenn covered his mouth with his left hand and cleared his throat. His face had turned as red as a ripe apple.

“Defeating those enemies was impressive, but finding the control room of the tomb is even more remarkable, isn’t it?”

“Indeed. With some adjustments, that place could serve as an unparalleled training ground for our swordsmen.”

“I’m more impressed by what happened after they left the tomb. How did he subdue hundreds of warriors after such an exhausting fight? What is he, a zombie…?”

“The Sacred Sword Ground… It’s hard to believe that a sacred site for Zieghart has been established there.”

The leaders began discussing each of Raon’s accomplishments, praising him with smiles on their faces.

“Hmm…”

“Tsk.”

“Why are they making such a fuss?”

The direct-line leaders, on the other hand, frowned with displeasure. Some of them even scoffed, clearly unhappy with the praise Raon was receiving.

“The Sacred Sword Ground… It has a nice ring to it.”

Balder nodded his head enthusiastically, clearly pleased with the sound of the name.

“Damn it, I wish I had been the one to create it!”

He swung his massive fist in disappointment.

“If you had done it, it wouldn’t have become a sacred site. It would have just stunk of blood.”

Aris rolled her eyes, dismissing his complaint.

“She’s right.”

Denier, watching Raon, gave him a faint smile.

“It became a sacred site because the Captain of the Light Wind Division didn’t kill a single warrior. That’s why they honored him with such respect. It’s something not just anyone can achieve.”

“Yeah, I guess so.”

Balder scratched his nose and nodded in agreement.

“If it were me, I would’ve killed them all. Well done.”

He clapped his hands twice, a rare display of approval.

Raon acknowledged Balder with a nod before turning his attention back to Glenn.

“Hmph…”

Glenn appeared to be deep in thought, his hand still covering his mouth. His fingers trembled like a candle in the wind, and his eyes darted back and forth between the speakers with lightning speed.

It was difficult to tell what he was thinking.

“Lord, there’s something I would like to say.”

Unable to decipher Glenn’s thoughts, Raon decided to speak first.

“Speak.”

Glenn’s gaze returned to its usual calm focus as he nodded.

“The Sword Saint was one of Zieghart’s ancestors, and his tomb was originally a training ground for Zieghart. Now that the Sacred Sword Ground has been established, I believe we should officially claim ownership of the land as soon as possible.”

Raon continued, watching as the light in Glenn’s eyes grew more intense with each word.

“I’ve already received approval from both Owen and Balkar. Although the tomb is a bit distant from Zieghart, there aren’t many powerful forces in the region. If we move quickly, it should be easy to secure it.”

“There’s no need for that.”

“Pardon? But it would be a waste not to…”

Raon began, feeling that it would be a missed opportunity not to use the tomb as a training ground where martial artists could progress through different stages.

“That’s not what I meant.”

Glenn shook his head calmly. With a slight gesture, he signaled for Chad to step forward.

“Lucen Village, Yupil Village, Tuzan City, and…”

Chad extended a map in the air, pointing to each location between Zieghart and the Sword Saint’s tomb.

“The residents of the villages and towns where the Light Wind Division provided assistance have contacted us, expressing their desire to pledge loyalty to Zieghart.”

Chad nodded approvingly, acknowledging Raon’s achievement.

“As he said.”

Glenn traced a line in the air, and a golden path appeared on the map, connecting Zieghart to the Sword Saint’s tomb.

Lucen Village, Yupil Village, Tuzan City—each location where the Light Wind Division had offered aid was now marked in Zieghart’s golden hue.

“You and the Light Wind Division have drawn Zieghart’s line on the map of the continent.”