Chapter 95

Chapter 20. The Unicorn Tribe (5)

[Sudden Quest / Participation]

Content: The tower is currently suffering from the war between the Red Dragon and Cheonghwa Island. For the first time in decades, the Unicorn Tribe is planning to intervene externally and join the war as a mercenary group.

Join their ranks and participate in the war. The greater your achievements, the more your reputation will grow, and the more benefits and rewards you will receive, with more people watching you.

Time Limit: End of the war

Rewards:

1. +150 Intimacy with the Unicorn Tribe

2. Seed of the Moon

3. ???

Yeonwoo was not the only one surprised.

"Huh? That human too?"

"Recruiting outsiders? Is it really necessary?"

"It's fine, right?"

"No, I don't really care, but he needs to have some skills. If he just gets in the way, that's a problem."

"Princess and Prince recommended him. He should be fine, right? Besides, he's quite famous as a glutton, isn't he?"

"Guess so."

The elders and others, who had received no prior notice, murmured for a moment.

Pant and Edora also looked at their father with surprised eyes.

This was no small matter.

It was a significant event for the Unicorn Tribe to re-emerge after several decades.

And.

Yeonwoo's heart was also pounding like theirs.

The war between the Red Dragon and Cheonghwa Island.

It had become such a major event that no one in the tower was unaware of it.

It was an incident that Yeonwoo was also closely watching.

Both sides were places that needed to be erased from the world someday.

So, Yeonwoo planned to clear the 11th floor stage as quickly as possible, climb more floors before the war broke out, and continue to build his reputation.

He also sought a way to draw the attention of the leaders of both clans at once.

Since he was currently an outsider, the only way to participate in the war was to be hired as a mercenary.

However.

'Participate as a mercenary for the Unicorn Tribe?'

He received a proposal from a place he never expected.

With the Unicorn Tribe, he wouldn't have to worry about how to build his reputation.

So, it was a better opportunity for Yeonwoo.

The Unicorn Tribe was a place where members were sought after by various clans. If they joined en masse, he could reach the core of a clan.

For Yeonwoo, it was an unparalleled opportunity.

If he could participate in the war while hatching the egg,

Where else could he find a better two-for-one deal?

The only concern was:

'Doesn't the Unicorn Tribe strictly maintain neutrality and non-interference in tower affairs?'

The Unicorn Tribe did not get involved in the downfall of the giant clan Artia for this very reason.

For a long time, they had not interfered in external affairs and did not allow interference in their own affairs.

This was why the Unicorn Tribe had been able to reign as the strongest for so long.

But now, they had suddenly changed this principle.

Of course, he had some idea.

'The Spear Martial God of Cheonghwa Island. He was from the Unicorn Tribe, wasn't he?'

The Spear Martial God, one of the five martial gods who govern Cheonghwa Island, was known to wield a spear that could defeat even top-ranked players.

Did he bring the Unicorn Tribe back into the world?

"Are you participating on the side of Cheonghwa Island?"

"Ah, indeed. You catch on quickly, don't you?"

The Martial King nodded in agreement.

Yeonwoo asked about the points he found suspicious.

"The Unicorn Tribe is known for its absolute neutrality. May I ask why you are suddenly participating in the war?"

"No comment. But know that it's related to what you're guessing."

'So, the Spear Martial God must have pulled them in. I don't know what methods he used, though.'

He couldn't even guess what kind of offer could bring in the Unicorn Tribe, which had everything.

But one thing was certain.

'This war can no longer be easily reversed.'

The war between the two clans was already a significant issue. With the addition of the Unicorn Tribe,

'A major upheaval will occur. A very big one.'

He marveled at the subtle move by Cheonghwa Island.

They were trying to make up for their inferior forces compared to the Red Dragon, and they managed to bring in such shocking figures.

Even if the Red Dragon was ruthless, they couldn't ignore the Unicorn Tribe.

The war could no longer end easily.

So, his heart was boiling.

If the enemy factions fought and fell, he could take what he wanted and eliminate them.

"If I participate as a mercenary, what position will I have? Frankly, I don't understand why a place like the Unicorn Tribe would need an outsider."

"Well, you could think that. But it's not as easy as it sounds."

The Martial King leaned back in his chair and scratched his temples. Then he asked,

"Have you noticed any signs that we are preparing for war while passing through the village?"

Yeonwoo recalled the peaceful village scenery.

"No, I didn't notice anything."

"Right? These guys are a bit reluctant. Even if we announce our participation, there are some who are not pleased. On the other hand, there are also some crazy ones who are excited about the idea of just going wild without a care."

Only then did Yeonwoo understand the internal situation of the Unicorn Tribe.

"Not all the tribe members are participating, then."

"Right. Even if I shout at the top of my lungs, only a limited number will listen. But I have my pride, and the more people, the better, right?"

Yeonwoo nodded.

The Martial King smiled, resting his chin on his interlocked fingers.

"More hands mean less loss. Actually, there are about nine other guests besides you. They are all capable people."

Yeonwoo pondered for a moment.

'Even if he says that, if the Martial King leads, most of the warriors will follow, except for the immobile elders.'

The Unicorn Tribe was a place of absolute loyalty to the king and his family, despite the peaceful atmosphere.

For Yeonwoo, it was a proposal with no downsides.

He could participate in the war, observe the core of Cheonghwa Island, and learn about the martial arts and formations of the Unicorn Tribe, which could help advance his magic circuit.

However, Yeonwoo couldn't immediately agree.

'I can't guess the Martial King's true intentions.'

To Yeonwoo, the Martial King still appeared as a fierce beast smiling.

He couldn't guess what was going on in his mind.

It was as if Pant and Edora were intricately combined.

Pant's aggressiveness and Edora's meticulousness.

Possessing both made him a difficult opponent.

And this was too advantageous for him.

What if he just said he would participate but didn't fight properly? Or if he participated but didn't show any significant performance?

The Martial King didn't set any conditions for how much he should contribute.

He couldn't refuse to give the Seed of the Moon when the time came. Since the quest window had appeared, this was now a formal 'contract.'

The tower's system was strict about contracts.

The Martial King, being who he is, couldn't be unaware of this. Why was he setting up such a favorable situation?

There must be some ulterior motive.

He was a very difficult person to deal with.

But.

"So, are you in? Or out? Or do you need more time to think about it?"

The Martial King urged Yeonwoo.

In the end,

Yeonwoo finished his deliberation and made a decision.

"I will participate. As a mercenary."

The Martial King removed his face from his interlocked fingers, as if he had expected this, and slammed the table.

Bang!

"That's right! A man should have that much courage. Watch how the war unfolds. It will be a great learning experience for you as you climb the tower."

The Martial King nodded in satisfaction.

The elders and other people in the palace nodded silently, implying that they trusted their king to handle the situation.

This trust was rooted in the absolute faith the tribe members had in the Martial King.

Though his demeanor was reckless, he was not someone who handled things carelessly.

Since there were other guests staying in the annex besides Yeonwoo, there was no particular resistance.

However, Pant and Edora seemed to have a lot to say but were held back by the atmosphere.

"Then, the glutton Cain will join us as a guest of our clan in this war. Any objections?"

The tribe members crossed their arms and remained silent, indicating that they would let it be.

Some even looked at Yeonwoo with a competitive glint in their eyes.

"Then, so be it—!"

Just as the Martial King was about to announce the decision,

"I object."

Suddenly, one of the guards stood up abruptly.

Everyone's attention turned to him.

Their expressions were varied.

The elders looked intrigued, while Pant scowled openly. Edora's expression turned cold as ice.

The Martial King looked at the person who objected and asked,

"What is it, Jang? What do you want to say?"

"Father!"

'Father?'

Yeonwoo's eyes turned cold.

"This is a formal occasion. Watch your words."

"Forgive me, Your Majesty. It is unacceptable to bring in an outsider whose skills have not been properly verified, let alone someone who hasn't even cleared the 11th floor."

Jang glared at Yeonwoo with a mixture of annoyance and disdain.

As if to say, 'What makes you think you're worthy to stand alongside our clan?'

Yeonwoo smirked.

He had seen that look before.

Pant and Edora had the same look when he first met them in the tutorial, right?

Only then did Yeonwoo realize he was really in the Unicorn Tribe's village.

He had almost forgotten because many people, including Yanu, had looked at him with fondness.

These were arrogant people, weren't they?

"So, what? Do you not trust the recommendation of Pant and Prince Edora?"

At that moment, Edora asked Jang in a cold voice.

Jang, undeterred by Edora's gaze, sneered and retorted,

"Yes."

"You are being rude."

"You are the ones being rude. How can you treat a mere human like this? Tsk!"

"Can you take responsibility for those words?"

"I can."

It was hard to believe they were siblings with the same father.

Tension filled the air between them.

If no one intervened, they might have drawn their swords and attacked each other right then and there.

The elders watched with amusement, as if they would have enjoyed popcorn if it were available.

Snap!

"That's enough."

The Martial King clapped loudly, and the tension in the palace dissipated.

The elders sighed in disappointment.

"Back when you were young, you fought a lot, but you grew closer. If you want to fight, do it outside. You're too spirited. Anyway, Jang, you don't trust Cain, right?"

"Yes."

"Then, let's verify his skills."

The Martial King looked at Yeonwoo.

Yeonwoo nodded calmly.

The Martial King smiled and looked back at Jang.

"Since he's willing, Jang, you will verify his skills yourself. Is that acceptable?"

Jang smiled coldly, as if he had gotten what he wanted.

"Yes."

"Father!"

Edora looked at the Martial King, but he raised his hand to silence her.

"Then, gather at the training ground behind the palace in five minutes. We will conduct the verification there."

* * *

The crowd dispersed from the palace like a receding tide. Jang, the last to leave, even sneered at Yeonwoo.

Edora and Pant approached Yeonwoo.

"Brother, I'm sorry."

"Brother. Well, this has made things a bit complicated."

Pant scratched the back of his head.

Yeonwoo asked,

"Anyway, you would have had to show your skills to stay as a guest. This might be for the best."

"That's true, but... it's a bit of a headache. I feel like I've dragged you into our family affairs."

"..."

Yeonwoo tilted his head. Family affairs?

Edora spoke cautiously.

"Brother, do you know anything about the structure of our clan?"

Yeonwoo nodded.

"A little."

The Unicorn Tribe, though called a 'tribe,' was actually a federation of 51 families.

The strongest among them became the king.

"Then, I'll get to the point. Our clan consists of 51 families. Pant and I are from the Blue Crane family, and Father is from the White Immortal family."

Edora continued her explanation.

"Originally, the king of the Unicorn Tribe is chosen from among the children of the previous king. To ensure fairness, the king must have at least one heir from each family."

This meant the king had to marry women from all 51 families and have children with them.

It was a very complex system.

"So?"

"Yes. Jang is our half-brother, born from the same father and the White Immortal family. And..."

Edora bit her lower lip.

"Along with Pant, he is one of the four candidates considered for the next king. In fact, if we're being honest, he has a much higher chance than Pant."

"Hey! That's not true!"

"Quiet. Who said you were weak?"

Edora silenced Pant's protest and looked back at Yeonwoo. Her eyes, which were usually calm, showed a hint of anxiety.

Yeonwoo understood the situation and clicked his tongue.

"You're setting this up to belittle us and embarrass us in front of the elders."

"Yes."

That's why she apologized for dragging him into their complicated family affairs. He had been unnecessarily involved.

"Moreover, Jang is already a renowned warrior, having cleared the 30th floor at a young age. So..."

Edora trailed off. She didn't need to say it; he understood what she meant.

There was no need to clash. In fact, it was better not to. He might get hurt.

Yeonwoo chuckled.

Pant and Edora, worrying about him, were adorable. They were just like the kids he met in the tutorial. If they were showing their weak side, what kind of opponent was this?

On the other hand, he felt a bit annoyed.

He hated being dragged into matters unrelated to him. And he was annoyed by the nonsense that made Pant and Edora look like this.

"If you need the Seed of the Moon, we can try to get it—"

"No. It's fine."

Yeonwoo reached out and ruffled Edora's hair.

Edora's eyes widened.

"I'll handle my own affairs. You two just sit back."

"But—"

"Just watch. If you consider me a brother, this is something I should do."

Under the mask, Yeonwoo's eyes curved slightly.

"Because it's my job as a brother."

* * *

The training ground at the back of the palace was quite lively.

The Martial King and the elders were present, and most of the tribe members had gathered to watch, having heard the news.

It was a match between the human Pant and Edora, and Jang, a candidate for the next king.

Edora was silent as they entered the training ground, her face flushed with worry.

She kept replaying Yeonwoo's words in her mind.

Pant, looking at his sister, clicked his tongue and said, "Serious case, serious case."

Then he turned his gaze to the center of the training ground.

In the center, Yeonwoo and Jang stood quietly.

Jang, who used a sword, was gently stroking it. His cold eyes were fixed on Yeonwoo.

The human Pant and Edora had talked about so much, the one they called a glutton.

No matter how much noise he made outside, to Jang, he was just a laughable opponent.

Jang had never liked Pant and Edora much.

The children of a courtesan who had stolen his father's love. There was nothing more unclean than the dirty blood that flowed through them.

And anyone who associated with such unclean beings. Well, it was obvious, wasn't it?

But the human had done nothing since entering the training ground.

He didn't check his weapon or warm up.

Under the strange mask, he only sent a calm gaze.

Jang sneered. Pretending to be something he wasn't wouldn't change anything.

"As I said, this is just a verification. No killing is allowed, and if anything goes wrong, severe punishment will follow. Understood?"

The Martial King, with his arms crossed, asked the two in his usual playful manner. When Yeonwoo and Jang nodded, the Martial King shouted,

"Then, let's begin!"

Jang adjusted his grip on the sword.

The secret technique of the White Immortal family, the 'Immortal Dance Sword Style.'

He intended to knock Yeonwoo down in one move. Showing a significant skill gap would also embarrass Pant and Edora.

He gathered his mana to its full extent. Just as he was about to unleash an upper-level technique, an aura, like when he had cut down the 30th floor boss, the Draconian, in one stroke.

Whoosh—

Suddenly, Yeonwoo's figure sank below the ground.

'Where did he—'

Jang tried to quickly sense Yeonwoo's location, but his thoughts didn't last long.

Because at that moment, his head was already buried in the ground.

Bang!

Jang's head smashed into the solid ground, and above him, Yeonwoo, with cold eyes, firmly held the back of his head and pressed down hard.

"…!"

"…!"

An overwhelming defeat.

The audience was stunned into silence.