Surviving as a Genius on Borrowed Time

The shadow hanging beneath the walls of Mok Manor stretched long, casting an eerie stillness over the courtyard.

At last, the Red Phoenix King was freed from Jeong Yeon-shin’s grasp.

It was all thanks to his keen insight into the content of the public notice issued by Desolation Across the Wastes. Monarchs of his standing were perceptive enough to grasp intent even from the strokes of a brush.

In the end, the Red Phoenix King pledged unconditional support to Ipwang Fortress. At that moment, Azure Tranquil Sword Cheongmyeong smiled slightly and spoke.

"Lord Jeong’s brushwork surpasses that of the scholars in the Hanlin Academy or the grand scribes of the Trade Bureau. I wonder how much you’ve earned in a single sitting."

A remark made with impeccable timing.

“…Unnecessary.”

It was precisely that remark that ensured Desolation Across the Wastes would accept the Red Phoenix King’s apology.

Cheongmyeong had watched over Jeong Yeon-shin, whether he was clad in white or blue, and even remained close during his black-clad days.

He had long since learned to gauge the temperament of his young superior.

"The General Bureau must be in complete turmoil right now. I can already picture it. That iron-clad Grand Marshal crumbling over a few sheets of parchment."

"Grand Marshal Im?"

Jeong Yeon-shin’s question.

A soft rustle.

The hand of Desolation Across the Wastes, which had remained slightly lifted, now lowered completely.

He had always shown immense respect for scholars. The influence he wielded in appointing the Lord of Divine Sword Division was second only to that of Grand Marshal Im Jin-myeong, a figure he revered more than his own maternal grandfather.

Since the day he entered Ipwang Fortress, that had never changed. As a result, the General Bureau had always spoken of Jeong Yeon-shin in the most favorable light.

"Soon enough, the Bloody Penance will show its true efficacy."

"……."

Desolation Across the Wastes spoke softly, his gaze fixed on the footprint still imprinted on the Red Phoenix King’s chest.

Ha…

On one side, Shin So-bin, who had been watching the entire exchange, finally exhaled, shoulders sinking in relief.

Had the Red Phoenix King’s head truly been severed, it would have cast an ominous shadow over relations with the Northern Imperial Court. While Jeong Yeon-shin himself would have remained unharmed, securing their cooperation in the future would have become nearly impossible.

In the end, Jeong Yeon-shin had not gained the infamy of being the one who killed a royal of the Zhu lineage. Instead, he had merely engraved into the world’s consciousness that imperial dignity meant nothing to him.

And so, the incident came to a close.

"I… failed to uphold the virtues of a guest. I offer you my deepest apologies."

The Red Phoenix King straightened his crumpled royal robes with a pulse of inner energy and turned to leave.

Even his mighty warriors had not been able to raise their weapons against Jeong Yeon-shin. The Red Phoenix King had repeatedly restrained them through voice transmission.

Even as he walked away, he considered it a wise decision.

And then—

"Please take care of yourself…"

"Ipwang Fortress is endlessly grateful for your support."