Childhood Friend of the Zenith

Seven weeks and nights passed.

Hanam was still bustling with people.

Summer had arrived, bringing with it the hottest days of the year.

Despite the crowds outside, I stayed in my quarters most of the time.

Even when I did go out, it was only at night, so I had no idea what was changing in the world beyond.

All I could do was immerse myself in training and wait for time to pass.

Thud—! Thud, thud—!

Heavy iron bars dropped to the floor, echoing with a loud crash.

My body was drenched in sweat, and my breathing was ragged and uneven.

“Huff... huff...”

I calmed my breath and stretched my body.

As the weight disappeared, I felt significantly lighter.