“Welcome to the Hall Plain,” 박현우 began, his voice amplified to reach every corner of the bustling square. “I know you’ve already heard much from the angels, so I’ll keep this brief. But there’s one thing we need to clarify.”
He paused, letting the weight of his words settle over the crowd. The new users, fresh from their initiation, hung on his every word, their expressions a mix of anticipation and unease.
“We were all once citizens of Korea, just like you. We’ve all passed through the same trials you just faced. The only difference between us is timing—whether we arrived in this world earlier or later. The point is…”
His voice, carried by the magic, resonated through the air, ensuring that every one of the 130 new users heard him clearly. He stepped forward, standing over the crumpled figure of 박동걸, who lay at his feet, battered and broken.
“We are not here to send you home.”
The impact of his statement rippled through the crowd, stirring a wave of murmurs and shifting glances. Disappointment and confusion were palpable among the new users, but 박현우 seemed unfazed, as if he had expected this reaction.
“I understand your feelings,” he continued, his tone softer now. “I felt the same way once. But this is the reality of the Hall Plain. We are here to survive, to adapt, and to find our place in this world.”
As he spoke, I watched the scene unfold, my mind racing with thoughts of the future. 박현우 was a figure of authority here, a leader in the Golden Lion Clan, known for their strict discipline and formidable presence. Yet, I knew that their path would eventually lead to ruin, a fate sealed by their own overreach and the machinations of rival clans.
For now, though, the focus was on the present, on the new users who would have to navigate this harsh new reality. I took note of those who seemed to listen intently, their eyes sharp and calculating. They would be the ones to watch, the ones who might rise to prominence in this unpredictable world.
As 박현우 continued to address the crowd, I let my thoughts drift back to my own journey, the choices I had made, and the path that lay ahead. The Hall Plain was a place of endless possibilities and dangers, and it was up to each of us to carve out our own destiny.
“I understand all too well how unfair it feels to be dragged into this wretched hall plane against your will. We’re in the same boat, after all. So, you might be wondering why we’re here. The purpose is simple: to help you adapt to this hall plane, to survive. We’re here to guide and assist you in the beginning.”
He paused, looking down at Park Dong-geol, who seemed to be trembling with humiliation, his pride still intact despite the pain. But when his eyes met Park Hyun-woo’s, he quickly averted his gaze. I couldn’t help but feel a bit of satisfaction.
“To elaborate, think of us as high-level players in an online game helping out the newbies. However, this man here hurled insults and threats at the guide. Of course, we respect individual freedom and rights. Some of you might not trust us or want our help. For those people, here’s your chance. If you don’t want our guidance, please stand up and leave this place. There are absolutely no restrictions.”
When he finished speaking, no one dared to open their mouth. Naturally, no one stood up either. Only a deathly silence enveloped the plaza. After a while, confirming that no one was leaving, Park Hyun-woo nodded a couple of times and spoke again.
“Seems like no one is leaving. Then I’ll assume everyone here is willing to receive guidance. If any user causes harm to others through misconduct, appropriate measures will be taken. While guidance involves some level of control, if you find it excessive, you’re free to opt out at any time. Now, Yubin, cancel the voice amplification spell.”
As the mage named Yubin dispelled the voice amplification magic, their voices became inaudible again. Park Hyun-woo called over a priest and seemed to say something while pointing at Park Dong-geol. I quickly reactivated my hearing with magic.
The priest he summoned was the burly man I had seen at the inn. A priest with such a build—what an odd combination. The large priest knelt on one knee and leaned over the fallen Park Dong-geol. Then, raising his hand imbued with a holy light, he moved it close to Park Dong-geol’s right arm.
“Heal.”
With a soft utterance of the word, the light in his hand flared brilliantly. The light, which had blossomed into the air, was soon absorbed into Park Dong-geol’s right arm. The arm, which had been grotesquely bent, slowly returned to its proper position. Some of the new users gasped at the sight.
Park Dong-geol blinked in disbelief, clearly astonished by the healing. As he groaned and got up, he tentatively moved his right arm, which seemed to have healed perfectly. Park Hyun-woo watched him with indifferent eyes before speaking in a quiet voice.
“Get up.”
At his command, Park Dong-geol scrambled to his feet with a speed that made a rustling sound. It was the typical behavior of someone who was weak to the strong and strong to the weak. Park Hyun-woo, seemingly displeased with him, grimaced slightly and continued in a growling tone.
“Even if you’re a new user, opposing a member of the Golden Lion Clan in Barbara City is madness. I’ll let it slide this time, but if it happens again…”
His words carried a hint of intentional menace. Park Dong-geol, sensing the subtle threat, nodded frantically.
Finally, the priest, at Park Hyun-woo’s signal, took Park Dong-geol to join the close combat group. Once it was clear he was complying, Park Hyun-woo turned back to us.
---------------------------= Author’s Note ---------------------------=
Hello, this is Ro Yujin. It’s a fiery Friday! And an exciting weekend is ahead…. :)
It seems “Memorize” is receiving more attention and love than I ever imagined. I never thought I’d see my name on the Noblesse Tube. I’m truly sorry for not being able to meet readers’ expectations with continuous updates. ㅜ.ㅠ
Thank you so much to everyone who has bookmarked, recommended, commented, and sent coupons. Even on tough days, just thinking about the readers of “Memorize” clears my mind. It’s amazing to feel this excited while writing an author’s note. Haha.
Dear readers, I sincerely hope you have a peaceful end to your day and a happy weekend. Now, let’s dive into the replies.
『Replies』
CreamMonShell: Congratulations on being the first to comment! Always the first to reply with a sense! “Wheel Dong-geol”… what a witty nickname. Just to clarify, Park Dong-geol is meant to be an unlikeable character in my novel, not a jab at anyone with the same name. I hope no one with that name feels offended.
Energi: Wow. I’m amazed you know such details. ㄷㄷ As someone who posts, I do check the rankings once or twice a day. I never dreamed I’d make it to the Tube. :)
GayeonEul: You might be a little disappointed in the future. ㅜ.ㅠ But Hanbyeol has her reasons. She’s a very clever character.
Katamunai: I’m just sorry I can’t update continuously… sob.
kdnight: Thank you. There seemed to be an error when I pasted from my drafts. I quickly fixed it after seeing your comment. Thanks again. :)
CrossDie: No, no! Thank you so much for the coupon. I’m really sorry for not updating continuously… ㅜ.ㅠ It breaks my heart….
Seolbiyeon: I was surprised to see a message from you in my inbox today. It seems there are quite a few readers who have been following this story for a while. Haha.
GradeDown: The word “physiology” made me imagine something strange for a moment… I’m a perverted writer… Hanbyeol wants to trust the protagonist. But she has a personality that addresses issues head-on. I’m glad her character is getting more attention lately. :)
Estel: Of course. I’m planning a flashback or side story. Please look forward to it~.
Jinta: Loyalty! Stay healthy during your military service! There will be plenty of chapters when you return. Haha.
Pobori: I’m… I’m sorry. 6, 6 continuous updates ㅎㄷㄷㄷ. 6, 6 continuous updates… 6 continuous updates… @[email protected]
Arillilia: Nice to meet you! Comments are always welcome. :) It’s thanks to the readers’ interest in this humble work. I’ll continue to work hard.
JoWoon: Yes… yes? Yes?;;; Yes;;; Thank you. (ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ)
VincentScarlet: No, no, I don’t continue writing just because comments make me happy! Actually, I do. ㅋㅋㅋㅋ Trying to be tsundere makes my fingers curl ㅋㅋㅋㅋ
LatiDoll: Ah… if I update as much as the number of coupons… hmm… I might easily surpass Atlanta. @[email protected] Sob sob sob sob….
BaekInTimothy: Uhuhu. That’s right. Suhyeon’s rivals are unexpectedly numerous. I’ve already thought about this part. :)
Blami: Yep. Not all countries are featured. Only people from South Korea, Japan, the UK, and the US appear. ㅇㅅㅇ
HeavenCry: It’s just that… continuous updates are… really… ㅜ.ㅠ…. I’m sorry… ㅜ.ㅠ
Allumina: Thank you! As you mentioned, I’ll make sure to fill in the gaps and tie up all the loose ends! Checking every few hours… wow…. wow…. That’s a lot of pressure…. ㅜ.ㅠ
AvidReaderC: Thank you so much for the support. I’m always grateful for the kind words from many readers. :) AvidReaderC, if you share your thoughts, I’d be more than happy to hear them.
For those not mentioned in the replies! I check all comments, so please don’t feel left out. If you absolutely must have a reply, give me a sign. I’ll make sure to catch it.
With that, I’ll take my leave for today.
I hope you always read my work with a relaxed mind.
Bookmarks, recommendations, comments, critiques, and questions are always welcome.