Sohyun Castle, positioned on the southeastern border of Samul Gaya, had long been a peaceful military outpost. To the east, it bordered the allied state of Golpo Gaya; to the south, it stood proudly atop low but sheer cliffs that overlooked the sea. Designed for coastal defense, the fortress had evolved over time to strengthen its southern and western ramparts, turning them into formidable walls of stone and discipline.
To the west of the castle, a broad river flowed gently toward the sea. Upon this waterway drifted a humble ferry, making its way toward a small port where ships bound for the ocean would anchor and prepare.
The ferryman muttered under his breath, puzzled as he squinted toward the quiet harbor. "Even if it's early morning… this kind of lax patrol? Seems strange."
Beside him sat a cloaked figure, Goi, silent and unmoving. He lifted his gaze slightly and scanned the surroundings. His eyes narrowed as he looked toward the castle.
"It appears there's a battle raging inside," he said calmly.
The ferryman blinked. "A battle? In Sohyun? No way. Even pirates wouldn't dare mess with a place like that. They'll be wiped out before long. Fools." He laughed, unconcerned.
As the ferry neared the dock, Goi slowly stood and stared in the direction of Sohyun Castle.
"Eh? Young man," the ferryman said cautiously. "Best stay seated unless it's serious. This boat's not that steady."
But Goi acted as if there was no one else around. His voice was low. "How odd… why would such sinister haze rise from a battlefield?"
The ferryman turned to repeat his warning—only to find Goi was no longer there.
Startled, he looked around frantically. Then, just beyond the edge of the boat, he saw Goi push off the surface of the river with inhuman grace, his body hurtling through the air. Within a blink, he landed on the dock—still ten jang away.
The ferryman stared, mouth agape. "He… he was just here… How did he…? Could he be…"