“Even in this cold, it’s good to see the Western Village so full of life.”
Hwang Kang-ju walked slowly, taking in the bustling street with a fresh perspective. There were quite a few people coming and going, but walking was comfortable. Everyone kept a slight distance, avoiding me and Hwang Kang-ju.
It was only natural. No one wants to bump into a martial artist carrying a sword.
“It’s not that big compared to a major city.”
“This is quite impressive. In my hometown, the streets are empty in winter because everyone stays huddled up at home. I heard the Western Village is your hometown?”
“I was born and raised here. It was a small country village back then, but when I returned, it had become like this.”
“That must have been disappointing. Still, it’s a relief that it developed for the better.”
Feeling a sense of doubt, I subtly studied Hwang Kang-ju’s face. He seemed sincere. I was grateful that he thought well of my hometown, the Western Village, but no matter how I looked at it, the changes weren’t for the better.
The people from my hometown were all driven out, and only Sister Soso and I have returned. The villagers who stayed with me at the Western Shadow Sword Sect all scattered when the sect fell. Now, the Western Village was filled with far more strangers than people I knew.