Chapter 225: Going to Battle. (1)

Around the time Moyong Hi-ah left Gu Yangcheon and headed towards her own quarters.

Moyong Hi-ah, having left Gu Yangcheon’s quarters and walking along the night path, suddenly stopped and crouched down.

“Hoo… hoo….”

Her face, clutching her stomach and exhaling, was somehow flushed red.

“Are you alright, Young Lady…??”

The attendant waiting outside approached Moyong Hi-ah to check on her condition.

Moyong Hi-ah pushed the attendant away, saying she was fine.

“I’m fine… It’s just that I’m not used to it yet.”

“Huh?”

The heat swirling within her body…

…was an unfamiliar sensation for Moyong Hi-ah.

Pushing out the coldness that had enveloped her entire life.

The heat warming her body was so unfamiliar.

‘…It’s warm.’

I’m not cold.

This was something Moyong Hi-ah had longed for so desperately.

She couldn’t adapt because she had received too much heat all at once, but…

“Hoo….”

Putting that aside, it was accompanied by an overwhelming sense of euphoria.

Whether it was the joy of pushing out the coldness…

…or the excitement of feeling warmth for the first time, she didn’t know, but…

‘…As expected, that person was the right answer.’

Whatever it was, it was what she had wished for.

“…You know.”

“Yes, Young Lady.”

“I think I need to add one more thing to tell the family.”

“What? The family? Didn’t you finish everything last time?”

The deal with Gu Clan.

It was something Moyong Hi-ah had initiated, and the head of the Moyong family had vehemently refused, but…

…she had gained permission upon mentioning the possibility of treating the severed meridians.

This was also the first time Moyong Hi-ah had demanded something from the family head, using her own body as collateral.

Thanks to that, she received permission, but…

…she had to hear the demand that she needed to see the True Dragon and bring it.

Of course, she hadn’t told Gu Yangcheon about this.

“…I think I need to talk about the engagement.”

“En-engagement?”

Upon hearing Moyong Hi-ah’s words, the attendant’s face turned pale.

Because seeing the topic she was bringing up, it was obvious what she was going to say.

“Young Lady… perhaps.”

“Mm.”

Moyong Hi-ah nodded at the attendant’s words.

Even as she spoke, Moyong Hi-ah’s face was flushed,

and perhaps because of the intense heat, her ears were also turning red.

Moyong Hi-ah looked at the attendant and said,

“I think we need to pretend this never happened.”

Pretending it never happened.

This was about the engagement being secretly arranged with the Namgung family.

---

As soon as dawn broke, I got up and left my room.

The reason my body felt somehow tired wasn’t because I couldn’t sleep last night.

It must simply be mental fatigue.

“…I’m dying.”

As I dragged my creaking body outside,

three intruders huddled together asleep in the corner of my room caught my eye.

In the corner, Wi Seol-ah and Tang Soyeol were sleeping with Namgung Bi-ah’s stomach as a pillow.

Seeing that, I let out a hollow laugh.

“I told you to go sleep in your own rooms.”

Last night.

For several hours, I was dragged along by Namgung Bi-ah as if captured, explaining the situation.

Even though it wasn’t a story that should have taken that long.

It took an excessively long time to make them understand why I had to do it.

Namgung Bi-ah and Wi Seol-ah, from the middle onwards, looked like they either understood or had given up, but…

…Tang Soyeol, on the other hand, seemed intent on digging deeper,

which was much more bothersome.

‘Why should I be the one explaining that?’

While that thought crossed my mind,

I couldn’t express any particular dissatisfaction and explained with what little sincerity I could muster.

Mostly…

…it was just that the money was too much to refuse.

In reality, the terms Moyong Clan proposed to Gu Clan were so unconventional that…

…Tang Soyeol had no choice but to nod in agreement.

‘Although, amidst that, his eyes held something subtle.’

While listening to the story, Tang Soyeol was looking at me with a rather peculiar gaze, but…

I know Tang Soyeol always seems to be thinking strange thoughts anyway, so I just let it slide.

“Young Master.”

As I sat on the wooden porch enjoying the sunlight, Hong Wa appeared and paid her respects.

“Did you have a comfortable night?”

“…Do I look like I did?”

“…”

Hong Wa glanced away, perhaps seeing that I didn’t look comfortable.

Even seeing the three women sleeping soundly in the room, Hong Wa didn’t utter a word.

Since there were times when Namgung Bi-ah infiltrated or Wi Seol-ah threw a tantrum and I allowed it,

perhaps she just accepted it as usual now.

Of course, she did frown upon discovering Wi Seol-ah among them.

‘I’ll probably get scolded again later.’

It was truly fascinating how Wi Seol-ah didn’t back down even after being scolded for doing things that deserved it.

Wasn’t she perhaps the type to throw tantrums just like me?

“I will prepare the meal. Should I prepare for the others as well?”

“…Please do. Oh, and I have something to ask.”

“Yes.”

“How did they get in here?”

“What?”

Wi Seol-ah aside,

I asked about the reason Namgung Bi-ah and Tang Soyeol could freely come and go into my quarters.

Actually, Namgung Bi-ah tends to act as she pleases, like a stray cat, so I’d half-given up on her, but…

…Tang Soyeol is a proper clan member, so it was hard to believe he came without permission.

Was my question somehow strange?

Hong Wa, showing a momentarily flustered reaction, said to me,

“Didn’t you grant permission, Young Master…?”

“…When did I?”

“Miss Namgung and Miss Dang… certainly.”

Mid-sentence, Hong Wa flinched, perhaps sensing something was amiss.

“I apologize. I should have verified properly.”

It seemed she had simply believed what the two had said and moved on.

Was it because I didn’t say much when they barged in so openly?

“…I’m sorry.”

Hong Wa wore an expression as if she were about to jump off somewhere immediately.

Seeing that, I vaguely gestured with my hand to show it was okay.

“It’s fine. I’m okay with it, but is the Tang family okay with it?”

That wasn’t the issue; this was.

Namgung Bi-ah aside,

If the Tang family found out Tang Soyeol was like this, would they really stay quiet?

‘If the Poison King finds out, he won’t stay quiet.’

That’s how it seemed.

As the Tang family members were staying in other quarters,

they must know Tang Soyeol disappeared.

And usually, since he’s with Namgung Bi-ah in my quarters, they must also know he’s here.

‘…I hope there are no problems.’

Although Tang Soyeol himself told me he had a way,

it was uncertain whether that would work on the Poison King.

‘He probably doesn’t know how immense his father’s love is.’

That the emperor ruling over Sichuan was only gentle towards his own daughter.

Tang Soyeol probably wouldn’t know.

“Just try to find out what their reaction is.”

“Understood…”

“I’ll pretend I gave permission for this matter, so don’t worry too much.”

Hong Wa’s eyes widened slightly at my words, she bowed her head towards me, and then retreated.

“…Hmm.”

After Hong Wa left, I sat quietly on the porch, organizing my thoughts.

‘The seclusion training was after noon, wasn’t it?’

Once noon passed, I had to enter the seclusion training location and stay shut in for two months.

Immediately after coming out, I had to roll around on the front lines as part of the Five Swords Brigade.

Since I had to waste time forcibly,

I needed to find out if anything was happening.

‘Were there any major events expected within the last few years?’

Since the biggest event in the coming years was the annihilation of the Dark Night Palace,

I wondered if anything else could happen with the Palace Lord having escaped, but…

‘Since we couldn’t catch him, I don’t know what he might trigger.’

Especially since I had seen the existence of the Heavenly Demon with my own eyes,

I couldn’t properly grasp the situation.

‘Although, it’s not something I can find out just by running around myself.’

If that’s the case, regarding this matter…

‘Using the Hao Moon would be better than the Beggars’ Sect.’

Although I had established a connection with Chu Ong, I couldn’t just rely on that to ask the Beggars’ Sect for information.

The Beggars’ Sect is strictly affiliated with the Murim Alliance,

so if I were to obtain any information, there was a chance it would be filtered by them first.

‘Although, that doesn’t mean I can trust the Hao Moon either.’

Still, I thought it might be slightly better.

‘Then should I try to win over Old Man Muk somehow?’

As I thought about this, I naturally took out the seal from my pocket.

It was an item Old Man Muk had given me.

He had told me to use this if I wanted to know something.

‘…But how am I supposed to use this?’

Wondering if it worked like the Heavenly Path’s Orb, I tried channeling my internal energy into it,

and rolled it around, but…

…it didn’t seem to be an item for that purpose.

‘Besides, this thing was made from that old man’s energy.’

Thinking about it like that made me feel uneasy.

Of course, I couldn’t just throw it away either.

‘But what would happen if I threw it away?’

Since it was made from his energy, I wondered if he might take it back.

As I examined the seal from various angles, wondering how to use it,

Swish.

I felt someone approach from behind.

Soon, two white hands wrapped around me from behind.

“Ughhh….”

She let out a nasal sound as if still sleepy.

Hearing the voice, I knew who it was.

“Why are you clinging to me the moment you woke up?”

“Ughhh….”

As expected, it was Wi Seol-ah.

“I’m sleepy….”

“Then go back to sleep.”

“No….”

“Why?”

…Is it because she needs to eat?

Come to think of it, it was time for breakfast.

Thinking she might be very hungry, I was about to tell Hong Wa,

but Wi Seol-ah, who was hugging me, quietly whispered,

“…Young Master is leaving today.”

“Ah.”

Was it because I was entering seclusion training at noon?

At those words, I chuckled and replied,

“Where am I going?”

Although I had to stay shut in for two months, the place for seclusion training was within Gu Clan.

So, it wasn’t like I was leaving the family estate.

“…But…”

The grip of her arms holding me tightened.

Perhaps it was because I could clearly feel her reluctance to let go.

I felt a ticklish sensation in my heart.

“Can’t I go with you?”

“Going together for seclusion training? I’ve never heard of such a thing.”

“I-I can train too…”

Just as Wi Seol-ah started spouting increasingly nonsensical things,

“Eek…!”

Suddenly, Wi Seol-ah’s hands loosened, and the feeling against my back disappeared.

Wondering what was happening, I looked to see Namgung Bi-ah pulling Wi Seol-ah away.

Rubbing her very sleepy eyes.

“Stop it.”

“Unni….”

“…He’s uncomfortable….”

“…”

At Namgung Bi-ah’s assertive statement, Wi Seol-ah shut her mouth tightly.

Seeing Wi Seol-ah about to cry made me uncomfortable, and I tried to add something, but…

“I’m fine….”

“…You be quiet too….”

“Okay.”

I couldn’t say anything to Namgung Bi-ah, who was still upset about yesterday’s events.

It had been a while since I’d seen Namgung Bi-ah in a bad mood,

and knowing that an angry Namgung Bi-ah wouldn’t listen to anything I said, I too had to shut my mouth, just like Wi Seol-ah.

As I cautiously observed the situation, I saw the green squirrel, seemingly having woken up too, rubbing its eyes.

Tang Soyeol looked at me, startled, and hastily tidied his clothes.

It seemed he himself hadn’t expected to fall asleep here.

“Oh, what should I do? What if I snored…?”

“You didn’t snore much.”

“Did I snore…?”

“Just kidding.”

It seemed like he did snore a bit, though.

But it was at the level of a baby bear’s grumble, so it was acceptable.

“Our first, first night together like this…”

Leaving Tang Soyeol, who seemed shocked by my words and was practically melting, aside.

I said to the remaining people.

“…Let’s just eat breakfast first.”

Fortunately, did this suggestion work?

The two also nodded.

Because breakfast was important.

---

As noon passed.

After finishing breakfast and completing preparations, I headed towards the training grounds.

“…So, you’re heading here after all.”

“Are you going to die? What’s with that reaction…”

“It’s because I’m worried you might cause trouble even after going inside.”

Elder Yi, whose body hadn’t fully recovered and was still bandaged,

insisted on seeing me off despite his ailing body.

Incidentally, Gu Huibi also came, but…

Gu Huibi hadn’t spoken to me for days.

“Noona.”

“…”

She remained silent.

Seeing that, I asked with irritation,

“Seriously, why are you sulking?”

“Who says I’m sulking? Do you want to die, little brother?”

“Just relax the intensity in your eyes when you speak.”

“My eyes are always intense.”

That was true.

Glancing at Gu Huibi’s physical condition,

thankfully, the demonic energy had disappeared, and she was gradually recovering.

Regarding this, Shin Ui had subtly approached me and asked if I was responsible, but…

I denied it and brushed it off.

“…Make sure you eat properly.”

At her subtle addition, I laughed incredulously.

“There’s nothing but Wall-Breaking Pills inside; what am I supposed to eat?”

“You won’t eat them if I don’t pack them for you, will you?”

“Who do you think I am? I’ll eat them myself if I get hungry.”

What do you mean, pack them? I’m not a three-year-old.

What era is she living in?

Perhaps she didn’t like my grumbling,

Gu Huibi turned her head sharply and started walking towards her own quarters.

“Whatever, do as you please. I’m leaving.”

“Okay.”

“You’re not even trying to stop me. This is why they say raising someone is useless.”

Gu Huibi disappeared, breathing heavily.

Elder Yi, who had been watching, let out a deep sigh.

“What did you do this time to make Huibi act like that?”

“…I didn’t do anything?”

I really hadn’t done anything.

I even removed her demonic energy and made her healthier.

Why does that person always act crazy whenever she sees me?

“Patriarch Gu won’t be coming.”

“I know.”

I knew better than anyone that my father wouldn’t show up for something like this.

And I wasn’t particularly bothered by it.

“…Young Master.”

Wi Seol-ah, who had been teary-eyed, ran and hugged me.

“Are you crying again?”

“I-I’m not crying…”

“…Then could you please not wipe your snot on my clothes?”

The feeling of my chest getting damp must be my imagination.

“Eat your meals properly. I’ll be out soon.”

“…Mm.”

I said, stroking Wi Seol-ah’s hair.

Earlier, I saw Wi Seol-ah leaving food uneaten, as if she had no appetite.

‘…Wi Seol-ah, of all people, leaving food behind.’

Perhaps because she knew it was because of me, it felt strange.

Even though it was such a trivial matter.

While stroking Wi Seol-ah, I shifted my gaze towards the others.

“Why are you all gathered here like this, as if I’m going off to do something grand?”

“…Come back safely….”

Namgung Bi-ah waved goodbye to me with her hand.

The downturned corners of her eyes must be my imagination.

Tang Soyeol also looked like he had a lot to say, but couldn’t get the words out.

Seeing that, I gave a casual wave and then…

“Mu Yeon.”

“Yes. Young Master.”

I spoke to Mu Yeon, whom I hadn’t seen in a while.

“Congratulations.”

“Thank you….”

Mu Yeon bowed his head deeply at my congratulations.

In the time I hadn’t seen him, Mu Yeon had reached the peak.

It was impossible not to know; he had apparently been so happy about reaching the peak that he told everyone.

‘…As far as I know, he even went to boast to the Sword Saint.’

Contrary to his imposing demeanor, Mu Yeon was quite loose-lipped.

Looking at Mu Yeon like that, I said,

“While I’m gone, just handle the things I asked you to do properly.”

“Yes. I will proceed without any mistakes.”

“Right, but don’t overdo it.”

Meanwhile, for your information, Gu Ryeong-hwa didn’t come, saying, “Why bother going when I’ll see you in two months anyway?”

“…Sigh, this is why they say raising someone is useless.”

As I muttered, thinking of Gu Ryeong-hwa, Elder Yi looked at me with a strange expression.

I didn’t know what he was thinking, but his expression was quite sour.

“I’m heading off now.”

I started walking away from everyone. Two months isn’t a long time.

There was no need for such a drawn-out farewell.

‘Aren’t I actually going to receive punishment?’

Especially since it was punishment for causing trouble, it felt even more so.

“…Young Master!”

As I tried to slip through the gap, Wi Seol-ah called out to me from behind.

“Hm?”

“Do I- I have to come out soon…?”

That’s not something that happens just because I want it to.

“…I’ll try my best?”

“Promise me you won’t forget me…?”

“Forget you? Do you think I’m a goldfish?”

It’s only two months; what’s there to forget?

Despite my words, Wi Seol-ah spoke again, her voice trembling,

“Promise me….”

The way she clutched the ornament I bought her in her hand…

…looked rather pitiful.

Was it because we were too close?

Nothing major should happen just because we’re apart.

“Okay. I won’t forget, so don’t worry.”

“…Mm.”

Only after hearing my words did Wi Seol-ah manage a faint smile.

Leaving that sight behind, I took a step forward again.

Thump-!

As my entire body entered the space,

immediately, I heard something closing behind me.

I didn’t need to see it; it must have been the entrance closing.

‘It’s hot.’

The dim space wasn’t very large, but

it was filled with heat enough to make even me sweat.

As it was a seclusion training location for Gu Clan’s clan members, it emitted an absurd amount of heat.

Moreover, one corner was filled with water and Wall-Breaking Pills.

Forget two months; it was enough to last half a year.

Without hesitation, I plopped down on the floor.

Whoosh.

I closed my eyes and ignited flames.

Because I couldn’t just let the two months pass idly.

And furthermore,

there was something I needed to properly investigate during the remaining time.

‘Hey.’

I whispered inwardly.

This wasn’t a call to summon Shin No-ya.

No-ya wouldn’t answer.

Because I had asked him beforehand, before I entered.

‘I know you’re awake, so answer me.’

Deeper into my consciousness.

Gradually digging down, deeper than the floor.

Would it be easier if I sent it to the dantian, or even below that?

‘If you don’t answer, I won’t give you food anymore?’

I wondered how deep I had to dig for the creature to react, but…

Perhaps it was because I mentioned food.

[…Grrr.]

A faint beastly growl echoed from the darkness.

I had to hide my tension.

Because I didn’t even properly know what kind of creature it was.

Slowly, in a very languid voice.

‘Shall we talk?’

With a fake smile, I addressed the unruly tenant.