Chapter 176: Three Eyes (4)
'What was that just now?'
Yeo Su-rin looked at Mok Gyeong-un's face in puzzlement.
If her eyes weren't deceiving her, although it was brief, Mok Gyeong-un's right eye had turned a silver color, and an energy that couldn't be specified as curse power or demonic energy was felt.
But it was only for a moment and quickly disappeared.
'I'm sure there was a change in his eye.'
When it returned to its original state, that strange energy also vanished.
What was going on?
-Flap, flap!
A small bird flying around Mok Gyeong-un.
It was the shrunken form of the monster beast Heum-won.
When Mok Gyeong-un told it to hide its appearance as if he found it bothersome, it had shrunk to the size of a sparrow and was circling around.
As expected of a monster beast, it concealed its demonic energy so well that it seemed difficult to notice it was a beast unless one had outstanding demonic energy or was extremely sensitive.
'Oh, I really don't know.'
The monster beast Heum-won definitely seemed to have become Mok Gyeong-un's familiar.
But all of this stemmed from one thing.
That was…
'Did he really become like this after eating that eyeball?'
It was something she found hard to understand.
The eyeball was a Wretched Fiend and a parasitic beast that took root in a human body.
Would eating such a beast make this possible?
[The demonic energy, blood, or flesh of beasts is nothing but poison to humans. So make sure it never enters your mouth, even by mistake.]
That's what her master had said.
Yet Mok Gyeong-un had done the crazy act of eating it.
And the bond of the Three Eyes' familiar had been transferred to Mok Gyeong-un.
Something completely contrary to the common sense she knew had occurred.
'How on earth did he do it?'
She was burning with the desire to ask.
However, even if she asked, it seemed unlikely that Mok Gyeong-un would tell her.
Just like the martial arts sects and factions, if the pavilion or sect of sorcery was different, they had their own techniques and did not share them with other sects.
In the first place, asking about it was considered taboo.
'Ah, I'm really curious.'
But once her curiosity was piqued, she had to resolve it to feel at ease.
For Yeo Su-rin, Mok Gyeong-un was a collection of curiosities.
If he had really eaten a monster and made its bond his own, she wanted to dissect and study him.
As Yeo Su-rin stared at Mok Gyeong-un like that, she came up with a good idea.
'Right. Then I can keep observing him closely.'
There was a very simple solution.
Not only that, she had learned that there was another Three Eyes besides the one that had been one with Diviner Cho Tae-cheong.
Then she hadn't completed her master's order yet.
There was still a reason for her to stay here longer.
"Hey."
"Yes?"
"I think I'll… Huh?"
Yeo Su-rin's eyes widened as she tried to speak to Mok Gyeong-un.
The reason was none other than the fact that Mok Gyeong-un had opened the lid of what seemed to be a coffin placed next to the desk in the pavilion master's office, and there was a person inside.
"What is that? Wait, that person? It's not a living person."
"That's right."
Mok Gyeong-un shook his head.
Inside was something that anyone would consider a corpse.
That corpse was none other than the former Primal Killing Pavilion Master, In Seo-ok.
"Ugh… ugh…"
Seeing In Seo-ok groaning, Yeo Su-rin said, "Is this a jiangshi? No, a corpse ghost?"
"You have good eyes."
Mok Gyeong-un's eyes flashed with interest as Yeo Su-rin immediately recognized In Seo-ok's condition.
This woman may be chatty, but she was definitely a capable diviner.
Both in terms of knowledge of sorcery and demonic energy.
"No way. That corpse ghost, could it be… the Primal Killing Pavilion Master?"
"That's right. You recognize him?"
"Of course. It took a while to enter the main hall building, but I've been inside the Primal Killing Pavilion since three months ago."
During that time, she had familiarized herself with the face of the Primal Killing Pavilion Master, In Seo-ok.
But she hadn't expected him to be in this state after not seeing him for half a month.
Yeo Su-rin let out a sigh and said, "Why did the Primal Killing Pavilion Master end up like this? Could it be that he was attacked by the Three Eyes?"
At her words, Mok Gyeong-un shook his head.
"No, that's not it."
"It's not? Then who on earth did this? The Primal Killing Pavilion Master may have left the Sixty-Four Pavilions, but he's still a diviner."
Excluding the top six diviner gods, the highest level in sorcery was called master diviner.
For a skilled master diviner to become a corpse ghost like this…
Only a diviner of the same level or higher could have done this.
However…
"I did it."
"Ah, so Master Mok did it… What?"
Yeo Su-rin looked at Mok Gyeong-un's face in surprise.
In Seo-ok was the Primal Killing Pavilion Master, who had a high reputation even among the master diviner of the Sixty-Four Pavilions.
And Mok Gyeong-un had made him like this?
"Really?"
"Yes, really. Did you think it might be fake?"
With those words, Mok Gyeong-un clicked his tongue and formed a hand seal.
-Tak! Tak!
'Jae (在)! Jin (陣)!'
Then he struck In Seo-ok's chest with his palm.
A strange thing happened.
The curse binding In Seo-ok was released, and his neck bulged, and then…
"Kuh-blegh."
Something like intertwined tree branches violently popped out.
Every time they came out, In Seo-ok's entire body shook violently.
It seemed that the tree branches had spread throughout his body, fixing him in place so he couldn't move.
"Wow… That's really vicious. Vicious."
Yeo Su-rin clicked her tongue at this sight.
At this, Mok Gyeong-un chuckled and said, "This wasn't done by me. It was probably done by the Three Eyes, Cho Tae-cheong."
"The Three Eyes?"
"Yes. In Seo-ok wasn't supposed to be here originally."
He had told the dead Diviner Jo Ui-gong to take care of it if he managed to take the position of the Primal Killing Pavilion Master.
But his presence here meant that the Three Eyes, Cho Tae-cheong, had noticed his existence because of this.
It was fortunate that it was resolved before things got more complicated.
Otherwise, things would have gotten tangled.
'And is it fortunate?'
Mok Gyeong-un was already pondering one thing.
With the death of the diviner Jo Ui-gong, he had lost the person who would control the Primal Killing Pavilion.
But with the living corpse ghost, the former Primal Killing Pavilion Master In Seo-ok, that problem was solved.
With him around, he could fill the void left by the dead Jo Ui-gong and Cho Tae-cheong.
"Kuh-ugh."
-Swish!
As the long, extending tree branches were all pulled out, In Seo-ok's body twitched, and then he sat up as if he had regained consciousness.
Then he slightly bowed to Mok Gyeong-un.
"Hiya. You really made him like this. No, how did you subdue the Primal Killing Pavilion Master?"
"I'm good at it."
"Ahaha. Good… Will you keep answering like that?"
"Yes."
-Crunch, crunch!
Yeo Su-rin chewed her fingernails and glared at Mok Gyeong-un.
He was the most troublesome man she had ever met.
Seriously.
As she chewed her fingernails, she let out a sigh and said, "Then you won't tell me why you made him like that, right?"
"Yes. Although we had a deal, our relationship ends here, doesn't it?"
"What?"
"You'll be leaving now, won't you?"
"Ah…"
Yeo Su-rin looked at Mok Gyeong-un with a strange expression.
Although they hadn't known each other for long and their relationship was short, they had faced a common enemy while risking their lives, so she thought they had become somewhat close.
But with these words, she realized that Mok Gyeong-un didn't trust her at all.
'This person… Is he very shy?'
Yeo Su-rin clicked her tongue with a twisted expression.
Even though it was a bet, she had given him a disposable treasure, so she felt disappointed.
Fine.
Now that it had come to this, she would make him treat her warmly with his own mouth out of spite.
Yeo Su-rin, who had inwardly set her ambition, said, "I'm not going back."
"You're not going back?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
"Didn't you say there's one more Three Eyes?"
"That's…"
Mok Gyeong-un clicked his tongue inwardly as if he had made a mistake.
He had asked about this, thinking it was important information, but because of this, Yeo Su-rin also had a reason to stay here longer.
No, was it a situation where she couldn't leave yet?
"Ah… Is that so? But there won't be any more inside the main hall, so you'll have to search hard."
"What? You're not going to search?"
"Me?"
"Yes. Judging from what you said to the Three Eyes earlier, weren't you trying to find the other Three Eyes?"
"No. I was just checking if there was another one."
"No, then you're not going to search?"
"Yes."
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Yeo Su-rin showed a troubled expression.
She had intended to observe Mok Gyeong-un under the pretext of searching for the Three Eyes together.
What should she do about this?
Yeo Su-rin, whose mind had become complicated, pouted her lips like a duck and said, "No, isn't that really mean of you?"
"What's mean about it?"
"Even though this is also a relationship, can't you help me a little? Thanks to me, you were able to kill the Three Eyes here without difficulty."
At her words, Mok Gyeong-un replied nonchalantly.
"Wasn't it because our goals aligned? And the one who risked his life was me. As I recall, Miss Yeo, you were always ready to run away."
"T-That was just what I said. If things had turned out differently, I would have helped."
"Ah, is that so?"
Yeo Su-rin stamped her feet with an indignant expression and said, "It's true."
"Yes, I'm sure it is."
Mok Gyeong-un placed his hand on the head of the former Primal Killing Pavilion Master, In Seo-ok, as if he had no interest.
Then he infused the energy of death, the death qi, into In Seo-ok's head.
-Whoosh!
A corpse ghost is literally close to a corpse state.
However…
"Huh?"
Yeo Su-rin's eyes widened.
She had thought that the Primal Killing Pavilion Master, In Seo-ok, was simply a corpse ghost.
But before she knew it, the state of the Primal Killing Pavilion Master, In Seo-ok, was changing to resemble his living appearance rather than a corpse.
Even the color of his skin was turning from purple to a flesh tone.
"A-A living corpse ghost?"
A living corpse ghost.
It was a forbidden secret technique of the Six-Person Spirit Summoning Technique.
When the heart's blood of the caster is fed to a person who has just died, and the yin energy of those who have recently died is gathered in one place, and a technique is performed, this is born.
Literally, it is a living corpse ghost.
'A living corpse ghost?'
The reason she was surprised was simple.
Creating a living corpse ghost was even more difficult than an ordinary corpse ghost or jiangshi.
To create a single living corpse ghost, nearly thirty people had to be killed, and their energy had to be gathered together. Moreover, living corpse ghosts had too many weaknesses.
If they couldn't periodically kill people and fill themselves with the yin energy of the dead, their bodies would rot, so their utility was extremely low.
"Master Mok… That's a forbidden technique."
"Ah, it was."
Mok Gyeong-un looked at Yeo Su-rin with a cold gaze.
Come to think of it, she was from the Harmonious Immortal Pavilion, which belonged to the proper diviner group, the Sixty-Four Pavilions.
On the other hand, the Primal Killing Pavilion was a group that had left the Sixty-Four Pavilions, joined hands with martial arts groups, and performed all sorts of forbidden techniques.
Therefore, Mok Gyeong-un didn't place much significance on forbidden techniques.
However, in reality, among diviners, forbidden techniques were literally sorcery that should not be performed.
'Should I kill her?'
Mok Gyeong-un had intended to let her go since she had been helpful.
But now that she seemed like she might become an obstacle, he was contemplating whether to kill her.
Meanwhile, Yeo Su-rin spoke with sparkling eyes.
"No, how did you do it?"
"What?"
"To give vitality to a living corpse ghost, you need the yin energy of those who have just died."
"…"
"That's why it was a forbidden technique, but could it be that you found a way to infuse vitality even without that?"
At Yeo Su-rin's words, Mok Gyeong-un let out a soft sigh.
It was because she was creating her own excuses.
So Mok Gyeong-un lightly nodded his head.
At this, Yeo Su-rin approached Mok Gyeong-un with sparkling eyes and said, "Where are you really from? Are you perhaps a disciple of the pavilion master of the Sonmunjiyonggak?"
"Gentle Gate Dragon Pavilion?"
"Huh? You're not?"
"No."
"Then the Submerged Moon Water Pavilion…"
"I won't tell you, so stop asking."
"Hmm… Can't you at least tell me that much?"
"Yes. And I have a lot of work to do here. So let's part ways here. Otherwise, you…"
He omitted the latter part about having to kill her.
He hoped she would understand.
But Yeo Su-rin clasped her hands together with a pleading expression and said, "Master Mok, I'm really, really saying this because it's hard for me to find the Three Eyes alone. Can't you help me?"
She seemed to have misunderstood.
Should he just kill her?
There was no need for her anymore.
Mok Gyeong-un said with a faint smile, "I'm busy with my own work."
"Then I'll help Master Mok too."
At those words, Mok Gyeong-un raised an eyebrow and asked back, "You'll help me?"
"Yes, from what I see, Master Mok wasn't here for three months, so it seems you're not here as a diviner, right?"
"…"
"Since you've also learned martial arts, you're here as a martial artist, aren't you?"
Indeed, even though this woman was chatty, she wasn't stupid.
"Right? Then don't you need someone to manage this living corpse ghost?"
"…"
At her words, Mok Gyeong-un's eyes narrowed.
Someone to manage the living corpse ghost…
Even though it had self-will and was close to the state of a living person, a corpse ghost was still a corpse ghost.
It needed to be managed from time to time to ensure there were no problems.
Yeo Su-rin, convinced that Mok Gyeong-un was contemplating, smiled brightly and said, "I'll actively help you with anything else you need, not just this. Master Mok, please help me find the Three Eyes too. Isn't that a fair deal?"
"Hmm."
"Hey, don't pretend to think about it."
"It seems like a not-so-bad condition."
"Right?"
"But I don't trust people well."
"No, I keep my promises well!"
"Because there's always the possibility of 'what if'."
"Ugh, you're really too much. I gave you the spare treasure without a word. Even if it can only be used once, it's worth a thousand gold."
At her words, Mok Gyeong-un chuckled.
He knew from observing her that this woman had no ill intentions.
However, Mok Gyeong-un didn't completely trust people.
That's why he thought an appropriate measure was necessary.
"Do you really wish to make a deal?"
"I told you. If you help me find the Three Eyes, I'll help you with your work too. Isn't it fair in a way?"
"Well, I suppose so."
At Mok Gyeong-un's somewhat positive answer, Yeo Su-rin's expression brightened.
"Then you're accepting it?"
"I'm considering it, but if you agree to one condition."
"A condition?"
"Yes. As I mentioned before, I don't trust people well. So…"
-Swish!
Mok Gyeong-un extended his hand.
Then, something was sucked from the wrist of the beheaded corpse fixed in front of the pavilion master's desk into Mok Gyeong-un's hand.
-Swish! Tak!
"Huh? How did you do that just now?"
"I'm good at it."
"Ugh."
He never properly taught her even once.
Biting her lips tightly and glaring at Mok Gyeong-un, Yeo Su-rin soon recognized what was in his hand.
"Wait a minute… Don't tell me that's the Chain of Incantation?"
"You recognize it."
At this, Yeo Su-rin spoke with a somewhat stiffened expression, unlike before.
"You're not going to tell me to wear that, are you?"
In response to that question, Mok Gyeong-un smiled brightly and replied, "I was going to tell you to wear it."
"No. That's used to subjugate the other party!"
"It's not to unconditionally subjugate you, but think of it as a kind of safety device. When we're both done with our business, I'll release you."
"I can't! Absolutely not!"
Yeo Su-rin shouted angrily with a furious face.
No matter what, this was not acceptable.
The Chain of Incantation was a dangerous treasure that allowed the one who imposed the restraint to drive her to death as much as they wished.
And he was telling her to put that on?
-Whirl, whirl!
Meanwhile, Mok Gyeong-un twirled the Chain of Incantation and said, "Then there are only two options."
"Two? One would be to not make a deal at all and part ways."
"Yes, you're quite perceptive."
"Then what's the other one?"
"It's a method that I've found to be somewhat effective, so it might not be bad for you either."
"So what is it?"
"Becoming my woman."
'!?'
Instantly, Yeo Su-rin's expression stiffened.
For a moment, she doubted her own ears.
178: Chapter 177: Jang Neung-ak (1)
Yeo Su-rin's expression stiffened.
For a moment, she doubted her own ears.
'Becoming your woman?'
What on earth was he saying?
Yeo Su-rin asked, thinking it couldn't be.
"Hey… you know what? I'm asking because I think I might have misunderstood… What you just said, could it be?"
"Yes, if you become my woman, I might be able to trust you a little more, don't you think?"
'!?'
Yeo Su-rin looked at Mok Gyeong-un with dumbfounded eyes.
She thought there might be another way to prove trust, but this was a completely unexpected suggestion.
It wasn't just her who was dumbfounded by Mok Gyeong-un's words.
-Ha! Human, are you out of your mind?
-Pardon?
-If she's that troublesome, you should just kill her. What's all this about?
-Is there a problem?
-A problem? Of course there is. Are you attracted to that wench?
-No.
How could that be?
Mok Gyeong-un didn't feel any emotions towards Yeo Su-rin.
Cheong-ryeong also knew that Mok Gyeong-un had no particular feelings towards women, so the fact that he made such a suggestion was absurd.
-Ha! Then are you in heat?
-In heat?
-Yes, in heat. If not, why would you make such a suggestion? Do you think that's a way to build trust? You're just trying to satisfy your own sexual desires…
-I don't know what kind of emotion it is to want to satisfy it, but wouldn't it be good to develop a relationship, both feel good, and have her affection focused on me?
-…
Cheong-ryeong was not only dumbfounded but also at a loss for words at Mok Gyeong-un's confident words.
She wanted to refute him, but he stated his reasons so confidently that she didn't know what to say.
-So you're saying you'll sleep with that human wench?
-If she wants to.
-If she wants to?
-Yes, is there a better way to confirm trust than that?
-…Sigh.
Did he become overconfident after being intimate with Wi So-yeon?
Or does he believe that he can manipulate a woman's, no, a person's emotions just through a relationship?
Whatever it is, it's truly remarkable.
So she had to clearly tell him.
-You seem to have a serious misunderstanding, human.
-Misunderstanding?
-Yes. Although I've become a vengeful spirit, as a woman, let me make it clear. You're taking women too lightly.
-Taking them lightly?
-Yes!
-Hmm. You sound a bit agitated. Are you perhaps angry?
-No!
-Even though you said no, you seem to have put some force into it.
-I said no!
-…Well, I don't mind if that's the case, but I don't take women lightly. I just think there's nothing wrong with having a relationship when it comes to making emotions more solid…
-Slap!
At that moment, a slap flew at Mok Gyeong-un's cheek.
Of course, with this level of force, his head wouldn't turn at all.
-See that?
Cheong-ryeong chuckled mockingly.
She knew this would be the obvious result.
Mok Gyeong-un looked at Yeo Su-rin, who had slapped him, with a puzzled expression.
Unlike before, she seemed to exude a cold aura.
"What are you doing?"
"Listen, Master Mok. You talked about trust and all that, but do you think I'm some prostitute from the red-light district?"
"…That's not it?"
"Then how can you say such things?"
"What's wrong with it?"
"Ha! Why should I become your woman to build trust? Did you not know that you're quite lustful despite your looks? No, did you decide to have some fun because you have a decent face?"
"Fun?"
"Yes, otherwise how can you say such things so easily?"
"Hmm."
"Except for your face, you're not my type at all. And I have no desire to be intimate with someone whose neck will be broken and die at a young age."
"Is that so?"
"…"
At Mok Gyeong-un's dry response, Yeo Su-rin clicked her tongue inwardly.
This man seems really unusual.
Judging by the way he looks at her, it doesn't seem like he fell for her or feels sexual desire to make such a suggestion.
But then why did he make such an absurd suggestion?
Did he see her as someone easy?
"I'm really disappointed."
"Disappointed? In what?"
"You talked about trust and all that, but you're saying things that only horny pigs would say."
"Horny… What is a male-female relationship in the first place?"
"What?"
"I'm asking what a male-female relationship is."
"What do you mean what? When they feel attraction and have feelings of love for each other…"
"Isn't it the case that humans are divided into male and female not only for physical structural differences but also for the purpose of reproduction of the species?"
"…"
For a moment, Yeo Su-rin was at a loss for words.
He asked what a male-female relationship was, but wasn't he being too fundamental?
Yeo Su-rin spoke with a flushed face, feeling annoyed.
"No, then what's the difference between humans and beasts?"
"In the first place, when it comes to male-female relationships or reproduction of the species, there's no difference between humans and beasts."
"Ugh, what kind of nonsense…"
"It's not nonsense."
"What?"
"Even beasts don't just reproduce for the sake of it. Females try to find a male with stronger seed, and males also try to find a more suitable female for reproduction."
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Yeo Su-rin clicked her tongue.
This man's way of thinking seemed extremely one-dimensional.
Considering how he simplistically dismissed male-female relationships.
"Hey, do you even know what the feeling of love is?"
"Isn't it when two people find each other attractive, whether it's appearance or anything else?"
"That's…"
When she tried to answer, it wasn't wrong.
So Yeo Su-rin pondered what to say and spoke.
"Fine. Then let's go by what you said. Do you find me attractive?"
"As the opposite sex?"
"Yes!"
In response to her question, Mok Gyeong-un answered without any hesitation.
"Excluding everything else and considering you solely as the opposite sex, there's no reason not to find you attractive."
Yeo Su-rin had a cute and beautiful appearance with short hair.
With her ample breasts, slim waist, and protruding hips, her figure was also excellent.
Although Cheong-ryeong and Wi So-yeon were exceptionally beautiful, Yeo Su-rin was also undoubtedly a beauty.
"…"
At Mok Gyeong-un's answer, her expression became strange.
At first, she thought this man was playing with her.
But if she carefully considered what Mok Gyeong-un was saying, it was no different from saying that he found her attractive as the opposite sex, in other words, as a woman.
'No, is he really attracted to me?'
Yeo Su-rin looked into Mok Gyeong-un's eyes.
But she couldn't feel any particular emotion in Mok Gyeong-un's gaze.
How could he say such things so nonchalantly with that expression and eyes?
It was incomprehensible.
Meanwhile…
"Then it seems we've reached a conclusion. Let's part ways here."
"What?"
"If you don't like both options, there's no reason for us to do anything together. Then will you please leave this place?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's firm words, Yeo Su-rin's expression became sulky.
What kind of options were so extreme?
She had intended to properly rebuke him and end things, feeling that she was being taken lightly as a woman.
But when Mok Gyeong-un gave up so easily, she felt a strange sense of competitiveness instead.
What does it mean to say he finds her attractive as the opposite sex and then give up so easily?
"Isn't it too quick to reach a conclusion?"
"I'm busy with other things besides this."
"You said you find me attractive as the opposite sex. Shouldn't you be more proactive if that's the case?"
"Is there a need for that?"
"What?"
"And the one who should feel regretful is you, not me."
"Eek!"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Yeo Su-rin's cheeks trembled.
He was really toying with her.
If she followed what Mok Gyeong-un wanted right here, she would be no different from selling her body just to receive help.
So…
"Then let's do this."
"I won't accept any other proposals."
"Can't you listen first and then decide?"
"No such thing."
Mok Gyeong-un flatly refused.
So she stamped her feet and then calmed herself down and said, "No, you're really too much. Let's at least make a vow to each other using the Non-Movement Curse Power Weakening Technique."
"Non-Movement Curse Power Weakening Technique?"
"You know it, right?"
"I don't, but…"
"Ah… You don't know this?"
"What is it?"
"The Non-Movement Curse Power Weakening Technique is a technique where you pledge an oath by using each other's curse power as collateral."
"Using curse power as collateral?"
"Yes, you said you can't trust me. But I'm the same. How can I trust a man who tells me to offer my body for trust when we haven't even known each other for a day?"
"So?"
"It's literally what it means. The Non-Movement Curse Power Weakening Technique is a technique where you make an oath based on incantations and curse power. If you break each other's oath, you lose all your curse power."
At her words, Mok Gyeong-un's eyes narrowed.
There was no reason for him to take on such a risky constraint together with her.
However…
"The technique isn't that difficult. You just need to use your own name and curse power as the incantation."
At those words, Mok Gyeong-un, who was about to refuse, stopped.
Hearing about it, the principle seemed similar to the Chain of Incantation.
If that was the case…
"…Hmm. Not bad."
The corners of Mok Gyeong-un's mouth twitched.
If the principle was similar to the Chain of Incantation, he had nothing to lose.
After all, it wasn't his true name.
Yeo Su-rin, unaware of Mok Gyeong-un's inner thoughts, spoke with a slightly flushed face, as if embarrassed, without making eye contact.
"For now, let's prevent backstabbing each other for a certain period with the oath of the Non-Movement Curse Power Weakening Technique. And if we develop some trust in each other during that time, I'll consider that proposal. Ahem. Is this good enough?"
***
The residence of Jang Neung-ak, the second disciple of the Society Leader.
On the bed in the reception room of the residence, a woman with thick lips was sitting up, saying something.
She was Seo Hye-in, the leader of the Grass Smoke Group, one of the Five Mountains Alliance, the loyal subordinates of Jang Neung-ak.
Sitting next to her and listening to the report was Jang Neung-ak, her lord.
Jang Neung-ak's expression wasn't good as he listened to her report.
Moreover, it wasn't just him. Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the Hegemon Fist Group, the First Mountain, who was standing behind him, also had a frown on his face.
The reason was simple.
"Are you sure you saw it correctly?"
"Yes, young master. Do you think I would dare to report falsely to you?"
"Ha!"
At her words, Jang Neung-ak was dumbfounded.
Then he asked Ko Yeon-hu behind him, "What do you think?"
"…I don't know."
"You don't know?"
"The first time I saw him was inside the Baek Clan's estate. At that time, he seemed to be at the level of early-stage of Transcendent Realm at best."
"Early-stage Transcendent Realm… No. Absolutely not."
Jang Neung-ak shook his head.
He had already witnessed Mok Gyeong-un's true abilities there.
Although he hadn't reached the realm of the Poison Master, he had endured even the poison of the Poison King Baek Sa-ha.
Perhaps because of that, Baek Sa-ha had taken a liking to him and accepted him as a disciple.
But this was indeed surprising.
"That guy defeated Woo Ho-rang? Hah."
Who was Woo Ho-rang?
Wasn't he one of the Five Tigers, the best late-stage disciples that the Heaven and Earth Society was proud of?
Even Ko Yeon-hu, his right-hand man, couldn't gauge the outcome of a battle against him, but he had defeated him with his skills?
If this was true, it was truly astounding.
"Hehehe."
But more than surprise, he felt joy.
Even without this, when Seo Hye-in had been brought unconscious by the Baek Clan's warriors, he had thought something was wrong.
But now they said Mok Gyeong-un had defeated Woo Ho-rang.
That meant he had fallen out with his junior sister, Wi So-yeon.
"What a likable fellow. To prove his loyalty to this young master in this way. Hahahahaha!"
He couldn't help but laugh.
Meanwhile, Seo Hye-in spoke in a cautious voice, "But young master, there's a slight problem."
"A problem?"
"Yes."
"Ah, right. Who knocked you unconscious?"
He had already asked the Baek Clan's warrior who had brought her here, but they said they couldn't tell him under the order of the Poison King Baek Sa-ha, the head of the family.
He had considered beating them up to find out, but he needed Baek Sa-ha's support at this point, and he could just ask Seo Hye-in when she woke up, so he had let them go.
"That's…"
"Don't tell me you don't know who knocked you out?"
"No, I have a guess."
"A guess? You're not saying you don't even know who knocked you unconscious, are you?"
"…I think it was probably the Eldest Young Master."
"What?"
At her report, Jang Neung-ak's expression, which had been as if he had the whole world in his hands until just now, instantly hardened.
"Senior Brother?"
"…Yes."
"How could that be? Senior Brother made a move?"
Jang Neung-ak denied it with trembling eyes.
He clearly remembered the last words his eldest brother had said to him.
[Try your best to struggle. If you can, that is.]
He didn't even consider him a competitor.
He had thought it was just words, but during that time, his eldest brother had almost neglected and didn't even interfere with him gathering his forces.
But now he suddenly made a move?
This was unbelievable.
However…
"It was too bland, so I was thinking of giving one or two to the disciples, but it seems too much of a waste."
"What?"
"Those were the last words I heard before being struck on acupoints."
At Seo Hye-in's words, Jang Neung-ak gritted his teeth with a flushed face.
If these words were true, it meant that bastard had caught the Senior Brother's attention, didn't it?
-Bang!
Jang Neung-ak hit the armrest of the chair and stood up.
"No way."
Anyone else was fine, but not Mok Gyeong-un.
Right now, that guy was in the most important position.
Not only was he the joint disciple of the Poison King Baek Sa-ha, who had recently reached the Transformation Realm, but also of the leader of the Secret Information Group, the Shadow Clan.
If he took in Mok Gyeong-un, he would secure a force comparable to his eldest brother's at once.
But all of a sudden, at this crucial moment, he interfered?
-Grit!
It seemed his eldest brother didn't treat him as a competitor after all.
He had been watching all along.
To crush him like this at a critical moment.
"Let's go."
"Excuse me?"
"Young Lady Seo, rest. The rest of you, follow this young master."
At his order, Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the First Mountain Hegemon Fist Group, hurriedly said, "My lord, you're not planning to meet the Eldest Young Master, are you?"
"…I am."
At those words, Ko Yeon-hu couldn't hide his concern.
No matter how angry he was about this incident, the Eldest Young Master Na Yul-ryang was a truly dangerous person.
Although his lord Jang Neung-ak also had a tendency to be somewhat swayed by emotions, Na Yul-ryang transcended that realm and didn't even feel like a person.
If he met him with his emotions ahead…
'It's too dangerous. I need to dissuade my lord.'
-Tap tap tap tap!
At that moment, the sound of someone running was heard from outside.
Then they knocked on the door. "My lord. It's me, Jeo Mo-pal." The one knocking on the door was none other than Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountain, and leader of Geo-am Fist.
Jang Neung-ak, who was about to go out anyway, roughly opened the door.
-Bam!
"What is it?"
"Well…"
"Well what?"
"Mok Gyeong-un has come to see you."
'!?'
179: Chapter 178: Jang Neung-ak (2)
"What? Mok Gyeong-un?"
Jang Neung-ak's expression turned strange.
He was just about to go and protest to his eldest brother Na Yul-ryang for interfering and trying to take Mok Gyeong-un away from him.
But now Mok Gyeong-un has come on his own?
What was going on?
'…Should I consider this fortunate?'
On the other hand, Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the First Mountain Hegemon Fist Group, who had tried to dissuade his lord, Jang Neung-ak, the second disciple of the Society Leader, inwardly let out a sigh of relief.
It wasn't the time to clash with the Eldest Young Master in terms of power or in any aspect.
But while feeling relieved, Ko Yeon-hu also became puzzled.
So…
"My lord, something seems strange."
"Strange, you say?"
"Yes. Didn't Young Lady Seo say that the Eldest Young Master mentioned it would be a waste to give him away before striking her acupoints?"
At his words, Jang Neung-ak also nodded inwardly in agreement.
If he hadn't heard those words, he would have gladly gone to welcome Mok Gyeong-un right away.
So Jang Neung-ak pondered for a moment and asked, "What do you think happened?"
At that question, Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains Geo-am Fist, who had reported Mok Gyeong-un's arrival, answered.
"Since he came here on his own, isn't it to pledge loyalty to you, my lord? Why are you reacting like this?"
At his words, Ko Yeon-hu said, "It seems the Eldest Young Master has made contact with Mok Gyeong-un."
"What? The Eldest Young Master?"
"Yes. That's why I'm concerned."
"Concerned about what?"
"Perhaps Mok Gyeong-un has had a change of heart."
At those words, Jeo Mo-pal raised his voice with a fierce look in his eyes.
"No. After my lord has treated him so favorably, how could he have a change of heart? If he does such a thing, I, Jeo Mo-pal, will break his legs."
At those words, Jang Neung-ak shook his head and waved his hand.
"Stand down. It's too much for you."
"Pardon?"
"Leader Ko or Leader Ho would have to step up to handle him."
At Jang Neung-ak's words, Jeo Mo-pal spoke with a frown and a disappointed tone.
"If it's because of my confrontation with him last time, I didn't use my full strength then. I also underestimated him, thinking he was a novice. This time, I'll properly…"
Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain, cut off Jeo Mo-pal's words.
"He defeated Woo Ho-rang."
"What?"
Jeo Mo-pal's eyes widened.
What was this about?
Was the Woo Ho-rang he was referring to the same one he knew?
"Surely you don't mean Woo Ho-rang, the grand leader of the Giant Watchtower Group?"
"Who else would I be talking about?"
'!?'
Jeo Mo-pal was momentarily dumbfounded.
There were rumors that Mok Gyeong-un's martial prowess was higher than expected, but weren't the Five Tigers considered the best among the late-stage disciples in terms of strength, excluding the executives of the Heaven and Earth Society?
And one of the Five Tigers, Woo Ho-rang, was defeated by Mok Gyeong-un?
"That means…"
"We can consider Mok Gyeong-un as a new member of the Five Tigers."
"Gasp!"
Jeo Mo-pal clicked his tongue.
As he closed his mouth, Seo Hye-in, the leader of Grass Smoke Group, who had been sitting up on the bed, cautiously spoke.
"Young Master, why don't you meet him first?"
"Meet him, you say?"
"Yes. If Mok Gyeong-un had truly changed his mind and joined the Eldest Young Master, would there be any reason for him to come all the way here again?"
"Hmm."
At her words, Jang Neung-ak nodded his head.
What she said made sense.
So Jang Neung-ak asked Jeo Mo-pal, "Did he come alone?"
"Yes. He came alone. There doesn't seem to be anyone accompanying him."
"Alone…"
In that case, he should meet him first and judge.
If he had betrayed him and changed his allegiance to his eldest brother, it would be best for him to be prepared.
Of course, if he came to pledge loyalty to him, he would receive appropriate treatment.
"Prepare the banquet table."
"Pardon?"
"Depending on his answer, it will be determined whether it will be a punitive drink or a rewarding drink."
***
Mok Gyeong-un, following Jeo Mo-pal, was walking through the estate.
Mok Gyeong-un's eyes flashed with interest.
Compared to the side of Wi So-yeon, the third disciple of the Society Leader, this side seemed more systematic.
Wi So-yeon's estate wasn't that large in scale and felt more like a place for acquaintances, while this place had a well-established hierarchy.
The energies felt from various places and the number of masters were also considerable.
Seeing this, one could guess how much effort the second disciple Jang Neung-ak had put in to become the Society Leader.
As they walked for a while, Mok Gyeong-un spoke up.
"I'm starting to become familiar with the layout of the estate, but how long are we going to keep walking in circles?"
"…What? You noticed?"
"The estate may be large, but not to the extent of walking for nearly a quarter-hour, right?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jeo Mo-pal chuckled.
Then he stopped walking and said, "Well, I didn't have any ill intentions, so there's no need for suspicion."
"Is that so?"
"My lord just said he's preparing a banquet for you, so I was just giving you a brief tour of the estate."
"A banquet?"
"That's right."
"You're making me feel burdened."
"It's just a casual gathering for drinks."
"Ah, is that so?"
"The preparations should be almost done, so I'll guide you to the reception room."
"I would appreciate that."
With that, they resumed walking.
As they headed towards the reception room, Jeo Mo-pal spoke without looking at Mok Gyeong-un.
"Did you really defeat the Giant Watchtower Group Leader?"
"Giant Watchtower Group Leader?"
"I'm talking about Woo Ho-rang, Young Lady Wi So-yeon's loyal subordinate."
"Ah, you mean him."
"Yes. Did you really defeat him?"
"You seem curious about that."
"Of course I'm curious since I only heard about it. Moreover, aren't I the only one among us who has properly fought against you?"
At that time, Jeo Mo-pal didn't consider Mok Gyeong-un to be above him.
He thought he had simply let his guard down for a moment.
But if he had truly defeated Woo Ho-rang, one of the Five Tigers, the situation would be completely different.
"So you wanted to confirm it?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jeo Mo-pal stopped walking.
Then he turned around and said, "Confirm? Of course, I have a burning desire to confirm it. But if you really defeated Woo Ho-rang, I'm definitely not a match for you."
"Then what's the reason behind this question?"
Mok Gyeong-un asked with a bright smile.
Contrary to his smile, the atmosphere was close to not refusing a fight if it came to it.
At that, Jeo Mo-pal's eyes flashed with interest.
'…So it's true.'
Unlike the last confrontation, this was Lord Jang Neung-ak's base.
In a place like this, one would usually feel intimidated to some extent, but the fact that he showed such confidence meant his skills backed it up.
Realizing this, Jeo Mo-pal said with a grin, revealing his yellowish teeth.
"I became curious."
"Curious, you say?"
"Yes. Whether you will take the vacant position of the Second Mountain or the position of the First Mountain from Ko Danju."
"Ko Danju? That person is…"
"Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the Hegemon Fist Group. You must have heard of him."
Of course, he had heard of him.
Mok Gyeong-un had familiarized himself with the loyal subordinates of the second disciple Jang Neung-ak through the Shadow Clan.
If Woo Ho-rang was Wi So-yeon's right-hand man, Ko Yeon-hu was Jang Neung-ak's right-hand man.
And like Woo Ho-rang, Ko Yeon-hu was also one of the Five Tigers.
"He's known to be unmatched in close combat among the Five Tigers."
"Bol-mo… No. Since you're from the Amjong, it would be strange if you didn't know even this. Anyway, I look forward to it."
With those words, Jeo Mo-pal turned around and walked away.
Looking at his back, Mok Gyeong-un chuckled.
Eventually, they arrived at the garden of the reception room.
'Oh?'
The garden, illuminated by hexagonal lanterns on all sides, was bright, and a considerable feast was prepared, considering it was prepared within a quarter-hour.
Even the lovely maids, who had been summoned at some point, were ready to serve the drinks.
The rumors about the second disciple Jang Neung-ak enjoying elegance seemed to be true.
'He must be in high spirits.'
Did he prepare this gathering with the conviction that he would pledge loyalty to him?
But it wasn't just Jang Neung-ak and his loyal subordinates at this gathering.
As if all the subordinates of Jang Neung-ak who had reached the Transcendent Realm or above had gathered, they filled the lower seats.
There were about twenty of them.
They were all sitting upright in front of the banquet table, waiting silently.
Compared to Wi So-yeon, he definitely had a more organized force and system.
At that moment, the sound of Cheong-ryeong's laughter reached Mok Gyeong-un's ears.
-Puhahaha! Human, look over there.
At the head of the banquet table was Go Chan, who was possessing Ha Chae-rin.
Dressed lavishly, Go Chan was seated next to Ho Jong-hyeok, the grand leader of the Third Mountain Destruction Clan, as if he were his wife.
As soon as his eyes met Mok Gyeong-un's, he lowered his head, feeling embarrassed.
-It seems he has fully adapted.
-It appears so.
Well, it seemed he was carrying out the orders given to him well.
He had wondered if he would do well due to the awkwardness, but unexpectedly, perhaps a woman's body suited his constitution.
Judging by the smile that never left the face of the Third Mountain Ho Jong-hyeok as he placed his hand around Go Chan's waist, he must have taken a great liking to him.
Meanwhile, Jang Neung-ak, who was sitting at the head of the table, laughed loudly and said, "Hahaha! You're here."
In response, Mok Gyeong-un lightly bowed to him with his hands clasped together.
"Mok Gyeong-un greets the Young Master."
It was a respectful greeting.
However, at this greeting from Mok Gyeong-un, the eyes of Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the First Mountain Hegemon Fist Group, who was sitting at the head of the table, narrowed.
'…This fellow?'
He didn't mention his affiliation.
When greeting a superior, it was customary to mention one's affiliation even if they knew each other.
But Mok Gyeong-un didn't do that.
For some reason, it bothered Ko Yeon-hu.
Meanwhile…
"Come closer to the head of the table."
Jang Neung-ak ordered Mok Gyeong-un to come closer.
So Mok Gyeong-un passed the lower seats and approached closer.
As they approached where they were sitting, Jang Neung-ak extended his hand, signaling him to stop.
Mok Gyeong-un stopped in his tracks.
Then Jang Neung-ak spoke with a smile on his lips.
"This banquet was prepared for you. Do you like it?"
"It's lavish."
"Yes. If there was more time, I would have prepared an even more extravagant feast."
"Thank you."
"No. There's no need to thank me yet."
"Pardon?"
"The start of the banquet will be determined by your answer."
The smile on Jang Neung-ak's face, which had been present until just now, changed to a blank expression.
In an instant, the cheerful atmosphere sank.
It showed that everything could change depending on Jang Neung-ak's mood.
So Mok Gyeong-un parted his lips.
"My answer?"
"That's right."
"…"
"You came here without even meeting Young Lady Seo, whom this young master sent, which means you must have made a decision in your heart, right?"
At Jang Neung-ak's words, Mok Gyeong-un shrugged his shoulders and replied, "Well… you could say that."
-Thud!
At that moment, Jeo Mo-pal, who had just sat down at the head of the table, slammed his wine cup on the table and said, "Mok Gyeong-un. Does this gathering seem like a joke to you? Show respect to my lord and answer properly."
At his words, Mok Gyeong-un tilted his head and said, "I did answer properly."
"What?"
"Jeo Mo-pal. Be quiet."
As Jeo Mo-pal's voice rose, Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain, stopped him.
Jeo Mo-pal closed his mouth with a slightly flushed face.
He could overlook Mok Gyeong-un acting rudely towards him, but he couldn't forgive disrespect towards his lord.
Meanwhile, Jang Neung-ak spoke again.
"There's no point in prolonging this conversation. It will only tire our mouths. I'll just ask you directly. The rest can be heard later."
"…"
"Did you come here to pledge loyalty to this young master?"
At Jang Neung-ak's straightforward question, everyone's gaze turned towards Mok Gyeong-un at once.
His answer would determine whether this would be a banquet or not.
Jang Neung-ak still viewed it positively.
After all, since Mok Gyeong-un had fought against Woo Ho-rang, Wi So-yeon's right-hand man, he had already fallen out with them.
The only variable was his eldest brother.
Depending on this guy's answer, he could tell whether he had sided with his eldest brother or not.
Meanwhile, Mok Gyeong-un parted his lips.
"Before that, there's something I'd like to say first."
"What?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jang Neung-ak's eyes turned sharp.
This guy didn't answer his question.
Not only that, but he wanted to say what he had to say first?
Feeling offended, Jang Neung-ak scoffed.
"You've become arrogant."
"Arrogant, you say?"
"After defeating Woo Ho-rang, one of the Five Tigers, and making contact with my eldest brother, has your nose grown high?"
"That's completely separate."
"Separate?"
"Yes."
"Separate… Fine. I'll give you another chance. Answer this young master's question first."
At Jang Neung-ak's question, Mok Gyeong-un scratched his head as if in a difficult position.
Then he said, "I apologize, but I think I need to speak first."
-Thud!
As soon as those words left his mouth, murderous intent and energy surged from various directions.
The loyal subordinates were enraged by Mok Gyeong-un's rudeness.
Of course, Jang Neung-ak, the person in question, also had an unpleasant expression.
His eyes had turned cold.
Everyone was gauging Jang Neung-ak's reaction.
If he gave the order, they were in an atmosphere ready to subdue Mok Gyeong-un at any moment.
-Swish!
At that moment, Jang Neung-ak poured alcohol into a cup and shook his head.
Then he downed the cup in one gulp and turned his head towards Ko Yeon-hu, the grand leader of the First Mountain Hegemon Fist Group, and said, "This is perfect timing. Why don't we establish the hierarchy for the newcomer and determine who is suitable for the First Mountain position?"
-Tak!
"I accept your order, my lord."
At Jang Neung-ak's words, Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain, stood up from his seat.
He understood what Jang Neung-ak's intention was.
As Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain, got up from his seat and descended from the head of the hall, everyone's gaze turned towards him.
'He's sending Ko Danju.'
'Does he really consider that guy to be at the level of the Five Tigers?'
'Are we going to witness a confrontation at the level of the Five Tigers?'
Curiosity gleamed in everyone's eyes.
Apart from being annoyed by Mok Gyeong-un's rudeness towards their lord, it was an opportunity to see the martial prowess of Ko Yeon-hu, Jang Neung-ak's oldest loyal subordinate and right-hand man, after a long time.
As Ko Yeon-hu approached Mok Gyeong-un, he said, "You made a mistake. Why don't you apologize to my lord now and answer his question?"
At his suggestion, Mok Gyeong-un spoke with a troubled tone, "Ah, that seems difficult."
-Roar!
As soon as that answer ended, tremendous energy burst forth from Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain.
Ko Yeon-hu, seemingly in a bad mood, glared at Mok Gyeong-un and said, "Since you've avoided answering the question about loyalty three times, can I assume you have other intentions?"
In response to that question, Mok Gyeong-un replied with a bright smile, "You keep asking, so I have no choice but to answer. Yes, that's right."
"What?"
-Grit!
Was this guy now ridiculing their lord and them?
For a moment, they were dumbfounded.
Then why had he come here in the first place?
Could it be that after meeting with the Eldest Young Master, he received some secret orders and was trying to play tricks?
If that was the case, it was unforgivable.
Ko Yeon-hu spoke in a murderous voice, "Draw your sword immediately."
"My sword?"
"It's the last mercy I'm giving you. If you don't draw your sword right now, you won't be able to do anything in this place…"
-Kwang!
Before he could even finish his words.
Mok Gyeong-un had already grabbed Ko Yeon-hu's head with one hand and smashed it straight into the floor.
Ko Yeon-hu's head and body, with his face buried in the floor, twitched and trembled.
Mok Gyeong-un spoke to him with a sneer, "Show mercy to those inferior to you."
'!!!!!!!!!!'
At the unexpected result, the surroundings were instantly filled with silence.
180: Chapter 179: Jang Neung-ak (3)
In an instant, the banquet area in the garden of the reception hall was filled with silence.
It was because a scene unfolded before their eyes that was completely different from what they had expected, no, something they couldn't even have imagined.
'How could this be?'
One of the men on the lower seats was dumbfounded.
He was Wi Maeng-cheon, the Second Mountain, who was possessing a man named Jong-im, who had become Mok Gyeong-un's subordinate.
Wi Maeng-cheon knew Ko Yeon-hu's martial prowess better than anyone else.
After all, he had directly sparred with him.
But this was more than just a shock.
He had fought against Mok Gyeong-un just a day ago, so he was convinced that with his skills, he couldn't defeat Ko Yeon-hu, one of the Five Tigers.
'What on earth is going on?'
It had only been a day, so how had his martial prowess risen so much?
No, this was a development that couldn't be understood rationally.
Ko Yeon-hu wasn't someone who would be defeated like this in a single move.
'…What the hell is this?'
He wasn't the only one surprised.
The guard Go Chan, who was possessing Ha Chae-rin's body, also tried his best not to show it, but he couldn't hide his inner shock at this outcome.
It was incomparable to what he had seen on the street not long ago.
'Is that guy really a monster?'
How could he have become this strong in such a short time?
It was completely incomprehensible.
Then, he heard a clicking sound next to him.
'!?'
It was Ho Jong-hyeok, the grand leader of the Third Mountain Destruction Clan, who had his hand around his waist and was tilting a wine cup.
Ho Jong-hyeok clicked his tongue while looking at this scene and muttered, "Oh my. An unexpected hidden card."
He seemed surprised too, but strangely, there was a subtle sense of rivalry in his expression.
What was this reaction?
Meanwhile…
"Kuugh!"
At that moment, Ko Yeon-hu, whose face had been buried in the floor, slammed his hands on the ground, trying to use the rebound to lift his body.
However…
-Bam!
Mok Gyeong-un pressed his head down again, burying his face in the floor.
The trembling of Ko Yeon-hu's body, which had been shaking its head, soon ceased.
It seemed he had lost consciousness.
At the sight of him, the banquet area, which had been engulfed in silence, soon became abuzz.
Mok Gyeong-un removed his hand from Ko Yeon-hu's head, straightened his waist, and looked at Jang Neung-ak, the second disciple of the Society Leader.
The way Jang Neung-ak looked at Mok Gyeong-un changed.
Until now, it had been merely like looking at a tempting fruit, but now, wariness appeared in his eyes.
'…This guy. His martial prowess has further developed?'
Ko Yeon-hu's martial prowess was not inferior to Woo Ho-rang, who was also called one of the Five Tigers.
No, in some ways, Jang Neung-ak considered him to be a step above.
But he had knocked him down in a single move?
Jang Neung-ak opened his mouth.
"You… You're close to the pinnacle."
-Murmur murmur!
'Pinnacle?'
'Did he just say pinnacle?'
At his words, the martial artists on the lower seats were abuzz.
The pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm.
It was the martial prowess of the executive level, surpassing the Five Tigers, who were called the best late-stage disciples.
Among the executives who held the positions of the Four Valley Masters, Three Clan Masters, and Five Kings, there was no one who wasn't close to or had reached the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm.
Each of them was equivalent to the leader of a small to medium-sized sect or the top master of a major sect in the righteous martial world.
So Jeo Mo-pal spoke in disbelief.
"Pinnacle, you say? My lord, no matter what…"
"Jeo Mo-pal."
"Brother Ho?"
"Haven't you noticed yet?"
"Noticed what?"
"That guy has no injuries at all."
"Injuries?"
At those words, Jeo Mo-pal's eyes trembled.
He hadn't been aware of it, but there were no visible injuries on Mok Gyeong-un.
He had heard that it was a quite fierce confrontation with Seo Hye-in, the Grass Smoke Group Leader, but there wasn't the slightest injury on Mok Gyeong-un's exposed areas.
"…He was more of a monster than he looked. Not a single injury against that Woo Ho-rang?"
At Jeo Mo-pal's words, Seo Hye-in spoke in a grave voice.
"What are you saying when Ko Danju was knocked down in a single move right before your eyes?"
"…"
-Swish!
Before they knew it, the martial artists on the lower seats, as well as Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance and Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains and Geo-am Fist, had drawn their true energy and assumed a battle stance.
From the moment he knocked down Ko Yeon-hu in a single move, that guy had surpassed the level of a late-stage disciple.
He already possessed martial prowess close to that of an executive.
The only ones who could face him one-on-one here were their lord Jang Neung-ak, who had been taught by the Society Leader, and…
The gazes of Seo Hye-in and Jeo Mo-pal on the upper seats turned towards an unexpected person.
It was none other than Ho Jong-hyeok, the grand leader of the Third Mountain Destruction Clan.
Why were they looking at him like this?
Ko Yeon-hu, known as one of the Five Tigers and the strongest among the loyal subordinates as the First Mountain, was defeated in a single move, so why were they sending such gazes?
At that moment…
"What's with those looks?"
Ho Jong-hyeok spoke in an annoyed tone and downed his wine cup.
Meanwhile, Jang Neung-ak opened his mouth.
"Ho Jong-hyeok."
"Yes, my lord."
"I didn't expect to reveal the hidden card in a place like this."
At Jang Neung-ak's words, the gaze of Ho Jong-hyeok, who had been acting indifferent, changed.
It became heavier and sharper, so to speak.
Jang Neung-ak said to him, "Can you handle him?"
"I can manage somehow, but I can't guarantee victory. Considering his movements just now."
"Then I'll have Jeo Mo-pal assist you. Subdue him and make him kneel."
"You're really putting me in a difficult position. Are you sure about this?"
"It's this young master's estate anyway. It doesn't matter if they see."
"…Understood. I accept your order."
With those words, Ho Jong-hyeok smiled at Go Chan, who was possessing Ha Chae-rin next to him, and said, "Wait here for a moment. I'll be back soon."
'Kuaaaah!'
At his words, Go Chan inwardly screamed.
Even though he urged himself in his mind to fulfill his role, the words this guy carelessly threw out went beyond being a burden.
As Ho Jong-hyeok was about to grasp the handle of the huge ax placed behind him…
"Why don't we stop this unnecessary fight?"
Mok Gyeong-un spoke to Jang Neung-ak.
Then Jang Neung-ak scoffed.
"You refused the offer of loyalty, said you came to play tricks with your own mouth, and now you're telling us not to engage in an unnecessary fight… Do you take this young master as a joke?"
"How could that be? I simply came to make a necessary proposal to you, Young Master."
"Shut up!"
Before he could even finish, Jang Neung-ak's rebuke spread in all directions.
Perhaps because it was infused with internal energy, the martial artists on the lower seats covered their ears in unison at the echoing shout.
Of course, Mok Gyeong-un's expression didn't change at all.
Jang Neung-ak pressed Mok Gyeong-un.
"I don't know what tricks you're trying to pull after joining hands with my eldest brother, but from the moment you let go of this young master's hand, you're an enemy."
"Aren't you defining it too easily?"
"Defining? Don't make me laugh. Did you think this young master wouldn't know that you made contact with my eldest brother?"
"Yes, I did make contact."
"Right. Then you can't deny it any…"
"Thanks to that, I've become troubled because I've made Young Master Na Yul-ryang my enemy."
"What?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jang Neung-ak's expression momentarily stiffened.
He had naturally assumed that Mok Gyeong-un had joined hands with his eldest brother Na Yul-ryang since he had defeated Woo Ho-rang, a subordinate of his junior sister Wi So-yeon, and even knocked down his right-hand man, the First Mountain Ko Yeon-hu, in a single move.
But what was this about?
"You've made my eldest brother your enemy?"
"Yes."
Jang Neung-ak, with narrowed eyes, frowned and said, "Are you trying to deceive this young master by telling lies now?"
"How could that be? Young Master Na Yul-ryang is probably anxious because he couldn't kill me."
"He's anxious because he couldn't kill you?"
"Yes."
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jang Neung-ak snorted.
This guy was playing tricks on him.
What kind of person was his eldest brother?
He was a cold-blooded person who didn't even consider most of the people around him as human beings.
Even his own disciples, including himself, were not acknowledged by him.
Such an inhuman eldest brother considered a mere guy like him as an enemy?
"Foolish fellow."
"…"
"You don't know Na Yul-ryang. Are you telling this young master to believe such nonsense that he would consider you as an enemy? It would be more realistic if you said he considers you a worm."
-Swish!
With those words, Jang Neung-ak nodded his head towards the Third Mountain Ho Jong-hyeok.
"Phew."
Then Ho Jong-hyeok let out a soft breath, grasped the huge axe, and descended from the hall.
Seeing the axe, Mok Gyeong-un recalled who he was from the conversation with the Shadow Clan.
[Ohoho. There's one particularly troublesome person among Jang Neung-ak's loyal subordinates.]
[Who is it?]
[The grand leader of the Destruction Clan, Ho Jong-hyeok.]
[Ho Jong-hyeok?]
[Yes. I heard he holds the position of the Third Mountain in the Five Mountains Alliance.]
[The Third Mountain means he's the third in rank.]
[That's the displayed rank.]
[Displayed rank?]
[Of course, his actual martial prowess may not match that of Ko Yeon-hu, the First Mountain, or Wi Maeng-cheon, the Second Mountain. But considering his father's prestige, his position is incomprehensible.]
[Who is his father to make you say that?]
[The Axe King, Ho Tae-gang.]
[The Axe King? Is he one of the Five Kings?]
The Five Kings.
They were the top executives supporting the Heaven and Earth Society.
But that wasn't the end of it.
[He's not just one of the Five Kings. He is one of the eight masters known to have reached the highest realm in the current martial world.]
[Could it be…]
[Yes, he's one of the Eight Stars.]
The huge ax that looked like it could split a person in half was probably the Annihilation Ax, known to have been crafted for the Axe King Ho Tae-gang to unleash his unique martial art, the Heavenly Axe Technique.
'The son who received the teachings of one of the Eight Stars…'
A small interest arose in Mok Gyeong-un's eyes.
The Eight Stars were called the highest masters in the current martial world, excluding the Six Heavens.
It would be stranger if he had no interest at all.
-Rumble rumble!
The muscles on the right arm of the Third Mountain Ho Jong-hyeok, who was dragging the ax on the floor as he walked, were extremely bulky.
They must have developed to handle that huge Annihilation Ax with ease.
Anticipation gleamed in the eyes of Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains and Geo-am Fist, who was following behind to assist him.
'Will I get to see Brother Ho's true skills?'
There was a secret in the Oakhoe.
It was a secret known only to the members of the Five Mountains Alliance and their lord Jang Neung-ak.
Even the martial artists on the lower seats didn't know about it.
It was the existence of the true First Mountain.
'The True First Mountain. The hidden blade of our lord.'
Anyone would think that Ko Yeon-hu, one of the Five Tigers who were called the best late-stage disciples, was the strongest in the Oakhoe, but the reality was different.
The true strongest expert of the alliance was none other than Ho Jong-hyeok.
His true martial prowess had reached the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm.
-Whoosh!
Ho Jong-hyeok lifted the huge ax, the Annihilation Ax, which he had been dragging on the floor, and lightly swung it in the air.
It was just a light swing, but a strong wind pressure arose, and a sharp aura spread in all directions.
'As expected, he's incredible.'
If this much could be done with just the wind pressure, it seemed like something truly amazing would happen if he fully unleashed his martial prowess.
Ho Jong-hyeok approached Mok Gyeong-un and said, "Hey. Don't resent us too much for ganging up on you. It's not a duel but an order to subdue you."
At his words, Mok Gyeong-un shrugged his shoulders as if he didn't care.
Then he took something out from his waist.
It was a small pouch attached to his belt.
"What are you trying to do?"
Ho Jong-hyeok asked.
In response, Mok Gyeong-un didn't answer and said while looking at Jang Neung-ak in the hall.
"If you see this, your thoughts might change a bit."
With those words, Mok Gyeong-un threw the pouch to Jang Neung-ak in the hall.
"Where are you…!"
-Pak!
Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance caught it instead, thinking he might try to pull some tricks.
But the pouch was lighter than expected.
She thought it might contain a hidden weapon or something, but it didn't seem to be the case.
"Young Master, this is…"
"Don't mind useless things. Hurry up and subdue him."
Jang Neung-ak gave the order to Ho Jong-hyeok and Jeo Mo-pal as if he had no interest in it at all.
As soon as he did, Ho Jong-hyeok moved his body towards Mok Gyeong-un and swung the huge ax, the Annihilation Ax, towards his neck.
-Whoosh! Swish! Crack!
As the Annihilation Ax sliced through the air, the banquet tables were split by the wind pressure and aura.
Thanks to that, the martial artists on the lower seats who were watching had to step back as the tables were split.
Jang Neung-ak looked at this and raised the corners of his mouth bitterly.
With Ho Jong-hyeok, who had reached the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm, and Jeo Mo-pal assisting him, there wouldn't be much difficulty in subduing that guy.
'How dare you ridicule this young master?'
Let's see if he can still say such things even after peeling off his skin.
At that moment…
"Yo… Young Master?"
Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance called out to Jang Neung-ak.
Jang Neung-ak, who was focused on their confrontation, replied in an annoyed tone, "Tell me later."
"I, I apologize, but I think you need to see this before that."
"Didn't I tell you to talk later?"
"Young Master!"
"Right now, this young master's words are being igno… !?"
The expression of Jang Neung-ak, who was about to press Seo Hye-in, suddenly stiffened.
It was because of something held in her hand.
It was none other than an eyeball.
The moment he saw the eyeball with a silver color instead of a black pupil, someone's image quickly flashed through Jang Neung-ak's mind.
It was the image of his eldest brother, Na Yul-ryang.
[As expected of the Thunderbolt Fist King. To think you would make this young master use even this.]
Na Yul-ryang's voice and appearance were still vivid.
During the sparring with the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, suddenly the pupil of his right eye had turned silver.
After that, the dynamics of the match had clearly changed.
In an instant, Jang Neung-ak's eyes trembled as he recalled this.
This eyeball was too familiar.
'Could it be?'
This was…
At that very moment…
-Kwang! Clang!
At the sound of continuous crashing noises, Jang Neung-ak's gaze shifted to the side.
'!?'
There, he saw Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains lying face down on the floor with Mok Gyeong-un's foot stepping on his head, and Ho Jong-hyeok, with one side of his ax blade broken, staggering and being pushed back.
All of this had happened in the brief moment he had taken his eyes off them.
181: Chapter 180: Jang Neung-ak (4)
It all happened in an instant.
Mok Gyeong-un, who had been right in front of him, disappeared from his sight.
The True First Mountain, Ho Jong-hyeok, the grand leader of the Destruction Clan, moved his head and searched for Mok Gyeong-un's whereabouts.
However…
-Bam!
"Kuk!"
Before he knew it, Mok Gyeong-un was stepping on Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains Geo-am Fist.
He couldn't even use his hands properly before being defeated.
Just by seeing this, one could tell that there was an overwhelming gap between Mok Gyeong-un and his martial prowess.
But he couldn't just stand by and watch.
-Whoosh!
Ho Jong-hyeok raised his unique weapon, the Annihilation Ax, with true energy and swung it towards Mok Gyeong-un.
It would be nice if he could cut him, but that wasn't likely.
He just wanted to make him back away from Jeo Mo-pal.
However…
-Clang!
'!?'
Ho Jong-hyeok's eyes wavered.
'He caught the blade infused with true energy?'
A perplexing situation unfolded.
Mok Gyeong-un had caught the blade of the Annihilation Ax flying towards him with one hand.
True energy could be said to be true energy and aura converging into one and gathering densely.
Catching this with bare hands was nearly impossible for any martial artist.
If one wanted to counter this, they would have to raise their own true energy…
'Hand?'
Ho Jong-hyeok's eyes widened.
That was because he discovered the black energy enveloping Mok Gyeong-un's hand.
The energy wrapped around his hand was protecting him from being cut by the true energy infused in the Annihilation Ax.
'What the hell is that energy?'
It was more dense and stronger than aura.
And it even felt strangely sinister.
But that wasn't the problem.
If it was an energy that could block true energy with bare hands, it had to be true energy.
However, even if one reached the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm, it was nearly impossible to raise true energy with bare hands.
-Sizzle!
At that moment, a strange sensation flowed from Mok Gyeong-un's hand.
It was poison energy.
"This is…?"
As the poison energy and black energy entangled with his true energy…
-Crack!
'No way?'
His fingers dug into the ax blade of the Annihilation Ax, and it cracked.
Surprised by this, Ho Jong-hyeok hurriedly used his footwork and tried to kick Mok Gyeong-un's head.
However…
-Swish!
Mok Gyeong-un lightly avoided it by tilting his head back, and then…
-Bam!
Instead, he landed a punch on Ho Jong-hyeok's chest.
Ho Jong-hyeok's body was sent flying back from the impact of the punch.
-Swoosh! Clang!
But in the process, one side of the Annihilation Ax's blade broke.
Ho Jong-hyeok's expression contorted.
The Annihilation Ax, a unique weapon he had received from his father, was an ax forged from a single piece of iron by a renowned craftsman of the time.
Seeing one side of the blade of the Annihilation Ax, which he cherished like a treasure, shatter before his eyes, he couldn't help but feel a surge of anger.
-Grit!
'This guy!'
But contrary to this anger, his reason became even more cold.
This man in front of him.
He was definitely not at the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm.
To possess martial prowess that overwhelmed him to this extent, one had to surpass the wall.
But this didn't make sense rationally.
Not long ago, he was barely at the level to receive a strike from Jeo Mo-pal of the Geo-am Fist and Blind Swordsman Wi Maeng-cheon.
'This isn't just fast development.'
The speed at which he was getting stronger was beyond imagination, almost to the point where it wouldn't be an exaggeration to call him a monster.
It wasn't a matter of whether he had surpassed the wall or not.
This guy didn't seem to be someone who could be controlled by anyone.
[What? You're saying we should exclude him?]
[Yes.]
[Our lord has already taken a liking to him, so why are you trying to exclude him?]
[Because he's dangerous.]
[Dangerous? What's dangerous? If it's because of his background…]
[That's not the problem. Even if it's not visible, I can tell. Mok Gyeong-un is never someone who can be loyal to anyone.]
The words of that dead guy suddenly came to mind.
'That blind fellow's judgment was right.'
As Wi Maeng-cheon said, this guy could never be controlled by their lord.
Not only was his speed of growth alarming, but his intentions were also unknown, so keeping him close could lead to unpredictable incidents.
-Grip!
'This is troublesome.'
But right now, this was an even bigger problem.
He wanted to subdue the guy according to his lord's order, but it was impossible alone.
If his guess was correct, no one present at this gathering could defeat this guy alone with martial arts.
The only possibility was for their lord Jang Neung-ak to join forces and launch a combined attack…
'There's too much to lose.'
But then the loss would be too great.
If they ended up losing even after launching a combined attack against someone they had intended to take in as a subordinate, the aftermath would be…
"Stop!"
At that moment, Jang Neung-ak's shout was heard.
At his shout, the Third Mountain Ho Jong-hyeok turned his head with a puzzled expression.
There, Jang Neung-ak was holding an eyeball with a stiff expression.
'Eyeball?'
What the hell was that?
As the True First Mountain Ho Jong-hyeok was puzzled, Mok Gyeong-un spoke to Jang Neung-ak with a bright smile.
"It seems you're now willing to have a conversation."
"You, this…"
Jang Neung-ak was about to say something, but then he roughly shouted at the martial artists on the lower seats.
"You guys, stand back for now."
"But my lord?"
"I told you to stand back."
"Yes, sir!"
At his order, the martial artists on the lower seats moved out of the garden in unison.
Go Chan, who was possessing Ha Chae-rin, also hesitated and tried to leave, but Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance allowed him to stay with a nod.
After they had all left and only the Oakhoe remained, Jang Neung-ak spoke again.
"This… What is it?"
At that question, Mok Gyeong-un tilted his head and said, "You're not asking because you really don't know, right?"
"…Are you trying to humiliate this young master now?"
"How could that be? I thought you would recognize it if you saw it since you're the Young Master, but you're asking what it is, so…"
"You!"
"Are you really asking because you don't know?"
"…"
At Jang Neung-ak's even more stiffened expression, Ho Jong-hyeok looked at the eyeball in his hand with uncomprehending eyes.
What the hell was that thing that made his lord react like this?
But then, unbelievable words came out of Jang Neung-ak's mouth.
"Did you fight my eldest brother?"
'Eldest brother?'
What was this about?
Was he asking if Mok Gyeong-un had fought against the Eldest Young Master Na Yul-ryang?
As he was puzzled, Mok Gyeong-un nodded his head and replied, "I thought that would be a sufficient answer."
Mok Gyeong-un's gaze was directed at the eyeball held in Jang Neung-ak's hand.
At his attitude, Jang Neung-ak stared intently at the eyeball in his hand with a stiff expression, and then he let out a hollow laugh as if he couldn't believe it.
"Hah!"
At his reaction, all of his loyal subordinates couldn't hide their surprise.
They had also realized whose eyeball it was thanks to Jang Neung-ak's reaction.
If that was the case…
'What the hell is this?'
'That guy defeated the Eldest Young Master?'
'…That monster?'
The Eldest Young Master Na Yul-ryang.
Not many within the Heaven and Earth Society could handle him.
He was a monster, a disciple of the Society Leader who was one of the Six Heavens and had surpassed the wall to reach the Transformation Realm.
It was said that even the Five Kings, the highest executives of the Heaven and Earth Society, had a hard time dealing with him unless they were the two kings who had received the title of Eight Stars.
And that guy had fought him?
No, if he had even plucked out his eyeball, wasn't it the same as winning?
What on earth was going on?
At that very moment…
"Hahah… Hahahahahaha!"
The Society Leader's second disciple, Jang Neung-ak, who had been letting out a hollow laugh, burst into a mad laughter.
Everyone looked at him in puzzlement at his sudden behavior.
Was it because the shock was too great?
As they wondered why he was acting like that, Jang Neung-ak, who had been laughing for a while, plopped down on his seat and gestured with his hand, saying, "To think you plucked out the eyeball of that inhuman bastard. I've lived to see such a day. Hahahahahaha! Come here and let's talk."
"My lord!"
Seo Hye-in, the leader of the Five Mountains Alliance, tried to dissuade him.
Then Jang Neung-ak waved his hand and said, "Enough. He's the one who plucked out the eyeball of that monstrous bastard. Who could stop him?"
"But my lord, it's too dangerous…"
"Enough. If he had any intention of harming me, he would have done it already. Isn't that right?"
At his words, Mok Gyeong-un replied with a bright smile, "That's correct."
"…"
At his answer, Seo Hye-in and Jeo Mo-pal of the Five Mountains, whose face was swollen, couldn't hide their concern.
No matter how strong that guy was, they were loyal subordinates.
They had a duty to ensure his safety.
But Ho Jong-hyeok shook his head as if telling them not to.
'It's no use. Leave it.'
If he was truly a master of the Transformation Realm, this distance was already within his range.
He could easily make a move if he wanted to.
'It's better to narrow the gap.'
That would be a better way to protect their lord Jang Neung-ak from him.
Sometimes the best defense was offense.
-Tap tap tap! Tak!
In the end, Mok Gyeong-un came up to the hall and sat across from Jang Neung-ak.
The treatment had clearly changed.
Sitting next to him signified trust, but having him sit directly in front meant acknowledging him as an equal.
As Mok Gyeong-un sat down, Jang Neung-ak picked up a wine bottle and said, "Will you have a drink?"
"There's no reason to refuse a drink you offer."
"Good. Have a drink."
Jang Neung-ak poured wine into Mok Gyeong-un's cup.
Since they were sitting across from each other, there was a distance, but…
-Swish!
As Jang Neung-ak applied his internal energy, the wine inside the bottle stretched out and entered the distant cup.
When the cup was full, the stream of wine connecting them was cut off.
'As expected, the Young Master's true energy is no ordinary matter.'
Even if he had the lowest true energy among the Society Leader's three disciples, it was still vast enough to be incomparable to ordinary internal energy masters.
It was only natural since he had received the Hundred Bees and Mice Technique and regularly consumed spiritual medicines since childhood.
Jang Neung-ak put down the wine bottle.
Then he looked at Mok Gyeong-un and said, "Will you pour for me?"
The wine bottle was at a distance.
He had to stand up and get the wine bottle to pour him a drink.
At a glance, it might seem like he was trying to make Mok Gyeong-un stand up.
'Could it be that he's trying to tame the guy?'
Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance watched this anxiously.
However…
"It's not difficult."
Mok Gyeong-un chuckled and then lightly gestured towards the wine bottle.
Then, a stream of wine naturally extended from the spout of the wine bottle and entered Jang Neung-ak's cup.
-Swish!
'!!!!!!'
Seeing this, Jang Neung-ak's loyal subordinates unknowingly let out exclamations of surprise.
This was the technique of Void Seizing.
If one reached the pinnacle of the Transcendent Realm, they could use true energy to pull or push objects to some extent.
But to manipulate something like water droplets so delicately with true energy, one had to reach an even higher realm.
"Is it confirmed now?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jang Neung-ak looked at the cup filled with wine and then raised his head.
"Indeed, you have surpassed the wall."
'Ah…'
Seo Hye-in of the Five Mountains Alliance finally understood Jang Neung-ak's intention.
Their lord had wanted to confirm one last time if Mok Gyeong-un had truly surpassed the wall and reached the Transformation Realm.
It was now certain.
That guy was undoubtedly a master of the Transformation Realm.
He was no longer at the level of a pinnacle-stage supreme master but already a true grandmaster who could be counted on one hand even within the Heaven and Earth Society.
Apart from being a disciple of the Shadow Clan and the Poison King, he had reached a position where he alone could be considered a force to be reckoned with.
Their lord's reason for having Mok Gyeong-un sit right in front of him was understandable.
At that moment, Jang Neung-ak spoke.
"The strong deserve to be treated accordingly."
-Swish!
Jang Neung-ak clasped his hands together and bowed to Mok Gyeong-un, saying, "Jang Neung-ak, the second disciple of the Society Leader, will respectfully treat Master Mok with courtesy."
'Ah!'
At his behavior, the loyal subordinates of the Five Mountains Alliance inwardly clicked their tongues.
It was also the first time they had seen their lord Jang Neung-ak treat a late-stage disciple of a younger age so politely, apart from the executives.
But he certainly had the qualifications for it.
After all, he was a master who had reached the Transformation Realm.
-Swish!
Mok Gyeong-un also bowed to him with clasped hands and replied, "There's no need to go out of your way, but I'm grateful for your courteous treatment."
The atmosphere wasn't bad as they exchanged courtesies.
Jang Neung-ak seemed to think the same, as he spoke in a brighter voice, "Master Mok, may I ask the reason for coming to me with this?"
-Swish!
What Jang Neung-ak pointed to was none other than the eyeball of the Eldest Young Master Na Yul-ryang.
Jang Neung-ak's mood was elevated as he looked at the eyeball.
At first, he had thought that Mok Gyeong-un had joined hands with his eldest brother Na Yul-ryang to deceive him.
But that was his misjudgment.
Mok Gyeong-un had defeated Woo Ho-rang, the right-hand man of his junior sister Wi So-yeon, and not only that, he had even fought against his eldest brother Na Yul-ryang and plucked out his eyeball.
What did that imply?
'He wishes to be with this young master.'
He was convinced.
Mok Gyeong-un had chosen him.
However, contrary to his expectations, unexpected words came out of Mok Gyeong-un's mouth.
"Join forces with Young Lady Wi So-yeon's side."
'!?'
Jang Neung-ak's expression instantly stiffened.
This guy had made him anticipate so much, and now what was he talking about?
So Jang Neung-ak spoke, managing his expression as much as possible.
"Master Mok, what are you saying? Joining forces with my junior sister, that's…"
"I mean it literally. If you two don't combine your forces, it will be difficult to compete against Eldest Young Master Na Yul-ryang's side."
"…"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Jang Neung-ak was momentarily dumbfounded, and then a hollow laugh escaped his lips.
It was disappointing since it wasn't what he had expected, but was he saying this thinking it was possible?
So Jang Neung-ak spoke his true thoughts.
"Look here, Master Mok. Do you think that's possible?"
"Possible?"
"That's right. Both my junior sister and I are running for the same position. And now you're telling us to combine our forces. Do you think that's possible?"
Jang Neung-ak shook his head.
Then he chuckled and said, "Well, if my junior sister were to pledge loyalty to me and join my subordination, it might be possible. If not, your proposal is essentially impossible, Master Mok."
"I see."
It was a foolish proposal.
This was a proposal that neither he nor his junior sister could accept.
If that was the case, they would have already joined forces long ago or pushed one of them in that direction.
It was because that didn't work that they were each putting in so much effort to secure support.
"Anyhow, thank you for the proposal, but…"
"Ah, did it sound like a proposal to you?"
"What?"
Jang Neung-ak frowned for a moment.
Did he mishear?
But then…
-Flinch!
The guy smiled, filled with malice unlike before, and said,
"This isn't a proposal but an order to do so."