"Alone?"
"Yes."
"So… you came alone?"
"Yes, that's what I said."
"Yes…"
Struggling to understand what was happening, Hwang Jongi looked back at the entire situation.
Repeating the same words and the same questions in his mind. He awkwardly makes eye contact with his subordinate.
'Didn't he say that just now?'
And then nodded with a slightly awkward face; it seemed like the child did come alone.
Hwang Jongi turned his head and looked at the child in front of him.
He had all sorts of thoughts racing through his mind.
Was Mount Hua looking down on the Eunha Merchants?
Or was there a reason they sent this child? If not…
"Hahaha!"
At that moment, a peal of loud laughter was heard approaching from behind.
"How ridiculous! Young master, didn't I tell you? There is no need to meet with Mount Hua!"
Ki Mok-Seung.
He had followed Hwang Jongi to the front gate and continued to speak while struggling to stifle his laughter.
"What were they thinking by sending a little boy for help? They knew nothing but wanted to make use of this opportunity. They were too embarrassed to come in person, so they sent a child instead. Such petty tricks!"
Hwang Jongi's face hardened.
It was obvious that Ki Mok-Seung disliked Mount Hua just from his words, but now Hwang Jongi was beginning to think the same.
'Is Elder Hyun Jong of Mount Hua a man who would do such a thing?'
The Hyun Jong that he knew was always a gentleman, despite being in trouble. It was unlikely for that man to send in a child alone.
But was this a new reality?
"Young man. Did you really come here alone?"
"Yes."
"… you mean that Mount Hua has sent you, a young Taoist, alone?"
Young Taoist?
Chung Myung sighed deeply.
'To be treated like this, because of this young body.'
There was a time when Chung Myung was Mount Hua, and Mount Hua was Chung Myung.
'Eh. I'd rather die than suffer like this.'
But he could understand the reaction. A child, who isn't even a physician, comes and says they'll cure diseases that the best doctors in the world failed to treat.
So, he controlled himself.
"Young master?"
"Y-yes."
"My name is Chung Myung, a third-class disciple of Mount Hua. I received the letter the young master sent to Mount Hua. I have a clue about the symptoms which were written in the letter, so I came to visit."
"All alone…"
"It was an urgent matter, so I couldn't wait for the others to come. Isn't the elderly in critical condition?"
That was true…
Hwang Jongi, who stared at Chung Myung, couldn't bring himself to trust that face. But he recalled a part of Chung Myung's words and hardened his face.
"You said you have a clue about my father's condition?"
"Yes. That's right."
Hwang Jongi clenched his fist.
'This is the first time someone said it outright!'
So far, so many people had come, but not one person had an idea of what was happening.
'Maybe?'
At that moment, he heard a snort from behind.
"Huh. That young child is already misleading you. How can a child know something that the great masters of the world don't? Young master! You can't listen to him any longer."
"But…"
"Young master, do you believe that little brat?"
Hwang Jongi bit his lip.
At that moment, Chung Myung, who was listening, spoke out.
"By the way."
"Huh?"
"Who the hell are you? To keep referring to me as a brat?"
Ki Mok-Seung looked at Chung Myung with blank eyes.
"Are you asking me?"
"Is there anyone other than you who used the word brat?"
"Huh. You arrogant brat! Does this mean that the disciples of Mount Hua can't even recognize the uniform of the Southern Edge Sect? I know that Mount Hua isn't doing great, but I didn't think they would be taking in such idiotic disciples."
"Ah. Southern Edge Sect."
Chung Myung just shrugged his shoulders.
"Well, you were speaking as if you knew what you were talking about, so I thought you were a physician. So, do you have a cure for Elder Hwang's condition?"
"Elder Hwang has fallen ill because he went against the Dao. If we can perform the Taoist Ritual to relieve the anger of heaven, he will be healed cleanly."
Chung Myung smiled at it.
"Oh. That could be true."
Hwang Jongi's face contorted at it.
But the words which flowed from Chung Myung's mouth were completely different from Hwang Jongi's expectations.
"Then we need to hurry up and call for the Wudang sect or the Kunlun sect."
"… what?"
"Isn't this ritual thing what they specialize in?"
Ki Mok-Seung frowned as he spoke with a slightly flustered face.
"T-there is no need to go that far. Isn't the Southern Edge Sect right here?"
"Ehh. Everyone knows that both the Southern Edge and Mount Hua Sects aren't good with rituals. If you are going to do a ritual, it would be better to get a proper expert. If it was me, I would prefer the Wudang sect."
"…"
Hwang Jongi's face darkened.
'Who is this child?'
The child then whispered to Hwang Jongi.
"The Wudang sect tends to value trust, so donate a little and they will come to you right away. If you want to do something, then aim for the best quality. From a good place. A place that's cost-effective too."
"…"
Ki Mok-Seung let out a furious bellow from his anger-flushed face.
"Shut up! This brat is constantly making fun of adults! Did your elders teach you this?"
"Ah, yes, yes. Sorry."
Chung Myung calmly picked his ears.
It was blatantly disregarding Ki Mok-Seung, but the man could do nothing but tremble in anger.
If he was the elder and he couldn't even bear the anger and lashed out, then it would be a disgrace for the Southern Edge Sect. Wouldn't that be enough for the people of the world to point their fingers at them?
No one could tell if the child was doing this intentionally, but he was adept at pulling on every nerve.
"Young master. Kick this brat out right now!"
Hwang Jongi sighed at those words.
"Elder. This is the Eunha Merchant Guild. Not the Southern Edge sect. it is up to me to decide how I will treat my guests."
"Are you still saying that after seeing how this child acts?"
Hwang Jongi ignored Ki Mok-Seung and looked at Chung Myung.
'I want to believe him.'
If he came here to cheat them, then the child wouldn't be acting so proudly. But there was a bit of suspicion.
"Young Taoist."
"Yes."
"I am not saying this because I don't believe you…."
"It is fine. You can't simply believe someone outright."
"… thank you for understanding. May I ask a few questions?"
Hwang Jongi asked right away. Chung Myung also felt that it was understandable for the other man to be suspicious.
"Yes, by all means."
Hwang Jongi gulped and continued.
"Young man. You said a while ago that you had some clue about my father's condition, can I hear a little bit about it?"
"It will be a bit hard to say."
"hehe!"
Afraid that Chung Myung would say something, Ki Mok-Seung snorted. Hwang Jongi felt embarrassed at the absurdity.
"Instead, can I ask something?"
"What is it?"
Chung Myung asked.
"I heard that Elder Hwang often traveled for the sake of business, right?"
"Yes."
"Then, he must have stopped by the Qilian Mountains before growing ill. Right?"
Chung Myung spoke brimming with confidence.
Hwang Jongi was taken aback, his eyes opened wide, as he looked at Chung Myung and said.
"No, he didn't."
"…"
Chung Myung tilted his head slightly.
"Huh?"
"That never happened. Father had never gone up those mountains."
"… Ah, is that so?"
Chung Myung seemed flustered, and Hwang Jongi's expression began to turn gloomy, so Chung Myung hastily said,
"Then, he must have been attacked in the upper parts of the Mountains before, right? Did he experience a crisis of some sort?"
"My father hasn't been attacked at all in recent years. At least, not for five years."
"Uh? Not that too? Ah, shit, then what?"
"…"
Hwang Jongi narrowed his eyes.
"Really? That can't be right."
Hwang Jongi could hear Ki Mok-Seung laughing from behind.
"That's strange. Where did he get beat up?"
Beat up? This crazy bastard!
Was this child even in his right mind?
It was at the moment the hope Hwang Jongi saw in Chung Myung disappeared, Hwang Jongi's eyes turned cold.
Chung Myung spoke in a panic.
"W-wait! Is that true? Well, I can still fix him."
"… Young Taoist."
Hwang Jongi sighed, and without missing the moment, Ki Mok-Seung came in.
"Didn't I say that they were nothing now? Mount Hua was always made of rookies who liked to dazzle the others' eyes. Isn't that something you can see from this one's overconfident form?"
"Please refrain from speaking like that, elder."
Hwang Jongi dissuaded Ki Mok-Seung and spoke to Chung Myung.
"I understand the will of the young Taoist to come and help, but my father is very ill right now, and I don't have the time for this. I hope you can understand my current position too—"
"His entire body turns red as if he's boiling but his body shivers as though it's cold. When you press his skin with your finger or hand, the pressed part turns white and then quickly turns red again. Until he lost consciousness, he complained about the cold as if he was in a frozen cave because of the uncontrollable chills! Furthermore, the black spots are not only the glabella, but also the back of neck and crown of his head."
"…"
"Should I say more?"
Chung Myung smirked.
"H-How did you know?"
Hwang Jongi's eyes widened. The face and form of Chung Myung were so confident that he couldn't doubt him anymore.
"Ah… I came from a long way; I am a little thirsty."
"What are you waiting for! Get water right now! No, get cold water! Right now!"
The subordinate didn't even answer and ran inside with all his might. Hwang Jongi's gaze and attitude had changed towards Chung Myung.
"We can't do this here, please come inside."
"Haha. What a great person has come."
"Hurry! Please!"
Chung Myung inflated his chest and followed Hwang Jongi inside. Ki Mok-Seung, who was watching from the side, exclaimed urgently.
"Young master! Those are typical symptoms of those who suffer from harmful qi! Knowing that doesn't change anything!"
Hwang Jongi narrowed his eyes.
"Are you saying that a black qi gathers on the crown and back of the neck of those who have been affected by harmful qi flow?"
"… that."
"This is a matter of the Eunha Merchant Guild. We will not tolerate any more interference than necessary. If you interfere one more time, I will personally have to take this up to the Southern Edge Sect."
"Uhm."
Ki Mok-Seung sighed and took a step back.
His eyes looked at the child; Chung Myung had puffed up cheeks, clearly trying to hold back his laughter.
"Y-You… brat!"
Ki Mok-Seung felt heat rising all over his body. He wanted to tear the child apart, but what could he do? As Hwang Jongi said, this wasn't the Southern Edge sect but the Eunha Guild. No matter how much of an elder he was, he couldn't act arrogantly here.
"You brat! If you cannot treat Elder Hwang properly, I will personally strike you down!"
All he could do was shove Chung Myung and walk away furiously.
After a little while, Hwang Jongi spoke with a bitter smile.
"I am sorry. Young Taoist. Strangely whenever Mount Hua comes up, the Southern Edge Sect seems to lose all reason."
"It's fine."
"Ah- please understand…."
"Who's to blame? It was all my sins to begin with."
"… huh?"
Chung Myung shrugged.
'Maybe I shouldn't have beaten them so much?'
At this moment, the perpetrator from a hundred years ago sympathized with the victims a hundred years later.
----
"No… that—"
"What is it?"
"You see, there's a proper order to these things."
"Isn't this the most urgent matter?"
"I've come from so far away, and I'm hungry."
"When the treatment is done, I will prepare a feast."
"… I have no power to move."
"You can sit."
Chung Myung glanced at Hwang Jongi. His eyes were burning.
Hwang Jongi finally caught hold of a rope while he was drowning, and that rope was Chung Myung. If he couldn't fix elder Hwang, he wasn't going to let Chung Myung go.
Chung Myung lost his appetite.
"Then, let's go and see—"
"Hurry!"
"… okay, okay! Don't rush me."
Chung Myung turned his head and looked at the bed. Lying on the bed was a man covered in a thick silk blanket.
"Well."
Checking the man's face, Chung Myung narrowed his eyes as his forehead creased.
'It certainly is the symptoms of the demon flower.'
He would have to take a closer look to be sure. Chung Myung moved closer and removed the blanket.
Seeing the scene before him, he frowned subconsciously.
Hwang Mun-Yak's withered and skinny appearance couldn't be hidden despite the loose clothing on his body.
The old man's throat had dried up, as each ragged breath he took seemed to walk a tightrope between life and death.
'The situation is more serious than I thought.'
Chung Myung rubbed his chin.
'The demon flower is one thing, but this wasn't done properly.'
If he had been subjected to a highly trained demonic art, then he wouldn't have lasted a year. Even those who rigorously trained all their lives would be unable to survive for three days.
These are not symptoms an elderly man could endure.
Then…
"I'm going to check his pulse."
"Yes."
Chung Myung reached out and grabbed elder Hwang's wrist.
He then inserted a little bit of qi. As Chung Myung's pure qi left his body and entered elder Hwang through his wrist, the blackened veins and red tint on his skin began to retreat.
'This.'
Chung Myung frowned.
The symptoms were clearly that of the demon flower. However, they were awkward symptoms that would never come from properly trained Demonic sect members.
Chung Myung released the old man's hand and touched his chin as if he was in trouble.
Hwang Jongi couldn't hide his nervousness as he saw Chung Myung's strained expression looking like that. Anyone would struggle to remain calm if their last hope showed such a serious reaction when examining a patient.
Finally, unable to bear it, Hwang Jongi opened his mouth.
"… how is it?"
"Eh, so…"
Chung Myung scratched the back of his head.
"Is it tough?"
"No. I don't think that treating it would be difficult."
"Right. It is fine. Everyone has be—huh?"
Hwang Jongi's body trembled.
"What was that…?"
"Treating this shouldn't be too difficult."
"Really? Are you sure?"
"Yes. But I can't rush into it right away. Some preparations will need to be done."
"Preparation like…"
"First of all!"
Chung Myung had a sly smile.
"Let's eat."
"…"
Crunch! Munch!
Chung Myung was cutting and chewing everything around him to shreds. Hwang Jongi was aghast at the absurd sight unfolding before him.
He had met many Taoists in his life while building relationships with others, but this was the first time he had seen a Taoist so obsessed with eating meat.
Even now, the long-torn leg of the duck which entered Chung Myung's mouth re-emerged as a desiccated bone robbed of all its flesh.
Not just that.
Gulp! Gulp!
As soon as the glass was filled, expensive Yeontae liquor disappeared down his throat.
"Kuaaah! Euu! This is it! This is life!"
"…"
It was the first time Chung Myung had tasted such delicious alcohol.
Hwang Jongi would have normally laughed, saying that he'd met an interesting person today, but the current situation kept him from enjoying himself.
"That… young Taoist?"
"Eh? What?"
Chung Myung asked with meat filling his mouth, Hwang Jongi, taking a deep breath to calm himself, continued.
"The preparations… when will they be done?"
"I'm preparing now."
"What do you mean?"
"Ah, nothing serious."
Chung Myung put down his chopsticks.
"The treatment requires a lot of stamina, so it is important to be well fed. Plus, the chef here is really great."
Obviously, he is.
Because the chef was the best in Xian.
"I only got to eat small meals and rice in Mount Hua; this is so good."
Chung Myung patted his stomach.
"Are you done?"
"No. This is just the beginning."
"…"
Was there a tapeworm in his stomach?
It was said that Mount Hua was going through difficult times, but this one seemed too hungry… no, even if he was starving, wouldn't his stomach get full after a while? Surely, there must be a limit to what a human's stomach can hold?
This was a Taoist who surprised people in many ways.
"You didn't come here just to eat, right?"
"What are you saying?"
"Well, Taoists are people who move with a purpose."
"Those who cultivate the way of Dao live according to the flow."
"Well, the flow here is too fast…."
"This is a moderated flow."
What?
Hwang Jongi sighed, knowing he couldn't win over this child.
"Young man. I understand that it's rude to rush you when you are here to help us, especially after a long journey. But shouldn't you also consider the feelings of a son whose father has been bedridden for over a year?"
"I am already considering it."
Hwang Jongi jumped out of his seat!
"Look here! Young one! My father—!"
"Isn't dying."
"—what did you say?"
"He isn't dying. So, sit down."
Chung Myung casually poured another glass of alcohol and drank it down.
Seeing Hwang Jongi's angry and confused expression, Chung Myung decided to speak.
"I've already taken some measures to ensure he won't die, so there's no problem. It will take some time to cure him completely, but we've already overcome the first important hurdle."
He's been treated?
When?
"There is a saying that the faster we move ahead, the more we need to think back. Healing your father now is not that important. What's really important is to understand why he fell ill in the first place."
"… you really treated him?"
"Did you think I was scamming you?"
Chung Myung shrugged his shoulders and continued.
"If you have any doubts, go and check. I'm sure the dark qi on his forehead will have dissipated by now."
Hwang Jongi stared intently at Chung Myung and nodded his head.
"I do not doubt you. However, I think it's good to be certain, so I will check right away."
"Please."
Hwang Jongi quickly went outside. A short while later, he burst through the door, slamming it open as he stared at Chung Myung with incredulous eyes.
"W-what did you do?"
"I treated him."
"When?"
Chung Myung didn't reply and casually pointed to the seat opposite him.
"Aren't you going to sit?"
"…"
Hwang Jongi looked at Chung Myung suspiciously.
While living as a merchant, he'd met an uncountable number of people, but this was his first time meeting such a person.
He'd met many children, but this child seemed more like a seasoned old man.
'As if an old man's soul resided within a child's body.'
That's impossible. Instead, this child must have experienced countless events unsuited for his age. Otherwise, it was unlikely for a child to handle such situations with ease.
'Can I trust him?'
But there is no reason to not believe. As he confirmed, his father did show signs of recovery.
Whether or not he knew what Hwang Jongi was thinking, Chung Myung continued to pour another glass of liquor and spoke.
"If you don't want to sit, then stand and answer. I have a few questions for you…."
Hwang Jongi sat down.
"Who is the person closest to your father?"
"Closest?"
"Yes. A person who guards Elder Hwang. A person who follows him dawn till dusk. Otherwise, someone well trusted, the last person to be suspected of anything untoward."
"… why are you asking that?"
"Let's just say that it'll be necessary for the treatment."
Hwang Jongi tilted his head.
"Of course, it is me. It is my job to serve my father."
"Except you."
"Except me…"
Hwang Jongi, who thought deeply, shook his head.
"I don't know. Father was a man who worked a lot. So, of course, several people were around him or looked after him. There are at least five people who meet your standards and often stay around him."
"A lot more than I thought. Hmm."
Chung Myung scratched his cheek.
But then shrugged his shoulders and smiled.
"If there are five of them, finding out which one it is won't be easy."
"Find out what?"
"Are you really asking because you can't understand? Eh. No, right?"
"…"
Hwang Jongi's face went stiff. He didn't ask because he was unaware of the truth. It was because he didn't want to admit it.
"You mean, someone did this from inside?"
"At first, I thought that it was from outside, but looking at Elder Hwang, I don't think that was the case. From my point of view, this was a betrayal from the inside."
Hwang Jongi's face went stiff.
"Please refrain from such words, Young Taoist! All members of the Eunha Merchants are like family! They have been together with us their entire lives, and they all respect my father! They—"
"Or not."
"—Uh?"
Chung Myung patted his full stomach.
"If we suspect them and they're truly innocent, then it'll all be fine anyway, right?"
"… that is true."
Chung Myung yawned.
"So don't worry. We will investigate and find out."
Hwang Jongi just nodded his head.
Seeing that, Chung Myung clicked his tongue and thought.
'He is pretty naïve for a merchant.'
Chung Myung knew just how poisonous humans can be.
He'd seen monks who preached mercy give into a rage and go mad and watched innocent Taoists plot the most efficient way to slit a person's throat.
Human beings are two-sided.
You can be an angel to someone and the devil to another.
'Well, that's beside the point.'
The important thing was that a person wanted to kill Hwang Mun-Yak.
Judging from his condition, the culprit clearly has poor comprehension of the Demon Sect's technique. The problem was that, even though it couldn't do much damage to Hwang Mun-Yak at first, over time and prolonged exposure, he became gravely afflicted.
Even if someone had knowledge of the demon flower, they wouldn't be able to tell how the symptoms originated unless they had seen it with their own eyes, like Chung Myung.
'The culprit must be well hidden.'
Luck was on his side.
If Chung Myung had never seen the contents of that letter… no, if he hadn't even heard of this Elder Hwang earlier that day, then Hwang Mun-Yak would have been destined to die.
'Kua. This is a good deed.'
Save people and make money.
"How do you plan on investigating?"
"I am already doing it."
"… Hm?"
Hwang Jongi asked with a blank face.
"You are doing it?"
"Yes."
"You're eating food, but you say you are investigating?"
"Ah. Not that. The fact that I am in a room with the young master is enough for the investigation."
Hwang Jongi couldn't figure it out.
"Just watch. Soon a lot of fun things will happen. Young master, be sure to keep your eyes open. Ah, there is one more thing you need to do."
"What is it? I'll try my best."
Chung Myung picked up the bottle next to him.
"One more bottle."
"…"
"Quickly."
"…"
A flood of tears was concealed within Hwang Jongi's heart.
----
"Hmmm!"
Ki Mok-Seung stared at the food in front of him with an agitated expression.
Holding his chopsticks, he eventually set them down, unable to eat.
The disciples who were there stole furtive glances at him.
"Is the food not to your liking?"
"Hmm."
"It isn't that the food is poor; I just don't feel well."
"You don't feel well? If the disciples have done anything wrong, please punish us."
"It isn't your fault."
Ki Mok-Seung gently pushed the table away with an irritated face.
"There's a man I never wanted to see, and someone sharing the same name as him is currently running around."
The second-class disciple, Lee Song-Baek, asked.
"Are you talking about the Mount Hua disciple?"
"Khum!"
Ki Mok-Seung didn't answer, but everyone knew what this uncomfortable cough meant.
"Elder. I don't quite understand. What could one small child even do…?"
"Whether or not he's a child isn't the problem."
"Then…"
"It's a problem that he is a child from Mount Hua."
The disciples didn't seem to understand.
What did it mean that a child from Mount Hua is the problem?
They could never comprehend why their superiors held such hostility for Mount Hua.
"Didn't your sister tell you? Our two sects cannot live under the same sky."
Ki Mok-Seung was different from these disciples.
He grew up listening to countless stories of Mount Hua. How much Mount Hua had made the Southern Edge Sect suffer, and how they arduously struggled to survive while Mount Hua was thriving.
"It's disgusting enough that Mount Hua's disciple dared to confidently stroll into Xian, but he even shares the same name as the Plum Blossom Sword Saint, which I hate the most!"
"…"
The disciples exchanged glances between themselves.
'So, it's because of that.'
'The Plum Blossom Sword Saint died over 100 years ago, but he's still spoken of here.'
'Mount Hua's disciples don't even seem to remember the name of the Plum Blossom Sword Saint, but it seems like we hear his name more than our own ancestors.'
Plum Blossom Sword.
Plum Blossom Sword Saint, Chung Myung.
People of the Southern Edge Sect do not add the word 'Respected' when talking about Chung Myung. They would never put such a noble word on that man.
Lee Song-Baek looked at the elder.
Anyone could tell that his elder's obsession was abnormal, but even so, Ki Mok-Seung was the elder and their mentor.
Normally their elder was very kind and gentle, at least, if no stories of Mount Hua came up.
"Please, don't let it bother you."
"Are you telling me not to worry about it?"
Ki Mok-Seung's eyebrows rose.
"That child is now going around the city saying that he can cure Elder Hwang."
"Haha. As if that is possi—"
"His condition is improving."
"…"
Lee Song-Baek shut his mouth.
Ki Mok-Seung did not say anything more, but the intelligent Lee Song-Baek understood what was meant.
'What if that child really cured Elder Hwang?'
'It would be a mess!'
Elder Hwang is a man with a strict moral code and great values. There was no way that Elder Hwang would fail to repay the favor to Mount Hua, which saved his life. Obviously, that meant that they would do their best to support Mount Hua, both physically and internally too.
'We have to stop him.'
Lee Song-Baek, who quickly racked his brain, coughed slightly as he opened his mouth.
"Elder, if that child bothers you, why not just drive him out?"
"You will?"
Ki Mok-Seung asked with wide eyes.
"Yes. It would be shameful if the elder went out in person, but aren't we simple second-class disciples? What's so wrong with the second-class disciples of the Southern Edge Sect sparring with the third-class disciples of Mount Hua?"
"Well, won't people spread rumors of us for persecuting a child?"
Lee Song-Baek smiled brightly.
"Who doesn't know of Mount Hua and Southern Edge Sect's rivalry? It's not unusual for either side to be a bit heavy-handed when encountering one another."
Ki Mok-Seung nodded his head.
"Besides, the Southern Edge and Mount Hua Conference is coming up soon, so it can serve as justification for requesting a spar."
"I understand what you mean. But I cannot allow it."
Ki Mok-Seung spoke firmly.
"He is still only a third-class disciple. Targeting a child will only serve to lower our sect's prestige. How would the rest of the world see it if one of the great sects persecuted a child from a dying sect on the edge of collapse?"
Lee Song-Baek kept silent.
The one who was most worried about the child being here was Ki Mok-Seung. Despite this, it would be difficult to bear any charges should he be implicated in any damage to this young disciple; so, he had to speak in his defense.
However, as a disciple, there is always a way to understand the heart of one's elders.
"Then, I understand that you will not allow any of your disciples to act against that child. But, if one of your disciples makes a mistake, it would be fine as long as they are properly punished."
"Of course. I will punish anyone who touches the child."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Ki Mok-Seung is a man of his word. So, it was true that there would be punishment and it would be severe too.
But….
After the punishment, there would be an even greater reward.
"A disciple must follow the words of their mentor. But isn't it also the duty of a disciple to relieve the mentor's mind? We will take care of it, so please don't worry."
"Ahem. I'll do that."
"Yes. Elder. I'll take my leave now."
When Ki Mok-Seung nodded without answering, the disciples took a deep bow and left the room.
Ki Mok-Seung looked at the scene and frowned.
'These kids look down on Mount Hua.'
But he could understand it.
By the time these kids were born, Mount Hua had already fallen. In their minds, Mount Hua was just an old sect with a glorious past.
But Ki Mok-Seung knew.
How strong Mount Hua was in the past.
Although the Southern Edge Sect is influential now, it was hardly spoken of when Ki Mok-Seung was a child. As a child, he saw how inferior his sect was.
In the past, the Southern Edge Sect could barely stand compared to Mount Hua. If Mount Hua hadn't been destroyed by the remnants of the Demonic Sect, the Southern Edge Sect would have never risen to shine.
'We must never go back to those days.'
Ki Mok-Seung had a determined face.
"Seeing how that child left Mount Hua and traveled this far, it's safe to assume that Mount Hua has begun to change and spread its wings once more."
He thought he trampled the sect enough for it to never stand up again, but it seems like he took Mount Hua too lightly.
"I think I'll need to speak with the sect leader once this mess is over."
There was brutality in Ki Mok-Seung's eyes.
"Isn't the elder overly sensitive? Sahyung?"
"He's always like that whenever Mount Hua's name comes up,"
"Even so. To be wary of a small child. Even though Mount Hua once stood at the peak of the world, isn't that simply a dying legend now? They've already collapsed and begun to fade away."
"That is true."
"Even if Mount Hua does return to its former glory, it won't be able to be on the same level as us."
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
"I like that spirit, but I also agree with the elder. Mount Hua of the past is by no means easy prey to handle. Even the Southern Edge Sect in that era was unable to stand up to it."
"Sahyung!"
"Still, the past is the past. In the end, only the strongest survive."
He nodded.
Go Hwi, the sajae of Lee Song-Baek and second-class disciple, asked.
"But Sahyung, what are you going to do with that child?"
"Shouldn't we at least send him away?"
Lee Song-Baek said.
It was against Lee Song-Baek's disposition to target a child, but it was a problem to let the child stay when his presence made the elder uncomfortable.
There was no need for Ki Mok-Seung to touch the child himself; it would be inappropriate for an elder to persecute a child.
"But what was Mount Hua thinking by sending in a child alone? If it was our sect, they would have never allowed a child to go outside the gates at all."
"The situation of each sect is unique. Couldn't there be some reason?"
"Hm. For sure, Mount Hua doesn't seem to be in good condition."
"How can we know the state of another sect?"
Lee Song-Baek said, and continued,
"We only need to focus on the task at hand. Don't forget that what we need to do now is take care of the issue causing our elder's headaches.
"Yes, Sahyung."
"Keep it in mind."
Lee Song-Baek nodded and thought.
"Now, how do we summon that child…."
"Wait, Sahyung. Over there."
"Huh?"
At those words, the disciples all turned their heads to one side.
"Isn't he the one?"
"Is that right?"
"Is he coming this way?"
"Hmm."
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
He was thinking of how he could call the child here, but he was coming to them with his own two feet?
"So? Should we do this right away?"
"There's no need to waste time."
Lee Song-Baek took a step ahead and approached Chung Myung.
"Hello! How are you?"
"Huh?"
Chung Myung titled his head when he saw Lee Song-Baek and the others.
Before he could even open his mouth to respond, Lee Song-Baek spoke.
"I am Lee Song-Baek of the Southern Edge Sect. It's a pleasure to meet a disciple of Mount Hua."
"Ah. Yes. Hello."
Chung Myung replied.
Lee Song-Baek patiently smiled.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm going to see Elder Hwang. I am checking on his condition."
"Ah. I see."
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
'This shameless child.'
Even Ki Mok-Seung couldn't help elder Hwang at all. So, he didn't think that this child could do anything. Yet, he brazenly said that he was here for Elder Hwang as if he could treat him.
"If you aren't busy, would you care for a chat?"
"Yes, well. Okay. About what?"
"Haha. Nothing much. Haven't Mount Hua and the Southern Edge sect developed over time by sparring with each other since ancient times? Even now, there is an event where the two sects spar with swords and exchange techniques. Do you know about it?"
"Ah, is that so? I didn't know. It hasn't been long since I entered Mount Hua."
"I thought so."
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
'If he'd known about our reputation, then he would never raise his head and act so confidently in front of me.'
Even though the name of the Southern Edge Sect had come out, this child's expression hadn't changed. No other sect's disciples would remain so calm.
"Experiencing Mount Hua's swordplay would be a great help to our training. What do you say? Won't you give me insight into Mount Hua's swordsmanship?"
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
He was sure to be refused, but he had other tricks up his sleeve to push him….
"Oh, I see."
Chung Myung nodded before tilting his head.
"So, you want a fight?"
"…"
Lee Song-Baek cleared his voice.
"I wasn't asking for a fight, but spar—"
"That's what fighting is."
Lee Song-Baek's eyes went blank.
What is with this child?
Seeing that expression, Chung Myung smiled.
"I am fine with a fight anytime. Just don't regret it."
A humble declaration.
----
Lee Song-Baek frowned.
Regret? Did he just say regret?
'What a fearless child.'
Usually, Lee Song-Baek wasn't the sort of man to judge someone based on their age or status. But this young kid from Mount Hua seemed too self-indulgent.
'No matter how good he is.'
He isn't even old enough to understand just how significant the difference between his sect and the other sects is, yet he is out here speaking such things.
How could he hold his head high and say such shameless statements knowing that his sect was at the bottom?
'Let's stay strong.'
Lee Song-Baek sighed and continued.
"You're saying you agree to spar?"
"Yes."
A blunt but calm answer.
Lee Song-Baek opened his mouth and asked.
"What is your Taoist name?"
"Don't have one. I am Chung Myung."
"Chung Myung, Chung Myung it is."
He already knew it, but he still asked for his name.
"Look here, disciple Chung Myung. I'll give you a piece of advice. You may think that nothing is wrong with what you're doing, but the world's affairs aren't determined solely by one person. I suggest you return to Mount Hu—"
"Aren't we going to fight?"
Lee Song-Baek flinched.
Chung Myung yawned as if he was bored and then said.
"It seems like the Southern Edge sect fight with their mouths. Why did you say you wanted to fight, only to waste my time talking?"
"…"
Lee Song-Baek smiled.
'My discipline is lacking.'
Feeling the desire to destroy that wretched bastard soar.
"There's no need to rush. We will start now."
As Lee Song-Baek grabbed the sword, Go Hwi gently grabbed his sleeve.
"Sahyung. You intend to do this yourself?"
Lee Song-Baek looked back at him.
"You don't have to do it, Sahyung. I'll do it."
"No."
"Sahyung."
Lee Song-Baek answered with firm eyes.
"There is a minimum courtesy we must show to the opponent. I am the most mature of us here, so fighting against me won't be too shameful for that child."
In the end, Go Hwi sighed and stepped back.
'Anyway, Sahyung is too much.'
He was in a position to become a great disciple of the sect.
"The Southern Edge Sect's Lee Song-Baek wants to spar with Mount Hua's Chung Myung."
"Ah, wait a minute."
"… what now?"
Chung Myung titled his head as he looked at Go Hwi and said,
"Lend me your sword."
"…"
Go Hwi's eyes widened.
'Borrow my sword? How could a disciple from a once prestigious sect be like this?'
When entering a sect that teaches swordsmanship, the first thing one learns is to never let another person lay hands on their sword!
"Are you saying that disciples of your sect don't even carry their own swords?"
"Well, I am sorry for not expecting a fight."
"Mount Hua is…"
"Don't bother if you don't want to."
Chung Myung turned around.
"I'll check and see if there is anything, like a stick, worth using instead of a sword…."
Lee Song-Baek frowned.
"Lend him your sword."
"Sahyung!"
"Do you want people to say that disciples of the Southern Edge sect fought a disciple of Mount Hua when he didn't even have a proper sword?"
"…"
Go Hwi sighed deeply at Lee Song-Baek's words. Soon after, he took off the sword tied to his waist before throwing it to Chung Myung.
"Thanks."
Chung Myung took the sword, held it in one hand, and looked at Lee Song-Baek.
"Let's get started, shall we?"
"… won't you unsheathe it?"
"I am not planning on killing you or anything. It'll stay like this. You can unsheathe yours if you want too though."
Lee Song-Baek closed his eyes.
'Shit! Shit!'
The more he talked to this kid, the more it felt like all his years' worth of mental training was disappearing.
Lee Song-Baek closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and raised his sword.
Initially, he planned to just scare him off, but now he thought it wouldn't be enough. Aside from his personal feelings…
'Judging from the way he talks and the way he acts, he won't understand until he's been broken apart.'
Lee Song-Baek, who judged Chung Myung's character through the short conversation, was ready.
"Don't let your guard down."
"Yeah, yeah."
Chung Myung lifted the sheathed sword.
Seeing that, Lee Song-Baek frowned.
"You had better do it right. My hands are strong and fast. It will be too late to regret after you've been struck."
"Excuse me."
"Hm?"
Chung Myung sighed deeply and said,
"Hurry up, will you? What are we still standing around for? Come at me."
"… you!"
Anger deeply covered Lee Song-Baek's face.
"I'll change that attitude of yours!"
In the end, he threw away all the manners a Taoist had to have and flew towards Chung Myung.
Phat!
The clear and simple sword of the Southern Edge Sect.
Among the Ten Sects, each sect was famous for their swordsmanship or their Taoism with distinct characteristics of their own. The Wudang Sect's sword is known to be soft, Mount Hua is splendid, and the sword of the Southern Edge Sect was serious.
A heavy sword, excluding all changes and tricks, very much like the past, struck towards Chung Myung's neck.
Chung Myung slightly raised his sword and blocked the attack.
Kang!
The blade and sheathed blade collided, producing a sharp metallic sound.
"Tah!"
Lee Song-Baek swung his sword again, this time aiming for Chung Myung's flank.
Fast and strong. Even if there was time for a counterattack, no one would have the courage to counterattack due to the sword's immense force, which desired to split his waist in half.
Kang!
And again, Chung Myung lowered his sword to block the attack.
He hesitated.
Chun Myung, who couldn't handle the weight of the heavy sword, took a step back.
Lee Song-Baek noticed this slight hesitation and swung his sword to drive Chung Myung further into a corner.
"Whoa."
Go Hwi, who was watching the match, smiled leisurely.
"Sahyung seems quite angry. He doesn't seem to want to end this."
"Huh?"
"That kid just kept saying whatever he wanted and ended up pissing off Sahyung. Tsk tsk. You really need to judge who you can and can't afford to offend."
"Is Sahyung scolding that child now?"
"Yes. He can finish this match whenever he wants to, but can't you see that he's trying to hold back? I'm sure that kid must feel like shit right now just trying to survive Sahyung's onslaught."
As said, Chung Myung was constantly moving back and forth.
Looking at the sight unfolding in front of them, Wei Han-Su titled his head.
"Doesn't it seem like he's blocking a little too well, though?"
"That's the great thing about Sahyung. What would people say if Sahyung took down a child in an instant?"
"Ah…"
"He quickly grasped the child's limitations and pushed him with enough strength and speed to just barely continue blocking. He doesn't even need to hit him to teach him a lesson."
Go Hwi looked proud while saying that.
"Honestly, he doesn't need to go to such lengths to educate that kid. That kid should be thankful for this lesson. You too, stop doubting Sahyung."
"Yes!"
Go Hwi clicked his tongue.
'It's hard to believe that someone as gentle as Sahyung has gotten so angry. Well, anyone would get angry at that child's attitude. I just hope Sahyung doesn't get too excited.'
However, despite the thoughtful appreciation of the crowd, Lee Song-Baek, who was attacking, was giving it his all to beat Chung Myung.
Kang!
'Blocked again?'
It was strange.
It shouldn't have been blocked.
Contrary to what Go Hwi was saying about controlling his speed and strength, Lee Song-Baek was constantly accelerating.
'So why am I being blocked?'
Chung Myung's sword wasn't fast. It wasn't slow, but also not fast enough to make the opponent wary.
However, even with that, he could block Lee Song-Baek's sword.
That slow sword seemed to pre-emptively arrive and patiently await where Lee Song-Baek would strike.
'I haven't even thought about where I'm going to strike, but he's already there. What the hell is going on?'
Could he read sword movement?
No, he wasn't at that level.
There was no way a young disciple of Mount Hua could read swords, and even if he could, it would be impossible to do it in action.
To block his sword with that slow sword, it was as if he could read minds… no, even before Lee Song-Baek decided on a path, that kid was moving his sword.
How could such a thing be possible? Was he a ghost?
"Ahhh!"
Lee Song-Baek groaned as he swung his sword.
No matter how much he looked at the child, he judged that he couldn't be any older than fifteen years old. Considering his age, he should be around his younger brother's age. However, such a child blocked Lee Song-Baek's sword without any difficulty.
His sword was one of the most renowned within the Southern Edge Sect!
'Impossible!'
Lee Song-Baek's sword began to shine with qi.
Clearly, the spar began with only a little strength, but now he had unknowingly induced internal qi as his strength rapidly rose.
Swosh!
A strong gale gushed out from the sword.
Kang!
Lee Song-Baek's sword, which was lightly surrounded by internal qi, couldn't push away Chung Myung's sword.
Wall.
It seemed like a wall.
No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't get through it. It felt like a wall made of hard steel.
"Eik!"
Lee Song-Baek swung his sword as hard as he could.
"Hyat!"
Seeing the wind fluttering around Lee Song-Baek's sword, Go Hwi screamed.
"Sahyung! Don't overdo it!"
Go Hwi's shrill voice echoed clearly in Lee Song-Baek's ears.
'Ah! What did I do!
Lee Song-Baek quickly called back his qi. The heavy internal energy dispersed from the blade as the momentum lowered, and what he swung was a barren sword that was merely a bit faster than normal.
However
Kwaang!
There was an explosion from out of the blue as Chung Myung's body shot back like an arrow in flight.
"Huh?"
He was stuck to the wall.
Slide!
Thud!
There were cracks spread like spiderwebs along the wall that Chung Myung struck. His body slowly slid down before settling on the floor.
"…"
Lee Song-Baek was in shock.
"Sahyung!"
Go Hwi ran to him in panic.
"What did you do?"
"Ah-No, I…"
Obviously, he recalled his qi from the final strike.
Even with all his might, he couldn't cause a scratch on Chung Myung. It made no sense for the child to be pushed back so much without the sword even striking him.
It was then.
"Ughhhh."
Chung Myung, who collapsed on the floor, convulsed, and suddenly began to spurt blood from his mouth like a fountain.
"Heeeiiikkkkk!"
"Uhhhhhh!"
Everyone was frightened and ran to Chung Myung. Only one person, Lee Song-Baek, stood rooted in place as the color drained from his face.
"Puaaah!"
Blood soared like a fountain rushing out.
Wow… who would imagine that blood could spurt out of a person's mouth like that.
Anyone with eyes would believe that Lee Song-Baek was at fault for this.
"Sahyung!"
"…"
Lee Song-Baek couldn't understand what was happening.
"Cough! Cough!"
Chung Myung's mouth was dripping with blood. He clearly appeared to be injured severely. It wouldn't be too strange even if he flopped over and drew his last breath.
Just when Lee Song-Baek managed to regain his senses and was about to run to Chung Myung.
"What the hell is going on here!?"
Everyone's eyes turned to the voice.
Lee Song-Baek had no choice but to tightly close his eyes with a grim expression.
With a face full of anger that he had never seen before, Hwang Jongi was glaring at him.
"I asked you! What the hell is happening!?"
Hwang Jongi's voice rang out loudly.
Confused and panicked, the disciples of the Southern Edge Sect didn't say anything and stared blankly at Hwang Jongi.
What could they say?
Cough. Cough.
"…"
Right now, what they needed most was an excuse, but the blood pouring from Chung Myung's mouth would render any excuse invalid.
In this hopeless situation, not even the grandfather of Zhuge Liang's grandfather could find a suitable excuse to help them escape.
Hwang Jongi looked at Chung Myung lying on the floor and cried out.
"Hurry! Bring a physician right now! There must be a member of the outer house who hasn't left yet! What are you doing!"
"Yes! Young master!"
One of the servants following Hwang Jongi rushed to the outer garden. Hwang Jongi strode closer to Chung Myung, who was down.
"…"
The disciples of the Southern Edge sect hesitated as they opened a path for him.
Hwang Jongi knelt down and examined Chung Myung's condition. Anger violently surged in his heart as his face distorted in rage.
"You people dare claim to be righteous!"
At Hwang Jongi's words, the faces of the Southern Edge sect disciples darkened.
"Are you saying that this is how one should act against a child? I thought the Southern Edge sect would be dignified at least, but how am I supposed to understand what just happened in front of my eyes!"
Lee Song-Baek's face turned pale.
Would he be able to make it out of this alive?
He never intended to hurt him like that.
'I even called back the internal qi!'
Lee Song-Baek was standing still without a word. But one thing was certain. Hwang Jongi's expression left no room for excuses.
The servant came running back with a physician in tow at that moment. As soon as the physician approached the wheezing Chung Myung, his face stiffened.
"Ugh!"
With his stiff face, he spoke.
"Hurry and move him inside! Come on! His insides are a total mess, so be careful! Careful!"
The Southern Edge Sect's disciples tried to assist them upon hearing that.
"Stand back!"
Hwang Jongi wouldn't allow them to touch Chung Myung's body. Hwang Jongi stared at them with blazing red eyes and called for his servants.
"What are you doing!? Did you not hear my words!?"
"Sorry! Young master!"
The servants carefully embraced Chung Myung. Blood, gushing from his mouth, dripped down to his chest and settled on the floor.
"Careful! Careful!"
The physician clung tightly to Chung Myung and headed to the main house. Hwang Jongi and the other disciples watched as Chung Myung was moved.
As the fading figure of Chung Myung finally disappeared., Hwang Jongi turned his head.
"I will never forget what happened today."
"Young master!"
"Leave."
Lee Song-Baek's face turned pale.
The Eunha Merchant Guild was necessary for the Southern Edge sect. Wasn't that why even their elders came down here?
If their relationship was now in trouble, the aftermath wasn't something the sect could afford.
As Lee Song-Baek was about to say something, a voice came from behind.
"What is all this?"
It was Ki Mok-Seung. He approached with a puzzled look in his eyes.
"Young master, what is all this? Is that blood…."
Ki Mok-Seung, who was speaking, went silent. The floor and the wall were broken, and he could guess what had happened.
'These stupid bastards!'
Ki Mok-Seung's gaze fell on his disciples. He sighed after seeing Lee Song-Baek, who couldn't even meet his gaze.
"Young Master. If some accident has happened, we—"
"Are you calling this an accident?"
"—Young master."
"The person who was here to treat my father was horrifyingly injured by your disciples. Can you call this an accident? An accident is something which happens unintentionally, am I wrong?"
Ki Mok-Seung looked at Lee Song-Baek.
His look conveyed a deeper meaning to Lee Song-Baek. Since he was the one who caused this, he should settle the matter himself.
Lee Song-Baek, who understood, bit his lip and stepped forward.
"Young master. There seems to be a misunderstanding."
"A misunderstanding?"
Hwang Jongi exhaled in anger.
"It would be better that you call me blind. I saw with my own eyes and heard with my ears, so what could I have misunderstood?"
"I never used much force against him. There is something—"
"Look here."
Hwang Jongi stared at Lee Song-Baek with cold, sunken eyes.
"Do you think that overextending your hand is the problem here? Why did you, a disciple of the Southern Edge sect, have to wield your sword against a child from Mount Hua in the first place?"
"It was a simple spar."
"Spar?
Hwang Jongi shook his head.
"I might not be familiar with the ways of warriors, but I know that spars are done between those who hold equal levels of strength. You say that you were sparring when you went against a child who was barely half your age?"
No one said anything.
If the spar had ended without accident, there wouldn't have been anything to say. However, with it resulting in an injured and bleeding child, there was no talking their way out of taking responsibility.
"I won't say much. Take your disciples and leave."
"Y-Young master, listen to my wor—"
"I said to leave…."
"…"
Hwang Jongi looked at Ki Mok-Seung and said,
"I won't press the issue farther out of respect for the relationship we've shared with the Southern Edge sect for so long. But now, I don't want to see the faces of your disciples here. Please leave this place for today."
In the end, Ki Mok-Seung just slowly nodded his head, unable to speak up.
"I will. Young master, this was an unfortunate accident, but please remember that the Southern Edge Sect hopes for Elder Hwang's swift recovery."
"I wish that to be the case. But it doesn't seem like that anymore."
Hwang Jongi returned toward the main house. Ki Mok-Seung, who observed Hwang Jongi's departure, turned his head to glare at Lee Song-Baek.
"Elder, I…"
"I won't say much. This is your fault; you deal with it. Go and ask for the young master's forgiveness at any cost, solve the situation, and then return. I will return to the Mountain with the others."
Lee Song-Baek's face turned pale.
How could he possibly ask for forgiveness from the young master in this situation?
This was more like a punishment than an order. But looking at the frigid expression on Ki Mok-Seung's face, he could only stay quiet and comply.
"… I understand."
Ki Mok-Seung looked at Lee Song-Baek for a long time without speaking and then turned around.
"We're leaving."
"Yes. Elder."
The disciples all looked at Lee Song-Baek and then followed after the Elder.
Watching them leave, Lee Song-Baek bit his lip in frustration.
"How is his condition?"
"… it's not so good."
"Hmm."
Hwang Jongi's face darkened when he received the physician's diagnosis from the general head. Seeing his bleak expression, the general continued.
"According to the physician, his qi meridians are completely strained and in a dangerous situation. For now, they are trying to control the qi, but they can't guarantee a complete recovery."
"Does that mean he won't die?"
"It seems like it."
"Thank goodness."
Hwang Jongi sighed in relief.
Mount Hua's disciple came to Eunha Merchant Guild to help and was beaten to death by the Southern Edge sect?
This was something he hated to even think about.
Moreover, Chung Myung had come to treat his father. Of course, the fault lay in those who assaulted him, but even the Eunha Merchant guild would be ridiculed for allowing it to occur at all.
For Hwang Jongi, personally, this was intolerable.
Chung Myung was the only person who managed to improve his father's condition so far. Maybe, he was the only hope at ever having his father back.
Attacking such an important person and injuring him so… this would have never happened if the Southern Edge Sect had even a modicum of respect for his father and his guild.
'That Southern Edge sect has become so arrogant!'
Normally, he would have tried to see both sides of the situation. But when he thought about their attitude and Ki Mok-Seung's words, it was difficult to trust them any longer.
Hwang Jongi coughed several times in discomfort and looked at the general.
"Then, how long will it take for him to awaken?"
"He should be up in two or three days…."
"Hmm. In the meantime, I only pray my father's condition doesn't worsen."
Hwang Jongi let out a deep sigh.
He thought he had finally found a way to help his father, but this had to happen. It seemed like the heavens had turned their backs on him.
The general head, who glanced at Hwang Jongi's expression, carefully spoke.
"But Young master…."
"Hm?"
"Will this child really be able to cure the Elder? I'm not that confident in him."
"Is there anything we lose by believing him?"
"That is true, but…."
Hwang Jongi spoke firmly.
"Of the many people we called for, none have been able to figure out father's disease. But this child from Mount Hua could list the symptoms without even looking at my father. Didn't my father's condition improve a little too?"
"Yes."
"This isn't some vague belief that I have in him. I feel like Heaven is trying to help us a little. Anyway, we just have to ensure that this small child recovers properly. Don't hold back on supporting him."
"I'll keep that in mind. Then, I'll take my leave for now."
"Yes."
The general head bowed and got up from his seat.
"Hmm."
Hwang Jongi, who watched him leave, let out a low sigh.
Wheeze
Wheeze
A low, feeble breath escaped from the corner of Chung Myung's bedridden mouth. His face was pale and tired, seemingly devoid of blood, which showed how precarious his condition was.
It was slow and quiet with no consistent rhythm, but it continued, nonetheless. However, it wouldn't be strange if he stopped breathing entirely.
Wheeze
Only the short and weak breathing filled the room when a strange silence followed.
Click!
The door opened with a slight sound. And then, nothing happened for a while.
Did a few minutes pass?
Kiik!
The door began to open carefully.
Before long, a man carefully snuck his way in. A cautious movement, not even letting his footsteps make a sound. The room was blanketed in total darkness, leaving it impossible to recognize who had entered.
The man snuck in like a cat hunting for food as he came to Chung Myung's side.
Wheeze
Wheeze.
The sight of Chung Myung breathing weekly with a pale face caught the eye of the silent intruder.
The mysterious figure, staring at Chung Myung's face, slowly raised his hand.
Their fingertips were dyed an eerie black as if coated in ink.
"I have no grudges against you; just think of this as the price for disturbing my work."
The man mumbled to himself, then slammed the blackened hand towards Chung Myung's neck.
At that moment
Grab!
Chung Myung, who should have been exhausted and tired, suddenly pushed aside the blanket and grabbed the man's wrist.
"Ugh!"
Chung Myung looked at the man with a tired complexion.
"…"
A strange smile on his face, the most wicked and triumphant kind.
"I got you, you son of a bitch!"