#Several Days Later
While writing letters in his office, Bu Eunseol hurriedly dashed out of the Suppressed Demon Pavilion. He had received word that Baek Yeon, the Peongan Corps Leader of Nangyang Pavilion, had personally come to visit.
“Leader.”
As Bu Eunseol rushed to greet him, Baek Yeon smiled warmly and teased, “The future successor of Majeon greeting me barefoot? I haven’t lived in vain.”
“What brings you here unannounced?”
“Hahaha.” Baek Yeon spoke with a proud expression. “You may be the successor of Majeon now, but your roots lie with our pavilion, don’t they?”
It was an odd response, but Bu Eunseol earnestly clasped his hands.
“Of course.” He had never been swayed by Majeon’s power, nor had he ever forgotten his roots as a disciple of Nangyang Pavilion.
“Come inside.” Bu Eunseol personally escorted Baek Yeon to the guest room within the Suppressed Demon Pavilion.
As Baek Yeon sat and sipped Dragon Well tea brought by a servant, he smiled.
“You’ve done great things again. Everywhere in the martial world, they’re talking about your exploits.”
“It was nothing.”
“Hahaha. Seems you’ve got secrets even I can’t know now.”
“How could I dare?” As Bu Eunseol opened his mouth to respond, Baek Yeon waved his hand.
“Just a figure of speech. No need to explain everything.” With a kind smile, he added, “You’re the successor of Majeon now. It’s natural and expected that you’d operate your own intelligence network.”
Baek Yeon’s warm smile was strikingly similar to Yeop Hyocheon’s.
But the intent was different.
If Yeop Hyocheon’s smile hid the truth, Baek Yeon genuinely felt pride in Bu Eunseol. Seeing that smile, Bu Eunseol felt a warmth in his heart.
“So, what brings you here unannounced?”
“Oh, right.” At Bu Eunseol’s question, Baek Yeon placed a wrapped bundle on the table.
“What’s this?”
“A portrait collection.”
“Portrait collection?”
“I gathered the finest women from demonic noble families who’d suit you. I mobilized all the manpower and intelligence networks of the Peongan Corps for this.”
Bu Eunseol’s eyes lost focus for a moment.
But Baek Yeon, not noticing, continued in a confident tone, “Even so, you’re a disciple of our pavilion. How could we let Majeon arrange your match?”
‘Looking for a bride…’ Bu Eunseol’s eyes narrowed.
He realized this was all Yeop Hyocheon’s scheme.
Three People Make a Tiger.
Even a lie, when repeated by many, becomes believed as truth. Yeop Hyocheon had spread the rumor of Bu Eunseol seeking a bride to pressure him into a betrothal.
“No need to worry. I and the elite members of the Peongan Corps carefully selected these.” Misinterpreting Bu Eunseol’s hardened expression, Baek Yeon spoke confidently, “The women of Majeon are fine, but you’re a warrior of Nangyang Pavilion. A refined lady from a prestigious family would suit you better.”
The one giving rice cakes wasn’t even thinking about it, yet Baek Yeon was eagerly drinking kimchi soup. Smiling, Baek Yeon slowly unwrapped the bundle.
Bu Eunseol’s eyes nearly popped out.
The stack of portraits in the bundle numbered at least three to four hundred.
“You came here just for this?”
“Of course. Marriage is a matter of great human importance, isn’t it?” Baek Yeon patted Bu Eunseol’s shoulder with a warm smile.
“Leader, I have no intention of starting a family yet.” Bu Eunseol shook his head, but Baek Yeon quickly cut him off.
“Exactly, that’s what I mean. No need to rush.” Rising slowly, he added, “Think it over carefully.”
With a serious expression, he patted Bu Eunseol’s shoulder and nodded.
“Take your time reviewing them and let me know.” Without waiting for a reply, he left briskly.
Baek Yeon had rushed to Majeon, fearing Bu Eunseol might be betrothed to a woman arranged by the sect.
“…” Bu Eunseol’s expression was as if he’d been slapped.
“Rumors are terrifying.”
That Baek Yeon, burdened with endless duties, would rush to Majeon over a marriage rumor.
It was absurd, but understandable.
Nangyang Pavilion was like his family.
How could they not feel slighted if he suddenly started a family through Majeon? Of course, that would never happen.
“Is anyone there?” At Bu Eunseol’s call, a subordinate hurriedly ran in.
“You called, sir?”
“Take these away immediately.”
“Yes, sir.”
But Bu Eunseol couldn’t have imagined.
The truly terrifying events were just beginning.
***
Yoo Unryong was now a full-fledged strategist of the Death Shadow Corps.
Except when training subordinates or practicing martial arts, he handled all sorts of paperwork, including finances and accounting, within the Suppressed Demon Pavilion.
His office was piled high with books and documents.
While Yoo Unryong was engrossed in writing, Myo Cheonwoo, Won Semun, Wi Cheongyeong, and Jo Namcheon had gathered at his desk.
All were leaders of the Death Shadow Corps and Bu Eunseol’s closest aides. Each had a strong personality and didn’t particularly like one another, but their loyalty to Bu Eunseol united them. Today, however, their unity was shattered, and they glared at each other murderously.
“This isn’t right.”
“What’s not right?”
“I can’t explain it, but this just isn’t right.”
Myo Cheonwoo and Wi Cheongyeong exchanged sharp words, while Won Semun and Jo Namcheon traded insults.
“Your eyes are just for show, huh?”
“And your head’s just decoration for your shoulders?”
On the table where they sat was the stack of portraits Baek Yeon had left—the ones Bu Eunseol had ordered removed.
“You really don’t know the Lord,” Won Semun said, pointing at Jo Namcheon’s chosen portrait and scoffing. “The Lord barely speaks a word or two a day. How could he get along with a woman from the Namyung Family, who lives by her wit?”
Jo Namcheon’s final pick was the portrait of Namyung Dongri, the daughter of the Namyung Family, known as the Demonic Zhuge.
“You blockhead,” Jo Namcheon retorted, pointing at Won Semun’s choice with an incredulous expression. “You’re recommending a woman from the Akjeong Family? Are you insane?”
“You’re the one who doesn’t get it. The Akjeong Family’s daughter is nicknamed Ice Purity Jade. She’s not only beautiful but understanding.”
“You idiot! That nickname comes from her mastering the Ice Purity Jade Belt Technique, not because she’s understanding!”
As it turned out, they had gathered in Yoo Unryong’s office to select a bride for Bu Eunseol.
“Ugh…” Yoo Unryong, working at the desk, trembled and suddenly stood, shouting, “If you’re going to fight, take it outside!”
“Why are you all crowding my office with this nonsense?” The group, staring at the portraits, froze at Yoo Unryong’s outburst.
“Well… you’re our strategist, aren’t you?” Myo Cheonwoo said after a brief silence.
Won Semun nodded quickly, “Exactly. You’re the sharpest among us.”
Jo Namcheon added, “And you subtly understand the Lord best.”
Yoo Unryong’s anger subsided slightly.
“What does that have to do with this?”
“The Lord excels in martial arts and strategy, but he’s indifferent to women, isn’t he?” Wi Cheongyeong chimed in. “His spouse will be our superior, too. If we pick the wrong person, we’ll all suffer.”
It was a valid point.
Bu Eunseol was a good leader. But if he married a vicious woman?
His subordinates would suffer.
“Hmm.” Yoo Unryong nodded, as if making a decision. “Then get rid of the portraits.”
He sighed, “They’re irrelevant anyway.”
“What do you mean?” Myo Cheonwoo asked.
Yoo Unryong crossed his arms, “The one rumored to be betrothed to Bu Eunseol is Lady Jin Seol.”
“What?”
The group was stunned, and Yoo Unryong continued in a low voice, “So, it’s better to investigate Jin Seol’s character than these women.”
“Jin Seol is the one in the betrothal rumors?”
Won Semun and Jo Namcheon’s faces darkened.
Both had fallen for Jin Seol at first sight when she visited the Secret Pavilion to deliver ceremonial robes. They knew she was out of their league, but to think she was betrothed to Bu Eunseol, whom they served so loyally?
“Well, they do make a good pair. If it’s the Lord, I can step aside.”
“Lady Jin, be happy.”
As Won Semun and Jo Namcheon muttered nonsense, Myo Cheonwoo crossed his arms, “If it’s Jin Seol, that changes things.”
“Her beauty and grace are unmatched, and her position as Ceremonial Officer is ideal. She’s favored by the Demon Emperor, Elder Hall Leader, and Chief Instructor.”
Wi Cheongyeong nodded in agreement, “She’s well-versed in academics and skilled in calligraphy and painting.”
“She’s perfect as the Lord’s spouse.”
“So, we all agree on Lady Jin?” Myo Cheonwoo asked.
As they nodded solemnly, a voice called from outside, “Leader, it’s Mu Gwang.”
“Come in,” Yoo Unryong replied.
Mu Gwang entered cautiously, startled by the stack of portraits and the leaders.
“I didn’t know you were in a meeting. My apologies.”
“No need to mind them. What’s the matter?”
Mu Gwang bowed, “Someone from the Divine Maiden Palace has come for the Lord.”
Yoo Unryong frowned, “The Divine Maiden Palace? Why?”
“They say they have something to discuss with the Lord.”
“Then send word to the Lord. Why come to me?”
“Well… the Lord told me to have you handle it.”
“Me?”
Yoo Unryong’s brow furrowed, and Mu Gwang bowed again, “He said you, with your steadfast heart, could reject her request.”
“Reject her request?”
Yoo Unryong’s eyes widened, and Mu Gwang continued, “The Young Palace Master of the Divine Maiden Palace is at the sect’s gates.”
A chill swept through the office.
Yeon Soha, the Thousand Gold Glance, one of the three most beautiful women in the world, whose glance was said to be worth more than a thousand gold. Moreover, wasn’t the Divine Maiden Palace a faction that, despite its neutral stance, had walked the righteous path for generations?
Why would their Young Palace Master come here?
Yoo Unryong frowned, “She came in person?”
“Yes. She’s already met the Chief Instructor and is heading to the Suppressed Demon Pavilion.”
“For a betrothal?” Myo Cheonwoo interjected, eyes wide.
Mu Gwang shook his head, “I don’t know the details.”
“Just send her back if it’s unwanted. Oh, right,” Myo Cheonwoo said, as if realizing something. “Though the Divine Maiden Palace is neutral, it’s closer to a righteous faction. For their Young Palace Master to boldly visit our sect… we can’t just turn her away.”
Yoo Unryong sighed, agreeing with Myo Cheonwoo.
“I don’t understand. The Divine Maiden Palace, of all places.” Shaking his head, he nodded to Mu Gwang, “Fine. I’ll meet her and send her back myself.”
As Yoo Unryong stepped out, Myo Cheonwoo and the others exchanged glances and followed. At the gates of the Suppressed Demon Pavilion stood three women with spears on their backs.
Behind them was a woman in white, standing tall.
Though veiled, her clear eyes were so striking they could be seen from miles away.
“Pardon me, my lady,” Yoo Unryong approached, clasping his hands. “I am Yoo Unryong, strategist of the Death Shadow Corps.”
“I am Yeon Soha, Young Palace Master of the Divine Maiden Palace.”
As she spoke, the guards’ faces flushed. Her voice was so clear and gentle, it felt like a whisper in their ears.
“What brings you here…?” Yoo Unryong tilted his head, cautiously observing her entourage.
A young palace master of the Seven Great Palaces would typically arrive with fanfare and escorts. Yet she had come alone with just three guards?
“To see… A-Seol, I mean, Young Master Bu.”
“Young Master Bu?” Yoo Unryong hesitated, then clasped his hands politely, “I’m sorry, but the Lord is away and not at the pavilion. If you had sent word in advance…”
He trailed off.
Tears like pearls rolled down Yeon Soha’s veiled face.
“Young Palace Master.” Flustered, Yoo Unryong stammered as she shook her head and wiped her tears.
“My apologies. I lost control and showed an unsightly side.”
“No, not at all.” Yoo Unryong shook his head, and Yeon Soha took a deep breath. “Please deliver a message to Young Master Bu, no, the Martial Soul Command Lord.”
With a long sigh, she whispered, “Ask if he intends to forsake the betrothal made in our palace’s secret chamber.”
“A betrothal in the secret chamber…?” Yoo Unryong faltered, and the middle-aged women with spears spoke up.
“Young Palace Master, let’s just go back!”
“Why waste your heart on such a heartless man?”
“You shouldn’t have come here behind the Palace Master’s back!”
Yoo Unryong took a deep breath, flustered. Not only their words but also Yeon Soha’s demeanor didn’t seem like a lie.
‘Would the Young Palace Master of the Divine Maiden Palace come all this way to lie?’
Gathering his thoughts, Yoo Unryong asked, “You’re betrothed to the Lord?”
“Yes. I waited for him to return to the Divine Maiden Palace, but…” Her eyes reddened again, though she held back tears.
Yoo Unryong’s head spun.
Though Bu Eunseol maintained an indifferent demeanor…
Was he someone who took a woman and coldly discarded her?
‘No way.’ Yoo Unryong shook his head.
If Bu Eunseol were that kind of man, he would’ve left a trail of scandals. His appearance was enough to charm any woman. Yet in Majeon, filled with beauties, hadn’t he treated women like stones, like a monk?
“You’re saying our Lord discarded you like an old shoe?”
“He’s a flower-plucking playboy who takes and discards beautiful women?”
Won Semun, watching from behind, jumped forward to Yoo Unryong’s side.
“What’s going on, Leader Yoo?”
Known as the biggest rogue in the Death Shadow Corps, Won Semun prompted Yoo Unryong to quickly signal Myo Cheonwoo.
“Myo Cheonwoo, take this guy away!” Turning sharply, Yoo Unryong’s jaw dropped.
Myo Cheonwoo was clenching his fists, trembling with anger.
‘You believe it too?’
Yoo Unryong’s eyes went blank.
***
Myo Cheonwoo stood alongside Won Semun and Jo Namcheon, trembling with rage.
He clearly believed Yeon Soha’s words without question.
It wasn’t unreasonable.
Yeon Soha’s eyes and voice transcended worldly beauty, and her character seemed as pure and noble as a saint. Even if a dog claimed ivory sprouted from its mouth, no one would think it a lie coming from her.
“Leader Yoo,” Wi Cheongyeong said in a low voice. “Shouldn’t I inform the Lord of the situation? If we send her away like this, it might tarnish his reputation.”
Thankfully, Wi Cheongyeong, like Yoo Unryong, maintained composure.
‘He’s right.’
“Young Palace Master, you’ve come a long way. Please have some tea while you wait,” Yoo Unryong said, quickly adjusting his expression.
“I’ll immediately check when the Lord will return.”
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