Chapter 361: If I Had a Son Like Me
Chapter 361: If I Had a Son Like Me
Bi Sa-in focused every ounce of his will on recovering as quickly as possible.
He circulated his qi through his meridians, cycle after cycle. After completing several rounds of deep meditation, he finally stood up. His entire body still throbbed with a dull ache, but he could no longer bear to stay cooped up inside.
When Bi Sa-in stepped out into the courtyard, he found Geom Mu-geuk gazing up at the sky. He watched the man’s back for a moment—a silhouette that radiated a profound sense of solitude—before approaching him.
“What are you staring at so blankly?”
Geom Mu-geuk turned and offered a smile. He smiled quite often these days. He was always one step ahead—in planning, in execution, and even in navigating human relationships.
Bi Sa-in wondered if he could ever smile as brightly as that. Could he ever completely shake the suspicion that Mu-geuk was only associating with him to use him? It was a constant, exhausting cycle of trust and doubt.
“I’m making a conscious effort to look at the sky. When was the last time you looked up?”
“It’s been a while.”
“Then come over here and look with me.”
Bi Sa-in sat down beside Geom Mu-geuk and turned his gaze upward.
“Your aura feels as vast as the sea, yet why do you love the sky so much?”
“I like the sea too. Next time, let’s go play at the beach. We can even flirt with the lady warriors who come to visit.”
The mere image of Geom Mu-geuk throwing flirtatious glances at women on a beach was enough to make Bi Sa-in chuckle. He could only imagine how awkwardly he would be standing there beside him.
“How is your body?”
“Much better now.”
“That’s a relief.”
Mu-geuk’s gaze shifted from Bi Sa-in back to the clouds. Bi Sa-in followed suit, quietly watching them drift by.
“What kind of person is the Unorthodox Path Alliance Leader?”
Geom Mu-geuk didn't know much about the man. In his past life, everyone had died before he could truly learn anything. His information on the Murim Alliance Leader and the Unorthodox Path Alliance Leader was limited to what was recorded in history.
Bi Sa-in hesitated for a moment before letting out a soft sigh. He had been pondering how to describe him, only to realize that he didn't truly know his master well either.
“It hasn't been long since I started trying to look at my master clearly and closely, so I don't really know myself.”
At that honest answer, Geom Mu-geuk nodded.
“Actually, I’m the same. I’m trying incredibly hard to see my father for who he really is, but if you asked me to describe him, I wouldn't know how to answer either.”
“Is it difficult because they are our father and master? Or is it just naturally this difficult to know a person?”
“Isn't it both?”
The two looked at each other and shared a faint smile. A smile finally suited Bi Sa-in’s rugged face.
“Are you nervous about meeting the Alliance Leader?”
“I am.”
“I think this is the first time I’ve seen you nervous.”
“In the past, I was just acting tough. Now that we’re friends, I’m being honest.”
Bi Sa-in also shared his true feelings. “I’m sorry for leaving this to you.”
No matter how much pain he was in, this was a task he should have handled. Even if he had to be carried in a cart, he should have gone. If he was alive and well, yet sent Geom Mu-geuk in his stead, what would the Unorthodox Path Alliance Leader think of him?
He had considered stubbornly insisting on going. He had even thought about asking to go together.
But his instincts stopped him. They told him to leave it to Geom Mu-geuk. They told him not to let vain pride get in the way at such a crucial moment—to know when to step in and when to step back.
Instead, there was one thing he wanted to say.
“I’m receiving your help now, but there will come a time when I can help you too.”
“Didn't I already ask you for that? To pull me up when that time comes. The more you get used to me, the more you’ll realize I’m not that special. When that happens, please remember this: Let’s not let familiarity breed contempt for what is precious. We have our old friendship, so don't look down on me too much.”
Would that really happen? Bi Sa-in suspected Geom Mu-geuk would continue to surprise him until his hair turned white. Even as an old man, he’d probably be saying: Isn't it time you got tired of this? Stop being so clever. Stop surprising people.
Even if that wasn't the case...
‘The more familiar we become, the more I will respect you.’
Bi Sa-in still couldn't bring himself to show his full heart.
Just then, a demonic practitioner from the safe house arrived to deliver a letter. It was a secret missive from the Unorthodox Path Alliance.
“The Alliance Leader has sent word to meet privately.”
1st Wolf had pulled it off.
Bi Sa-in looked at Geom Mu-geuk. His fate now rested on this meeting.
“I’ll be back.”
As Geom Mu-geuk stood up, Bi Sa-in rose with him. He thought about making a joke—telling him not to get scolded for being cheeky with the Alliance Leader—but he held back.
“Please, explain everything well to the Alliance Leader.”
And prove once again that my instincts were right, my friend.
*
Geom Mu-geuk arrived at a windswept field.
Baek Ja-gang was already there, waiting in the center of the wide-open space. The moment he saw Geom Mu-geuk walking toward him, Baek Ja-gang knew.
‘He is definitely that man’s son.’
Mu-geuk didn't reveal any demonic energy, nor did he display any particular aura, but Baek Ja-gang could tell. And most decisively...
‘The resemblance is striking.’
The image of Geom Wu-jin overlapped with Geom Mu-geuk before separating again. He imagined the two of them walking side by side.
‘Well, the family certainly didn't lack in the looks department.’
The boy was certainly more handsome and pleasant to look at than the cold, intense Geom Wu-jin. Instead of those arrogant eyes that looked down on everyone, his clear, deep gaze drew one's attention.
“I greet the Alliance Leader.”
Geom Mu-geuk bowed politely.
Though he knew the young man was the Young Cult Leader, Baek Ja-gang feigned ignorance.
“How am I to believe that you are the Young Cult Leader of the Demonic Cult?”
He was testing the boy's reaction. Geom Mu-geuk put on a look of feigned surprise.
“Is there anyone in this world daring enough to try and swindle the Leader of the Unorthodox Path Alliance to his face?”
“The Murim is a place where masters are as numerous as grains of sand; such a person might exist. What guarantee do I have that you aren't an assassin sent to kill me?”
“If I had the skill to successfully carry out an assassination while being suspected by the Alliance Leader, I wouldn't be working as an assassin.”
Baek Ja-gang’s expression didn't change at the answer. Finally, Geom Mu-geuk stroked his own face and spoke up.
“Have you ever seen an assassin this handsome?”
At that cheeky remark, Baek Ja-gang couldn't help but let out an incredulous laugh. Since no one usually joked with him, he was somewhat weak to such banter. If the boy was speaking with that in mind, he was quite clever for his age.
“To be honest, I’ve never seen an assassin.”
“Of course not. What kind of fool would come to kill you, Alliance Leader?”
Within his casual speech, he embedded words that acknowledged and elevated the Alliance Leader’s status. He didn't flatter him as overtly as he did the Demon Lords, but he made an effort to cater to the man's mood.
Baek Ja-gang’s first impression was peculiar. He was different from Mu-geuk's father, and different from the Murim Alliance Leader, Jin Pae-cheon. Perhaps it was because his eyes were small, but it was hard to tell what he was thinking.
“If you speak with me for just a little while, you’ll realize, ‘Ah, this fellow really is the Young Cult Leader.’ By the time we part, you’ll be so sad to see me go that you’ll ask, ‘Why don't you come visit the Alliance with me?’ And after a few days, you’ll probably tell me to try sitting in the Grand Tutor's chair.”
“You are quite full of yourself.”
“If I didn't have this reckless confidence, how could I dare face you, Alliance Leader?”
Baek Ja-gang had initially harbored a wariness that Geom Mu-geuk was someone who liked to bewitch people. He was confident he wouldn't be swayed by anything the boy said. However, at the very least, this conversation was refreshing. It had been a long time since anyone had spoken so boldly in front of him.
Especially someone who would go as far as to say this:
“What do you think it would be like to have a son like me?”
“I would certainly hate it,” Baek Ja-gang answered firmly.
Actually, so would I.
Geom Mu-geuk agreed. It was more burdensome than hateful. In that sense, he felt that Baek Ja-gang might share some similarities with himself.
Staring into the clear eyes watching him, Baek Ja-gang asked, “I heard you enjoy bewitching people.”
“I simply like people. That’s why I’m often suspected of being a flatterer.”
“I’ve never seen a demonic practitioner who likes people.”
“Then you are finally seeing one today.”
Baek Ja-gang stared intently at Geom Mu-geuk. The rumors that he was good at detecting lies were not exaggerated. Baek Ja-gang got a certain feeling whenever someone lied to him—a chill would run down his neck.
“Please, watch me today. Judge for yourself whether I am bewitching you or if I simply like you.”
So far, he didn't sense any lies from Geom Mu-geuk. He was simply curious about where this confidence came from. It wasn't easy to be this dignified in his presence.
“Why did you ask to see me?”
“The reason I asked to meet today is to tell you the truth.”
“What truth? That the Deputy Strategist of my Alliance, who is set to become the Chief Strategist, is a traitor?”
“That is correct.”
“And it’s not some evil, dark truth woven by the schemes of the Demonic Cult?”
“The truth shines brightest when unearthed from the darkest places.”
Geom Mu-geuk knew it wasn't easy for Baek Ja-gang to admit this. The moment he accepted it, it meant that he and the Unorthodox Path Alliance had been played.
“Where is Sa-in now?”
“He is recovering from his injuries at our Cult’s safe house.”
The moment he said that, Mu-geuk saw it—a flicker of irritation mingled with concern crossed Baek Ja-gang’s features.
“How badly is he hurt?”
“He sustained heavy injuries, but fortunately, they are wounds he can recover from.”
“Whose doing was it?”
“Have you not received a report on whose work it was yet? I suppose it’s more advantageous to report as late as possible when one needs to fabricate evidence. The ones who ambushed the Young Alliance Leader were the Scorching Heaven Twin Swords. The person who sent them was Hyeok Sa-gun.”
Geom Mu-geuk observed Baek Ja-gang’s reaction. The man showed no emotional agitation. It seemed he hadn't decided who the traitor was yet, or perhaps he considered Mu-geuk's words to be a complete lie.
“It wasn't you who sent them?”
“That was the first time I’d met them. Though it was also the last.”
Baek Ja-gang stared as if trying to pierce through Geom Mu-geuk with his small eyes. Mu-geuk could have met that gaze calmly, but he deliberately averted his eyes slightly as if in fear. Stepping back was a form of courtesy toward the Alliance Leader.
“Currently, the Elder Blade Demon, Goe Ak, one of the Seven Great Masters of the Unorthodox Path, is protecting him at the safe house, so you needn't worry. Ah, perhaps you don't trust Goe Ak, Alliance Leader.”
“At the very least, he isn't someone who would harm Sa-in. If anything, it’s you I cannot trust.”
“Please don't think of me as a demonic practitioner, but as your disciple’s friend. Please trust your disciple’s discernment over mine.”
“A friend, you say. I’ve never had one in my life, so I wouldn't know.”
As expected, he was not an easy opponent. He seemed open-hearted, yet it was difficult to know his true mind.
“You will know once you see Hyeok Sa-gun’s next move.”
“What do you mean?”
“Watch and see who he pins the blame on. Hyeok Sa-gun will use this incident as an opportunity to eliminate his political rivals. He’s likely already planted the evidence. Watch carefully to see who he points his finger at.”
Geom Mu-geuk didn't try to change the man's mind immediately with this single meeting. Haste is what always ruins things. The human heart’s desire to see results quickly, especially in large and important matters, is what always causes failure.
He could leave now and meet again after Hyeok Sa-gun dealt with his rivals. He would meet ten more times, or a hundred if necessary. This matter had to be handled with that kind of patience.
“I will see you again then to speak further.”
“There is no need for that.”
“Pardon?”
“I’ve heard enough, so stay out of the Alliance’s business from now on.”
This was the reaction Geom Mu-geuk had feared most. Whether he believed him or not, the man wanted him to stay out of it.
“Return to the Demonic Cult.”
When Geom Mu-geuk didn't answer, Baek Ja-gang released his aura. A murderous pressure erupted from him, surging forward like a physical weight pressing down on Mu-geuk.
As if demanding an immediate answer, his energy was so powerful it felt impossible to breathe. The Heavenly Demon Body Protection Art activated automatically, shielding Mu-geuk’s body.
Normally, he would have made a joke—saying he was going, going right now—and retreated. There was no need to reveal his strength. But Geom Mu-geuk endured. It was what his instincts told him to do.
‘I have to withstand this.’
Instead, he put on a relaxed expression as if to provoke Baek Ja-gang.
Baek Ja-gang’s aura grew even more intense. The energy he emitted swirled around Geom Mu-geuk. Rocks were crushed and blown away by the sheer force of the pressure. Baek Ja-gang’s momentum was truly formidable. If not for the cry of his instincts, it was a dangerous energy he should never have tried to withstand.
Nevertheless, Geom Mu-geuk endured and endured.
At the moment Baek Ja-gang’s aura reached its peak... Geom Mu-geuk’s expression brightened brilliantly as he shouted.
“I’ve done it!”
At the same time, unable to hold out any longer, Geom Mu-geuk was sent flying and tumbled across the ground. Only then did Baek Ja-gang withdraw his aura.
As he approached, wondering why on earth the boy had resisted, Geom Mu-geuk sprang to his feet.
“Thanks to you, Alliance Leader, I’ve made an achievement in my martial arts.”
In the process of withstanding Baek Ja-gang’s aura, his Heavenly Demon Body Protection Art had reached Twelve-Star Great Achievement. It had been teasing him lately due to his continuous training, and today, he had achieved an unexpected result.
Geom Mu-geuk truly never dreamed he would achieve mastery of the Body Protection Art during this meeting. The path of supreme martial arts was truly unpredictable.
Geom Mu-geuk dropped to the ground and performed a deep, formal bow. Baek Ja-gang was taken aback. He hadn't expected the Young Cult Leader of the Demonic Cult to bow to him.
“You must have guessed why I was resisting and kept sending your energy until the end. I am truly grateful.”
Of course, that wasn't why he had pushed to the end. He had pushed because he wanted to see the extent of Geom Mu-geuk’s martial skill. There was also a bit of ‘How dare you stubbornly resist me?’ in his heart.
“Why are you telling me that? You didn't have to.”
“If I want to thank you, I have to tell you. It’s an achievement I made thanks to you, Alliance Leader.”
Since he had met Geom Mu-geuk with such high guard, he wasn't particularly moved. He’s a good talker, cheeky, and smart. That was about it. He didn't think he could be "bewitched" by such a fellow.
And yet, the boy bowed without hesitation and expressed such gratitude? Come to think of it, he hadn't felt a single chill down his neck today.
“Your father won't be pleased if he finds out.”
Baek Ja-gang imagined the displeased expression of that arrogant Heavenly Demon.
“If he knew you helped his son achieve a breakthrough, he would have expressed his gratitude to you. He would have told me to bow ten times. My father isn't the type of person to ruin a great cause over pride.”
A comparison with the Heavenly Demon—it was a provocation Baek Ja-gang could never ignore.
‘Look at this little rascal.’