Chapter 8
Chapter 8
Translator: Penny
Chapter 8
Later, Sohye, who had gathered rumors from the clan, excitedly reported that Father was hailed as the greatest debater in the world, a man who could take on a hundred opponents single-handedly.
With his impeccable logic and eloquence, he had utterly crushed Dang Yeojin's cunning attempts to manipulate the Patriarch and her husband, silencing her fox-like schemes.
Still, the Confinement Order was unavoidable.
After all, he had resorted to violence.
The punishment: banishment from the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion.
Considering the clan's strict hierarchical order, this was considered an exceptionally lenient penalty.
Seeing his mother's long-held anxiety finally ease, he even felt a pang of guilt.
But since that day, rumors had been circulating: "A lawless scoundrel who beats his own brothers."
Typical Tang Clan behavior.
It was clear Dang Yeojin had spread the rumors.
Her very countenance betrayed her malice.
I've failed to uphold the Demonic Cult's principle of repaying evil with evil. I've grown too soft. Repay kindness with kindness, and evil with even greater cruelty.
This was one of the core tenets of the great Demonic Cult, a principle he had lived by his entire life.
Naturally, he should have crushed the mouth that dared to insult his mother, ripped out the tongue, severed the tendons in all four limbs, and forced the offender to crawl like a dog for the rest of his life.
But Sohye's intervention had led him to show mercy.
Perhaps it was because he had grown up bathed in his parents' love, softening his nature, or perhaps it was due to his recent re-reading of the Myeongsim Bogam.
Well, at least I've obtained everything I needed from the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion.
The only silver lining was that he no longer had any reason to visit the pavilion.
What he urgently needed was a fragment of the Zhuge Clan's martial arts technique.
For now, that would suffice.
Heh heh heh, a Confinement Order? Perfect timing—I needed time to focus on my training anyway.
Now that he had memorized all the Mnemonic Verses, it was time to fully dedicate himself to martial arts training.
Later, if anyone asked in surprise, "How did you learn this?" he could simply answer, "I learned it at the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion."
More than anything, I gained a profound understanding of my father. It was an infinite trust, perhaps? His unwavering belief in his son, without question or hesitation, deeply moved me. In my previous life, I had never trusted anyone, so I couldn't fully grasp this feeling. My subordinates, and even my disciples, were all plotting to kill me. How could I trust them? Instead, I showered praise on those who devoted themselves wholeheartedly to their efforts. Loyalty is earned through overwhelming power and fear. These were the proper qualities for a ruler of the Demonic Cult. But Father... He was cool. Quite...
Why did my heart pound so fiercely over something so trivial? In that moment, Father seemed far more dignified and reliable than I had ever been, even when facing hundreds of martial artists alone. Well, someone of his caliber deserves to be my father. Though I hadn't desired reincarnation or rebirth, I'm grateful to have gained a kind mother and a truly steadfast father. I'll repay their kindness. What's the big deal? With all the love I've received, this much is the least I can do.
But then...
"Munhyeon, greet your new tutor."
"Huh?"
A few days after the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion incident, his father brought home a man.
He appeared to be in his early thirties, with a flawless complexion and hands that looked utterly uncalloused—a true scholar.
"This is Chief Han Siheon of the Formation Department at Byeongju Hall. He will be your literary tutor from now on."
"..."
"Though he's currently studying formations under the Zhuge Clan's patronage, he once topped the Provincial Examination and earned the title of Juren."
In other words, he was exceptionally learned.
Given his position as the formation chief of Byeongju Hall, he must be one of his father's subordinates.
But why a literary tutor out of the blue? I'm just steeling myself to begin martial arts training in earnest. What's the meaning of this, Father?
"Ahem, you rascal! Why haven't you greeted your Master yet? He's waiting!"
"Ah... Greetings."
Zhuge Munhyeon bowed awkwardly at his father's stern reprimand.
"Heh heh, please understand. He's usually quite proper, but he's a bit flustered right now."
"It's quite alright. As I've heard, the sharpness in his eyes is truly remarkable."
"Thank you for seeing him that way."
"Don't mention it. On the contrary, I should be thanking you for entrusting me with the important role of Literary Tutor to your esteemed son."
Watching the two exchange pleasantries, Zhuge Munhyeon couldn't suppress his bewilderment.
What are they doing? Why are they acting like this when I haven't even given my consent?
"Father."
"Speak."
"Literary Tutor? What does that mean?"
"Munhyeon, this father has made this decision after much deliberation."
"Deliberation?"
"Indeed. How could I not understand your feelings toward Mungi? You must be furious. While resorting to violence was wrong, you were defending your mother's honor. I deeply admire your loyalty."
"..."
"However, the Confinement Order and ban from the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion must weigh heavily on your heart."
"N-not really..."
"It's alright. You can confide in your father. As a fellow scholar, how could I not understand? Your burning passion for learning, crushed before you even took your first step."
His father frowned deeply as he tried to comfort him.
You clearly have no idea.
"So, swallowing my pride, I asked Chief Han to tutor you during your confinement."
"Huh?"
"The lad must have been quite surprised! Heh heh heh!"
That wasn't why he was surprised.
Who said I was disappointed? When did I ever imply that? You should have at least asked!
Even though his reputation had suffered and he'd earned the nickname "Scoundrel," he'd been relieved to finally start martial arts training...
"From now on, Chief Han will be your Literary Tutor, teaching you after I leave for work."
"A-After... You don't mean all day?"
"Yes."
It was like a bolt of lightning out of the blue.
His heart felt like it was crumbling into pieces.
No, why did you agonize over this alone and make the decision yourself?! You should have discussed it with me! Discussed it!
"Father, since Chief Han has his own duties, shouldn't he stay at his post instead of taking time off for personal matters?"
"It's fine."
"..."
"I've already reported this to the Patriarch."
"T-the Patriarch approved it?"
"Of course. Who do you think your father is? I persuaded the Patriarch over and over, explaining that this incident wasn't your fault. The Patriarch now believes the Confinement Order he issued over the Mungi matter was too harsh."
What a pointless persuasion. There was no need for any of this.
"Look at that rascal... See? He's frowning like that because he's worried I might be pushing myself too hard."
"Indeed, that's how it is. I'll teach even more diligently, Hall Master."
"Thank you, truly thank you."
His father clasped Han Siheon's hand tightly, expressing his gratitude.
Wrong. Resentment. He's furious. Please don't misunderstand me like this!
But he couldn't bring himself to say, "I don't want to."
The image of his father's back that day kept flashing before his eyes...
"I look forward to working with you, Munhyeon. I'm truly honored to be your Master."
Watching his radiant smile, he thought:
A literary tutor? Let's see how long you last. I'm an expert at this kind of stubbornness!
The next day, as promised, Han Siheon took over his father's duties after breakfast.
And immediately, the lesson began.
"I heard you've been reading Myeongsim Bogam."
"That's right."
His attitude was somewhat indifferent, but his posture remained proper. He couldn't afford to disappoint his mother, who was observing his studies from a distance. So, while maintaining outward courtesy, he subtly displayed an attitude that was likely to provoke irritation.
How could an adult not get angry at such behavior from a child? He'd dealt with these pedantic scholars many times before.
"Open the Chapter on Speech. I heard you've read up to that point."
"Yes."
"Yu Hui said, 'Unreasonable speech is better left unsaid.' What does this mean?"
"What does it mean?"
"Huh?"
"As your disciple, my knowledge is limited. I can read the words, but I don't understand their deeper meaning."
"..."
"Will you teach me properly, Master?"
Han Siheon smiled warmly and continued his explanation, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
Alright, time to unleash my wise stubbornness. Let's see how long you can endure.
"Yu Hui said, 'If words lack reason, it is better to remain silent.' This means that speech is the sound of the heart. Therefore, you should consider the meaning behind your words before uttering them."
"Ah, I see."
"Generally speaking, it's more important to have the right attitude than to use erudite vocabulary or refined expressions. This is especially true when dealing with those younger or lower in rank, as one's true nature is revealed in such interactions. You must learn to think before speaking and cultivate respect for others."
Look at this guy! He's trying to sound like he's giving profound advice, but he's just subtly criticizing my attitude. But I won't back down! I've lived far longer than you have.
"Hmm, I don't quite understand what you mean. Could you explain it a bit more simply?"
"Huh?"
"My knowledge is lacking..."
"Hmph."
Zhuge Munhyeon blinked blankly, feigning ignorance.
I'm an Ox. Read scriptures all day long—it won't change a thing.
All he could do was moo like a cow.
From that day forward, Zhuge Munhyeon openly rejected Han Siheon's teachings.
I don't understand! Why do I have to read this? Ebebebe~!
Distraction was his default mode. He twisted his body, desperate to play, doing everything in his power to drive his teacher to the brink of fury.
"Do you dislike studying?"
"No! I love it!"
"Then why are you acting like this? Do you perhaps dislike me?"
"No! I like you so much I could die!"
"Hmm. Is that so?"
Han Siheon stared intently at Zhuge Munhyeon, his expression unreadable.
Zhuge Doyun had asked him to tutor his son not solely because of his vast knowledge.
He had been carefully selected for this role.
His experience as a teacher.
He had already taught and raised countless children from the Zhuge Clan.
So he knew.
The descendants of the Zhuge Clan, blessed with innate talent, could not be ignored.
Zhuge Munhyeon was exceptional even among them.
He spoke his first words at a hundred days old, read the Thousand-Character Classic and Elementary Learning by age three, and understood musical harmony by five.
Rumor had it he was a dullard who had briefly shone, but as his teacher, he couldn't afford to teach him carelessly. He decided to examine the boy's seven years of life in advance.
The result? "Dullard" was utter nonsense.
This kid was the real deal.
How could a seven-year-old articulate his thoughts so clearly and speak with such unwavering precision if he hadn't been born with innate talent?
Moreover, on the day of the incident at the Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion, Zhuge Munhyeon had reportedly confronted Dang Yeojin with unwavering dignity, declaring his intentions and even rebuking her.
Having stayed as his Literary Tutor for the past few days, I've learned enough just by observing how he treats his mother. He never says or does anything that might upset his parents. He only grumbles at me. Which means... Our Young Master wants to test his mettle against me?
This was typical behavior for those born with innate talent.
Are you worthy to be my teacher? I'll test you. If you fail, get lost. That's what he means.
First, I need to break his stubbornness.
Han Siheon had no intention of backing down either.
A child is still a child.
"Munhyeon."
"Yes, Master."
"It seems you need to learn the proper attitude for studying first."
"You're right. I'm clearly not ready to learn from you, Master."
"Therefore!"
"...?"
"I think it's time to try a different approach."
"Huh?"
Zhuge Munhyeon wore a puzzled expression as Han Siheon spoke.
Swish!
Han Siheon picked up a nearby Go stone and flicked it lightly with his finger.
The stone flew through the air, landing with soft taps around Zhuge Munhyeon.
But the way the stones were arranged...
"This is the No Affinity Array."
"..."
"You won't be released until you've read the entire Myeongsim Bogam. Remember that."
This was his trump card to break Zhuge Munhyeon's stubbornness.
He'd used it several times before.
Children, trembling with fear and unable to endure their hunger, would wail and beg...
"Huh?"
But then Han Siheon noticed the corners of Zhuge Munhyeon's lips curling upward in an unnervingly wide grin.
So, I can't leave until I've read the whole thing, huh?
📝 Translator’s Note:
You may notice that certain lines or phrases in this novel appear both in their original Korean (or Hanja) form and in English translation.
This is intentional — these phrases are classical idioms, divine titles, or poetic expressions that carry layered meanings.
To preserve their original tone and authenticity, the raw text has been kept for reference, while the English interpretation is provided right before or after it. This helps convey both the literal and cultural nuance of the original work.
but if you guys dont want tha raw for future chapters or my future other novels u can just text me on discord and say so discord name Mr.Penny