The Boy Learning the Blade, Gyeoncho
Seo Jun waved his hand lightly. “Not at all. Since he is a friend of Duke Gongchik, I thought it might be useful to at least recognize him if we happen to meet later.”
Xun Yu, huh. He must be working at the governor’s office in Yingchuan around this time. It would be good to meet him if the chance arises.
Xun Yu, hailed as a talent fit for the throne. In both novels and games, he was among the greatest strategists. While Seo Jun sorted through his thoughts about Xun Yu, a man in official robes entered the courtyard of Su’an Hall, followed by several eunuchs.
“Everyone, quiet down! I am Ye Deok, the Assistant Minister of the Secretariat, assigned to oversee the court gentlemen’s training. Today I will explain the facilities of the Northern Palace, and tomorrow we will tour the Southern Palace, so keep that in mind. For most of you, tomorrow will be your last chance to ever set foot in the Southern Palace, so pay close attention. Also, one day out of every three must be spent on night duty within the palace—do not forget your shifts. Time is short, so follow me quickly.”
With an irritated expression, Ye Deok climbed the steps at the end of the courtyard, rattled off his instructions, and strode off to one side. The first place the group reached was a vast courtyard large enough to hold over ten thousand people, with a grand hall atop a high stone platform behind it—the Hall of Virtuous Sunlight, the main audience hall of the Northern Palace.
“This is the Hall of Virtuous Sunlight, where His Majesty resides. The New Year’s ceremony was held here at dawn, before you arrived. If any of you end up serving in the capital, you will offer New Year’s greetings to His Majesty here next year.”
“This is the Hall of Extended Virtue… This is the White Tiger Pavilion…”
Contrary to his bored expression, Ye Deok gave quite detailed explanations about each building’s name and purpose as they moved through the Northern Palace.
“That concludes today’s training. Those whose names I call must stay for night duty and follow me. Jang Gwang, Jo Pyeong, Gang Seon…”
More than a dozen names—roughly a third of those present—were called. Seo Jun was fortunate not to be among them and was free to leave.
“Haha, looks like we’re off the hook for night duty today. Since fate brought us together as colleagues, how about a drink? My treat, if you two have time, Lord Baekryong, Lord Baekdal.”
Gwak Do invited Seo Jun and Im Jun for drinks. He was trying his best to draw the two men—neither of whom belonged to the corrupt faction—into his circle so he could play the leader.
“My apologies, Duke Gongchik. I already have plans and must head back. I will treat you next time.”
“I’m afraid I cannot join either. My apologies, Duke Gongchik.”
Seo Jun and Im Jun offered polite excuses and quickly left before they could be pressed further. Though Gwak Do seemed oblivious, both men had already seen through his intentions and had no desire to associate with him.
“Lord Baekdal, I’ve been thinking about the farmland issue and would greatly value your continued advice. If you could spare some time, I would be grateful.”
“Of course. Once we’ve settled into the training, let’s find a moment.”
After parting with Baek Jun at the palace gates, Seo Jun headed south along the main road toward the Gwangyang Gate district where his residence lay. He passed He Jin’s house but did not stop, knowing the Grand General would remain in the palace late for the New Year’s ceremony and court meetings.
Yeongnyeong Temple, a monastery within Luoyang’s walls, came into view, surrounded by small street stalls catering to visitors.
Is Sohwa doing well? I haven’t seen her in a while.
Just as the thought of the cheerful girl crossed his mind, a commotion erupted at the entrance of a small inn along his path.
Crash!
“You little bastard! You said you’d pay! Where the hell do you think you’re going?”
Something shattered inside the inn, followed by angry shouting.
“If you ate, you should pay!”
“I told you I’d pay, damn it!”
“Sir, please don’t make a scene here~”
A bold boy’s voice clashed with a gruff middle-aged man’s.
Another thug causing trouble. Trying to squeeze blood from a stone.
Seo Jun was about to slip past the entrance when—
Crash! Bang!
The wooden door burst open and a small figure flew straight toward him. Seo Jun caught the flying child with one hand. It was a boy of about eleven or twelve, blood trickling from his mouth where he had been struck.
Gal Chong had just claimed the inn as part of his new territory and was leaving after a satisfying meal when the young waiter demanded payment. Things escalated, and Gal Chong used a bit too much force.
Stepping through the ruined doorway, Gal Chong saw the boy he had struck lying in the arms of a young man.
“Hey, mind your own business and put the kid down before you get hurt.”
The voice sounded oddly familiar. Seo Jun gently set the boy aside and stood straight, facing Gal Chong. Recognition dawned.
“You! Still up to your old tricks, I see.”
Gal Chong’s face went pale. “M-My lord!”
He dropped to his knees without hesitation. The matter was settled quickly. Knowing Seo Jun had even defeated Sa-a, Gal Chong bowed deeply and compensated the boy generously.
“Thank you for your help, young master.”
“No need to worry. It was simply fate that allowed me to lend a hand.”
“If you would tell me your name, I wish to repay this kindness.”
The boy’s maturity despite his age tugged at Seo Jun’s heart. He felt as though he were seeing a reflection of his own fading childhood.
After the innkeeper sent the injured boy home, Seo Jun offered to escort him. As they walked, they talked.
“Where are your parents…?”
Seo Jun trailed off, hesitant to ask.
“My parents are in our hometown. I came to Luoyang with my teacher. When he decided to enter government service, I didn’t want to stop my studies, and someone needed to attend to him here, so several of us disciples followed. Our family isn’t wealthy, so we take turns doing odd jobs in the marketplace to help with expenses.”
“Is that so? That’s admirable.”
Seo Jun felt relieved to hear the boy’s parents were alive. In this era, so many children lacked protection. At least this boy had a goal worth enduring hardship for.
“Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Gyeoncho, from Anpyeong County in Jizhou.”
“I am Jun of the Seo clan. My courtesy name is Baekryong.”
“Seo Baekryong? Seo Baekryong! Are you truly the Black Wind Heavenly General, Lord Seo Baekryong?”
Gyeoncho’s eyes widened in shock, his mouth falling open.
“You know of me?”
“Yes! I’ve heard the rumors of the hero of Jizhou and always wished to meet you someday.”
“I’m honored you think so highly of me. By any chance, are you connected to the Gyeon clan of Wuji County in Zhongshan Commandery?”
The mention of a Gyeon clansman from Jizhou prompted the question.
“I know of the Gyeon family of Wuji County. We share distant ancestors, but the branches split long ago and we have no contact. Why do you ask?”
“Haha, in a few months I’ll be marrying a woman from that family. I wondered if there might be a connection.”
“Oh, what a shame. I could have formed a tie with Lord Baekryong.”
“We’ve met now, so a connection has already been made, hasn’t it?”
“Hehe, that’s true.”
They walked until the buildings grew shabbier.
“Lord Baekryong, just through that alley is where I live.”
“So we’re almost there. Ah, I never asked—what are you studying?”
“Oh, I didn’t mention it. I’m learning swordsmanship.”
“Choya! Why are you so late?”
Just as Seo Jun’s face showed surprise at hearing the boy was studying the blade, a middle-aged man with a stubbled, angular face and sturdy build called out from the end of the alley.
“Master!”
“Did something happen? You’re later than usual, so I was worried.”
“I’m sorry for making you worry, Master. Nothing happened. But look who I brought with me!”
Seo Jun felt both admiration and pity as he watched Gyeoncho hide his injuries to spare his teacher unnecessary concern.