Chapter 372
Namgung Jeong’s swordlike eyebrows shot up.
"My sworn brother?"
"That's correct. In truth, all the merits I've achieved this time are thanks to my sworn brother."
"You mean that wanderer called Seol-so."
For a moment, Namgung Un felt as if he'd been struck on the back of the head.
"You knew about him?"
"Did you think I wouldn't?"
A chilling sensation ran down Namgung Un's spine.
"Does the main family have spies planted in the Beggars' Sect?"
"Spies?"
Namgung Jeong slightly furrowed his brow.
"No one refers to our intelligence networks across various regions as 'spies.'"
"Ah, I see. My words were careless."
Namgung Un scratched his head with an embarrassed expression.
He had heard from Bu Eun-seol about factions placing spies within both orthodox and unorthodox sects.
Wasn't even No Bong, the Sect Chief of the Beggars' Sect, a spy planted by an external force?
That revelation had made Namgung Un aware of spies infiltrating all factions, filling him with both revulsion and fear.
"That wanderer called Seol-so is said to be among the top Special-Grade wanderers at the Red Sky Curtain Branch. Even the Hall Master of Scripture Instruction praised him extravagantly."
Surprisingly, Namgung Jeong had thoroughly investigated the wanderer called Seol-so and appeared acquainted with Dam Yu-yeon, the Hall Master of Scripture Instruction at the Red Sky Curtain Branch.
'Because they traveled together to the Divine Maiden Palace.'
Only then did Namgung Un recall that he had accompanied Bu Eun-seol, disguised as Seol-so, to the Divine Maiden Palace where Namgung Se-a was.
'Aunt is there.'
Namgung Se-a at the Divine Maiden Palace would have reported this "Seol-so" character to the Namgung Family.
Which meant the Namgung Family must have conducted comprehensive surveillance and investigation on this wanderer.
"So you're saying you handled this matter together with that wanderer Seol-so again."
"Correct."
'Thank heavens they haven't discovered Brother Bu is the Heir of the Demon Hall.'
Namgung Un secretly sighed in relief. But Namgung Jeong misinterpreted his expression.
"Honesty is commendable, but that doesn't mean you contributed nothing."
"No, really. My sworn brother handled everything."
Namgung Un spoke truthfully.
"From the beginning, exposing the Beggars' Sect's conspiracy was entirely his achievement."
"So you truly intend to give him the Gratitude Coin."
"That's right."
Namgung Un gulped.
He expected Namgung Jeong's thunderous rebuke at any moment—there was no way he'd permit gifting the priceless Gratitude Coin to an outsider.
"Do as you wish."
But the response was unexpected.
Contrary to expectations, Namgung Jeong readily approved the decision.
"Is this... acceptable?"
"Our family has always held integrity as its foundation. If you say you cannot steal another's merits, I have no choice but to permit it."
"Thank y—"
"However, there is a condition."
Namgung Jeong decisively cut him off.
"If he wants the Gratitude Coin, tell him to come to the main family and receive it personally."
"To the main family... you say?"
Namgung Un blinked in confusion.
But Namgung Jeong's gaze had already returned to his documents.
A silent expulsion order.
"Understood. I'll convey that message."
Namgung Un resignedly clasped his hands together.
When speaking of the most famous mountains in the martial world, people first mention the Five Great Mountains.
But seasoned travelers of the Central Plains unanimously consider Yellow Mountain the true crown jewel.
Yellow Mountain, with its strangely shaped pines and uniquely formed grotesque rocks.
Countless peaks rise from its landscape, and the secret vistas seen from Lotus Peak—the highest summit—and the flat-topped Bright Summit offer mystical beauty and overwhelming grandeur.
And near this Yellow Mountain stood the Namgung Family, foremost among the Eight Great Martial Families.
"Brother Bu. Over here."
Namgung Un waved from his third-floor seat at Yunhai Lou, the largest tavern near Yellow Mountain.
A figure ascending the stairs took the seat across from him.
It was Bu Eun-seol, disguised as Seol-so.
"How wonderful to see you again like this."
Namgung Un's lips curled into a bright smile.
Being at the family estate felt suffocating—like he couldn't breathe.
But stepping into the martial world gave him an exhilarating sense of liberation, as if soaring through the skies.
And having his admirable sworn brother by his side, whose mere presence filled him with pride, made it all the more enjoyable.
"You've come a long way. The journey must have been difficult."
Bu Eun-seol nodded as he spoke.
"But you're saying the Family Head permitted giving the Gratitude Coin to me?"
"Correct."
Namgung Un replied with visible pride.
"Our family is famously upright, you see? When the Family Head learned all the achievements belonged to the wanderer Seol-so, he approved transferring the Gratitude Coin."
"I see."
Bu Eun-seol's expression remained somber. Namgung Un nodded in understanding.
"I know. The Family Head likely suspects your true identity."
Namgung Un wasn't naive either.
Namgung Jeong had likely ordered the Gratitude Coin to be delivered personally in order to confirm Bu Eun-seol's true identity.
"After learning that I swore brotherhood with you, Elder Brother, he probably wants to verify whether you pose any threat to the main family. I apologize."
"There's no need to concern yourself."
Bu Eun-seol wore a composed smile.
"Since the Family Head has already taken an interest in me, it was a matter I would've had to resolve sooner or later."
Namgung Jeong was the leader of the Eight Great Clans, a man of extraordinary martial prowess and cunning.
Once such a man had set his mind on investigating the wandering martial artist Seol-so... it was inevitable that they would eventually have to confront each other.
And this might also be the chance to uncover the one who attempted to assassinate Lord Dan.
Earlier, Bu Eun-seol had discerned that the Emperor Sword Form's First Three Styles, which Namgung Un had used against the masked assassins, was the same sword technique employed by the masked figure who had ambushed Dan So-ok.
—The older brothers had already learned it. I was the only one who picked it up late.
That meant one of Namgung Un's brothers was the culprit behind Dan So-ok's assassination attempt.
However, Bu Eun-seol had no intention of actively hunting down the masked infiltrator within the Namgung Clan.
Not only was there little opportunity to pinpoint the culprit within the heavily guarded Namgung estate,
but he also had no desire to stir unrest in the very clan where Namgung Un belonged.
The Namgung Clan was a family of the purest orthodox lineage. Even if one of their members had attempted to assassinate a high-ranking figure of the Demon Hall, it wouldn't be considered a grave sin.
But now that the Namgung Clan had extended an invitation, the situation had changed.
Bu Eun-seol resolved to uncover the masked assassin's identity—alongside retrieving the Gratitude Coin.
"What are you thinking about?"
At Namgung Un's question, Bu Eun-seol shook his head, snapping out of his thoughts.
"Nothing."
Then he offered a sincere smile.
"Thank you."
"Huh? For what?"
"The Gratitude Coin is something I truly needed."
Bu Eun-seol drew a deep breath.
"For you to bring it to me... I can only bow my head in gratitude."
"Bow your head? Didn't you handle everything yourself, Elder Brother? I was just standing by your side."
Namgung Un laughed.
"The Family Head knows that too, which is why he's willing to give the Gratitude Coin to you."
For a moment, Bu Eun-seol felt a strange thought surface.
The way Namgung Un deliberately referred to his father as the Family Head—
and how, every time he uttered the title, his expression darkened imperceptibly, his gaze dimming.
It was an attitude that didn't suit Namgung Un, who always carried himself with such brightness.
"Is something the matter?"
"Hm?"
"Are you not on good terms with the Family Head?"
"Ah, no. Of course not."
Namgung Un waved his hands dismissively, forcing a smile.
"What's there to be 'good' or 'bad' between father and son?"
He shrugged as if it were nothing.
"It's just that my reckless ruffian tendencies probably don't sit well with him."
But his eyes remained shadowed.
"So whenever I have to face the Family Head directly, I just... feel a bit gloomy for a few days out of habit."
What kind of child darkens at the mere mention of their father?
"I see."
But Bu Eun-seol simply nodded without pressing further.
Prying into another's family affairs was improper. There was no need to force words that Namgung Un clearly didn't wish to speak.
"Mmm."
Yet when Namgung Un met Bu Eun-seol's penetrating gaze—
he suddenly felt the urge to confess everything. The burdens he had never shared with anyone.
Perhaps it was because he truly trusted and admired Bu Eun-seol.
"Truthfully... the Family Head despises me. No, he loathes me."
In the end, Namgung Un poured out the secrets buried deep in his heart.
"My mother... she died giving birth to me."
He lowered his head, muttering as he turned away.
"A filial sinner who killed his own mother the moment he was born. That's what I am."
Bu Eun-seol exhaled a quiet sigh.
A mother dying in childbirth was not an entirely uncommon tragedy.
But for the Namgung Family Head to harbor such vehement hatred for his own child because of it...
"I've spoken unnecessary words."
As the atmosphere grew heavy, Namgung Un quickly shifted the topic.
"Ah, right—thank you for indulging my stubbornness. For keeping Sect Chief No Bong's secret."
In truth, No Bong had been a spy planted as a disciple under the previous sect chief, Sanggwan-un.
Worse still, his true identity was that of a descendant of the Blood Emperor, one of the Eight Emperors and Three Saints, and he had long used the Beggars' Sect to commit countless atrocities.
If this truth were ever exposed, the Beggars' Sect would never shake off that disgrace, not even after centuries.
Namgung Un had asked Bu Eun-seol to ensure that, at the very least, the fact that No Bong had been a spy would never be made public.
"It's nothing. Either way, the Beggars' Sect would have sealed their gates regardless of such matters."
"Still, if it were known that their sect chief was a spy... the Beggars' Sect would never be able to stand tall again, not even after centuries."
"That may be true."
This time, it was Bu Eun-seol who changed the subject.
"But are you really sure about giving me the Gratitude Coin?"
He spoke frankly.
"Just possessing this alone would significantly raise your chances of becoming the next Family Head of the Namgung Clan."
"Ah, what kind of fool would make someone like me the Family Head?"
Namgung Un waved his hand dismissively.
"And you needn't worry. Once the Family Head gives his word, he never goes back on it."
Then, as if struck by a thought, he let out a sigh.
"But if he were to learn of your true identity... he would never let it slide."
Namgung Jeong's elder brother, Namgung Gyeol.
In the past, he had been brutally slain, his neck severed by none other than the Seven Fingers Demonic Blade, Bu Jan-yang.
Ever since then, Namgung Jeong had harbored an unshakable hatred for the Demonic Path—especially for anyone associated with the Demon Hall.
"Don't worry. That won't happen."
Even if Namgung Jeong were to have other intentions, Bu Eun-seol had no choice.
From his perspective, the Gratitude Coin was something he had to obtain, no matter the risk.
The Namgung Clan's sphere of influence, centered around Yellow Mountain, was largely confined to the Anhui region.
Because of this, among the Eight Great Clans, their territorial reach was actually on the smaller side.
And yet, the reason the Namgung Clan stood as the foremost of the Eight Great Clans and wielded immense influence in the martial world was singular:
The Namgung Clan's true power lay in its people.
There was scarcely an orthodox faction in the Central Plains whose leadership did not include a member of the Namgung Clan.
Not only that, but they were also deeply entrenched in key positions within the government offices and the Upper Realm. As a result—
"Even if the Martial Alliance takes a dislike to you, you can still survive somehow. But if the Namgung Clan takes a dislike to you, there will be nowhere left for you to stand."
Such was the saying that had spread.
As if to prove it, before the grand gates of the Namgung Clan, the leaders of various factions, wealthy magnates from all regions, and merchant guild leaders formed an unending stream of visitors.
'As expected.'
Bu Eun-seol's eyes gleamed as he followed Namgung Un into the clan grounds and surveyed his surroundings.
The Namgung Clan's manor, nestled in the Yellow Mountain region, resembled nothing less than a scaled-down version of the Martial Alliance's main headquarters.
Not only martial artists but dignitaries from all walks of life constantly came and went, and the line before the guest registry stretched long.
"It must be exhausting."
At Bu Eun-seol's words, Namgung Un tilted his head.
"What do you mean?"
"Having to manage a clan like this if you were to become its Family Head."
Just as Namgung Un was about to chuckle and reply—
"Young Master."
A guard who recognized Namgung Un approached and clasped his hands in salute.
"The Family Head has requested your presence—along with your guest—at the Spiral Hall."
"The Spiral Hall?"
As Namgung Un's expression stiffened, Bu Eun-seol asked,
"What kind of place is the Spiral Hall?"
"Well... it's the weapon warehouse where the clan stores its ancient arms. There's also a small training arena inside."
"A weapon warehouse, huh."
Bu Eun-seol narrowed his eyes slightly.
"I should prepare myself, then."
"Brother Bu—"
"It's fine. He likely just wants to test me lightly. As long as I don't reveal my martial arts, it should be fine."
Though his words were calm, Bu Eun-seol's gaze had darkened.
Following the guard's lead, the two entered the weapon warehouse, located slightly apart from the clan's central buildings.
Inside, sturdy blue stone tiles paved the floor, and various weapons of the Eighteen Variant Arms were stored in orderly fashion. Further in, a separate vault housed the ancient weapons.
And at the center of it all stood a middle-aged man clad in dark blue martial robes.
Namgung Jeong, the Family Head of the Namgung Clan.
"Wanderer Seol-so pays his respects to the Family Head."
"I am Namgung Jeong."
The moment Namgung Jeong gave his terse reply, silence fell over the chamber.
"As one who also wields the sword, I have long admired the Family Head of Namgung, known as the Righteous Sword."
Bu Eun-seol clasped his hands and bowed once more.
"To meet you in person like this is an honor beyond words."
Such formalities were merely polite gestures to uphold the dignity of Namgung Un, his sworn brother.
But something was off.
Normally, even if displeased, the Family Head of the Namgung Clan would have offered at least a few words of courtesy in return.
Yet Namgung Jeong remained silent, his piercing gaze fixed on Bu Eun-seol like a blade.
"You—step outside."
Namgung Jeong jerked his chin toward Namgung Un.
"I have urgent matters to discuss."
"Family Head."
Sensing the unusual tension, Namgung Un forced a smile and clasped his hands.
"My sworn brother here has saved my life from danger multiple times."
"I said, step outside."
As Namgung Jeong's eyes hardened, Namgung Un lowered his gaze.
Under normal circumstances, that look alone would have sent him retreating immediately.
But this time, he did not back down and pleaded once more.
"Brother Seol came all this way because he trusted your word about the Gratitude Coin."
"Must I repeat myself three times to you?"
Namgung Jeong's aura grew more oppressive, yet Namgung Un did not retreat.
"Am I not a member of the Namgung Clan?"
"What did you say?"
"My sworn brother has saved my life multiple times—does that not make him a benefactor of this household as well?"
Namgung Un spoke with a voice edged in indignation, as if shouting.
"Even if you cannot offer him hospitality... how could you summon a guest to this desolate weapon warehouse?"
Namgung Jeong's expression flickered with surprise.
For the first time since Namgung Un was born, he had dared to defy him.
"It's fine."
Just then, Bu Eun-seol calmly patted his shoulder.
"Withdraw, as the Family Head commands."
"But—"
"Do I not carry the Golden Needle Token of the Namgung Clan that you gave me? That alone ensures he won't harm me."
Bu Eun-seol's eyes radiated an unapproachable energy, much like Namgung Jeong's.
But its nature was different.
It did not instill fear in Namgung Un—instead, it gave him an unshakable sense of security.
"Understood. But... my withdrawal will only take me beyond the Spiral Hall."
Those words carried Namgung Un's unyielding resolve—if anything were to go wrong for Bu Eun-seol, he would stake his life on it.
Bu Eun-seol chuckled faintly and nodded.
"Understood."
"Then I'll be waiting outside."
Namgung Jeong watched intently as Namgung Un retreated.
Then, he shifted his stance, grinding his foot heavily against the floor.
Clank. Rumble—
Suddenly, the sound of metal echoed from the Spiral Hall's outer walls, and the ceiling and walls began to seal shut with dark metallic plates.
This hidden mechanism within the Spiral Hall, where ancient weapons were stored, ensured that no intruder could escape.
"You've thoroughly molded my flesh and blood, haven't you?"
A cold, white light flickered in Namgung Jeong's pupils.
"Martial Soul Lord, Bu Eun-seol."
Shockingly, he had discerned Bu Eun-seol's true identity from the start.
"You don't seem surprised."
"There's no reason to be."
"What?"
Bu Eun-seol replied with an indifferent expression.
"Isn't the Master of Haehwa Palace your younger sister?"
"Given that you were betrothed to the Young Palace Lord of the Divine Maiden Palace... at the very least, she would have told those she trusted about your true identity."
When Bu Eun-seol had entered the Divine Maiden Palace, Namgung Se-a had witnessed his true nature.
And she had tried to bind him to Yeon So-ha.
Given that, there was no way Yeon So-ha wouldn't have revealed that "Seol-so" was Bu Eun-seol upon her return.
"If you knew your identity was exposed... why did you come to the main house?"
Bu Eun-seol exhaled a quiet breath and answered firmly.
"I need the Gratitude Coin."
The Gratitude Coin—
The token that would grant him an audience with the Foremost Sage of the Murim.
"The Family Head of the Namgung Clan would not go back on his word."
Namgung Jeong's brow twitched.
"The Gratitude Coin was promised to the wandering swordsman Seol-so."
Then, his gaze sharpened as he glared at Bu Eun-seol.
"Not to a scheming disciple of the Demonic Path who concealed his identity and lured my son away."
"What exactly did I lure him into?"
Contempt flickered in Namgung Jeong's eyes.
It was the gaze of a Righteous Faction master, one who despised the Demonic Path.
"Do you think I don't see it? You recognized Un's talent and sought to cultivate ties with him in advance."
"Talent?"
Bu Eun-seol stared back at him, then slowly shook his head.
"So that's what this is."
Finally understanding, he let out a sigh.
Namgung Jeong's curiosity flared at his reaction.
"What do you mean?"
"I've realized why Namgung Un has been so stifled, unable to fully bloom despite his talent."
A flash of light ignited in Namgung Jeong's eyes.
"What do you mean?"
"Family Head Namgung. You love Namgung Un too much. Excessively so."
Namgung Jeong's expression twisted strangely.
Until now, every member of the Namgung Clan had believed he despised and neglected Namgung Un.
Yet here was an outsider from the Demonic Path, claiming he loved him too much?
"I have no idea what you're babbling about."
"You summoned me alone to this weapon warehouse—wasn't it to ensure no rumors would taint Namgung Un when he becomes the next Family Head?"
If Namgung Jeong had intended to lure Bu Eun-seol here to kill him—
Why would he need to act alone?
The moment Bu Eun-seol stepped into the Namgung estate, a single command would summon the clan's renowned swordsmen in force.
Yet Namgung Jeong had isolated him in this empty warehouse.
Because he wanted no word of Namgung Un's ties to the Heir of the Demon Hall to spread.
And here, he intended to kill Bu Eun-seol in a single stroke.
Bu Eun-seol met his gaze squarely.
"Namgung Un, who just left, has likely been quietly detained by your trusted men."
"Your insight is impressive."
Namgung Jeong acknowledged it plainly as a pale killing intent rose from his pupils.
"Then you're prepared to die?"