Chapter 724
Bu Eun-seol couldn't conceal his bewildered expression.
"Heavenly Favor Star? What do you mean by that?"
"Don't make this Chief Strategist repeat herself."
Gongson Dan-gyeong's eyes swirled with a murderous aura.
"Because I already know the power you displayed at Poseok Island was that of the Heavenly Favor Star."
"Poseok Island."
That single phrase allowed Bu Eun-seol to grasp the entire situation.
Gongson Dan-gyeong had also secretly visited Poseok Island and witnessed his battle with the Sword Demon.
She had even discerned that the earthquake on the island—
Had been caused by the power Yang Seol-rin had infused into the Boundary-Prosperity Jade.
'Does that mean the Chief Strategist has the ability to distinguish the power of the One Hundred and Eight Stars at a glance?'
As Bu Eun-seol sank into thought,
"You'd better answer carefully."
Killing intent began seeping from Gongson Dan-gyeong's pupils.
"If even a single false word leaves your lips, you'll die instantly in the darkness."
"Me?"
"Of course—if Commander Seon-u's martial arts prove several times superior to this Chief Strategist's expectations, you might survive."
Her voice carried profound bitterness.
"But you'll undoubtedly lose at least one limb in the process."
Bu Eun-seol swallowed hard.
'The Chief Strategist isn't one to make empty threats.'
The boundary formations laid here likely contained the essence of her lifelong mastery of formation study.
Moreover, she had confidently declared that even if he were several times stronger than she anticipated, he wouldn't escape unscathed.
Even if he employed his signature martial art, the outcome would remain unchanged.
'There's no other way.'
Bu Eun-seol had wanted to conceal as much as possible about the Boundary-Prosperity Jade.
But judging by Gongson Dan-gyeong's demeanor and the look in her eyes—if his answer proved unsatisfactory?
The boundary formations would activate immediately, and as she'd warned, he'd have to sacrifice at least one arm to escape.
Her analytical skills were unparalleled, and she never made idle threats.
"It's probably because of this."
Ultimately, Bu Eun-seol withdrew the orb from his robes.
The Boundary-Prosperity Jade.
"That—"
Instantly, Gongson Dan-gyeong's eyes trembled violently.
The transparent orb resting on his palm—
She knew all too well what it was.
"How did you obtain this?"
Her voice brimmed with complex emotions.
She clearly had extensive knowledge about this artificial Star-Reflecting Jade.
'She recognizes the Boundary-Prosperity Jade, a treasure of the Three Clans?'
But satisfying his curiosity would have to wait.
If he answered carelessly or failed to provide a satisfactory explanation?
Without further discussion, she would immediately activate the boundary formations.
'Yet complete honesty isn't an option either.'
To explain exactly how he'd obtained and used it, he'd have to reveal his identity as the Martial Soul Lord on the spot.
"I acquired it from the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault."
After agonizing deliberation, Bu Eun-seol spoke calmly.
"This orb was in the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault."
"The Martial Emperor's Secret Vault?"
Gongson Dan-gyeong's eyes narrowed to slits.
"You're saying this Boundary-Prosperity Jade was stored there?"
"Correct."
"Explain in detail."
Bu Eun-seol proceeded with a composed account.
He described how, within a warehouse inside the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault, there had been Jade Phoenix Honey and this single orb.
'This lie can never be exposed.'
Only the part about the Boundary-Prosperity Jade being there was false.
The presence of Jade Phoenix Honey in the vault was factual.
Even if she investigated the vault herself, she'd never be able to distinguish truth from fabrication.
"If you doubt me, I can disclose the collapsed vault's location for verification."
Bu Eun-seol adopted the most wronged expression possible.
"I can't guarantee the martial manuals remain intact underground, but you'll undoubtedly find traces of the vault nearby."
This is how masters of deception operate—
Always sandwiching lies between truths.
Though for Bu Eun-seol, it was a necessary choice to avoid exposing his true identity.
"Then Commander Seon-u must be quite familiar with this orb?"
Faced with Gongson Dan-gyeong's sharp question,
"I can't say for certain, but it seems to be a treasure artifact that enhances abilities."
Bu Eun-seol hesitated deliberately, feigning uncertainty.
"There were no explanations about this orb anywhere."
"Then why assume it's an ability-enhancing treasure?"
"Because after obtaining it, I could learn martial arts rapidly... and my patience and wisdom increased dramatically."
"I see."
Finally appearing convinced, Gongson Dan-gyeong wore an exhausted expression.
Now she understood why Seon-u Jin—
An ordinary figure huddled in a Beyond-the-Frontier merchant group—had developed capabilities far surpassing those of renowned prodigies who'd made names for themselves in the martial world long ago.
'Looking back, he didn't possess this level of ability when he first joined the Martial Alliance.'
"Even if Seon-u Jin were an exceptional figure, and even if he had obtained the fortuitous encounter of the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault..."
"He still wouldn't have been such a remarkable personage as to rise to the ranks of the Martial Alliance's inner circle in such a short time."
"But if it were the Boundary-Prosperity Jade, everything made sense."
Of course, the true inside story was that—
Bu Eun-seol had meticulously enhanced his abilities with each mission he carried out under thorough calculation.
And finally, under the pretense of the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault, he had perfected the martial prowess of Seon-u Jin as he existed now.
'In the end, he must have obtained the Boundary-Prosperity Jade from the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault, transforming his constitution and talent to a level unmatched in the world.'
Having no way of knowing the truth in her wildest dreams, Gongson Dan-gyeong pieced together the situation on her own.
Because she was well acquainted with the Boundary-Prosperity Jade.
After all, in the past, even Chu-so had used this very jade to seal away his own constitution and abilities.
'Then, was the Martial Emperor the Heavenly Favor Star?'
In the current era, the one born as the Heavenly Favor Star was Hwasu.
But the Martial Emperor was a figure from four hundred years ago... So even if he were the Heavenly Favor Star, it wouldn't be strange.
And leaving behind the Boundary-Prosperity Jade, imbued with his own constitution, in the Secret Vault for a successor who would inherit his martial legacy in the future—
That was a setting with absolutely no flaws.
"Let me ask just one more thing."
As all the pieces fell into place, Gongson Dan-gyeong's previously icy voice softened somewhat.
"Then, was the earthquake that occurred on Poseok Island also intentionally caused by you?"
"That was not my doing."
Bu Eun-seol answered honestly.
"Truthfully, I was on the verge of defeat in my duel against the Sword Demon. In the process of desperately gathering my internal power for a counterattack..."
Deliberately, he spoke in an uncertain tone.
"...I felt a tremor from the orb, and suddenly, there was a flash of light—followed by an earthquake."
Pausing briefly, Bu Eun-seol shook his head.
"Whether that was truly the orb's power or mere coincidence... I couldn't say for certain."
Gongson Dan-gyeong let out a deep sigh.
"I see."
In the end, it was clear that Seon-u Jin had been unaware of the Boundary-Prosperity Jade's functions and effects, obtained from the Martial Emperor's Secret Vault.
And had unwittingly unleashed its power.
"I understand what you mean."
After taking a deep breath, she continued.
"It seems I, as Chief Strategist, have deeply misunderstood you."
Of course, she would investigate the truth of his claims in detail once more.
But for now, she had no choice but to admit that there were no holes in Seon-u Jin's explanation.
"I'm relieved you've come to understand."
Bu Eun-seol spoke with an expression as cold and resolute as could be.
"However, our cooperative relationship ends here."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Did you not promise me? That without irrefutable evidence, you would never doubt me again."
"This incident... was an exceptional situation."
Gongson Dan-gyeong wore an apologetic yet somewhat aggrieved expression.
"I never could have dreamed you possessed the Boundary-Prosperity Jade."
'As expected, she's a member of the Three Clans.'
A glint flashed in Bu Eun-seol's eyes.
According to Yang Seol-rin's words, the Boundary-Prosperity Jade was a precious artifact known only to members of the Three Clans.
Meaning, if Yang Seol-rin was to be believed, Gongson Dan-gyeong was also one of them.
"Earlier, when you mentioned the Boundary-Prosperity Jade... were you referring to this orb?"
"That's correct."
Gongson Dan-gyeong cleared her throat awkwardly.
"The Boundary-Prosperity Jade can alter a person's constitution and even manifest mysterious powers. It's a rare treasure."
"You keep saying such absurd things."
"Absurd?"
Bu Eun-seol fixed her with a sharp gaze.
"Just because you spout names and uses for an orb I didn't even know myself... am I supposed to accept that as justification for trying to kill me?"
Bu Eun-seol was nothing short of a god of improvisation.
By leveraging the fact that Gongson Dan-gyeong knew of the One Hundred and Eight Stars and the Boundary-Prosperity Jade—and had doubted him because of it—he had turned the tables.
Forcing her to confess everything she knew.
"That's..."
Gongson Dan-gyeong had no retort.
As Bu Eun-seol said, whether he possessed the Boundary-Prosperity Jade or not, it wasn't grounds to attack him.
"Can't you try to understand me, even just a little?"
Cornered, Gongson Dan-gyeong finally resorted to appealing to his emotions.
"I can't explain in detail, but I had no choice but to suspect you, Commander Seon-u."
"You've said that to me before."
Bu Eun-seol deliberately let his body tremble faintly before erupting with a look of utter fury.
"And so I did understand! Because you promised me you would never doubt me again!"
Then, with all the intensity he could muster, he began his performance of wrath.
"But in the end, this is the result. Now you don't just suspect me—you tried to kill me without hesitation, is that it?"
Bu Eun-seol clenched his fists, his entire body shaking.
"The Martial Venerable, acting as Alliance Chief, treats me like a puppet, even going so far as to unleash the Poison Parasite on his favored subordinates!"
Then, in a voice thick with outrage, he cried—
"And you, Chief Strategist, tried to kill me on the spot! How much more understanding am I supposed to show?!"
"Commander Seon-u."
"There must be a reason for this! Everything is for the sake of the Murim Alliance, so please understand! Just because you say that, am I supposed to accept it unconditionally?"
Bu Eun-seol's desperate cry echoed around Mudan Fortress.
Until now, he had never once raised his voice at Gongson Dan-gyeong.
But this time, he deliberately heightened his emotions and shouted louder than ever.
He had to seize this opportunity to uncover all of her circumstances.
'I'm becoming more like the Chief Strategist myself.'
In truth, manipulating others' emotions—
It was something he had learned entirely from Gongson Dan-gyeong. In the end, she was now suffering from the very tactics she had so often employed.
"Then I'll take my leave."
"Commander Seon-u."
Gongson Dan-gyeong swiftly grabbed the sleeve of Bu Eun-seol as he turned away.
"At least hear me out first."
If she failed to convince Seon-u Jin immediately—
Everything she had built up until now could crumble like foam on water.
"It won't take long."
Then, with quick movements, she shifted a few stones on the ground.
The surrounding scenery distorted, and suddenly, the area around Mudan Fortress plunged into pitch-black night.
Likely, she had switched from an offensive Battle Formation—
To a Defensive Formation that prevented any sound from escaping.
"If you listen to what I have to say, you'll understand everything."
As she continued speaking, the light in Gongson Dan-gyeong's eyes darkened slightly.
"I was kidnapped by the Jungson Clan when I was a child."
"Suddenly, what are you—?"
"Just listen first."
After taking a deep breath, she resumed her story.
She spoke of how she had been abducted by the Infinite Realm as a child, taken to the Jungson Clan, and the horrors she endured there.
However, she omitted the fact that she was not the biological daughter of Gongson Hwa-uk and his wife.
There was no need to reveal that much.
"To obtain the Heavenly Mechanism Star... So the Jungson Clan committed such atrocities?"
Bu Eun-seol was deeply shaken.
The Jungson Clan, once revered as one of the Three Clans, had done something so cruel?
"Could they be connected to the Three Realms?"
Kidnapping children and subjecting them to brutality—wasn't that exactly the kind of thing the Three Realms would do?
"No. The Jungson Clan has no ties to them."
'She seems to know an awful lot about the Jungson Clan.'
Bu Eun-seol wanted to press for more details.
But if he stubbornly pursued an unrelated topic, she might grow suspicious of him.
Reluctantly, he steered the conversation back.
"So you suspected I might be affiliated with the Jungson Clan and lured me here to attack?"
"That's right."
Gongson Dan-gyeong admitted readily.
"Commander Seon-u, you may or may not be aware, but currently, a figure from the Yangseol Clan is secretly active in the martial world."
Her voice turned sharp.
"And she was abducted alongside me by the Jungson Clan. But whether she lost her memories or not, she didn't recognize me."
"You were barely seven years old at the time. How could you have recognized her?"
"The scars on her body—they were wounds she received after losing to me in a fight."
Bu Eun-seol frowned, shaking his head in disbelief.
"A member of the Yangseol Clan being kidnapped by the Jungson Clan... That's..."
"I know. It sounds impossible. But I swear it's the truth."
The fire in Gongson Dan-gyeong's eyes burned with an intensity that could melt steel.
Having spent so much time with her, Bu Eun-seol could read her sincerity just from her expression.
'She's not lying.'
He took a deep breath.
If everything she said was true, then Yang Seol-rin and Gongson Dan-gyeong absolutely needed to meet.
"But how did you, Chief Strategist, locate the Yangseol Clan's operative? If you had a way to contact them, you could have easily investigated the Jungson Clan as well."
"I've been tracking the movements of the Infinite Realm and the Jungson Clan all this time. Then, by coincidence, I received intelligence that a member of the Yangseol Clan had appeared in the martial world."
Gongson Dan-gyeong meticulously addressed Bu Eun-seol's doubts.
If she left even a single shred of suspicion, she might never sway his heart again.
"At the time, the Baekri Clan's Leader secretly contacted me and made a discreet proposal."
"A discreet proposal?"
"If I revealed the location where Jeong Cheon-je was in seclusion, he would maintain a cooperative relationship with me for life."
Another shocking revelation spilled from Gongson Dan-gyeong's lips.
"The Baekri Clan's Leader suspects the current Jeong Cheon-je—that is, the Martial Venerable."
"That's not entirely unreasonable."
Bu Eun-seol wasn't particularly surprised.
As one of the Seven Great Leaders and a candidate to succeed the Alliance Chief, the Baekri Clan's Leader had observed the Alliance Chief more closely than anyone.
But ever since the Martial Venerable took on Jeong Cheon-je's role, subtle changes had crept in...
It was only natural to harbor doubts.
"Besides, it was around the time I was planning to capture the Yangseol Clan operative who had surfaced in the martial world... So the Baekri Clan's offer wasn't entirely unwelcome."
At that time, Gongson Dan-gyeong had agonized deeply.
She had promised that if Yang Seol-rin were captured, she would accept the proposal.
But Baekri Mu-jo had failed to apprehend Yang Seol-rin, and in the end, the proposal had been rendered null and void.
'So it's confirmed—her ultimate target is the Jungson Clan.'
As Bu Eun-seol carefully mulled over her story, he cautiously asked,
"If it's true that the Chief Strategist was kidnapped for such a long time as a child, it would be an exceptionally major incident in the Murim... Why hasn't it become widely known?"
"There are circumstances I cannot disclose to Commander Seon-u. But everything I've told you so far—I stake my entire being on its truth."
Her expression twisted bitterly, as if she were coughing up blood.
"Not even once have I ever forgotten my vengeance against the Jungson Clan."
'So that's how it was.'
Having heard everything, Bu Eun-seol finally unraveled a question that had long puzzled him.
'That's why, when I went to the Gongson Clan, the servants made those strange remarks...'
Back when Bu Eun-seol had visited the Gongson residence,
he had overheard passing servants whispering among themselves, saying things like, "It's a relief the young mistress returned safely in her childhood."
Most likely, they had been referring to Gongson Dan-gyeong's safe return after being kidnapped by the Jungson Clan.
Of course, the truth was that the real Gongson Dan-gyeong had died at Jegal Academy, and the current one was So-min, the adopted daughter...
"Do you understand now why I acted as I did?"
Gongson Dan-gyeong's voice carried a mix of emotions—ones he had never heard from her before.
It revealed that, regardless of status, she was speaking as a human being, laying bare her genuine truth.
'This much is enough.'
Having sorted his thoughts, Bu Eun-seol clasped his hands together and bowed deeply in apology.
"Forgive me for speaking so harshly without knowing the circumstances behind your actions."
He had deliberately pushed her aggressively—
partly to fulfill Yang Seol-rin's request, but also to uncover the truth behind the Chief Strategist's motives, which had long intrigued him.
'No wonder Miss Yang Seol was misunderstood.'
Now, even Yang Seol-rin's words made complete sense.
With the Yangseol Clan—like the Baekri Clan—believed to have completely vanished, yet still active in the Murim...
From Gongson Dan-gyeong's perspective, suspecting Yang Seol-rin of colluding with the Jungson Clan was only natural.
"It must have been a secret you guarded fiercely. I'm grateful you chose to confide in me."
"I didn't tell you out of mere goodwill."
Suddenly, Gongson Dan-gyeong's gaze turned lethally sharp as she stared at Bu Eun-seol.
"Commander Seon-u, you now know a secret of mine that no one else in this world is aware of."
"..."
"And knowing someone else's secret... is a matter of life and death."
It was a lie.
In truth, she was still hiding much.
The full details of her origins.
The truth about Chu-so, the Heavenly Mechanism Star, and the shocking intelligence she had extracted from the Jungson Clan regarding Murim factions...
But Bu Eun-seol would only learn all of this much later.
"I understand what you mean."
Grasping her implication, Bu Eun-seol nodded.
Learning someone's deepest secret could mean becoming their closest ally—
or their primary execution target.
If he ever became an obstacle to her grand endeavor, or if there was even the slightest risk of exposure?
She would have no choice but to eliminate him first.
"That answer isn't very reassuring."
"My apologies. I will engrave your words into my bones, Chief Strategist."
Bu Eun-seol replied with utmost solemnity.
"May I take my leave now?"
Receiving no response, he bowed once more.
"Very well."
"Commander Seon-u."
Her voice called out just then.
"Do you have something else to say?"
"Will things between us... remain unchanged?"
Her gaze was calm, but a flicker of fear lingered beneath.
As if she feared his feelings toward her had shifted.
As if she dreaded the possibility that their cooperative relationship might not continue as before.
'Is she sincere?'
Her demeanor was captivating enough to make his heart tremble, yet Bu Eun-seol felt an icy chill instead.
Gongson Dan-gyeong had fought relentlessly against formidable enemies—the Infinite Realm and the Jungson Clan.
For such a prodigy to show vulnerability and dependence on him?
He judged it to be a calculated act.
'How terrifying.'
From her perspective, the persona of Seon-u Jin was likely a crucial pawn to be used in her future vengeance.
She was deliberately showing him weakness.
"Of course."
At his reply,
"I'm relieved."
Gongson Dan-gyeong smiled faintly, a trace of sorrow in her expression.
"Then you may go. I still have some business to attend to here."
Most likely, that "business" involved
recalling the covert strike team she had secretly summoned.
"Understood. Then I'll take my leave."
Bu Eun-seol turned away.
His expression darkened immeasurably—
not because of Gongson Dan-gyeong.
What unsettled him was the certainty that the Yangseol Clan and the Jungson Clan had not disappeared.
Like the Three Realms, they were operating in secret, pursuing some unknown purpose within the Murim.
The Baekri Clan.
Even that family—his own bloodline—might have been tainted by darkness.
That thought filled him with dread.