Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Tsk, WHERE IS IT?! I could've sworn it was all here"

Chung Myung opened and closed the empty closet as if he couldn't believe it. The young man grabbed his head in frustration.

"Is this it? Am I finally going crazy? Living for almost 200 years isn't good for anyone, I guess."

Chung Myung calmed down for half a second only to start rummaging through his things even more violently.

"I don't have time for this. If I miss breakfast, I swear I'll—"

His crisis was interrupted when he spotted a huge box partially hidden on the other side of the room.

"How did I not see this crap before? Am I going blind now?"

Basically teleporting from one end of the room to the other, Chung Myung stopped right in front of the large shiny box.

All wrapped in an intense and shining red color that for some reason irritated the swordsman. Ignoring that feeling, his hurried hands undid the golden bow and opened the lid.

"...?"

His head tilted in genuine doubt.

"Is this a prank?... I must have been too nice to the bastards around me."

Returning to the contents of the box. There were various products(?). Most of which, Chung Myung had never seen in either of his two lives. There were some creams that the disciple knew, like hair oils to make the hair silky.

In his past life, Tang Bo was the one who chased him to comb his hair and try various hairstyles, but always undid them and turned them into the characteristic ponytail, even before Chung Myung could see the result.

Setting aside the pots, there were also various clothes.

"...?"

Sets of robes with various designs but with one color prevailing.

Red.

The same color his eyes acquired when they reached their highest intensity. Usually when he got lost in the wildness of a bloody battle.

It wasn't a color he hated, but it symbolized a part of him that shouldn't be shown lightly. Anyway—

"Is there anything pink or green? I'm going to look anything but a Mount Hua disciple with this shit— Wow, so soft!"

When he grabbed the folded robe to throw it around the room, his hands slid so easily over the fabric. As if the clothes could melt with his touch, it was almost like touching a soft cloud.

"I-it feels so... comfortable."

He could imagine how light he would feel wearing those clothes.

Since all his normal clothes had disappeared...

'It's not like I have another choice but to walk around naked.'

That possibility had been quickly dismissed, and the youngest disciple of the sect went to take his shower normally. Perhaps to have the full experience of wearing new clothes.

×××

He internally thanked for there being some less flashy sets.

He ended up choosing the black robes, very similar to the ones he usually wore. The only differences were the materials and some blood-red details, where his green accessories usually were. And there was no flower symbol on his chest, which was uncomfortable.

'Wow...'

Just as expected, the fabric slid over his body and seemed to hug his skin. It wasn't as difficult to wear as it seemed, and the belt secured around his waist ensured that the clothes would stay put even if he moved frantically. Which was a plus.

His gaze slid over the mirror reflection as he looked at himself from various angles.

'Not bad.'

Now, about his hair—

He felt so tempted to let it dry naturally and go devour whatever food might be left in the cafeteria, but it wasn't a good idea.

The green ribbons, which he used to represent a friend he had lost years ago, kept his unruly hair in place so it wouldn't bother him.

He had tried to comb it himself, but his hair seemed to swell five times more and acquire a dry appearance, so Chung Myung just let it be. It's not like he had time to spend on his hair, but...

In that same box were various accessories and even some papers teaching how to use them. And hairstyle suggestions.

"I can't tell if I'm mad or flattered that someone spent so much time messing with me."

However, again, what harm would it do now that he had already started?

Chung Myung quickly read through the papers, which even had illustrative drawings of the hairstyles, and once again chose something relatively similar to what he normally wore. All to ensure that his changes weren't too noticeable.

Oh, if he only knew how wrong his thoughts were...

Positioning himself in front of the mirror, he arranged all the designated products and followed the paper's instructions to the letter. Separating the slightly damp hair into layers, he used a significant amount of the ridiculously fragrant cream on the black strands, observing how soft and easily manageable they became.

The instructions told him to separate the layers into strands with a comb of a different shape than he normally used and gently scrunch the strands. It was a somewhat time-consuming process, considering how impatient Chung Myung was, but his hair seemed to be responding well to the care, making him eager to continue.

His black and shiny locks now had light and beautiful waves throughout the length. The informative paper explained that there were different hair types around the world, not just straight, as was more common in that region. And that his hair actually fell into the exceptions.

"Wavy?"

Chung Myung crossed his arms and nodded.

"That's important information."

There were several differences in how the younger one should treat his hair. There was even a sequence of steps for moisturizing during a bath.

Chung Myung stood up from the chair and closed his eyes. Circulating his Ki carefully throughout his body, he was able to dry his hair instantly.

"I shouldn't use my precious Ki for this, but..."

He was curious about the results.

According to the papers in his hand, he should achieve this slightly stiff hair look and then use a special oil to scrunch the curls. A silky liquid with a subtle natural scent dripped onto the palms of his hands. Just a few drops.

He rubbed his hands together until the oil warmed between his fingers, and then his hands began to work. From the ends to near the roots, the hair shrinking in his hands and then being released.

"Huhu! This is fun." Kneading all the strands and realizing how soft they became, activating the shine and the beautiful waves at the ends.

The semi-tied hairstyle left the characteristic side bangs, but there was more loose hair than usual. Fortunately, Chung Myung could put in a few more accessories to keep the hair in place. And then he turned around to see the final result.

Tipping his head in curiosity, he didn't exactly know how to feel.

It was strange to have spent so much time getting ready when there was no scheduled event for that day. All he would do was train the kids and maybe receive some visitors, but he could easily be mistaken for a young master who decided to visit a sect hidden in the mountains.

The brunet didn't even notice the small satisfied smile that appeared on his face.

"It was cool and all, but I wasted so much time on this. I hope there's still food when I get there."

With a sense of accomplishment, Chung Myung left the room radiant and eager to start the day. Unaware of the consequences that a simple change of clothes and hairstyle would bring to the Mount Hua sect.

×××

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The next days, the lords of the Tang family, Beast Palace, Ice Palace, King of Nokrim, and even the newest lord of the Namgung family appeared at the sect's door with an army of soldiers behind them, ready for war.

"WHAT THE HELL?!!"

Chapter Text

Near the edge of Mount Hua, Hyun Jong observed the mountains from his favorite spot. He looked at the dangerous and beautiful peaks that symbolized the beauty and difficulty of life, in his interpretation.

With a gentle smile on his rejuvenated face, the leader turned to where all the disciples stood in line like warriors with an intimidating and strong aura. His mouth opened hesitantly but seriously.

"I want everything to explode."

The gentle voice followed, even as the Leader's face distorted in anger.

"I should just jump from here."

"SECT LEADER!"

The disciples ran towards Hyun Jong, but the elders beside them were faster in holding them back.

"What are you trying to do in front of the children, you lunatic?!"

Obviously, Hyun Young was the only one who could say something like that while Hyun Sang, for some reason, tried to put his hand on both of their mouths.

While the sect leader and the elders enjoyed themselves (?), Un Gum and Un Am gently smiled at the disciples.

"Don't look that way," the order came from Un Am.

"Explain why we found you trying to kill each other in the middle of the cafeteria."

The disciples lost their powerful aura automatically, resembling abandoned dogs by their owners.

"If Chung Myung were with you, I would understand, but why you—"

Un Am didn't let the visible shiver that seemed to pass through everyone in front of him as soon as his Sajil's name was mentioned.

"Baek Cheon and Yoon Jong, explain."

The great sasuk and great sahyung stepped forward automatically without being able to look the elder in the eyes. Baek Cheon was the one who began to recall the events from the first confusion.

The disciples took advantage of their Sajil seeming late and gulped down food to endure the infernal training that would follow the meal. The five swords, including Tang Soso and Haeyeon, acted with a bit more dignity as they ate quickly.

Jo Gul, on the other hand, ate the rice with his own hands, but let's focus only on the positive aspects.

Baek Cheon watched all that mess. A tiresome look passed through his expression for half a second, then disappeared into his proud expression and perfectly erect posture.

"Anyway, that guy is late."

Jo Gul drew attention to the table. Yoon Jong, right next to him, pondered whether to throw him off the damn cliff as soon as he had the opportunity.

"Worry about what he's going to do when he gets here, that's what."

CREAK

The door opened with a sharp, dragging noise straight from hell.

'DON'T MAKE EYE CONTACT.'

That was the understood rule among the disciples. No one wanted to be the first to face Chung Myung's completely unpredictable mood and receive a beating right before training. But waiting for the annoying and high-pitched screams that dragged against their brains, like two stones being beaten against each other—

The scandalous voice was not heard.

Putting what little remained of their dignity at stake, some disciples raised their heads.

'What is that goblin up to? How does he intend to—...'

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A deep silence and terrible confusion settled on their faces. Soon all the disciples had the same empty expression with their mouths opening every time they looked at the figure for longer.

"An angel?!"

"A young master invaded our sect?"

Their minds spun with so many thoughts at once, and their whispers echoed throughout the dining hall. A slender figure with luxurious-looking clothes walked towards them. With an indifferent look and a sharp face.

There were so many things to see that they didn't know where to look.

That waist.

Yes, that slim waist seemed like it would fit perfectly in their hands—

'HUH?'

The hair had beautiful and soft curves they had never seen before. Like a black and shiny sea that floated with the slightest breeze.

But those eyes(?)

The pink orbs weren't exactly common. No, the disciples were almost sure there was only one person who boasted such unique eyes that matched their entire existence.

'Is it possible?...'

'The gates of hell— of heaven— have opened! I don't even know anymore!'

They avoided the sigh trapped in their throats as the figure in front of the door tilted his head in doubt. The slightly reddened mouth opened, making everyone anxious.

"Why are you looking at me like that? Lost the will to live? Should I break your heads?"

"Ch-chung Myung?!!"

A collective cry made the youngest click his tongue in disapproval.

"Who else would it be, you stupid bastards?"

Walking through the dining hall, he had finally reached his usual place, among his sahyungs and at the table where the five swords usually gathered.

Yoon Jung looked at the roof with a vacant smile, and Jo Gul kept his mouth open and full of rice that fell sporadically.

Yoo Iseol threatened to faint but was always rescued by Soso, who looked everywhere but at her sahyung. Haeyeon recited Buddhist prayers and shed tears(?)

Baek Cheon— No, Chung Myung didn't even want to think about that stupid Sasuk who suddenly began to cough but there was no one to help him.

'Should I throw all of them off the damn cliff and start over?'

'Sect Leader sahyung, Mount Hua sect has gone totally wrong. But I swear it wasn't my fault.'

'Are you stupid or brainless, you bastard?'

The sharp response came to his mind and made his eyebrows tremble. Weren't the two options the same insult?

"Aren't you going to eat? I'll increase the intensity of the training since you seem full of energy."

Even with tears in their eyes, the disciples couldn't even curse or complain as usual.

'Why are you so handsome, you bastard?'

When they thought the initial shock had passed and they could return to normal life.

No.

The closed walls and artificial lighting did not do justice to the youngest.

The slightly pale face received the natural light directly, making it glow. They could finally see how glossy his hair looked as it was carried by the wind. The waves seemed to create beautiful patterns in the air.

The robes seemed perfectly attached to Chung Myung's body, highlighting his slender curves. However, the fabric seemed so light and the sleeves were not attached to the hands or forearms, creating an even more unreal aura. Instead of the distorted face they always saw, the expression was without much emotion but remained calm.

The disciples took turns suffering from the damn gigantic rocks on their backs or suffering from their orbs that betrayed them and diverted their gaze to the brunette whenever they had the chance.

On ordinary days, they wouldn't think that way, but now, they even envied Baek Cheon who carried an even more ridiculous-sized rock and his sajil sitting innocently on the rock.

'Look at this sasuk bastard! He's not even complaining!'

'He can't even look up! Look at that red face!'

"This bastar— oops, I spoke out loud unintentionally."

Baek Sang coughed and pretended to look away. Until—

"Hey! Isn't that one over there, a beggar?"

Soso's voice made them turn their heads in her direction instantly.

"Beggar?"

"Where, Soso?"

The medical disciple pointed to a tree far away, which was moving frantically. Where suddenly a beggar jumped out with several papers in hand and ran away.

Yoon Jong grabbed Jo Gul by the collar and threw him in that direction with frightening precision.

"GET THAT BASTARD! ALL OF YOU!"

Chung Myung watched them, still on top of his great Sasuk.

"Today's kids have so much energy. Acting like that just because of a beggar."

While the youngest clicked his tongue, the monk catching his breath questioned with his head down. It was normal for there to be some beggars around for information transport, but—

"Wasn't he behaving strangely? He seemed to be looking intensely at Dojang."

Chung Myung shrugged and tried to look at the monk who insisted on looking at the ground.

"He's not the only strange one here. Get back to training before I bite your bald head, tsk."

Chung Myung sighed and massaged his temples, once again deciding to ignore the great sasuk who threw glances in his direction as if he could be discreet with that face as red as the details on his new clothes.

Even his Sago was acting strangely. Yoo Iseol looked threateningly at other disciples and threatened to unsheathe her sword every 5 seconds. Besides, she usually did her training slightly apart, but now she was so close that the youngest could feel her gaze piercing his back.

'The more they grow, the weirder they get?'

After a whole day of intense and almost deadly training. Excluding the times they fell off the cliff when they accidentally looked at Chung Myung and forgot how to use their hands.

Or when Yoo Iseol tried to fight(?) with anyone who got too close to the youngest, and Soso threatened them with her ridiculously long needles. Finally, they thought they would have a moment of peace, but it would be too easy if it were so.

Instead... Baek Cheon stood beside Yoon Jong, and Jo Gul beside him. The disciples were called for an emergency meeting without the presence of their youngest. Yoo Iseol watched the door and Haeyeon—

They had never seen that damn monk say so many prayers at once, but that embarrassed face irritated them.

"What's with this meeting?"

Baek Sang broke the silence.

"The beggar we saw earlier today..."

"What about him?"

"The one who kept looking at Chung Myung the whole time?"

The disciples exchanged doubtful glances, and Baek Cheon sighed tiredly.

"What do you think will happen when that beggar goes around spreading what he saw?"

"Sasuk, I don't understand. Is it such a big deal? He'll just talk about how handsome he was today."

A younger disciple argued, receiving some support from his peers.

"Are you idiots? The lords of the clans and families are already obsessed enough with Chung Myung. What happens if they see him like that?"

Jo Gul's words of indignation echoed through the room, which became silent.

The figure of Lord Tang, King of Nokrim, and the newest Lord Namgung appeared in their minds quickly. Precisely because they were closer than the palaces of Ice and Beasts, the powerful figures always found a way to visit the youngest disciple when they had the opportunity. If they knew about his recent transformation, couldn't they simply decide to live here?

Their bodies shivered with anger.

'When we finally have a break and can train as they did before, and they want to steal our Chung Myung EVEN MORE?'

One of the disciples suddenly rose with a powerful warrior aura, and soon others followed suit.

"That's right! He is our youngest and belongs to Mount Hua. Only we should have the right to see his body—

"WHAT IS THIS IDIOT TALKING ABOUT?"

The disciple who dared to profane the body of their youngest disciple flew out through the open window, through a violent kick worthy of someone like Jo Gul, but—

Yoon Jong?...

They didn't even know the usually gentle and calm disciple could have such a distorted face.

But even that wasn't more frightening than the cold, cutting look they received from Yoo Iseol.

"But... Why was he all dressed up today? Did anyone ask him?"

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.

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Tang Soso's questioning silenced them instantly. It had been so hard to maintain any conversation or eye contact when Chung Myung seemed to shine. When he put his hands behind his back in his characteristic pose and exuded such an imposing aura.

The size of that waist was—

Baek Cheon woke them from their thoughts with his usual(?) coughing fits.

'He was thinking the same thing. I'm sure.'

The younger disciples looked at their great sasuk with a not-so-respectful look.

"It's true. Today was a completely ordinary day, and yet he was dressed up like never before. We should know about this first."

Baek Sang pondered with his arms crossed.

"Dojang is not someone who would stop wearing the robes of his sect for any reason."

Hyeyeon made his voice heard and received positive nods from everyone. Chung Myung seemed more obsessed and respectful with Mount Hua than anyone else. And he hated the idea of not wearing clothes that didn't have the characteristic flower symbol right above his chest.

"For now, let's sleep and figure all this out tomorrow."

Just as Baek Cheon ordered, the meeting was quickly dispersed.

'Shouldn't you rescue your junior brother, who flew out the window? Are you a bunch of bandits or what?'

Hyeyeon thought as he was the last to leave the room and also didn't bother to save the disciple who had crossed the line earlier.

The next day, in the dining hall, it was impossible not to feel the tension and apprehension in the air.

Nervous about the training they would do right after the meal?

Anxious and eager for their growth as swordsmen?

It was nothing honorable like that, and it didn't give them any pride.

They waited anxiously for the youngest disciple whom they generally tried to avoid to escape sermons and beatings, but now they awaited him like sheep ready for slaughter.

Simply because they wanted to know if they would have another lucky day in their lives or not. They weren't sure if they should be happy or not to know that there was another hidden gem among the stones. Joining Yoo Iseol and Baek Cheon.

However, there were some differences.

Yoo Iseol was affectionately called "winter flower." Her cold expression and completely introverted behavior matched her unique beauty and pale skin that seemed perfectly camouflaged in the snow. Her face was so delicate, but her gaze was emotionless and always alert. She was like a flower full of thorns that no one dared to touch.

Now, Baek Cheon had the beauty of a warrior recounted in stories. An enviable height and posture. The face was delicate, but the expression was proud, and the strong and well-built body showed that he should not be underestimated at all. In other words, his sasuk was the ideal model of a swordsman.

But in which category did Chung Myung fit?

Again, that door opened. It was becoming a moment of anxiety for the sect's disciples.

The black fabric was shiny and had silver details resembling vines and flowers that seemed to want to cover and embrace the body.

Speaking of the body, the various layers of fabric were so light and thin that they didn't deform the slender shape of the body with muscles in the right places at all. There was a damn shiny silver belt drawing attention as if the slim waist wasn't flashy enough. The black hair like the brightest night mixed with the colors of the robes. With a half-loose ponytail and longer side bangs, the strands flowed in beautiful waves over the shoulders and around, creating patterns in the air with the breeze.

'How is there so much wind around him? Does that make sense?'

Those details blinking in blood red and that eerily matched his orbs remained there. In details of jewelry that seemed to wrap around his body and in shiny accessories that kept his hair pinned up. That face that caused them apprehension until a few days ago—

They hadn't had much time to realize how delicate his features were. The eyes were large and the face was small, almost feminized— In a few seconds, without needing to exchange any glances or words, the disciples internally agreed to try to hide that vision from any future "intruders". It hadn't been easy to deal with Chung Myung's normal charisma, but now it would be a battle of life and death.

Kiiik

The small animalistic noise caught their attention. Amid the black color that enveloped the youngest and contrasted with his skin, a small and long creature with shiny white fur jumped on his shoulder and coiled around his neck.

The head of the small animal hung in doubt as it exchanged looks with its owner, but the animal seemed happy and soon licked the other's cheek in excitement.

"Tsk, what's this? Where were you yesterday? I hope you didn't cause any trouble— Are you listening?"

While the youngest lectured Baek-ah and discreetly stroked her chin, his steps moved toward his usual table when—

"What's the problem?"

Chung Myung curiously questioned the disciple who stood in his way but didn't look into his eyes.

"W-why don't you sit here today, Chung Myung?"

The table in question nodded, and they agreed aloud.

"That's right, Chung Myung, it's right to sit with your same-generation sahyungs. Let's do as tradition dictates."

'Oi, kids. Does this make any difference?' Chung Myung didn't even have time to express his opinion.

"In that case, he should sit with us. Our rooms are closer to each other."

"How is that an argument, you idiot?"

In a few moments, the disciples from the tables started to stand up and argue.

"You kids can argue as much as you want, but we from the Baek generation have the highest hierarchy here. Chung Myung should sit with us today."

Baek Sang said in a serious tone and a proud expression while receiving support from his tablemates.

"Let's not put hierarchy in the middle, If you don't want to be disappointed. Chung Myung has always sat here, so it should continue this way."

Baek Cheon, the future sect leader, said threateningly with his hand on the hilt of his sword.

The five swords were drawn and seemed ready for battle.

"Sasuk can't use his great sasuk powers just to have our youngest disciple all to himself—"

The disciple who dared to go against his great sasuk flew out before finishing, and soon a general commotion ensued. It actually started by Yoo Iseol but no one would dare to tell the truth.

Not, when the pretty girl ran after her junior brothers with sharp and frightening eyes, throwing and kicking the disciples out the door and window.

Chung Myung had moved away from the center of the confusion and stolen a plate of food as he left the dining hall with the marten on his shoulder. A beautiful smile without any emotion and empty eyes looked up at the sky.

'Sect leader sahyung... I don't know anything anymore.'

Yoon Jong helped the great Sasuk finish explaining to their superiors. The sect leader had already been detained and given up jumping from the Mount, and now with the elders, they looked at their disciples with empty gazes.

"Were you fighting over where Chung Myung should sit?"

Hyun Jong's emotionless voice made the disciples hang their heads in shame.

'Even you, Baek Cheon?! And Yoo Iseol?... Isn't there anyone who is still a human being?'

"And where is Chung Myung? Why are these bastards suddenly all over my baby?"

Hyun Young grumbled and crossed her arms with rage in her eyes.

Meanwhile, they told the ridiculously long story behind the fight, Un Gum had volunteered to fetch the youngest disciple. And now they walked toward that meeting while Un Gum laughed like an idiotic father over his child.

"Sect leader?! What's with this commotion? Did something happen?"

Hyun Young didn't wait a second before squeezing the little face between his hands in screams.

"Chung Myung?!!! Is it you, my baby?! You look so stunning. What's with these clothes? Who are you trying to seduce, you little goblin?!"

"E-elder! O-Ouch! That hurts."

Chung Myung was put back on the ground, and the elder stood in front of him with arms open, ready to protect him.

"Sect leader, this is a serious situation. We need to go into seclusion again and protect our Chung Myung. We're in a state of calamity, ready to go to war—"

"Hyun Sang."

As soon as the Sect leader called his name, the elder had already put Hyun Young on his back and disappeared from the scene.

'There's never a normal day, even when that child isn't trying to do anything?'

Hyun Jong approached with a gentle face, and Chung Myung greeted him.

"Chung Myung, what happened to your normal clothes?"

The youngest disciple scratched his neck shyly.

"It seems like someone took them all. When I woke up yesterday, there was only a box in their place with several clothes and gifts."

That was a serious problem. Who could enter Mount Hua, let alone the room of the most powerful disciple, and take something without being seen? Hyun Jong nodded and placed his hand on the top of that child's head. Chung Myung had always been a beautiful and precious child to the sect leader from the beginning.

"It's a problem that the sect emblem isn't on the clothes. You know that, right?"

Chung Myung nodded slowly. Hyun Jong smiled affectionately and gave him a small pat on the head.

"But it's not your fault, so don't worry. You look beautiful."

"Hehehe, thank you, sect leader."

Chung Myung didn't know what to do when he received such a direct compliment. Hyun Jong smiled contentedly and then turned to the rest of the disciples, who had red faces and bowed heads.

'When it's not one causing problems, it's the others.'

"Sect leader!"

Completely changing the focus of his attention, a disciple from the Un generation approached and bowed to him.

"Sect leader... Lord Tang is at the sect's door with several family members and brings several carts with him. The Lord requests your and Chung Myung's presence."

Hyun Jong closed his eyes, sighed, then turned to the horizon and nodded.

'Fate is cruel and unpredictable,' he thought.

'And to think that the time would come to go to war against the Tang family.'

A sect leader must not shy away from his duties.

Chung Myung, completely oblivious to everything they were thinking around him, just wondered if it was his fault that the sect seemed a bit off from what it should be.

'Ey... It can't be my fault.'

Chapter Text

Positioned right in front of the closed gates of the Mount Hua sect, the family carried themselves with pride and irreverence.

Anyone observing from outside would think it was the beginning of a conflict between the clan and the family, who should have an alliance between them.

Several soldiers and the family elders stood behind their Lord Tang Gunak and his two sons a few steps back. The patriarch exuded an intimidating and elegant aura even while standing still. The various caravans, somewhat distant, watched over by an elite team, also drew attention.

What would make an entire family— Better yet. What would make someone like Tang Gunak, known for his seriousness, travel such a great distance and scale the ruthless mountains to the gates of Mount Hua?

That's what the disciples wondered as they lined up perfectly to receive them. The older generations and the elders took the lead right behind the sect leader. His face remained as gentle as ever but had so much dignity and a wise aura around him that it became difficult to approach.

Unless one was a Lord who greeted him politely with a small smile as the gates were opened.

"Alliance leader, the Lord of the Tang family greets you."

Nobody dared to interrupt such a critical discussion, as it required the undivided attention and respect of everyone present.

"So much formality is not necessary among friends, is it?"

The Lord Tang nodded calmly.

"It's just the minimum required of courtesy."

"I appreciate it... I must say, you are very well accompanied."

The alliance leader glanced at a large number of people before returning his gaze to the lord, who coughed awkwardly.

"Perhaps I got a little carried away, as we left in a bit of a hurry. I needed help bringing the wagons."

"You can tell me about their contents inside. Furthermore—"

A murmur interrupted the lords, and everyone around turned to see who had such audacity.

"Hey! Why couldn't I go? All the disciples have to line up behind the sect leader."

"Hey! C-Chung Myung, at least stay here!"

Baek Cheon whispered loudly as they walked quickly trying to stop the youngest disciple.

"Of course not! And Sasuk has to stay right up front too. If we start acting all randomly, what's this sect gonna turn into?!"

Chung Myung's excited voice caused some irritation, but his delicate appearance made it impossible to raise one's voice at him. Baek Cheon, in particular, didn't know how to act.

'Why are you suddenly disregarding the rules— No, no. You've always been like this... But Chung Myung, we're trying to protect you, bastard!'

He could almost feel tears welling up in the corners of his eyes. There was so much going on in his mind that he didn't even notice Yoon Jong's silent calls warning him that they were attracting too much attention. Until it was too late, and they became victims of the stares and whispers of the guests.

'They're the Five Swords of Mount Hua!'

'They continue to be as free-spirited as ever.'

However, there was someone they couldn't easily recognize. Someone who walked with grace and confidence as if they belonged there.

"Who is that young master?!"

How could they not recognize a beauty walking their way? With an indifferent yet sharp and delicate face, luxurious fabric clothing designed in royal tones, dark but detailed with bright silver vines and red jewels, stood out completely.

The hair had subtle and unique curves that calmly flew with the help of the breeze as if it did not weigh at all. The disciples of Mount Hua realized that their plan to protect their newest beauty hadn't worked for even a day.

When it came to Chung Myung, everything was expected to go out of control.

'If Lord Tang controls them, maybe —'

Tang Gunak wasn't there, mentally speaking. Only his body was there.

'That's... Chung Myung?'

He wouldn't mistake those reddish orbs even if he wanted to.

The information they had received was completely unfair. It didn't do justice.

Tang Gunak couldn't help but sigh softly. His hands trembled, hidden by his long robes, itching to run his fingers through the black, shiny hair. That's all he wanted. And maybe... if he could approach and see up close that delicate face that usually hid in messy hair and distorted expressions.

Maybe he should throw his dignity to the wind and—

"Lord Tang."

The sect leader called him with a gentle tone and an even gentler smile. So gentle it seemed about to burst.

"No."

Those were his only words, but Tang Gunak understood.

"Alliance leader, just a little —"

"No."

"If you let me—"

"Haha... Lord Tang also knows how to tell jokes."

"L-listen to me!"

Noises in the distance interrupted them again. The quick steps of a beggar who bowed to the two figures before speaking, trying to catch his breath.

"This beggar dares to interrupt the lords' conversation. A thousand apologies."

Hyun Jong approached calmly, and with a gesture, a glass of water was offered to the beggar.

"It's alright. I believe it's an emergency worthy of your interruption."

Lord Tang nodded in agreement with Hyun Jong's words.

'Such a kind man.'

The informant beggar was climbing Mount Hua for the first time and relied only on the various confusing rumors about these people. At least the rumors about the fair personality of the Leader of one of the most prominent sects today were true. When he finally gathered his words, his voice was heard by everyone around.

"It seems that the newly appointed Lord Namgung is climbing the mountain at this moment, in some kind of race(?) With the Green Forest King..."

'Why are they racing to climb up here?'

'Should I close the gates and pretend to be dead?'

The sect leader closed his eyes and massaged his temples. The urge to ask for stomach medicine was overwhelming.

'Is there still time to go back to the Nine Great Sects?'

With no expectation of getting out of that situation, Hyun Jong analyzed his options.

"Alliance leader, should I help you receive our allies?"

Tang Gunak's voice sounded serious and didn't match his words, but it's not like he could refuse him.

'And why are you holding daggers?— Lord Tang... Please...'

In the main meeting room, which was large but suddenly seemed small with that many people, the alliance leader sat in the central chair of the table with the elders on each side. On one side, the disciples known as the Five Swords occupied all the chairs remotely close to their youngest disciple, who was so busy eating mooncakes that he didn't notice the cold war happening right in front of his eyes.

On the opposite side, Tang Gunak seemed hypnotized, and his sons next to him didn't seem different. The King of Nokrim covered 80% of his face, and only his brown eyes were visible.

'Does covering part of the face help? You're completely red.'

Well, the newest Lord Namgung had trembling pupils and a body as rigid as a stone statue. He hadn't said a word since laying eyes on Chung Myung, but suddenly—

"I am Namgung Dowi."

The boy stood up and introduced himself with such a stiff posture that they could almost hear the bones crack.

'Is there anyone here who doesn't know who you are? Why are you introducing yourself?'

'At least pretend you're looking somewhere else, you bastards.'

Namgung Dowi was accompanied by some elders and the King of Nokrim with a limited elite group.

"May I ask the reason for your visits?... Green Forest King?..."

Hyun Jong's voice caught their attention.

"Me? I received some information and came to confirm... For the sake of our alliance and the security of my territories, alliance leader."

'And you really don't intend to look somewhere else?'

Hyun Jong felt like he was aging a year every second. He would need another rejuvenation by the end of the day.

"What is that bastard bandit looking at?"

Chung Myung finally shifted his attention from the now-empty plate to the odd stares he was receiving. That bastard with the fan didn't seem to be seeing anything, with the instrument covering basically his whole face. Which, by the way, was so red that it was worrying.

But how could Chung Myung understand?

How to explain?

That arrogant attitude combined with that dazzling appearance was stupidly attractive. When he raised one eyebrow...

"Dojang."

Im Sobyeong's voice was serious and put everyone on alert.

"Don't you want to spend some time in Nokrim? I just restocked my drink supplies. I think the commander is working too hard and some rest would be good."

"...For how long?"

'Don't be so easily seduced by alcohol, Chung Myung-ah...'

That was the collective thought of the Five Swords beside Chung Myung, who seemed easily drawn to the idea of vacation and free drinks.

"If you become mine—"

"THIS BASTARD DARES?!"

Tang Gunak pounded the table hard enough to shake the entire room.

"Lorde Tang, I didn't think you were listening, since you seemed so entertained blatantly staring at the disciple."

Im Sobyeong's words were like sharp teeth against the Poison King.

"How do you know where I was looking? You were covering that shameful face of yours with your fan."

"I-I am Namgung Dowi."

'This bastard is the worst of all.'

Once again, the stiff greeting from the new Lord Namgung made everyone around lose even the will to argue.

Chung Myung, however, didn't have much patience for that madness. It was enough with the disciples around him who looked at the lords as if they were the very Heavenly Demon.

"Stop arguing over nothing and answer the sect leader's question!"

The youngest suddenly erupted in anger.

'Oh! It took him a while to explode!'

'Our Chung Myung is all grown up.'

Un Am and Un Gum secretly smiled with pride at the evolution(?) of the youngest.

"Don't tell me you're ignoring the sect leader? Right in front of me?"

The disciple hissed through his teeth and threatened to draw his sword, being held back by Hyun Young who had provided more sweets.

As soon as the sweets entered his field of vision, an innocent smile appeared on his face, and the youngest sat down automatically.

The sect leader smiled radiantly at the scene.

'Thank you for defending my honor, Chung Myung. But you're the one causing me the biggest problems.'

KNOCK KNOCK

"S-sect leader!"

Baek Sang knocked on the door before entering in an almost desperate call.

'What could be worse than this?'

"The lords of the Beast Palace and Ice Palace have arrived."

'How did they get here so quickly? Don't you guys have anything else to do?'

Covering his face, the sect leader instructed Un Am and Un Gum to receive them and bring them to the "very important" meeting they shared.

.

.

.

As if the situation couldn't get any worse, now there were two more important figures looking at Chung Myung as if he were the most important thing in their lives.

"DOJANG!! You look so dazzling. Uh! You're always amazing but— But you're even more amazing today! Oh! What did you do to your hair? So beautiful! Dazzling!"

The compliments didn't stop.

Everyone around secretly congratulated the lord for saying so clearly everything that was going on in their minds. It was like a free sample of paradise to see that face hardening in shame and trying to hide slightly.

"S-stop it... H-hey, kid..."

Chung Myung pleaded with the Ice Palace Lord, who acted like the child from years ago when they first met. Running around him, since he had gotten up to escape Meng So, who was also behaving like a child.

"HAHA! That's exactly what is expected from the descendant of the Plum Blossom Sword Saint! Disciple Chung Myung!"

"What's wrong with this crazy guy?!— What does one thing have to do with the other?! Are you all crazy? Don't throw yourselves at me."

The three were running around the table, seemingly playing(?).

Sitting, the more serious lords continued their negotiations.

"Sect leader, believe me. I need you to send some disciples to Nokrim on a secret and important mission."

Im Sobyeong revealed his face, laden with seriousness and a clear gaze.

"It can be a disciple of your preference. However, Chung Myung Dojang seems like the only option."

Im Sobyeong pounded his chest and wiped away an invisible tear.

'What are you talking about? You need several disciples of my choice, but you only accept that I send Chung Myung?... Shouldn't you be the strategist of this alliance?'

Hyun Jong didn't even bother to respond.

"Of course not. Your intentions are obvious, bandit. Do you think I'll allow my close friend to be sent to your territory completely alone? That den of thieves?"

"What? He can only enter your house? Wasn't that where he got stabbed once? My den of thieves seems safer."

The bandit's sharp words made Tang Pae shrink with his red face.

"Enough, you piece of shit. Get over here."

Chung Myung grabbed the figure in green robes in a very clear tone and basically threw him to the other side of the table to sit beside him.

"Don't remind us of things that happened, idiot. Why are you arguing in the first place? And you two! Sit down too! You're behaving worse than my little chicks."

Chung Myung pointed intensely to the five swords who were sitting elegantly and had their noses in the air and their chests puffed up by the youngest's praise.

'Tsc, they wanted to draw their swords seconds ago, Dojang. Don't be so biased.'

'Now even that scoundrel managed to sit next to him.'

'This cold and unfair world.'

"Dojang, let's get to the point."

Seol So‐Baek clapped his hands on the table, gaining everyone's attention.

"I heard your clothes were stolen, so I brought some reserves, typical of the Ice Palace."

His clear eyes shone stupidly scary even for Chung Myung.

"Kid. I have clothes for several days—"

"Dojang."

"It's serious. Th-there's no need."

The child sighed sadly.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Dojang... I-I thought I could finally repay everything you did for me and my people but apparently, it's not my turn yet."

The trembling voice of the Ice Palace Lord threatened to break into tears and was certainly effective against Chung Myung, who felt a certain empathy for the child.

"W-well... M-maybe I—"

"It's okay! I brought so many gifts. We managed to gather a good amount of ice crystals this time, and I wanted to surprise the commander."

The young lord's eyes were bright and suddenly huge.

"O-oi!"

"I even brought the strongest and most special drinks from the Palace, defying my advisor's orders... b-but if the Dojang doesn't want to..."

"I UNDERSTAND! I-it's not bad to have a few spare clothes since mine disappeared anyway."

Chung Myung waved his hands in despair and sighed in relief to see the radiant smile of the Ice lord.

'Sahyung, It's not worth having a conscience.'

'Is this bastard crazy? Conscience, where?'

'Oh, come on!'

While the youngest disciple had his internal conflicts, the others around admired the ruler of the Ice Palace.

'Ice Palace Lord, you have a bright future ahead.'

'Dojang really has a strange soft spot for children. It's important information.'

"Then try it now! I brought them in various sizes because Dojang's body is very unique. Come on, come on!"

Chung Myung grabbed the Lord's head in a very disrespectful move.

"Alright. Don't talk about other people's bodies so easily. Tsc..."

Chung Myung sought the sect leader's gaze but he was already looking at him without any vitality, and somehow had a teacup in his hand as if he had completely given up on the situation.

The youngest disciple wondered how he had gotten into such a situation.

What would these people around him do if they found out they had gathered in an open place with a stage and forced the Plum Blossom Sword Saint to wear various clothes and walk around(?)

With what purpose?!

Whenever he asked them, he was told that it was extremely important.

He wasn't someone who refused free gifts. Especially when there were several cars full of treasures and rare sweets that Chung Myung had never seen before or were too difficult to find in everyday life. Plus, materials that were very useful for the future of the alliance.

And all that alcohol... from all regions and with distinct flavors... his mouth watered in anticipation—

'Tsc, it was a very well-thought-out trap.'

So he had accepted at first but that was too much.

It had started with a simple change of clothes. The damn child— I mean, the Ice Palace Lord had convinced him to try the typical clothes of palace royalty. Something that should be completely prohibited.

How could a third-generation disciple wear clothes similar to those of a lord?

Then why wasn't anyone stopping him?

On the contrary—

'Why do you all seem excited, you bastards? Shouldn't we be in an emergency meeting?'

There were so many questions that Chung Myung couldn't focus on a single topic and ended up being dragged from one side to the other.

That's how he ended up with those white robes in his hands.

Sighing as if he had accepted his fate, the youngest slid his fingers through the completely white fabric.

It reminded him of the colors he wore most during his past life. Of course, these were completely different.

Maybe he would need help putting them on but when he tried to call someone he was interrupted by a sudden argument about who would help him change.

Maybe he should go apologize to the Shaolin Abbot and get rid of these strange people who had gathered around him?

At the moment it wasn't an option so he just decided to end it as quickly as possible.

Outside, everyone sat anxiously. The most important figures of their clans, right up front and with too stiff expressions.

They implanted doubts among the members who were not present at that fateful meeting.

"What are we waiting for?"

"Obviously the commander."

A member of the Tang family said proudly to the people nearby.

"What's going on? Are we going to have another training camp?"

"I don't know if I'm ready."

The Tang family members who had joined, looked disdainfully at the soldiers from the palaces, bandits, and members of the Namgung family who had not witnessed the same scene they had.

"Ignorant creatures. You don't know the honor you have, to be able to be here."

"What is that bastard talking about?"

"I won't say anything. I can't even describe it."

The Tang medical ward member turned around and ignored the calls of the ignorant ones.

It was still difficult to shake off the angelic image that had been etched into the minds of those who had seen their commander previously.

They couldn't attend that meeting, but the brief glimpse they had of that exotic beauty was enough to disturb their sleep. And to think they might see even more.

Finally, the whole agitated and confused audience fell silent when they heard calm and confident footsteps.

The pure white fabric shimmered in the sunlight and seemed even brighter. Surrounded by delicate petal-shaped details around the clothes as if part of nature. The mantle covering his broad shoulders made subtle noises as the small silver jewels clashed together and announced his arrival.

The wide belt hugged his waist completely, showing just how slim it really was. The pastel purple flowers seemed almost alive, gliding over his body and playing with their minds.

The skin of his face, looking so silky, contrasted with the colors around him. The gaze was sharp and cold, observing everyone with indifferent and even somewhat irritated eyes. The reddish lips drew attention along with the eyes that gleamed like huge rubies.

And the hair? Instead of the characteristic bangs, the jet black and glistening strands were pulled back and adorned with a true crown of white, full of gemstones. The hair cascaded down his back like true waves of a black sea and over his shoulders, creating a beautiful contrast with the white clothing.

Chung Myung didn't let it show, but he was slightly irritated by the expressions he had been receiving from people lately. He couldn't distinguish between something negative or positive.

Before he could complain, his ears were almost blasted with the shower of screams he received.

"What are you celebrating, you bastards?!"

"Is that the commander? He... Wow!"

How to describe it in words. It was as if they were right in front of an Ice Emperor. At the same time, the body was slim and elegant. The palace lord might forgive his thoughts—although he seemed one of the most excited, almost climbing onto the platform and running towards the disciple.

While the other lords...

They seemed on the verge of tears? The King of Nokrim was literally coughing up blood and needed to be rescued by his elite soldiers who fought against the will to continue looking only at Chung Myung.

Since when? Why hadn't they noticed before? Their commander seemed as distant and delicate as a rare flower in those clothes.

Surely he would still be able to kill them all with just one punch, but somehow, they felt it was worth risking their lives for a chance to get close.

That waist was definitely too sensual even though it was completely covered.

How was that possible?

If they could hold it between their fingers, they were sure they could surround and touch their own fingers. But the rest was no less captivating.

"Doesn't he basically look like a perfect bride?—"

A low voice in that deafening noise created absolute silence.

All the leaders who were in their own silent fits stood up and turned back at the same time, with deadly looks that would scare even the followers of the Demonic Sect.

"Who said that? Tell the truth. I just want to talk."

Lord Tang said in a distorted expression.

'Who will believe that? First, hide the knives from your hands.'

"I agree. Such a unique opinion deserves to be discussed thoroughly. Come out!"

'Lord Namgung... why did you draw your sword?'

The king of Nokrim had magically healed and covered part of his face, leaving only his eyes, which definitely resembled a snake ready to strike.

"Who dares to try to steal that wais— The descendant disciple of the Plum Tree Sword Saint?! Show yourself so I can ruin your life."

'He doesn't even know how to hide his thoughts. Who's going to accuse themselves, Beast Lord?'

His thoughts were attentive to everything, but Hyun Jong's gaze was glued to his disciples. At least he was proud of their conduct. They didn't seem so bad.

Oh! Forget it.

His disciples didn't even blink their eyes for fear of missing any glimpse of their Sajil.

They had their well-deserved reward when they saw that radiant smile, so white, showing the sharp canines between those striking lips, while being completely distracted by the Ice Lord.

"Dojang! This is your outfit. You should dress like this every day."

Chung Myung ended up smiling cheeks slightly reddened by that intense attention. Holding the Lord by the shoulders to stop him from spinning around him, his voice was playful.

"I don't even know how you convinced me to wear them. These are clothes that only you should wear, you brat! Besides, it's too allegorical, for me."

"Tsk, tsk... Dojang... you need to live up to your beauty. Maybe I should take you with me to the Palace—"

"You damned! Now you're just saying whatever you want."

Seol So-Baek nodded fervently and crossed his arms looking at the confusion well behind him. His eyes immediately assumed the posture of a lord, and his face was cold until he returned to a radiant smile when he looked back at Chung Myung.

"There are many inconveniences here, Dojang. And I live so far away... It's complicated to see you."

'For someone who lives so far away, you got here faster than anyone else, you damned child.'

Chung Myung thought.

"Let's wait a few more years. I might ask for your hand—"

When the Ice Lord pounded his fist into his palm as if he had come up with a brilliant idea, his body was lifted by the Beast Lord.

"HAHAHA! THIS LITTLE RACCOON! Acting when no one is in a condition to reason. Come with me!"

Meng So stepped away, carrying Seol So-Baek, who was struggling to revolt. The Beast Lord's face was red, and he didn't even look directly at Chung Myung.

'Leader of the sect sahyung, is it too late to meet you? They make me want to die for the second time.'

'IT'S YOUR FAULT, YOU BASTARD!'

Chung Myung clicked his tongue and pursed his lips, watching that war around him.

'Not even I was like this when I was younger. These kids nowadays...'

Before he could get off the platform and remove all those ornaments, Tang Gunak appeared in front of him.

"Friend. Grant me this honor..."

With an exhausted sigh, the disciple thought he really would need to spend his day with all those crazy bastards.

Tang Gunak felt his head in the clouds.

Not even his wildest dreams could equal the true sight of seeing Chung Myung in his family's clothes. Not as a guest, but clothes designated by the lord himself. Clothes similar to his but with a beautiful mixture of their colors.

It wasn't the royal aura of the clothes from the Ice Palace, but it was unique in its own way.

The loose hair with just a half bun with light and shiny accessories, and the side bangs made him look so free. The comfortable black clothes hugged the body carefully, and the green mantle showed the eminence of the Tang family in a bright color that stupidly matched those red eyes.

The pink-toned details that were hand-picked by the lord seemed to please the youngest and made the Lord swallow the sigh in his throat.

How many had gone so far?

How many times had he lost his breath?

How many times had Hyun Jong denied him without even hearing his sentence—

'At least listen to my proposal, damn it!'

When Lord Tang saw that small and shy satisfied smile as he looked at the clothes.

"If I go up and kidnap—"

While Tang Gunak wasted time admiring and sweating cold, Im Sobyeong didn't miss the opportunity to have fun.

'I really became a better person, to wear clothes brought by a damned bandit.'

Chung Myung didn't want to admit that he had taken pity on Im Sobyeong's tearful expression that seemed about to burst into tears. He didn't exactly feel sorry. He just didn't want that bastard wetting his pants with tears, wrinkling his clothes, or messing up his hair.

When he returned to having those damn looks glued to him, he was wearing fabrics so fine and comfortable. Even though they were clothes made by bandits, Chung Myung couldn't despise them. In a different tone from the intense green of the Tang family, these fabrics were soft and seemed to blend easily with the nature around them.

His hair, half tied, fell naturally over his shoulders and the sides of his face in an adorable fringe that softened his intense expressions.

"Damn, doesn't he look too good in that outfit?"

"Isn't it because he has the personality of a bandit?"

"It's impossible to deny his origins, I guess."

"Sajil looks better in Mount Hua's clothes."

The conversation between Yoon Jong and Jo Gul was interrupted by Yoo Iseol, who made her statement proudly.

They indeed felt like putting him in his normal clothes in front of everyone so they could see which clothes really suited the junior disciple. The Five Swords watched those intense eyes of the people around.

As if waiting for any slight opportunity to steal their Chung Myung.

The youngest was surprised when Lord Namgung, who acted like a crazy bastard, asked him to try on clothes specifically prepared for him.

'By the way, why do they all have clothes tailored for me? You... came just for that? Could this alliance be so rotten?'

Before entering into a crisis right there, he left to change clothes, But before that—

"Can't I just change here? It's faster. Besides, it's just the robes—"

"Chung Myung-ah... a little more of this and Mount Hua will end up burning to the ground this time."

Hyun Jong's tearful voice touched him.

"Please, just go change your clothes."

Chung Myung smiled affectionately and nodded as if he understood the leader. His eyes passed right by Elder Hyun Young, who had unsheathed his sword and was in intense combat with the elder of the Namgung family.

Chung Myung wearing blue clothes was unexpected. They definitely weren't colors one expected to see covering his body, but perhaps they had underestimated him again. The soft shades of blue sliding across his body through the loose fabrics made him look like a different person.

Just like a young master of the Namgung family, his delicate and youthful face conveyed the same feeling as being in front of a crystalline sea. Always in motion thanks to the breeze with beautiful and gentle waves.

The waist came into question again because of the black belt embracing his body compared to the rest of the light clothes. The pink eyes shone with the natural sunlight, which also reflected on the simple accessories, giving elegance and grace.

A true delight for the eyes.

To the guests who came from such a distance, they couldn't imagine how refreshing it would be to see their commander wearing various different clothes than usual.

Somehow, Meng So with his immense size managed to discreetly climb onto the platform and smile shyly at the disciple.

"Now it's not the turn of the Palace of the Beasts? It's just fair."

Chung Myung waved his hands, feeling slightly exhausted and thinking of ending it soon.

"Okay, okay. Where are the clothes?"

"Oh, we don't have something like that? As you know we live in contact with nature."

Chung Myung looked him up and down, realizing the amateur mistake he had made. He forgot that the one in front of him was one of the craziest bastards.

"So what should I wear?"

"HAHA! You can just take off—"

Chung Myung was rescued(?) By Hyun Jong, and both were surrounded by Mount Hua disciples under the command of the elder.

"Everything has limits! What was that crazy lord saying to my child?! Do you really want him to take off his clothes?"

"It's a sacrifice worth making, even if I die. Seeing the waist of the descendant of the Plum Tree Sword Saint is—"

'Delirious?'

'Is there no normal lord?'

"Taking off clothes is not that difficult."

Chung Myung tried to reassure them, not understanding why there was so much excitement.

"THAT IS NOT THE PROBLEM, YOU DAMN MAN!"

Baek Cheon was completely exalted, even scaring the lords around, but the disciples of the same sect weren't buying into that desperation.

'Sasuk, your face is so red.'

'He was imagining, I'm sure.'

'I remember when Sasuk had so much dignity.'

Despite having disrespectful thoughts, everyone agreed with his words and gathered around the youngest.

"Don't go taking off clothes everywhere, idiot sahyung!"

Tang Soso couldn't stand it and sneaked into the midst of that commotion, saving Chung Myung with the help of Yoo Iseol.

"Let the disciple change."

The Lord Tang helped to calm them down and also himself, and his flushed face.

When all that madness settled down and Chung Myung could go back to his previous clothes, he thought that maybe he could enjoy a bit of peace. He had never seen Mount Hua so crowded, even in its golden days 100 years ago. There wasn't a single space for privacy in those mountains. Especially when he was the target of so much applause.

People came to greet him without being able to get close since those kids surrounded him, threatening to basically bite anyone who dared.

"Shouldn't I be the crazy dog? How long are you going to chase me?"

"Sajil must be protected."

"And are we at war or something?"

"How can sahyung be so stupid and smart at the same time?"

While Chung Myung was cheerfully arguing with Yoo Iseol and Tang Soso, with Baek Cheon next to them, watching like a rabid dog. Far away in a separate room filled with important leaders, Hyun Jong felt like he was reliving a previous scene. By the way—

'Why am I here again?'

"Dojang obviously looked better in my clothes! Light green suits him perfectly."

Im Sobyeong frantically fanned himself with a fan, trying not to dwell too much on the memories that came to his mind as he presented his arguments.

"Of course, he looks good in green. That's why he chose my family as friends, you bandit. Know your place."

Tang Gunak crossed his arms with a satisfied expression on his face.

"Didn't you see him smiling while wearing my clothes?"

"Tsk tsk, that's because the Lord added too many pink details."

"True, Dojang loves pink. Tampering with colors isn't fair, Lord Tang."

The Lord of the Ice Palace grumbled with crossed arms but soon got excited again.

"Furthermore, Dojang looked gorgeous in the clothes from my palace. You can't deny the beauty of it with a crown on his head."

Indeed, nobody could say that the symbol of absolute power didn't perfectly suit the disciple, but they didn't want to admit defeat so easily.

"Furthermore, adding a crown to the mix isn't fair."

"Are you saying this, but if you had let me take off the clothes—"

"Raise your hand if you agree to kick the Lord of the Beast Palace out of this meeting."

Everyone in the room raised their hands and joined the idea of the king of Nokrim. Meng So coughed awkwardly and shrank in his chair.

A pretty comical scene for someone of that size.

"I believe blue suits Dojang the most. He could easily be mistaken for someone from my family."

Namgung Dowi said with a prideful tone.

Hyun Jong calmly tapped the table to get attention.

"Lords... what's the point of this? What are you going to gain by discussing this?"

"Well, in the future, when one of us succeeds in kidnap— conquering him, knowing the color palette that best suits him is important, alliance leader."

Im Sobyeong's calm and explanatory response made a lot of sense...

'Sense my foot! Can't I just kick all of you out of here?'

Those men seemed seriously entertained with their plans to steal his precious disciple. Hyun Jong was almost getting annoyed.

"Chung Myung has the free will to choose someone to stand by his side if he wishes. However, don't think about pressuring him too much. Otherwise, before he even does anything, I will."

Hyun Jong's calm voice conveyed a clear and hard-to-forget message, receiving polite nods from the lords. It was the least he could do for the disciple who had already given so much to the sect.

It wasn't such a bad idea for the leader of Mount Hua to think that there might be someone capable of staying by that little goblin's side who never stopped running right in front of him. Still, he wanted to protect him as much as he could.

Not as the Sect Leader, but as Hyun Jong.

Even though everyone there had their daydreams, they knew that the possibility of reaching that heart that seemed to only exist when it was related to his sect was almost impossible.

Perhaps it would be easier to conquer the entire Kangho before thinking about winning him over, but they couldn't help but dream of getting their hands on that little gem.

Who else would be worthy, if not one of the lords present in that room?

Chung Myung breathed a sigh of relief as he finally arrived in his room after such confusing and exhausting days.

How did he end up with so many crazy people around him?

Was Chung Myung the one who attracted such people, or did people become like that just by being around him?

"No, No. It's definitely the first option."

'Chung Myung-ah, have a little more awareness, you damn fool.'

'Lately, my senior brother only shows up to curse at me. What an unfair world.'

Chung Myung closed his eyes and stretched his arms to comfortably stretch his body. A slightly stronger breeze made its presence felt in the quiet room, coming in through the open window and swaying his robes.

With his eyes shut tight, the dark-haired spoke in a deep tone that reverberated throughout the entire room.

"Tsc, even you?..."

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.

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Chapter Text

(Returning to the first day.)

(When Chung Myung received his gifts and

had fun while getting ready with more care than ever.)

A little ways away from the main courtyard of the sect.

Perfectly hidden in one of the trees so filled with pink petals that it was impossible to see the elegant figure lying on the strong branches. Besides hiding his presence and that of his advisor perfectly. No one from that sect could find him, except for that sweet and deadly swordsman.

And so, the figure in flashy red attire matching his lips and contrasting with his pale skin couldn't get any closer.

With his superhuman senses, it wasn't hard to see and feel everything that was happening, but still. His vision was crowded by the pink color reminiscent of the softest shade of those eyes.

The swordsman was like the embodiment of a plum tree.

"...But there are too many leaves here."

His low, seductive voice carried notes of mild irritation.

"Immediately, all the plum blossom trees in this world should be burned, as my lord wish—"

"I wouldn't refuse that offer on a normal day, but I don't think the swordsman would approve. Let's save that plan for later."

Jang Ilso interrupted the advisor who was already preparing to descend from there and cause chaos from his orders.

"As you wish."

Saparyeon Lord could feel his fingertips trembling with anticipation to see him wearing his carefully chosen gift.

When he had the brilliant idea to visit him after so many months, he decided to bring a beautiful gift. However, unlike other times, he wanted to give something that would benefit the swordsman.

Not for those children who chased him around like puppies, gritting their teeth at the Lord as if they were on the same level as their owner.

Or those leeches who had been lucky enough to be included in the disciple's plans and formed an alliance, that in the end was very beneficial for his plans, so it's not like he could complain.

Still, it was easy to see that monster, as greedy or perhaps even more greedy than Jang Ilso, strangely forced himself to think about the people around him.

Worse than that. Acting almost like a fool and jumping in front of danger at any opportunity, as if he had no regard for life.

An aggressive and violent way of fighting that the Lord particularly found wild and as beautiful to watch a splendid art coming to life.

Yes, that man who was exactly like his opposite but also ridiculously similar, resembled a work of art.

If he had to list his only flaws.

Besides the dead weights around him...

That annoying lack of self-care.

Acting so raw and animalistic on the battlefield was one thing.

Splendid, hypnotic.

He felt a heat coursing through his body just imagining the choreography executed and the bloodbath around the solitary swordsman.

Ah... that image stimulated him in various ways. It almost made him want to simply enter that room again and take absolutely everything from that monster, starting with—

Soon the Lord forced himself to calm his anxious heart and his nails that, without realizing it, had dug into the wood of that trunk.

"Are you impatient, my Sovereign? Should I order everything to be burned—"

"Calm down, Ho Gamyung. I just got lost in my thoughts."

Breathing deeply, his mind cleared again.

Indeed, he admired the lack of self-preservation shown in battle by the younger one. It showed a terrifying experience and survival instinct that Jang Ilso didn't imagine anyone else would have, besides himself.

But the swordsman surprised him at every moment.

It wasn't just a lack of self-preservation in a moment of life or death when one seeks a single opportunity to take the opponent's life.

It was more like acting as if anything to do with himself didn't matter.

Getting hurt didn't matter.

The bleeding didn't matter.

Losing didn't matter.

As long as the people around him didn't suffer the same consequences.

It was a bit confusing to understand how someone could greedily try to control the world and yet not truly desire to possess it.

Always acting as if he were racing against time. Fleeing from something that even Jang Ilso didn't know.

No time to pay attention to his image, which was already charming and eye-catching enough even when he didn't take the slightest care of his skin, hair, or clothes.

It was funny to think that beneath that shameless, arrogant, and inelegant attitude, the disciple acted as if everyone around him were children he had to take care of and protect.

But Jang Ilso also found it irritating.

He didn't know when it had started, but he should do something about it.

Since he couldn't simply make all those children disappear, he should help the swordsman find some time and willingness to take care of himself.

He could only imagine how stunning he would look after following his instructions.

He should thank Jang Ilso for putting so much of his valuable time into that gift.

From choosing fabrics, which honestly hadn't been so difficult due to the ease of getting his hands on the best fabrics. His biggest difficulty on this topic was holding back from sending clothes that were too extravagant.

He wished to see the swordsman in clothes maybe similar to his own. Shiny, gleaming, highlighting his greatness.

But it would be too much.

If he overly teased him, that unpredictable monster would prefer to walk around naked instead of wearing a crown of his own free will.

Not that the Saparyeon Lord wouldn't appreciate such a sight, but he wouldn't be the only one benefiting.

Worse than missing out on a banquet right in front of him, was seeing others enjoying the dinner that should have been his.

So he sent sets of clothes with slightly more discreet colors. Dark fabrics but not losing their charm with various shiny accessories and details in different colors. Of course, he strategically sent a few black sets and more in red colors. Besides the blood-red jewels that stupidly matched those orbs.

Furthermore, his biggest challenge was probably how to take care of that long and messy hair, from a distance. He had to coordinate several searches for specific products for that rare type of hair that differed from his straight hair.

Finally, after the hard work, Jang Ilso exercised his patience in waiting for the results.

"I hope the rewards are satisfactory. Don't disappoint me, swordsman."

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.

.

The swordsman certainly made sure to surprise him.

Sweets were delivered into his hands by Ho Gamyung as soon as he reached out. His gaze fixed and anxious on the commotion he felt and saw with the help of his senses.

He wanted to see what the first decision would be. How splendid that ruby would become when properly cut.

When he finally got his answer, an unintentional sigh slipped melodiously through his red-painted lips. The white teeth unconsciously dragged along the lower lip.

"Tsk, tsk... I knew you would choose these clothes first, but I can't be disappointed."

The gray orbs fixed on the figure walking through the so-called training grounds. Surrounded by puppy pups following him mesmerized, but there was no need to pay attention to them. When Jang Ilso partially understood what was supposed to be going on in their minds.

The fabrics he had carefully chosen embraced his slim body perfectly and highlighted his most striking curves.

Those broad shoulders caught attention, but not as much as that stupidly thin waist.

Saparyeon Lord's sharp nails, painted in the same shade of red as his clothes, once again dragged against the wood of that tree.

No, it wasn't time to lose control yet, even though he knew how perfectly those curves fit between his hands. How soft the skin was. How stupidly sensual and inconsistent with the image of a Sword Demon he had built for himself.

"Does this make sense? He obviously trains more than all those puppies put together, but his body seems to maintain the same shape."

He couldn't say he hated that uniqueness. After all, that body could easily fit between his fingers as if it had been born for that sole purpose.

But of course, those black waves created by the hair distracted the Lord from his torturous thoughts.

His research had definitely been worth it for the results.

The waves, so shiny and silky-looking, flew easily with the wind, making him resemble a painting come to life.

"I can't wait for the other garments..."

"Hahaha! That's a good choice."

Jang Ilso rocked back and forth playfully in a chair designed to hold steady on the strong, thick trunks of the huge, imposing tree. Ho Gamyung, knowing his lord, quickly collected the plate of fruit from his lap before it could be knocked over by his sudden movements.

"I must admit, black suits him."

The Lord looked pleased at the sight in the distance.

The light fabrics in shiny black threatened to glide through the air, but remained firmly attached to the delicate-looking body. Vine-like details adorned parts of the robes, resembling a silent snake.

"That silver belt was also a great investment. Well done, Ho Gamyung."

"I've already secured the entire stock of that accessory in advance, my Lord."

Jang Ilso clapped his hands excitedly for the proud subordinate. His gaze soon returned to the owner of hair as dark as his own. It was a truly tempting sight, and almost torture not being able to approach a little closer.

Those small red details in the clothes minimally calmed his agitation.

'Red matches so perfectly, swordsman. More than that annoying green.'

"Speaking of green..."

The Lord elegantly rested his face on the back of his hand.

Tang's Lord in the distance exuded such a powerful aura and couldn't be easily underestimated, even by Jang Ilso, but...

"Tang Gunak, Tang Gunak, why, someone like you brought your entire family just to see the swordsman— Ah! Hm~ right, I can't judge you too much."

In a way, he had already anticipated that visit due to their proximity. They weren't exactly close, but considering other clans in the alliance, they were one of the closest. Of course...

Along with a clingy bandit who constantly surrounded the swordsman as if his life depended on it. And now there was also the Namgung family in the equation.

"So many little flies..."

His hand rose and opened. Beautiful blue flames formed on each of the fingers pointing in the direction of the closed room where all those lords gathered.

"I could just..."

His hand suddenly closed, and all the pure flame-shaped ki dissipated as if it had never existed.

"How many sacrifices I make for you, dear swordsman."

He sighed regretfully and curiously followed with his eyes a disciple who ran desperately until he knocked and entered that room.

It seems his calculations are doomed to not be 100% correct when it comes to something related to the swordsman.

Who would have thought that even the Palaces of Ice and Beasts would rush here?

Jang Ilso lightly tapped his face and turned to Ho Gamyung in doubt.

"Didn't they arrive too quickly? Is that possible?"

"I must immediately find out how they moved so quickly."

The Lord just nodded. He wasn't truly curious, but a little bothered by the number of people joining the "party".

He knew how charismatic that disciple was, but perhaps he had underestimated him a bit.

And to think they would put him on a stage.

Jang Ilso couldn't hold back a small laugh at the thought of the swordsman's mental confusion with that sudden, senseless situation.

"Still... I must send a gift to the little lord of the Ice Palace, for such an interesting idea."

"A corresponding gift will be sent immediately."

Jang Ilso only grunted in agreement, eagerly awaiting the outcome of the clothing exchange.

Of course, it would be worth every second of delay.

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.

.

That disciple seemed strangely comfortable in those white clothes, and they harmonized so well with his pale skin. The contrast with the black locks was also pleasing to the eye. And the beautiful white crown drew attention due to the harmony.

The swordsman seemed to stupidly match that symbol of power. Appearing so fragile. It was certainly a huge trap that would snatch the life of anyone stupid enough to be taken in by the angelic image.

The lord of the Evil Tyranty Alliance shuddered as he remembered the coldness those eyes showed when they seemed to seek only the blood and life of their enemies.

And to think he would actually see him put something so dazzling on himself, even though his gaze conveyed indifference and a little discomfort. 

Then the other lords took advantage of the small opening to lay their hands on the deeply confused swordsman and make him wear clothes from their respective clans and families.

It was a bit irritating that any color matched so well with that delicate-looking disciple.

He had to hold back specifically when he saw him smiling slightly at the clothes gifted by Tang Gunak.

"As the Lord wishes, the Tang family will be exterminated—"

At least he calmed down enough to stop the subordinate who strangely seemed so inclined to end everything that day.

And there was that boorish barbarian, trying to undress the youngest in front of everyone and starting a small commotion that the Lord felt slightly inclined to get involved in.

It was a test of his extensive but unstable patience, but as always, Jang Ilso was willing to wait as long as it took to get the best treasures.

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.

Chung Myung breathed a sigh of relief as he finally arrived in his room after days so confusing and tiring.

How did he end up with so many crazy people around him?

Was Chung Myung the one attracting such people, or did people become like that by being around him?

"No, no. It's definitely the first option."

'Chung Myung-ah, have a little more awareness, you damn fool.'

'Aish! Lately, Sect Leader Sahyung only shows up to curse at me. What an unfair world.'

Chung Myung closed his eyes and stretched his arms to comfortably stretch his body.

A slightly louder noise of the wind made itself present in the silent room, entering through the open window and swaying his robes.

The brunette remained with his eyes closed but his deep voice echoed through the room.

"Tsc, even you?... I'm almost convinced that the lords of the Central Plans are idle."

"My, my. At this rate, I'm going to be sad. After finding a time in my busy schedule just to come here."

The seductive voice echoed through the walls and made the room seem smaller than it really was.

Chung Myung knew his exact movements even without looking.

When the man sat on his bed with the melodious sound of his bracelets clashing against each other.

Shiiik

Immediately the sound of a sword leaving the sheath filled the room at a frightening speed. The clear and ridiculously sharp blade was less than millimeters from the pale skin, threatening to penetrate and slide across the neck at any moment.

"Jang Ilso."

"Mount Hua's Chivalrous Sword."

"Why are you here? Are you tired of carrying your head around?"

"Hm, since everyone else came to visit you, I should come too. It's not fair that only they can look at you up close."

The youngest finally opened his eyes and made eye contact with the Lord sitting on his bed as if it were his own. The ornate hand pushed the sword without force and the blade was immediately retracted.

"Wasn't it a joke planned by you, in the first place?"

"Oh! As expected of my swordsman, you knew. Since when?"

The tone of voice was playful, resembling a child excited to open a present. But the eyes in a light shade of gray couldn't fake emotions.

Chung Myung realized how cloudy those orbs were. Looking him up and down and seeming to calculate something in his perverse mind.

"Since always(?) What other damn bastard would send me so many red clothes and jewelry in a damn red box?"

Chung Myung teased and took a few steps towards him. The hands were calmly hidden behind his back and a serene expression.

"Another clue: who has so much free time to do something like this? I do my best to make sure the idiots around me don't even have time to breathe."

Jang Ilso agreed with closed eyes and a satisfied expression with the swordsman's train of thought.

"And... this."

The gray and red eyes met as Chung Myung pressed the shiny fabric of his clothes.

"I remember touching fabrics like this a lot, every time I met a stupid red snake."

"It's good to know that I'm in your memories."

"Whatever. I don't think you were trying to hide anything. Go ahead and talk."

"I thought about being more discreet, but you have so many admirers... I couldn't let you think of anyone else but me."

"And have you been watching me from afar like a weirdo these past few days... because of that?"

The lord lightly covered his smile with the tips of his elegantly adorned fingers.

"I just can't fool you, can I? But... Those words are rude. I'd say I was just guarding you from the flies?"

"What the hell are you talking about?"

When Chung Myung tilted his head in genuine confusion, Jang Ilso couldn't help but laugh. A bit of ki spreading along with his contained voice. Invading and permeating the room with his presence.

"You're so smart about some things and innocent about others. It's adorable."

"You're talking nonsense again. Explain to me. Why you did this? Don't you intend to give me back my clothes?"

"Tsc tsc, so many questions."

Jang Ilso moistened his lips as he looked the swordsman up and down, without any shame, until his gaze met the nearly hypnotic red orbs.

Those eyes seemed to know everything, rule over everything, and fear everything.

They didn't yield even to the intense gaze of someone like Jang Ilso. That addictive gaze sent shivers down his spine, which he hid as much as he could under his robes as red as blood.

How could he not feel his throat dry and not succumb to the urge to moisten his lips with that man in front of him?

The garments were long enough to drag along the floor. The red and silky fabric matched his perfectly. The clothes hugged his slim body perfectly. Jang Ilso could perfectly see his shape. The ridiculously thin and attention-grabbing waist. The skin stood out against the vibrant color. The curve of the neck in white, without any mark, was like a damn trap.

The almost completely loose hair spread over broad shoulders, down the back, or flew with the cold night breeze.

It was like a painting that Jang Ilso slowly planned to steal completely for himself.

"Ha! what's this?"

Chung Myung caught his attention with a playful laugh and the sharp canines appearing along with his smile.

"Aren't you staring at me too much?"

"Hm, it's a feast for the eyes." The elder shrugged and smiled playfully.

"Not going to answer my questions?"

"Let's see..."

The lord pretended to ponder while maintaining eye contact. His hand adorned with sparkling bracelets moved elegantly until pointing at the disciple with subtle material sounds.

"You're exceedingly beautiful, swordsman."

"What is this lunatic talking about all of a sudden—"

"But..."

Jang Ilso calmly interrupted the younger who looked at him curiously.

"You don't seem to be aware of it and you don't take care of your appearance properly. So I had to take action."

"You gave me a lot of headaches, that's for sure! If I were an ordinary disciple of any other sect, I would have been expelled for not wearing the corresponding clothes. Besides, we had so many visitors just this week— Ugh! I don't even want to remember that."

"...That's your fault, swordsman. Do I need to spell it out?"

The lord clicked his tongue. A slightly irritated expression appeared on the pale face before returning to a calm and arrogant demeanor.

"What's this? You started this, so why do you seem annoyed?"

Chung Myung approached a little closer and leaned slightly to face the Lord sitting who supported his hands against the mattresses.

"I ended up underestimating your power a bit, I won't deny it. I wanted to see how you would look wearing colors and clothes that did justice to your beauty, but my greed turned against me."

"So... jealousy?"

Chung Myung concluded simplistically, raising an eyebrow gently.

"Haha... Jealousy?... Me?! Jealous?... This, Jang Ilso?"

"Who else?"

A firm hand grabbed his robes and pulled his body slightly until he was dangerously close to the red orbs.

"Isn't that why you invaded my room at night, like a damn snake?"

"Didn't you leave the window open just so I could come in? Since you always knew of my presence."

The gray orbs narrowed into waning moons as they felt the slightly uneven breath against their skin.

"You don't intend to admit it until the end? Do you know what happens when I don't get what I want?"

The deep voice opened a smile on the Lord's face, containing the purest wickedness. His hands moved away from the bed and raised in surrender.

"I forgot how dangerous this disciple really is."

"..."

"... I could've killed all the damn fleas around you, but didn't."

Pretending a disappointed sigh, the older brought their faces even closer until their noses touched, causing small shivers.

"Instead of congratulating, you threaten me. My tragic life..."

"If you had been honest from the beginning, maybe I would have sympathized."

"... It's true that it wasn't pleasant to see so many rivals gathered so close to you."

The voice was serious, and the cunning hands seized the slim waist and pulled it onto his lap without any resistance.

How he felt withdrawn from not having him in his hands every second of the day.

"Tsk, what should I do with this damn bandit?" Chung Myung had a fake tone of disappointment.

"Who would have thought the Tyrant would be so troublesome."

"It's precisely because of who I am that I hate seeing someone touching what belongs to me."

The nails slid over the clothes causing shivers in the younger, who at the same time brought one of his firm hands to the tyrant's neck.

Chung Myung smiled slyly and tilted his head.

"Who said I belong to you?"

Jang Ilso nodded subtly, his face adorned with a radiant smile.

"I understand how valuable this swordsman is. I also have a highly desired neck. But at least I should be first in line for negotiations.."

"That depends."

"It wasn't a request, my dear swordsman. If I can't have what I want, no one else will."

Before any possible protest from the disciple, the mouth was taken by the corresponding one covered in a thin layer of red paint.

Instantly, Chung Myung's body softened, in the way that irritated him the most, letting out a satisfied sigh from the pressure on his waist. His hands went to the other's neck and grabbed it, impatiently removing the damn shiny crown that held the hair in an elegant bun.

Chung Myung much preferred seeing the long and shiny hair spreading everywhere.

He liked to grasp them between his fingers and hear the deep sighs against his mouth.

The kiss was violent and intense, representing their authoritarian personalities battling for territory. The tongues fought for space and coiled like cunning serpents trying to make the other submit.

Their mouths reluctantly parted, and their gazes met briefly. Jang Ilso's nimble hands opened the robes even further.

"How much time do we have, swordsman?"

"Don't even think about going crazy now; I have morning training in a few hours. Unless you want to leave your neck here before you go."

The deep, slightly drawling voice was like music to Jang Ilso's ears. It only made him want to disobey even more.

The red tongue salivated at the sight of the body beneath him.

Oh, how he wanted to mark it where everyone could see.

He wanted all those pathetic lords to know who was the only one capable of having that sculpted body at his disposal.

He wanted those children whom the swordsman sacrificed so much to protect to know that there was only one person capable of standing by that eccentric little monster's side.

But now was not the time.

For now, he would continue slowly inserting himself into the thoughts of that swordsman, like a silent trap, hoping not to be caught in the jaws of that dragon before succeeding.

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During the following days, Mount Hua received a ridiculous amount of gifts, including luxurious boxes with clothes sent by Wudang, the Southern Edge Sect, the Southern Island Sect, and...Shaolin.

Even the Beggars' Union(?)

The clothes were even more adorned and seemed more luxurious than the leaders' clothes, and they were sent as gifts along with letters expressing sympathy for the difficult situation of the disciple who had been robbed, offering their garments as a solution.

Furthermore, they requested to meet the youngest disciple dressed in the specific attire.

Of course, none of those clothes could even come close to Chung Myung before being intercepted by Hyun Young.

"Excuse me?... What's even a luxury outfit from the Beggars' Union?" 

"Actually, shouldn't the Abbot hate us? Why did he send gold statues?!"

The elder continued to open boxes only to throw them aside with a red face in irritation.

"What's gotten into these Sect Leaders? Have they all decided to act like crazy old foxes toward my cute baby?!"

Baek Sang, standing nearby, collected the discarded boxes and placed them in a separate carriage.

He concealed his inner irritation at the situation, knowing that the elder was already expressing enough anger.

So the disciple felt it was his duty to at least help calm him down.

"What should we do with these, Elder?"

"They didn't even have the decency to come in person and they want Chung Myung to go meet them?! Who do they think they are? HUUUH?!"

'Elder? Is that the real problem?'

"They think just because they're Wudang or some shit, it changes anything? They just want to marry my child off to one of their disciples and take him."

"Then...?"

"Throw them from here! Throw them from the highest peak. No!— We should burn. Fire is fair to everyone. They should know this!... But save the gold statues."

Baek Sang looked blankly for a few seconds but indeed concluded that was the best option and simply nodded.

"Should I also throw away the other gifts that were sent?"

"Tsc, tsc, Baek Sang. Of course, we must first test if the sweets and alcohol are poisoned and then offer them to Chung Myung."

"But who's going to test that?"

"Should I? Should I do that?..."

The elder looked at the disciple with empty eyes.

Baek Sang quickly looked up at the sky with tears in his eyes.

"Of course not, Elder."

"Humph! And get some more to help you be faster. I want to give these to Chung Myung while they're still fresh."

"And that's why the Dojang should come with me to the Ice Palace!"

Seol So-Baek stood up confidently, his arms crossed as he faced the other lords at the table.

"Where does all this confidence come from? Has the Lord forgotten that the commander dislikes low temperatures?"

Im Sobyeong quickly countered, gaining some support from the lords around.

"Your intentions will never be forgotten, Lord of the Ice Palace. However, the place where the disciple would certainly feel more comfortable is the residence of the Tang family."

Tang Gunak's steady and imposing voice almost made it seem like he was discussing a serious matter.

It was.

"Hoho, more comfortable in your residence, Lord? Did you forget who we're talking about here? Dojang gets along much better with my bandits. It's like his natural habitat."

The voice of the Nokrim King became heated as he pounded his chest lightly.

"Everyone knows we need to stay in places compatible to fully relax. What place suits Dojang more than my stronghold—"

"Hey, bandit."

The room fell silent at the low, chilling call from the formidable figure casually seated on the other side of the table, surrounded by the famous Five Swords, with the addition of Tang Soso and the Monk.

Chung Myung pointed toward the corner of the room with his chin and an expressionless gaze.

"Don't say another word until the end, unless you want me to kick you from here to your stronghold."

The Nokrim King ended up defeated and removed from the negotiations by his own ambitious words and stood facing the wall.

"Haha! Now that that rat is out, let's lay our cards on the table. The best place for the disciple's vacation is undoubtedly the Beast Palace. There, he'll be able to connect with nature and receive the pure energy that will help him relax and recover his body."

For the first time, Chung Myung seemed almost interested in the nonsensical conversation those idle lords were having.

Since they were so willing to send him on vacation, perhaps a place where he could more easily gather more ki would be good.

"We'll be able to take off our clothes and connect—"

"Lord of the Beasts."

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.

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This time it sounded even more chilling coming from an unexpected source. The Sect Leader of the Mount Hua smiled brightly in his direction.

but

'Alliance Leader, why is your sword drawn?'

"Go join the Nokrim Lord, please."

"Hehe, the alliance leader didn't understand what I meant—"

"Go to the corner."

"Let me explain—"

"To. The. Corner."

The Beast Lord moved his massive body to the corner and assumed the same reflective position as the King of the Green Forest.

Hyun Jong sheathed his sword slowly while staring at the other Lords with a look that seemed to say, 'Don't cross the line, bastards!'

The atmosphere quickly grew tense and heavy.

They had gotten rid of two opponents, but it didn't mean their situation was any easier to reach their goal, which was sitting there so adorably, looking at them with a not-so-respectful expression on that delicate face.

"I-I am Lord Namgu—"

"To the corner, you bastard! If I hear one more time that you're Lord Namgung, I'll become Lord Namgung myself, you little shit!! Did you forget how to speak? Come here, I'll remind you!!"

Luckily, Um Gum and Un An were already in the position to hold each of his arms and lift him calmly while the younger one struggled.

Hyun Jong had prepared the additional measures precisely because he couldn't trust the Five Swords at the moment, who seemed hypnotized and unable to react.

Baek Cheon was the worst of all with his sudden coughing fits, and Yoo Iseol was right behind him, ready to bite everyone with Tang Soso's help.

Yoon Jung smiled like the reincarnation of Buddha, and Jo Gul was so red that he had been sent to the infirmary several times.

Not to mention the monk who couldn't take his eyes off the ground. However, his bald head covered in red betrayed that sudden shyness similar to when he had arrived at the sect.

Returning to the situation of that little goblin—

'Ah, so adorable struggling.'

'Looks like a little adorable demon.'

'Dojang looks so light and graceful in the air.'

That's what the looks of the lords and basically everyone in that damn room seemed to scream to the Alliance Leader's eyes, who smiled affectionately,

'My disciples have grown so strong... and weird.'

'And this alliance is rotten to the core. You guys aren't going back to your home?'

"Hey! Sasuk! Let me go! Just one punch! I just need to punch those bastards on the wall!"

The Sect Leader watched that scene with empty eyes, wondering when things had gone wrong. How long that meeting without any reason would be.

Maybe he should warn the lords that Chung Myung would hardly leave the disciples' side even if he acted singularly as if everything bothered him.

Apparently, the beauty of his disciple had messed with their heads to the point of making them forget about this fact.

Furthermore, together with the other elders, they had already prepared a huge celebration banquet that would keep Chung Myung distracted for days.

As if he would allow his disciple to be taken so easily.

Awkwardly coughing into his fist, his hand went to his ear to try to dispel the certain buzzing he seemed to be hearing in the distance.

Like the sound of a desperate scream right above his head.

He needed more medicine...

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.

.

Above the clouds in a distant place from the mortal world, three important figures gathered in a heated discussion.

"Let me go! I've already told you to let go! I'll go down and show that bastard what a real snake is! Let go of me, damn it!"

"C-calm down, Dark Saint, there's no way to descend even if we wanted to! Think about it. Sect Leader, tell him—... Sect Leader?!"

Cheon Jin almost cried out, trying to hold back the only friend of his Sahyung, and as problematic as him, while the sect leader sat in his armchair, smiling so brightly that his entire face turned red and a visible vein pulsated on his forehead.

"There's no reason to get worked up, Dark Saint. Haha! Just because my junior brother fell into the clutches of a cursed red snake? Ha...Ho Ho..."

"R-right. Let's trust in Sahyung's judgment for a bit. He's done a great job these past few years."

The glass in the older's hands shattered and the shards fell to the ground. 

"Of course, I trust him."

The friendly tone sounded too bizarre, and Cheon Jin felt the urge to shrink and let the two of them do whatever they wanted.

"Sect leader, where are you going, please?!!"

"I just need to have a word with the person in charge here. If I can just go down for 10 minutes—"

"Sect leader, calm down! I can't hold you both."

"Did you see that?!! How dare that flashy pole dressed up as a brothel woman dare to hold onto my h-hyung-nim's waist... Ah... w-wai—st and k-kiss...Urgk!"

Despite being utterly terrifying, for Cheon Jin, it was a small relief when Tang Bo convulsed and foamed at the mouth with his eyes rolling back.

'Sahyung, you keep causing trouble even for the dead. What a terrifying talent.'

"Hey, S-Sect Leader?!! Seriously! Come back here, please!"

Cheon Jin cried as Tang Bo's dark murmurs were heard in the background.

"That waist... should... be mine..."

"Just one dagger! I JUST NEED ONE! HYUNG-NIIIIM!"

His dramatic scream echoed through the skies that night like a terrifying roar alongside the dark clouds, making it seem like the heavens were angry.

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