Chapter 7 - 44 to 49

A dawn when the night dew is about to fall.

Somewhere on the side of a huge mountain─

There was a new type that came down with a gentle and solemn method. There was not a single breath of wind until the tip of his feet touched the dirt. The landing was extremely quiet.

He was a middle-aged Taoist wearing a yellow robe. He looked at the scene unfolding before his eyes with interest for a while. There were a whopping three hundred corpses. Most of them seemed to have been hit by the same method: acupuncture needles and poison.

Maybe some time has passed.

There were a few people coming down, kicking up dust and a gust of wind. They were also wearing yellow robes like middle-aged Taoist priests, and they all looked to be on the verge of middle age.

One of them opened his mouth.

"Four hundred. What if you go alone? The long-legged king is worried. Now that you have ascended the throne, it would be better to show a little more seriousness…"

"There's nothing to catch the eye. It hasn't even been a day. They left right after killing the Sapa guys. Don't you think that's strange?"

The person called Sa-Baek-i - he talked nonsense without a care. His temperament of not listening to others and only saying what he wants to say is clearly revealed. And his eccentric temperament is usually a characteristic of masters who have perfected their own martial arts.

He was Tae-heo, who had the highest distribution in the Gongmun faction. He was the death row in Tae-cheong, the eldest. But there was something strange. Tae-cheong, the eldest in the Gongmun faction, was known to be an old man with white hair who was well over 70 years old, but Tae-cheong, the death row inmate, looked like a middle-aged man at best. Could it be that he had achieved a half-life transformation?

"Strange? How can you sleep with a mountain of corpses right next to you? Even I would leave the place. If only I had the energy to move."

The man who spoke first, Hyunso, spoke bluntly. His Sa-baek was originally very unique in his way of thinking, unlike the criminal. That may have been why he was able to reach Hwa-gyeong─

Anyway, Hyunso didn't feel anything particularly strange.

'I didn't know that I could wipe out three hundred people.'

It was unexpected, if anything. I remember that the number of members of the Tang family that first settled here was less than a hundred, but they didn't just gain the upper hand against an enemy that was three times more powerful, but they completely killed them. I thought that this was truly worthy of the family that was once the best in Sacheon. The saying that even a rotten tooth is a good one was not wrong.

Moreover, there were quite a few dead animals around the body, showing how strong the poison was. Those who ate the flesh of the poisoned corpse must have died from the poisoning as well.

In fact, the Gongdongpa didn't really care what the Tang family was doing here. They just sent a lot of money and asked for a corner of the Gongdongsan, so they did so.

Since Sacheon had many Apostolic Factions spread out all over the place, it wouldn't have been easy to hold any event. I could guess that they intended to receive protection from the Gongdong Faction in case something happened.

There was nothing to be sorry about as a communist faction. It wasn't like they had promised to protect the Tang family. That's why they didn't rush when they learned that the Sacheon faction's Sapa forces had invaded their territory. That's because they guessed that their goal was not the communist faction but the Tang family.

After the old faction was divided into six factions by Yu Gil-jun, the one who felt the most threatened among the remaining six or so great factions was none other than the Gongdong faction. It couldn't be otherwise. To the west was the Kunlun faction, but Kunlun alone was unable to handle the rising demonic cult, and to the north, as always, the northern horsemen came down and plundered the civilians. In addition, to the south, the evil faction centered around the Black Lotus continued to grow in size, and although the east was better off because of the other great factions, it had to be constantly on guard against Ma Gwang-cheon.

In this situation, it was natural for the sect to protect itself. The survival of the sect was more important than public opinion. It is good to raise the banner of justice and cooperation, but isn't that only possible if it is alive and strong?

So, I decided to leave this matter to the Tang family and wait and see. Of course, if the Safa faction was weakened by the fight with the Tang family, I would rush out and destroy them all at once.

Since you have received something, you should help, but there is no need to shed blood for the party─that was the stance maintained by Tae-cheong, the leader of the Gongdong faction.

A few years ago, they might not have helped at all, but now, from the perspective of the Gongdong faction, the subordinate faction forces, which were not even the Black Death League, were not much of a threat no matter how many they gathered together. Now, the Gongdong faction had a master of Hwagyeong.

Taeheo─ He was one of the best masters in the public sect since his youth, and after constant training, he reached the highest level of Hwagyeong. It had been less than a year. Upon reaching Hwagyeong, Taeheo became a half-age and achieved great martial arts.

In any case, Taeheo was also aware of the intentions of Taecheong, who was a long-suffering priest, so he did not go out to rescue Dangga. However, the disciple he sent to check the situation returned with a surprising report. He said that there were only piles of corpses of those who appeared to be members of the Sapa faction, and that there were no Dangga figures at all.

As soon as he heard that, Tae-Heo's interest was piqued and he immediately moved. He left a comment saying, "That's suspicious."

'Follow your four hundred. He is a strange man, so something may happen to him. Remember that you must always accompany him, for the common safety depends on him.'

'Yes, Master.'

Those who followed Taeheo in a hurry were the disciples of Jangmunin Taecheong, who could be considered the central figures of the Gongdongpa. Taecheong gave the order because only they could catch up with Taeheo's Gyeongsin method even a little.

Anyway, Tae-heo tilted his head and said.

"That's what's strange. This is the territory of the main faction. If something like this had happened, wouldn't it be reasonable to visit the main faction and at least make a complaint? It would be the same even if they wanted a place to rest. The main faction isn't a sect like these guys, and the party has given them a lot of money, so there's no way they'd refuse to let them stay for a night."

"… Are you saying that the Tang people who stayed here were deliberately avoiding us?"

"Yeah. I don't know what it is, but I smell like you're hiding something."

"You might find this strange, but is there anything they could be hiding?"

"I don't know about that. But I didn't know that the Tang family's secret technique was this sophisticated. How many people did he kill alone?"

"What do you mean, one person?"

Hyunso asked in surprise. There are over three hundred corpses here. Is this the work of just one person?

"The eyes of this Sa-baek cannot be deceived. Look at the traces on the corpse. I am not well-versed in the art of secret weapons, but there are not many who can kill someone so cleanly with a fine needle secret weapon. Furthermore, although there are traces, judging by the fact that all the secret weapons have been recovered, it seems that he has reached a point where he can freely release and recover his secret weapons. It is surprising that he was able to cause death with a very small amount of poison, but even more impressive is his extremely sophisticated secret weapon technique. Also, look at those who died without even being able to properly draw their weapons. This means that at least ten, and at most dozens, were hit in one stroke. So there were people like this in the Tang family."

"There are quite a few corpses with their limbs cut off."

"That must have been the same guy's doing. At first glance, it looks like he was cut with a quick sword, but look at the texture of the scar. It was cut by something spinning at incredible speed. They must have used a hidden weapon with a blade attached. This was a murder done purely with a hidden technique. It really is a sophisticated hidden technique."

Tae-heo turned the corpses over in admiration, to examine the scars.

"The killing method is very efficient and clean. Indeed, since ancient times, the Tang family's martial arts have been suitable for mass murder."

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"… You are giving such high praise, which is unusual for someone like Sa-baek."

"I have to meet Lee Ja. Let's go to Sacheon."

"Huh? That's not right. If you happen to run into the Black Lotus…."

"Don't worry. Have you forgotten that this Sa-baek has ascended to the throne? It won't be difficult to get rid of this one body."

"No. Sa-baek may be like that, but we… ."

"Even Yuga won't be able to pick a fight so easily. He still can't keep up with me in terms of internal energy."

"… First, let's go back to the main branch. Shouldn't we speak to Jangmun before leaving?"

Hyunso said in a resigned tone. He knew that Sa-baek had already made up his mind, since he had not seen him for more than a year or two. And his Sa-baek, Tae-heo, was a person who had to do everything according to his temperament to feel satisfied.

I could guess what Tae-heo was thinking. The current situation was like a four-sided siege. In order to overcome this situation, I had to deal with at least one of the Demonic Cult in the west or the Black Lotus in the south. I think he was going to Tangga to personally meet the master of the dark arts who had caused this tragedy and gauge his power.

Since the Tang family was also in a situation where they were helpless and helpless, they probably left the Black Lotus of Sichuan to them and used the opportunity to cooperate with the Kunlun faction to defeat the Demonic Cult. However, Hyun So was skeptical, even though he did not know what Tae Heo had read from the corpses.

It had been quite a while since the Tang Dynasty had fallen into decline. If they had the power to deal with the Black Lotus, they would have risen up long ago.

'By the way, you're sending me away again.'

Hyun So thought. Jang Moon would definitely not send Tae Heo alone. Hyun So had been in the service of Sa Baek-in Tae Heo since he was young. Tae Heo, who was busy cultivating his own martial arts, did not take on any other disciples. Perhaps because of this, Tae Heo sometimes pretended to listen to Hyun So, even if he did not know others. He would rarely teach him, and thanks to this, Hyun So was able to acquire martial arts superior to those of the Hyeonja Bae brothers.

That is why it was always Hyunso's job to perform Taeheo.

"Let's go back."

"Yes, four hundred."

Tae-Heo's disciples responded to his words and began to develop a method of enlightenment.

Hyunso also followed him and thought to himself. I really hope that he doesn't end up using the Bokma Sword Technique during his trip to Sacheon.

****

"Elder Three Elders."

I wonder if he was practicing calligraphy.

An old man, neatly dressed and sitting neatly, drawing large strokes on a piece of paper, wiggled his eyebrows and said.

"What's going on?"

The voice that came at the moment when he was concentrating made his strokes slightly misaligned. Although he felt uncomfortable, the old man did not show it. It was not because he was deeply cultivated, but because he knew his servant who had served him for many years.

He is not the type of person to bother someone unless something really serious happens.

The third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, a master of the dragon poison technique and a real power in the elders' house, opened the door and came out.

The servant who had called him nodded and said.

"They say the guards have returned with the contestants."

"… It looks like the competition ended early."

Dang Seok-hyeong looked slightly surprised that the Sogaju competition had ended earlier than scheduled, but soon came to terms with it. His granddaughter, Dang Yeong-ryeong, possessed Hwa-ryong-ho-dok, one of the Dangga-sip-doks. If she had used it appropriately, she would have easily won. It was only natural that the competition would have ended early.

Dang Seok-hyeong had no doubts about his granddaughter's survival. Dang Yeong-ryeong, who resembled him in temperament and personality, was more cruel than he looked. To survive in the upper echelons of the martial arts world, one must be strong-willed. Dang Seok-hyeong believed that Dang Yeong-ryeong would eliminate his rivals without hesitation.

Then Nobok raised his head and spoke cautiously.

"But sir… ."

"Why are you doing that?"

"Among those who returned… I don't see the young lady."

"moore?" They…?"

"I guess the cattle race is over. They say it's the Bongwidae and the contestants."

"It's a ramp. Is it finally time for a small family to be born in the main house?"

"They still have some childish aspects, but they are all very loyal. The future of the family is bright. I feel relieved."

"So, who wins the contest?"

"I don't know yet. I just got in. But it will be revealed soon. Look over there. Someone came out of the General Headquarters."

"By the way, who is that guy? I've never seen that face before."

"… She's so beautiful. For a moment, I lost my words."

"That's right. It looks like a cow, but it seems to shine on its own."

"Oh my goodness. How can someone look like that? If that person is the Lord of Soga, I should volunteer to be a judge at the Dark King's War right away."

"Wake up, you guys. Are you even going to look at me? Your appearances are completely different from one another… ."

The family members of the Tang family kept talking. They were watching the party of Dang-myeong who had returned to their family. There were quite a few people who had come out to watch. Of course, that would be the case. Among them, there must be someone who will become the new head of the household. Depending on who that person is, the power structure of the Tang family could change significantly. In particular, those who had sent their blood relatives or disciples to this competition were anxious.

"Where is our little one, our little one?"

"Look over there! You've grown a little taller, but your face is still the same as when you were young."

"Thank goodness. I heard that some people died…!"

"Vice-Chief, Master Jeong Il is over there. His expression is bright, so it seems like something good has come of it. Is there any chance…?"

"Shh. Don't build up expectations when nothing is certain. The higher your expectations, the greater your disappointment."

Those who found familiar faces were relieved or excited and chattered, while some looked at the faces of Dang-myeong and his party with serious faces several times. However, no one was able to approach the party, because the guards surrounding the contestants were giving off a stern air as if they were not allowing anyone to approach.

'The road here was smooth.'

Listening to the surrounding conversations, Dang-myeong thought. Of course, there were various incidents on the way from Gongdongsan to Seongdo where Dangga was. Since none of the group was carrying swords, they looked like simple merchants, so a group of thieves attacked them, and at the inn, the Sapa warriors who looked like third-rate thieves were looking for a place to die and started a fight. All of these were things that could have been easily resolved at the Bongwidae Line.

'mother.'

Yu Myeong-myeong thought of his mother. She would be surprised to see his changed appearance. She might doubt that he is her son. There was a huge gap between Yu Myeong-myeong's appearance before he participated in the competition and now. She might feel unfamiliar with him, but she wouldn't hate him.

When the competition was over and we returned, the first to rush out was the General Affairs Office, which actually carried out the family affairs. Dang Bu-yun, the father of Dang Jeong-il and the vice-general, led several people from the General Affairs Office.

Dang Yuri whispered, pointing to one of the middle-aged men.

"Hey, that's my father."

"Are you already asking for a favor? To take good care of your father?"

"… It's not that there's no such intention. Since he doesn't stand in line for anyone, he just keeps doing odd jobs at the headquarters."

Dang Yuri smiled bitterly and responded to Dang Dang-myeong's playful response. After all, her father had been pushed to a low-level position after the elders gained power. This was because he had no connection with any of the elders.

'Not bad. If you have the ability.'

Dang Yuri's father glanced at Yuri's father and thought about the future. Since he was going to become the head of the household and seize power, he would naturally need to replace the existing core members of the family. These were the people who held important positions when the elders were in control of the family. This meant that they were somehow connected to the elders. It could have been an obstacle when he tried to wield power in the future. In that case, it would have been better to fill the positions with his own people and prevent conflict in advance.

The only problem was whether there were enough people to hire.

'I need to find out about those two too.'

Dang Myeong-myeong thought as he looked at Dang Yi-jeon and Dang Mi-ryeo. Now, the two were friends. It was highly likely that they too had some kind of background, big or small. It was almost impossible to acquire the ability to participate in the Sogaju competition from a young age without the help of others.

In fact, most of the boys and girls who participated in the competition were the blood relatives or disciples of influential people within the family.

'It seems like the transfer of the party is related to Yakwangdang, and Miryeo… .'

It was when Dang-myung was momentarily lost in thought.

"You've all had a hard time. Bongwidae and the people of Jegalga."

A middle-aged man whose hair was starting to turn gray approached and spoke. The people in the General Administration, including Deputy General Dang Bu-yun, bowed their heads respectfully to him and stepped back.

He, dressed in bachelor's attire, was the head of the Tang family's general office, Danggisam.

Only then did the guards loosen their stern posture, bow their heads slightly, and make way for them.

"How have you been? It's been a while."

Zhuge Changxin stepped forward and greeted them. It seemed like the two were already acquainted.

"You're still the same. My hair has gotten whiter like this. Anyway, I won't forget the efforts of the Zhuge family for the sake of the main family. Thanks to that, the competition seems to have ended without any problems."

"Why are you doing this when you're already in good health? And I only helped where I could. Hasn't it been a long time since the two families helped each other the most? Haha."

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"Thank you for thinking so. In fact, including the Muryangjeonju, the seven masters of formations are quite a force even for the Zhuge family. However, since they sent them for several years, it is a favor. Especially because there was the Chilsae Hwan-gung-jin, I was able to send the later members of my family with peace of mind. It is a rare and extremely difficult formation to destroy."

"… … ."

Zhuge Changxin was momentarily speechless because the person who had so easily destroyed the plan was right next to him.

It seemed as if he had not been expecting an answer, as General Dangisam continued speaking.

"Then let's go to the elders' house. I have sent a separate message to the elders, so they should be seated by now. All the contestants and the Jegal family, please follow me. The guards can disband and rest for now. They must be tired after escorting the contestants back to their hometown after many years of missions."

After saying that, Danggisam turned around and started walking away, naturally assuming that they would follow him.

however.

"We are not disbanding. Furthermore, I understand that the competition for small-scale farming is under the jurisdiction of the Amdokjeon."

"Huh? You…?"

"I am a member of the Bongwidae Party. I am temporarily in charge of the main office."

"Yes, Dang Won-jin. What were you trying to say just now?"

Dang-gi-sam, who turned around again, asked without hiding his displeasure. He wasn't asking because he didn't know. He could guess that the fact that he was talking about jurisdiction here meant that he wasn't going to the elders' house. Furthermore, he had already ordered them to disperse once, but they were disobeying him.

As expected.

Dang Won-jin said.

"I am telling you that it would be more reasonable to go to the Amdokjeon, the main temple, rather than the Presbyterian Church."

"The five elders, including the eldest elder, will already be gathered in the elders' house. Wouldn't it be proper to report the results of the competition and tell them that the process was fair? They are the eldest elders of the family."

"Are you talking about etiquette? I'm talking about principles."

"Oh! Are you trying to make a joke with me right now?"

Dangisam shouted. His face was slightly red with anger. He was the head of the General Affairs Department that oversaw the family's major and minor affairs, and he had given an order, but he was not following it, and in front of countless family members and the foreign members of the Zhuge family…!

There has never been a more humiliating humiliation than this.

"… The guards will disband when we give them a good word. The competition is over, so there will be no more excuses. This is the final warning."

Although he said that, Danggisam did not have the power to deal with the Bongwidae. It was not that the General Office was weak in terms of military power, but the Bongwidae that once guarded Sogaju was made up of talented people even at that time. Even when most of the Tang family's masters died in the battle with Ma Gwangcheon, many of the Bongwidae that remained to protect Sogaju survived. And now, as time passed, each Bongwidae had power that surpassed the Amwangdae or Dokwangdae. In fact, even in Tangga, they were one of the most powerful single military units.

So Danggisam added a word.

"If you do not follow, you will be punished for disobedience."

At those words, the people around them who had been holding their breath gasped. Disobedience?

As is usually the case with places called noble families, the Dang family also had a clear hierarchy centered around the head of the family. The head of the family was the law. However, since the positions of the head of the family and the head of the minor family were vacant in the current Dang family, the elders were acting on behalf of the head of the family and wielding their authority.

After the five elders of the council filled the heads of the clans with their own men, they granted them one privilege: the power to severely punish anyone who disobeyed orders in urgent cases—that was what it meant to punish them for disobedience.

When the elders first emerged as the real power in the family, there were naturally many who were resentful. They asked why the elders were coming forward and wielding their power when the owner of the small house, Dokbong Dang Ji-hye, was still alive and well.

They often showed up uncooperatively at the elders' events, and the elders severely punished them for their disobedience. After the bloody battle with Ma Gwang-cheon, the elders divided the surviving armed forces into their own units and even taught them directly, solidifying their loyalty. When punishing disobedience, the armed forces of these five elders all came out and subdued the target, and there was no one who could stand against them.

In other words, the current president is using the power of the presbytery to threaten.

'Hmm.'

Dang Won-jin, who had not expected his opponent to be so strong, glanced at Deok-myeong's expression. In fact, Dang Won-jin did not act this way on his own initiative. Before arriving at the castle, the new owner of the guard had given instructions in advance. He said that after entering the family, he should not be influenced by the elders.

As expected, the General Office tried to pass them on to the Presbyterian Church as if they were a snake climbing over a wall, and the Party members who had been prepared tried to head towards the dark front, asserting their principles.

However, the commander-in-chief's words that he would punish them for disobedience left even the party members speechless. No matter how powerful the Bongwi-tai was, if all the five elders' direct armed forces were deployed, they would have no means of dealing with it.

It would have been a problem if the Bongwidae, which should have been the most powerful force in the country, had been subdued and imprisoned.

It was at that time that the party members showed an awkward expression.

"Disobedience… Is there anyone in the main family who can give orders to the owner of the house?"

"Who are you? With your looks, I can't help but remember you."

Judging by his age, he must not be a member of the Bongwi-dae, but a contestant─a handsome young man speaks slowly and forcefully to Danggi-sam, who is mumbling this.

"I am the final winner of the competition for the head of the household, Yuan Myeong."

The family members began to chatter quickly and quietly at the mention of the ultimate winner of the competition.

"Obvious name…?"

"That's an unfamiliar name. Whose child is it?"

"Idiot. Poison…!"

"What…? That's right. At that time, I ruined the face of Lady Dang Yeong-ryeong, the precious daughter of the three elders, and participated in the competition. The whole family was in an uproar."

"Is that really the obvious answer? I've seen your face a few times, but you don't look like that."

"You're still young. Think about your bloodline. Maybe your true nature is revealed as you grow up."

"but…."

"By the way, how did you win the competition? There were many great players among the participants. Miss Dang Yeong-ryeong, and even Prince Dang Geuk-rin, who was favored by the elder elder…."

"Wait. But I can't see either of them…!"

Even though he spoke in a low voice, there was no way that people on the guard duty could not have heard it.

'Dokbong, huh?'

The party members made a strange expression at the sound of longing. The beautiful and strong woman who was once their master.

The Bongwidae was a military force that protected Sogaju, so when Dokbong Dang Ji-hye stepped down from Sogaju, there was no longer any justification to protect her.

However, some of the household members who heard the name of Dangsangmyeong spoke of Dokbong. Dang Wonjin was not a fool. Could it be that the new owner, Dangsangmyeong, was the former owner and former head of the household, Dokbong Dang Jihye…?

'Is it fate?'

A similar thought ran through the minds of not only the party members but also the entire Bongwidae. It was as if they had been given another chance to protect their masters, even though they had failed to do so. It was the first time in generations.

one side.

'I guess I'm getting sick.'

General Dangisam felt that his expression was out of control and he collected his thoughts. He was friendly with all five elders of the presbytery, so he didn't really care who won the competition for Sogaju. He thought that the balance of power would simply shift from the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, to someone else, and his position would not be threatened. However, the name of the young man who declared himself the ultimate winner of the competition was Yu Myeong-myeong. Although he looked unfamiliar, there was no way that he, as the general, would not know the name Yu Myeong-myeong.

'The son of Dokbong… .'

Dangisam felt an alarm bell ringing in his head. This was a matter that would cause a huge uproar. Wasn't it the elders who stripped Dokbong of his position as the head of the household? And yet, her son, Dangmyeong, won the competition…!

The worst that could happen has happened.

To the elders, and to Danggisam himself.

"The General has committed the crime of disobedience."

Dang-myung spoke in a slow tone. He seemed relaxed even when talking to someone who held a high position in the family.

"Let me ask again. According to the family rules, is there anyone else in the main family who can give orders to the head of the household?"

"That's… just the house."

"What happens when the position of the head of the household is vacant?"

"At that time, the head of the household was to act on behalf of the head of the household… but you have not been officially appointed as the head of the household yet."

"Let's say he is the closest person to Sogaju."

Dangisam was speechless. It was because he knew that Yu Myeong-myeong would speak. Since he won the competition, Yu Myeong-myeong was closer to the Sogaju than anyone else in the family.

"According to what the General said, even if they are the elders, they cannot give orders to the small family. Since they cannot give orders in the first place, it can be seen that they cannot be charged with the crime of disobedience."

"..It's not even an official sogaju yet, so do you think there's any benefit to fighting like this? Even if you win the competition, if you end up offending the elders…."

"stop."

Dang-myeong suddenly interrupts General Dang-gi-sam's words. At the same time, a deep green light appears in his eyes. It's as if Gui-hwa is swaying.

Dangisam didn't even care that his words were cut off by his commander. Rather, he was shocked by the sudden feeling of his heart being squeezed. He could barely open his mouth. Was this what it was like to be a mouse in front of a snake? It was as if he had encountered an opponent he could never fight against. He felt his blood running cold. Even though he was a general and a man close to a writer, he was by no means a shallow martial artist. He wasn't slacking off in his training.

I can't believe this reality where I'm overwhelmed by a mere review index.

'It's gotten a little quieter.'

Dang-myung looked at Dang-gi-sam with cold eyes and thought. I don't want to waste time getting involved in meaningless arguments. After all, the vested interests, including the elders, will not be happy about this side rising above the small-scale state. They will definitely try to stop it. From the beginning, I was not going to let them do whatever they want.

He released a highly refined killing spirit in an instant, but limited its scope to the general. The pressure from the compressed killing spirit area would be no joke. He would probably have difficulty opening his mouth due to the feeling of his heart freezing. Given his level, it would take quite some time for him to release it.

Guessing like that, Dang-myeong walked with slow steps. The general's face was very hardened. He spoke softly into his ear.

"Go and tell those arrogant backroom old men that your era is over with the cattle race."

If you have something to do, it would be better to go in person - and so the voice of the obvious one grew distant.

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****

A circular table made of high-quality red-tinged sandalwood.

There were five people sitting around it. They were all old men who looked quite old, but judging from their demeanor and the air they gave off, you could tell they were no ordinary people.

They were the five elders who formed the core of the Tang Dynasty Presbyterian Church.

One of them opened his mouth.

"…What are you talking about now, General?"

"It is exactly as you heard. The one who ultimately won the competition for the Sogaju was Dokbong's son, Dangmyeong… ."

bang!

"That can't be! Isn't there something wrong with him? How could he possibly get rid of my granddaughter…?"

The third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, slammed the table down and let out his anger. His palm print was clearly engraved on the thick, solid sandalwood table. If he had simply used his power to blow it up, the table would have shattered, but the fact that only the palm print remained meant that Dang Seok-hyeong's internal power was extremely meticulous.

It was not surprising that Dang Seok-hyeong did not believe it. His granddaughter Dang Yeong-ryeong participated in the competition with one of the Dang family poisons, Hwa-ryong-ho-dok.

If only he had mastered the Dragon Poison Technique properly, there would have been no one he could not defeat. The power of the Hwa-ryong-ho-dok was known better than anyone else to Dang Seok-hyeong.

But not only did he lose the competition, he also didn't return alive… .

It was said that out of the twenty-eight contestants, nine had lost their lives - four in the first year, and five in the final stage of the competition, the Battle of Loneliness. This was not something that the Bongwidae had told me, but something that the people of the Jegal family had told me, so there was no way I could disbelieve it.

Dang Seok-hyeong was about to burst with anger. Others didn't know about Hwa-ryong-ho-dok. So he couldn't even ask questions. Also, if Dang Yeong-ryeong hadn't used Hwa-ryong-ho-dok, there would definitely be a bottle of poison left somewhere. If possible, he had to retrieve it. It was the Tang family's treasure. If he was caught stealing Hwa-ryong-ho-dok, there was a high chance that he wouldn't be safe, no matter how much he did it.

Originally, it was thought that if only Dang Yeong-ryeong could become the head of the household, it could be covered up somehow, but things got complicated.

And there was an old man who was equally angry. However, unlike the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, he was quiet and lost in thought.

'Geukrin got hurt…?'

Dang Seok-joong, the head of the presbytery and the elder, felt doubtful. He knew better than anyone else the qualities and abilities of his disciple Dang Geuk-rin. It was not for nothing that he had been known as a promising contender from early on.

'Even that was more than three-tenths of his ability hidden.'

That's right. The one who was considered the strongest candidate for the competition with just the skills he showed was none other than Dang Geuk-rin. I met him by chance, but he was a talented person who had both natural talent and hard work, so I took him on as my disciple without hesitation. I had high expectations for this competition in particular. I was even thinking about setting him up with my granddaughter if I came back victorious.

Even if personal greed was put aside, Dang Seok-jung was convinced that Dang Geuk-rin was the only one who had the potential to lead the next party.

Besides

Dang Seok-joong remembered it clearly. Before the contestants left for the Sogaju competition, he had seen Dang Yuanming's speech at that time. Since he was at the center of controversy, it was natural that his eyes would be drawn to him. Yes, he could tell at a glance that he was better than his peers. With that level of skill, he would have more than enough to deal with Dang Yeong-ryeong, the granddaughter of the third elder, and the other two children.

But that was all. Compared to Tang Geuk-rin, he was far behind. And yet, he managed to close that gap in just three years…?

It was hard to understand logically. It was clear that something had happened in the final stage of the competition, the lonely battle for survival. Perhaps he had attacked Tang Geuk-rin together with other participants. Or perhaps he had used some cowardly trick. Otherwise, there was no way he could have defeated Tang Geuk-rin and become the winner.

'I have to find out the truth.'

I leave the incident that happened in the battle of solitude aside - it was a matter decided by the council of elders, but Elder Dang Seok-joong has no idea what his beloved disciple is saying to Dang Yuan-myeong.

It was hard to accept the fact that I had been pushed back. Since the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, was also very angry, it would not be a big problem to take advantage of the momentum and ask him the whole story.

"…what on earth happened in the competition."

"All the strong candidates were eliminated, and the son of that domineering man won. What kind of a joke is this?"

"I offer my condolences, Elder, and Third Elder."

The other three elders didn't look too happy about the fact that Dang-myeong was the winner of the competition, but they seemed less heartbroken because they had been informed that their blood relatives and disciples who had participated in the competition had returned safely.

"So. Where is that child named Dangmyeong now, Commander? I thought he would bring him since you sent us a message."

Taking advantage of the moment when the Three Elders' momentum was weakened, the chief priest Dang Ji-ryong asked. He was a man who had entered the Dang family as a son-in-law, and was originally a descendant of a swordsmanship sect in Sacheon.

"That is…."

General Dangi Sam trailed off.

I was careful about what I said. I already knew that the elders were very upset because Dang-myung was the ultimate winner of the competition, so I had to make a statement that would cause even more shock.

"Does what I say sound unreasonable?"

"No…! Dang-myung-myeong is currently at the Amdokjeon. I repeatedly emphasized that many elders are waiting for him… but he never turned around. He said that the competition for Sogaju is under the jurisdiction of the Amdokjeon. If he had any questions about the competition, he should go there himself…"

Danggisam was the one who couldn't bring himself to say 'arrogant old men in the back room'.

And before he could even finish his sentence, there was a loud noise! Wow!!!

Before the refined words of Dang-gi-sam could even finish, the sandalwood table split into many pieces with a loud noise. This was because all five elders had slammed the table in anger. The internal energy they had accumulated over many years was incredible.

Watching the scene right before his eyes, General Danggi-sam swallowed dry saliva. These are indeed the best players of the family!

"What a bald guy!"

"My son is already acting like he's a cow owner."

"Even if she is the mother of Dokbong, she has no choice but to be cautious in front of us."

"I heard that it didn't even meet the terms and conditions, but that guy with a wet head is so arrogant…!"

"The general should take the lead! We need to see the bastard's head immediately."

The five elders stood up indignantly. They seemed to be extremely indignant as they spat out each word as if they were chewing it out, but Dang-gi-sam noticed that their eyes were extremely cold. In other words, this action was calculated.

After all, the elders are people who have wielded the power of the party for more than ten years. They are skilled in this area. Even if they won the competition,

It was also possible to revoke the owner's qualifications by taking issue with the attitude shown by the owner.

Wasn't there already a precedent? Even Dokbong Dang Ji-hye, the mother of the deceased, stepped down from her position as the head of the household and lived like a dead rat.

'The hats will look alike.'

Thinking like that, Danggisam opened the door. Soon, the five elders came out.

As soon as he came out, the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, suddenly muttered softly.

"Dragon Lord."

"yes.,,

Surprisingly, an answer came from the air. Soon, a man appeared without a sound and knelt down in front of Dang Seok-hyeong. He led the Parongdae, a military unit directly under the three elders.

was in the middle of a party. In normal times, he would hide alone next to the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, and carry out his guard duties.

"Lead the Dragon Breaking Squad and follow behind. We are going to the Dark Poisonous War."

"Your name."

Tang Gye-jung lowered his head a little more and then disappeared into thin air. It was truly a ghostly technique.

The other elders also called their own direct military units as if they had made a promise.

Elder Dang Seok-jung leads the Junryeongdae (俊令隊)

Elder Dang Myeong-shin is the leader of the Geonjeongdae (乾靜隊),

As the president, Dang Ji-ryong leads the Poison Sword Corps.

The five elders, including Dang Myeong-hu, commanded the Dark Reserve Corps.

Soon, the entire presbytery was stirred by the sound of hundreds of people. This was because the warriors who had received the summons from the elders who attended them began to gather together. As expected of well-trained warriors, they all exuded a stern demeanor.

The army that was gathering like clouds was enormous. The families coming and going near the presbytery were chatting with anxious eyes, wondering if they were going to go to war.

'With this many people gathered, he probably can't do anything. Why bother provoking the elders...:

If he had just bowed and entered quietly, he might have had a chance. What a foolish guy. General Danggi-sam shook his head and followed the five elders.

However, there was a hint of anxiety in his heart. This was because the feeling of his heart shrinking under the force of destiny was still vivid.

****

While walking, Dang Won-jin spoke carefully.

"I…:'

"I know you have something to say. But let's take care of what's at hand first and then talk about it."

"All right."

Dang Yuanming had an intuition that Dang Wonjin was going to ask about his mother, so he hung up on him as soon as he saw him start talking. Of course, he would have feelings. They were the Bongwidae who introduced themselves as sinners when they first met. They would probably have some vague regret about their mother, Dokbong.

He would have wanted to hear directly from the owner, Dangmyeong, about his relationship with Dokbong.

However, Dang-myung decided that it was not yet time to express his thoughts in such a way. If things went as expected, the elders would soon rise up.

As the general spoke of the crime of disobedience, there was a possibility that he would stage a demonstration of force. No, most likely he would mobilize the armed forces to create an atmosphere of tension and fear.

I will encourage it. In order to somehow prevent the natural winner from taking the position of Sogaju, I had to create conflict and suppress it with force.

'Maybe you'll think things are going well by now.'

You might think that he was still young and couldn't tell right from wrong and made a mistake. He said that he acted out of emotion because of his mother's problems.

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The obvious answer was laughable.

Do the elders know?

Their goal was to draw all the attention of the family through their armed demonstrations and create a platform for public discussion of whatever was going on. It was obvious that the Presbyterian Church would obstruct every step of the way in order to ascend to the throne.

In that case, it would be better to clear out the things that are interfering with the first stage.

As I was organizing my thoughts, I saw a familiar sign.

The Dark Poison King, Sichuan No. 1

It was still a handwriting that was as sharp as a warrior's.

Dang-myeong opened the door to the pavilion and entered, feeling a strange sense of excitement. As before, many eyes were fixed on him. There was still no news of their return.

It may not have reached the level of a poisonous plant. It is a look of caution.

"Who… Hmm? Could it be, Brother Wonjin?"

One of the warriors who appears to be from the Dark King's Army recognizes Dang Won-jin and speaks. Not only that. Other warriors from the Dark King's Army and the Dok King's Army also speak the names of people they know.

They called out one by one. Since they were from the same dark side, there were quite a few people who had interacted with each other. The eyes of the Bongwidae warriors who heard their names called also showed joy.

"Call the Lord. The guards have arrived."

"Bongwidae? Is the competition for Sogaju already over? I thought there was still some time left."

"It looks like the final stage ended early. I see some familiar faces over there, even though they've grown a bit. They're definitely the contestants."

"But there's a face I'm seeing for the first time…? Who is the author? His appearance is quite extraordinary."

"Who will be the winner? It's not easy to guess since they all grew up so devotedly."

"Is a Sogaju finally born in my hometown?"

While the warriors of the Dark King's Army and the Poison King's Army were chattering, two men came out of the palace.

They were Dang Jeok-hwi, the leader of the dark king, and Dang Ji-hyeok, the leader of the poison king.

The first one to speak was Dokwangdaeju.

"Moonchan. This guy…!"

I found my son, Dangmunchan, among the contestants. I had been worried for a while after sending him to the competition with his injured arm. I was worried that he would be eliminated and lose his life or get seriously injured in the fierce competition for the position of Sogaju. If I could, I would have liked to have withdrawn from the competition, but once I was confirmed to participate in the Sogaju competition, I could not cancel no matter what happened.

So, Dang Ji-hyeok was surprised that his son returned alive and well. Judging from his expression, he could guess that he had not won the competition, but

In any case, there was only one winner in the competition. There were many other strong contestants, so there was no need to feel ashamed of being eliminated. Dang Ji-hyeok thought that the final winner would be among those who had direct ties to the elders.

Meanwhile, Tang Moon-chan couldn't help but feel embarrassed by the gazes pouring in. He was also glad to see his father after so many years. However, if it was like this...

'Ah. We ran into each other.'

Tang Moon-chan realized that his eyes had met with that of Dang Sang-myeong. Did he recognize him? For a moment, he clearly saw a strange light flashing in Dang Sang-myeong's eyes. But that was all. Dang Sang-myeong turned his head away.

'Is it not worth dealing with?'

Tang Moon-chan felt himself becoming more miserable. He swore that he would somehow get revenge while recalling his grudge, but how? Dang Yuanming was too high up for him to reach. As for Wu-wi, now that he had officially become the Sogaju, he would become a noble status that even his father, the Dokwang Daeju, could not dare to do anything about. No, if that happened, he wondered if his father's position could even be preserved.

The only thing he could look forward to was the Elder Council, but Dang Moon-chan had an ominous feeling that even the five elders wouldn't be able to do anything about Deok-myeong.

Although Tang Moon-chan was thinking about all sorts of things, Dang Yuan-myeong paid no attention to him at all.

Although he realized that he had an old bad relationship with Dokwangdaeju, he didn't think much of it. The other bad relationship he had with Dangjeongil back then was not a bad one now. Rather, he could be seen as an assistant to what was about to happen. It was a given that he had settled all his grudges from his childhood by 'appropriately' punishing them at the time.

Of course, if someone comes to me with new malicious intent like Dang Yeong-ryeong, I will never forgive them.

Anyway, Dang-myung Lee stepped forward and said.

"It's been a while, my lord."

"who…?"

Amwangdaeju Dangjeok-hwi was slightly embarrassed when a handsome young man greeted him. Long time no see? Where have we met before? Judging from his age, he seemed to be a contestant…

Suddenly, Dangjeok-hwi realized that the young man's face was familiar. He quickly figured out why. It was because she resembled a woman he had secretly been in love with.

"… Are you sure it's not a life extension?"

"You know what I mean."

When Dang Jeok-hwi nodded in agreement, Dang Jeok-hwi immediately came closer and shook his hand. His expression of delight was evident as he even used his new technique to move the short distance.

"What is this? That little brat has become such a twisted man in just three years. And what kind of makeup has he put on his face? I would believe it if you said he had a complete transformation."

"Have you forgotten, Your Majesty, whose blood I am?"

"What? Hahaha, that's right. Now that I look at it, your face looks exactly like Dokbong Noona. You really grew up well."

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"Is your mother doing well…?"

"What could be wrong, Sister? She just waits for you to come. I used to visit her sometimes to relieve her loneliness, but every time she did, she would only talk about you. I am so glad that you are safe."

As he said that, Dang Jeok-hwi could not hide his admiration. He could no longer guess at Dang Yu-myeong's accomplishments. What had happened during the three years of competition that had made Dang Yu-myeong, who was only a young man, so incompetent?

"But why do they do that?"

Dangjeok-hwi nodded slightly and asked softly. He was referring to the Bongwi-dae warriors. The Bongwi-dae, including Dangwon-jin, were feeling some kind of emotion, but their momentum was wavering due to that emotional turmoil. The energy wave spreads in a chaotic manner.

How could that not happen?

The Bongwidae warriors who heard the conversation between Dang Jeok-hwi and Dang Sang-myeong finally realized that their guesses had become certain. The former Sogaju Dokbong Dang Ji-hye, who had previously failed to protect her, had her son regain the title of Sogaju through a legitimate process. And now, he had become the master of their Bongwidae…!

There were even some people whose eyes were red.

"I haven't really told you yet. That my mother is single."

"Even so, to the extent that he would react like that…."

"Oh, I will tell you now, Your Majesty."

Dang-myeong trailed off, took a step back, and spoke to Dang-jeok-hwi, clasping his hands together as if formally greeting him.

"The prospective Sogaju is a natural name. He participated in the competition for the main Sogaju and won the final, and just returned to Amdokjeon." Victory? Are you saying that Yeonmyeong is the final winner of the Sogaju competition…?"

"Yes, you heard correctly."

• • ••

Dangjeok-hwi let out a thin breath and collected his thoughts. Of course, it was Sogaju!

From the first time I saw him, I thought he was an extraordinary man. From the way he nonchalantly defied the spirits of the Dark King's and Poison King's warriors, to his boldness in calmly requesting competition after committing a crime, to his convictions and chivalry that were centered even at a young age.

As a man, I liked him and sincerely hoped that he would do well in the competition. I was also happy that he was Dokbong Dang Ji-hye's blood relative.

But who would have thought that he would actually beat those strong competitors and return as the winner? The phrase "returning home in glory" was no different.

It wasn't just Dang Jeok-hwi who was surprised.

"Really… Really, you won?"

Dokwangdaeju Dang Ji-hyeok asks while stammering.

"I know you may not like it, but it's true. Dokwangdaeju."

"No, it's not that I don't like it…."

Dang Ji-hyeok was embarrassed.

'Even if you do that, it's only four years. If you fail to become a Sogaju, you will have to pay the appropriate price. Dokbong is the same. You will have to pay the price for not being able to properly take care of your child.'

The words he once spat out to Dangsangmyeong flash through my mind.

A cold sweat ran down my back. I was reckless. Why did I say something like that? Being a household head meant that if I grew up, I would rise to the position of household head.

On the topic of using the Tang surname, he poured out evil words on the person who would become the head of the Sacheon Dang family…!

'That's crazy.'

Dang Ji-hyeok felt as if everything was going dark. All he wished for was for Dang Yuan-myeong to forget the past… .

As if he had read Dang Ji-hyeok's thoughts, Dang Sang-myeong opened his mouth.

"It didn't even take four years, as you said. Fortunately, I won the competition, so I won't have to pay the price you mentioned. My mother won't have to pay for her sins either."

Dang Ji-hyeok couldn't open his mouth any longer. That was because he had received exactly what he had said. He had confirmed that Dang Yuan-myeong clearly remembered what had happened. The only thought that lingered in his mind was that it was completely over.

After looking at Dang Ji-hyeok who was tightly closing his eyes, Dang Sang-myeong spoke to Dang Jeok-hwi.

"Daeju. As far as I know, the Sogaju competition is hosted by the Amdokjeon here. Is that correct?"

"Yes. Since the Dark Poison War was a family war, the competition to choose the future head of the household can also be said to be under the jurisdiction of the Dark Poison War."

"So, is there any other procedure required for the winner of the competition to ascend to the throne?"

"… First, we need to gain the approval of the guards in charge of conducting the competition at close range. They are the escorts directly under the Sogaju. It would be best to win their hearts first."

It was when Dang Jeok-hwi's words stopped for a moment.

The Bongwidae warriors lined up behind Dang-myung suddenly knelt on one knee. It was clearly an attitude toward a superior.

The warriors of the Dark King's and the Poison King's troops opened their eyes in surprise at the sudden sight. The Bongwi Troop, who were in charge of protecting the former Sogaju Dokbong, were all skilled warriors. Only someone as skilled as Dokwang Dang Jihyeok could handle them individually, so it would be no exaggeration to say that they were the most elite military force of the Tang family.

How can they kneel before Dang-myeong?

Right behind Dang Yuanming, the leader of the Bongwidae, Dang Wonjin, slowly opened his mouth.

"Amwangdaeju. Our Bongwidae has already decided to recognize this person as the Sogaju. Not only did he win the competition justly, but he also possesses strength that no one among the later generations of the main family can surpass. Not only that, but since he also has Dokbong blood flowing in his veins, he has even acquired legitimacy that has been passed down from the previous generations of the family."

After pouring out his words, Dang Won-jin added another meaningful word.

"As you will soon discover, without him there is no future for the family."

"What the…."

Suddenly, Dangjeok-hwi wondered what had happened in the competition. What kind of appearance had he shown that had enabled him to so clearly sway the hearts of the Bongwi-dae? From what I heard, it seemed like it had only been a little while since he had revealed that he was Dokbong's son. Judging from the fact that he was even talking about the future of the Dang family, it seemed like he had been quite captivated.

"Everyone, stand up."

The guards who had knelt at the master's words stood up and formed a line. The appearance of Dang-myeong, who could command the elite force with a single word, was worthy of a small lord of a family.

Dang Yeong-myeong said calmly.

"Your Majesty. What is the next step…?"

"… It's about checking the fairness of the competition. Even if it's a lonely battle that was decided to be left to chance, we need to check if the entire competition was conducted fairly and under equal conditions. Originally, we should ask Bongwidae, Jegalga, and the other participants… But there's no need to ask Bongwidae."

"Just ask."

Dang-myeong stepped aside and spoke. Following his movements, the Bong-wi-dae also made way, and the only ones left were the eliminated contestants and the members of the Zhuge family, including Zhuge Chang-sin.

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"First, I will ask the contestants. As honorable contestants of the main house competition, you must not hide even one lie."

"yes!"

"Then I will take them one by one and ask them. Each of you should tell me in detail how the competition was conducted and whether there was anything you thought was unfair."

After saying that, Dang Jeok-hwi called in about ten members of the Amwangdae and gave them instructions. They nodded and each announced one contestant.

He took them and disappeared somewhere.

"I will listen to the participants' stories in a place where there is no snow, compare the collated information, and make a judgment."

"All right."

Dang Ji-hyeok glanced at the king of the kings while answering. He was like a barley sack that had been left lying around, unable to participate in the verification process of the competition at all.

It was only natural. I had committed a sin.

Thanks to this, the verification of the competitive procedure was able to be carried out quickly under the leadership of the King of Darkness, Dang Jeok-hwi. Of course, this was also what Dang Sang-myeong intended.

"Then, the members of the Zhuge family, please come here. First, I would like to thank you for your hard work for the family for a long time. My name is Dang Jeok-hwi, the King of Darkness."

"I am Jegal Changsin. Although I am lacking, I am in charge of the Muryangjeon in my family."

"I've heard a lot about the fame of the Muryangjeonju. He's one of the few swordsmen who can perfectly perform the legendary Jilsaehwan Palace Formation."

// //

"Did I misspeak…?"

"No. I was momentarily speechless by the unexpected compliment."

"Haha. You're being too humble."

The conversation between Dang Jihui and the Zhuge family members progressed smoothly. Dang Jihui praised the greatness of the Zhuge family's formation and said that it was certain that the later generations of the family could compete safely. Zhuge Changxin, who saw the young talents participating in the competition and envied the bright future of the family, gave words of encouragement.

In the meantime, the warriors of the Dark King's Army who took the eliminated contestants brought what they had verified. The things the contestants talked about were largely the same, and there were no major issues. It was a clean result, so it was natural. After witnessing the inaction of the obvious, there was no way anyone would complain that the competition was unfair. Unless they wanted to get out of favor with the next head of the household.

"… So. What Zhuge Wuyin said was that there was no outside intervention throughout the entire competition."

"To be exact, it is until 'before the Battle of Solitude.'"

"Yes? So does that mean there was external intervention in the battle of solitude? I don't quite understand what you're saying."

"I'm not saying it wasn't fair. It's just that in the battle of loneliness, there were unexpected events…"

It was when the conversation was reaching its final stages.

"Stop!!"

Someone approached the dark room with a loud voice. The energy in their voice was no joke.

'You're here.'

Since the senses were always on full display, he wasn't surprised. He had already noticed the approach of a considerable number of people with his expanded senses.

Soon, a figure was flying over the wall with a gust of wind. The sight of the long robe fluttering and landing seemed to reveal an extraordinary aura.

Dang Ji-hyeok, who recognized him, said with a surprised expression.

"Elder Samjangro…?"

"Who is it? That guy named Deungmyungmyeong."

"Just fold it."

Although it was the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, who looked angry to anyone, Dang Sang-myeong stepped forward with a calm expression. Dang Seok-hyeong saw this and wiggled his eyebrows slightly. It was because his appearance was like seeing the younger days of Dokbong Dang Ji-hye. Even though he was a peerless young man, he looked like he had no shortcomings.

"Tell me, Dokwangdaeju."

"yes."

"What are you doing now?"

"The contestant and winner, Yuan Ming, was verifying the overall process of the competition in order to ascend to the position of Sogaju."

"Huh. Verification…?"

Dang Seok-hyung muttered as if he was very angry, then turned his head and glared at Dang Sang-myeong.

"I know you very well. You clearly ruined my granddaughter's face. Even back then, I got the impression that you were quite clever, but your temperament is still the same. How dare you covet the position of Sogaju without the permission of this elder…!"

"You said clever?"

Dang Myeong-myeong said with a puzzled expression.

"The competition between the Sogaju clans is under the jurisdiction of the Amdokjeon, which was originally the Gajujeon. Not the Presbyterian Church. Surely someone who has become an Elder would know this."

"… This guy?"

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"As soon as I entered the house, the general said, wouldn't it be right to stop by the elders' house and report first? Are you angry because I didn't?"

Dang Jeok-hwi and Dang Ji-hyeok were shocked by Dang Yu-myeong's words. They naturally assumed that Dang Yu-myeong had visited the presbytery and then came to the dark room.

It's not like you've become a vassal yet. Even if you harbor ill feelings toward the elders, it would be wise to bow down for now…!

"I heard it on my way here. There really is no one like Thunderbolt…!"

"The head of the family's household is the one who should be the one to lead the family. How dare you try to sit in such a position without permission from the elders."

The other elders also came down one after another with a voice. They were all of the same high-spirited divine law. They had a stern demeanor as if they were going to judge the deity.

was leaking.

Dang Jeok-hwi sighed, feeling immense pressure.

'Why do things like this…?'

It was a shame. How could I have incurred the wrath of the elders? Perhaps, even after winning the competition, I could not have become the owner of the small house.

On the other hand, Dang Ji-hyeok had to suppress the joy that spread across his face. He thought that it was inevitable that Dang-myeong would become the owner of the house, but looking at the situation, it seemed that the elders would not tolerate it. What an idiot!

And it didn't end with the elders.

Outside the dark room, a huge crowd of people could be heard. It must have been the elders who brought their direct military units with them.

In this yard where joy and sorrow intersect on Yeorit's face.

Dang-myung thought as he slightly raised his lips. Thankfully, the board was opened wider than expected. Victory? Are you saying that Yeonmyeong is the final winner of the Sogaju competition…?"

"Yes, you heard correctly."

• • ••

Dangjeok-hwi let out a thin breath and collected his thoughts. Of course, it was Sogaju!

From the first time I saw him, I thought he was an extraordinary man. From the way he nonchalantly defied the spirits of the Dark King's and Poison King's warriors, to his boldness in calmly requesting competition after committing a crime, to his convictions and chivalry that were centered even at a young age.

As a man, I liked him and sincerely hoped that he would do well in the competition. I was also happy that he was Dokbong Dang Ji-hye's blood relative.

But who would have thought that he would actually beat those strong competitors and return as the winner? The phrase "returning home in glory" was no different.

It wasn't just Dang Jeok-hwi who was surprised.

"Really… Really, you won?"

Dokwangdaeju Dang Ji-hyeok asks while stammering.

"I know you may not like it, but it's true. Dokwangdaeju."

"No, it's not that I don't like it…."

Dang Ji-hyeok was embarrassed.

'Even if you do that, it's only four years. If you fail to become a Sogaju, you will have to pay the appropriate price. Dokbong is the same. You will have to pay the price for not being able to properly take care of your child.'

The words he once spat out to Dangsangmyeong flash through my mind.

A cold sweat ran down my back. I was reckless. Why did I say something like that? Being a household head meant that if I grew up, I would rise to the position of household head.

On the topic of using the Tang surname, he poured out evil words on the person who would become the head of the Sacheon Dang family…!

'That's crazy.'

Dang Ji-hyeok felt as if everything was going dark. All he wished for was for Dang Yuan-myeong to forget the past… .

As if he had read Dang Ji-hyeok's thoughts, Dang Sang-myeong opened his mouth.

"It didn't even take four years, as you said. Fortunately, I won the competition, so I won't have to pay the price you mentioned. My mother won't have to pay for her sins either."

Dang Ji-hyeok couldn't open his mouth any longer. That was because he had received exactly what he had said. He had confirmed that Dang Yuan-myeong clearly remembered what had happened. The only thought that lingered in his mind was that it was completely over.

After looking at Dang Ji-hyeok who was tightly closing his eyes, Dang Sang-myeong spoke to Dang Jeok-hwi.

"Daeju. As far as I know, the Sogaju competition is hosted by the Amdokjeon here. Is that correct?"

"Yes. Since the Dark Poison War was a family war, the competition to choose the future head of the household can also be said to be under the jurisdiction of the Dark Poison War."

"So, is there any other procedure required for the winner of the competition to ascend to the throne?"

"… First, we need to gain the approval of the guards in charge of conducting the competition at close range. They are the escorts directly under the Sogaju. It would be best to win their hearts first."

It was when Dang Jeok-hwi's words stopped for a moment.

The Bongwidae warriors lined up behind Dang-myung suddenly knelt on one knee. It was clearly an attitude toward a superior.

The warriors of the Dark King's and the Poison King's troops opened their eyes in surprise at the sudden sight. The Bongwi Troop, who were in charge of protecting the former Sogaju Dokbong, were all skilled warriors. Only someone as skilled as Dokwang Dang Jihyeok could handle them individually, so it would be no exaggeration to say that they were the most elite military force of the Tang family.

How can they kneel before Dang-myeong?

Right behind Dang Yuanming, the leader of the Bongwidae, Dang Wonjin, slowly opened his mouth.

"Amwangdaeju. Our Bongwidae has already decided to recognize this person as the Sogaju. Not only did he win the competition justly, but he also possesses strength that no one among the later generations of the main family can surpass. Not only that, but since he also has Dokbong blood flowing in his veins, he has even acquired legitimacy that has been passed down from the previous generations of the family."

After pouring out his words, Dang Won-jin added another meaningful word.

"As you will soon discover, without him there is no future for the family."

"What the…."

Suddenly, Dangjeok-hwi wondered what had happened in the competition. What kind of appearance had he shown that had enabled him to so clearly sway the hearts of the Bongwi-dae? From what I heard, it seemed like it had only been a little while since he had revealed that he was Dokbong's son. Judging from the fact that he was even talking about the future of the Dang family, it seemed like he had been quite captivated.

"Everyone, stand up."

The guards who had knelt at the master's words stood up and formed a line. The appearance of Dang-myeong, who could command the elite force with a single word, was worthy of a small lord of a family.

Dang Yeong-myeong said calmly.

"Your Majesty. What is the next step…?"

"… It's about checking the fairness of the competition. Even if it's a lonely battle that was decided to be left to chance, we need to check if the entire competition was conducted fairly and under equal conditions. Originally, we should ask Bongwidae, Jegalga, and the other participants… But there's no need to ask Bongwidae."

"Just ask."

Dang-myeong stepped aside and spoke. Following his movements, the Bong-wi-dae also made way, and the only ones left were the eliminated contestants and the members of the Zhuge family, including Zhuge Chang-sin.

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"First, I will ask the contestants. As honorable contestants of the main house competition, you must not hide even one lie."

"yes!"

"Then I will take them one by one and ask them. Each of you should tell me in detail how the competition was conducted and whether there was anything you thought was unfair."

After saying that, Dang Jeok-hwi called in about ten members of the Amwangdae and gave them instructions. They nodded and each announced one contestant.

He took them and disappeared somewhere.

"I will listen to the participants' stories in a place where there is no snow, compare the collated information, and make a judgment."

"All right."

Dang Ji-hyeok glanced at the king of the kings while answering. He was like a barley sack that had been left lying around, unable to participate in the verification process of the competition at all.

It was only natural. I had committed a sin.

Thanks to this, the verification of the competitive procedure was able to be carried out quickly under the leadership of the King of Darkness, Dang Jeok-hwi. Of course, this was also what Dang Sang-myeong intended.

"Then, the members of the Zhuge family, please come here. First, I would like to thank you for your hard work for the family for a long time. My name is Dang Jeok-hwi, the King of Darkness."

"I am Jegal Changsin. Although I am lacking, I am in charge of the Muryangjeon in my family."

"I've heard a lot about the fame of the Muryangjeonju. He's one of the few swordsmen who can perfectly perform the legendary Jilsaehwan Palace Formation."

// //

"Did I misspeak…?"

"No. I was momentarily speechless by the unexpected compliment."

"Haha. You're being too humble."

The conversation between Dang Jihui and the Zhuge family members progressed smoothly. Dang Jihui praised the greatness of the Zhuge family's formation and said that it was certain that the later generations of the family could compete safely. Zhuge Changxin, who saw the young talents participating in the competition and envied the bright future of the family, gave words of encouragement.

In the meantime, the warriors of the Dark King's Army who took the eliminated contestants brought what they had verified. The things the contestants talked about were largely the same, and there were no major issues. It was a clean result, so it was natural. After witnessing the inaction of the obvious, there was no way anyone would complain that the competition was unfair. Unless they wanted to get out of favor with the next head of the household.

"… So. What Zhuge Wuyin said was that there was no outside intervention throughout the entire competition."

"To be exact, it is until 'before the Battle of Solitude.'"

"Yes? So does that mean there was external intervention in the battle of solitude? I don't quite understand what you're saying."

"I'm not saying it wasn't fair. It's just that in the battle of loneliness, there were unexpected events…"

It was when the conversation was reaching its final stages.

"Stop!!"

Someone approached the dark room with a loud voice. The energy in their voice was no joke.

'You're here.'

Since the senses were always on full display, he wasn't surprised. He had already noticed the approach of a considerable number of people with his expanded senses.

Soon, a figure was flying over the wall with a gust of wind. The sight of the long robe fluttering and landing seemed to reveal an extraordinary aura.

Dang Ji-hyeok, who recognized him, said with a surprised expression.

"Elder Samjangro…?"

"Who is it? That guy named Deungmyungmyeong."

"Just fold it."

Although it was the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, who looked angry to anyone, Dang Sang-myeong stepped forward with a calm expression. Dang Seok-hyeong saw this and wiggled his eyebrows slightly. It was because his appearance was like seeing the younger days of Dokbong Dang Ji-hye. Even though he was a peerless young man, he looked like he had no shortcomings.

"Tell me, Dokwangdaeju."

"yes."

"What are you doing now?"

"The contestant and winner, Yuan Ming, was verifying the overall process of the competition in order to ascend to the position of Sogaju."

"Huh. Verification…?"

Dang Seok-hyung muttered as if he was very angry, then turned his head and glared at Dang Sang-myeong.

"I know you very well. You clearly ruined my granddaughter's face. Even back then, I got the impression that you were quite clever, but your temperament is still the same. How dare you covet the position of Sogaju without the permission of this elder…!"

"You said clever?"

Dang Myeong-myeong said with a puzzled expression.

"The competition between the Sogaju clans is under the jurisdiction of the Amdokjeon, which was originally the Gajujeon. Not the Presbyterian Church. Surely someone who has become an Elder would know this."

"… This guy?"

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"As soon as I entered the house, the general said, wouldn't it be right to stop by the elders' house and report first? Are you angry because I didn't?"

Dang Jeok-hwi and Dang Ji-hyeok were shocked by Dang Yu-myeong's words. They naturally assumed that Dang Yu-myeong had visited the presbytery and then came to the dark room.

It's not like you've become a vassal yet. Even if you harbor ill feelings toward the elders, it would be wise to bow down for now…!

"I heard it on my way here. There really is no one like Thunderbolt…!"

"The head of the family's household is the one who should be the one to lead the family. How dare you try to sit in such a position without permission from the elders."

The other elders also came down one after another with a voice. They were all of the same high-spirited divine law. They had a stern demeanor as if they were going to judge the deity.

was leaking.

Dang Jeok-hwi sighed, feeling immense pressure.

'Why do things like this…?'

It was a shame. How could I have incurred the wrath of the elders? Perhaps, even after winning the competition, I could not have become the owner of the small house.

On the other hand, Dang Ji-hyeok had to suppress the joy that spread across his face. He thought that it was inevitable that Dang-myeong would become the owner of the house, but looking at the situation, it seemed that the elders would not tolerate it. What an idiot!

And it didn't end with the elders.

Outside the dark room, a huge crowd of people could be heard. It must have been the elders who brought their direct military units with them.

In this yard where joy and sorrow intersect on Yeorit's face.

Dang-myung thought as he slightly raised his lips. Thankfully, the board was opened wider than expec . Did you just laugh…?'

The third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, was dumbfounded. For a moment, he saw the corners of the man's mouth lift. The aura that the other elders, including him, were giving off right now was as cold as an abstraction. Everyone in the room was trying to endure the pressure by making a face and raising their spirits.

How can you laugh in a situation like this?

'I guess there is a corner of faith.'

The level of the obvious sense of duty was considerable. It seemed to be on the same level as, or even higher than, that of the Dark King, Dang Jeok-hwi.

Although he looked like a young man just before his term of office, he knew that his age was similar to that of his granddaughter, Dang Yeong-ryeong. He must have grown quickly. His actual age was probably fifteen or sixteen. Considering his age, it was an incredible achievement. In the next ten or twenty years, he might become one of the strongest in the vast martial arts world.

'It's a shame that you're wasting your talents.'

When thinking about the future of the family, it might be better to let the name become the head of the household. However, he was Dokbong's son. Judging from what he did upon his return, it seems that he does not have very good feelings toward the elders. It would be natural. He would think that the elders were the reason his mother was stripped of her position as the head of the household. And it was true.

No matter how dazzling the future is that awaits you, what good is it if you have no confidence in that future?

Dang Seok-hyung thought about it and decided that he would never let the name of the cow become the owner.

"Just now, you said permission?"

Dang Myeong-myeong said it naturally. It was a question in response to what the elder Dang Myeong-hu had said as he stepped down - whether he was trying to sit in the seat of the head of the household without the permission of the elders.

"What was the reason for holding the competition in the first place? Wasn't it to gather outstanding later generations regardless of direct or collateral lineage and select the most outstanding one through fair competition without interference from the elders or other high-ranking officials within the family? That's why the person who hosted the competition became a secret."

// //

It was true, so none of the elders opened their mouths. That was why they had to hold the competition with the help of the Zhuge family outside the family.

"I understand that the elders have agreed to the matter of competition. But listening to what the elders are saying now, it seems as if they want a drink that suits their taste."

"Too much talk"

Elder Dang Seok-joong spoke softly. At the same time, an unapproachable heavy aura flowed from him, and for a moment, he poured all that aura on Dang-myeong. It seemed like he was trying to silence her with his aura. If it was a criminal, it would have been difficult to resist the pressure of the aura.

However, Dangsangmyeong calmly accepted the momentum of Dangseokjung. The other elders were surprised at his appearance. They had just noticed the invisible attack and defense between the two. Considering the elder's internal energy, it was unbelievable. Even if he had let it out, it would be hard to believe…!

Dang-myung said, smiling brightly.

"You are being petty. But you can't shut my mouth like that."

"What? A petty person? What's with that guy's way of talking…?"

"No, is that so? Aren't you exerting pressure because you're losing ground? Seeing as you brought in the direct military unit, it seems like you were planning to make a show of force. If the blood relatives of the elders or the spirits of those related to you had won the competition, you wouldn't have acted like this."

"Wow. That guy's got a knack for talking.

The president, Dang Ji-ryong, spoke with a trembling expression. Somehow, as he listened to the words of Dang-myeong, the situation gradually seemed to be flowing strangely. He was going to press on him with momentum, but he was either very bold or fearless, so he poured out what he could and could not say in front of the elders, who were the real powers of the family. Moreover, his words contained justifications, so it was not easy to refute them. In addition to the Amwangdae, Dokwangdae, and Bongwidae, there were quite a few family members who were watching the argument.

"The final winner of the Sogaju competition becomes Sogaju - that was the rule. The Bongwidae and the other contestants have already acknowledged that I am the winner. And if the Amdokjeon acknowledges that I went through a fair process, then no one will be able to say anything if I ascend to the position of Sogaju. Even if it is the Elder Council that has enjoyed real power all this time."

// I //

• • • •

Everyone present was shocked by Dang-myeong's words. Who in the world could stand up to the elders like this? He was not just raising an uprising against one or two elders, but against the entire council of elders!

'Why are you doing that?'

Although Dang Jeok-hwi felt relieved, he couldn't stop worrying. Of course, this side had a justification, but since they had already established an opposing position, the other side would probably try to find fault with it somehow.

As expected.

"They were verifying the process of competition."

The third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, said.

"Amwangdaeju. Were there any particular problems during the competition between Deungmyungmyeong?"

"… Yes. Not only the Bongwidae, but also the participants had no objection to the obvious victory. However, we were listening to what the Zhuge family had to say."

As he said that, Dang Jeok-hwi glanced at Jegal Chang-sin. It was because he remembered that he had tried to say something about the Battle of Loneliness.

Following Dang Jeok-hwi's gaze, Dang Seok-hyeong also looked at Jegal Chang-sin, and he greeted him first.

"I am pleased to meet the three elders."

"Yes. It's the Mu-ryang-jeon-ju. You've had a hard time."

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"No. It was thanks to the support of the Tang family that our Zhuge family was able to survive. We should help them."

"Since this is a serious matter, let's stop with the formalities. I'll get straight to the point. Was the process of competing for the small business fair?"

"You said it was fair…."

Jegal Changsin trailed off and looked at Dang Seok-hyeong's expression. He understood Jang Ro-won's position. Who would have thought that Dang Yuanming was the son of Dok Bong, the former head of the small family? For the existing vested interests of the Tang family, this was a thorn in their side, and they were suddenly rising to the position of the head of the small family. They would try to stop him somehow.

"That's true. If the competition was held in a controlled environment with a strict system, I wonder if there were any unpleasant incidents or external interventions during the competition."

"that…."

Jegal Changsin couldn't answer right away. It was because he felt that the third elder, Dang Seok-hyeong, was asking him questions as if he knew something.

In fact, Dang Seok-hyeong was suspicious of the fact that his granddaughter, Dang Yeong-ryeong, possessed the Hwa-ryong-ho-dok, one of the Dang family poisons, but was unable to do anything to Dang-sik-myeong, so he asked, but Zhuge Chang-sin had no way of knowing.

'There is something.'

Dang Seok-hyeong's eyes flashed. Jegal Chang-sin hesitated for a moment, but it was enough. If there was even the slightest bit of room for criticism during the competition, he would use that as an excuse to completely cancel the competition for Sogaju.

"Tell me. If you feel any pressure to tell the truth, then you don't have to. I promise that this will never cause estrangement between the Tang family and the Zhuge family."

After saying that, he told Dang-myung-myeong that he, the winner of the competition, would also have to agree to this.

"I agree."

Dang-myung said with a meaningful smile.

Because it seemed like it was finally time to decide what to do with Zhuge Liang.

****

A dark, enclosed room where you can barely make out shapes.

There was a large round table, and a group of people were sitting around it with serious expressions on their faces.

They were the leaders of the Sapha forces under the Black Lotus of Sacheon. This level of darkness was not enough to obscure their vision.

A dark-skinned man with an extremely thin body like a mosquito spoke first. He was the head of the Chobungmunju Yeop Inje.

"As you all know, something unexpected happened."

"… This is unbelievable. I never thought that Jang Moon and Jeong Bang Joo would go away so vainly."

The woman in the blue robe embroidered with flame patterns, Yeo Seol-ryeon of Simhwabangju, spoke in a somber tone. When she was young, there were rumors that she had a secret affair with Jang Moon-mok of the Taeeulmukgeompa, but no one knew whether it was true or not, but now she had a vague look in her eyes. As if she was reminiscing about her old lover.

"Could it be that they were tricked by the Tang faction? They used the competition as bait to set a trap for us."

"How could that be? They've been stuck there for over three years. There's no sign of any other forces moving around, so it can't be a trap."

"I sent someone to Taeeulmukgeompa to find out, and it seems like Jangmun took almost two hundred people with him. He led most of his available forces. It seems like he's prepared excessively, as if he's going to face a life-or-death battle… I don't know the exact details. It's also said that Jeong Bangju brought the best of Cheonjinbang with him. It's understandable since the two were so close. It's also said that Hyeonjungdomun sent several disciples to support him. We should assume that at least three hundred people were involved."

"I asked the people who witnessed the movement, and they said there seemed to be over three hundred of them."

"That many people left behind only corpses…."

For a moment, a heavy silence settled between them. Two factions that were quite powerful had joined forces, and even their leaders had participated in the battle, yet they were annihilated…!

It was hard to believe. It was just a plan to cut off the buds that would become the mainstay of the Tang family. Didn't others also think it was a light matter and didn't send any support?

Deep Ark's Yeo Seol-ryeon broke the silence and opened her mouth.

"As expected. I guess the communist faction intervened. They were the ones who cremated the bodies."

"Deep Ark. It's still too early to think that way. To be honest, I don't believe they're the ones who stepped forward. Since the old faction became the sixth faction, hasn't the old faction been extremely cautious about their outside activities? Was the old faction that close to the Tang family…?"

"It may not have been a big intrusion into the territory."

"They're not stupid. If they had read the Taeeulmukgeompa's long text, they would have realized that they were targeting the Tang family. It's more likely that they would have chosen to wait and see rather than intervene."

"Then what is the possibility that they were attacked by the Tang guys there…?"

"Haven't you ever seen the long-form Taeeulsanggeomsik? To be honest, at least one or two elders of the Tang family would have to come to deal with him. Also, Jeong Bang-ju's Cheonjinjang is worthy of being called the best. It's absurd that they were all slaughtered. Even considering the number of people who entered the city, the Tang family's damage was almost non-existent."

"It's back to square one. What on earth happened…?"

"It's difficult to ask the Tang family about it. It seems like the main group attacked first…"

"Okay. I know it's frustrating, but let's first rule over the territory in place of the greatly weakened Taeeulmukgeompa and keep an eye on the Tang family. Now that the competition is over, won't something change? A new Sogaju will be established, and we'll figure out the truth then."

The conversation was cut off appropriately by the chief priest of the Chobungmun Church.

Those sitting in the darkness nodded their heads, each lost in their own thoughts. They seemed to be perceiving what had already happened and what would happen in the future.

It was an appearance befitting of the leaders of the Sacheon martial arts world.

However, no one present knew that there were signs of change in Sacheon, which seemed like it would always be their world.

It was the same principle that the core of a typhoon was always calm.