Reincarnated Sword Ghost

Chapter 52 : Dragon-Phoenix Gathering

Dragon-Phoenix Gathering

"Young master Wei!"

Jin Seoyeon spoke, sounding incredulous.

It was understandable.

The Dragon-Phoenix Gathering—didn't she herself define it as a place where only the rising stars of the surrounding regions gathered to foster friendships and exchange martial arts?

And yet, he was so casually breaking that definition himself; it was only natural for her to be taken aback.

Of course, what truly concerned Jin Seoyeon was not that the purpose of the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering might be undermined.

The true reason was that Wei Jinmyeong's intention to suddenly invite Jeong-un to that occasion was glaringly obvious.

"What's the matter?"

Wei Jinmyeong asked, feigning nonchalance—as if he already knew what Jin Seoyeon was about to object to.

"Young hero Ha is just a passing guest here."

"Which is why he could be even more helpful, don't you think?"

"... What did you say?"

"A martial artist wandering the world alone must have seen and realized much. The chance to befriend such a person is rare. Or perhaps, young Lady, do you think the experiences of this young hero would not be of much help here?"

"What on earth...!"

Jin Seoyeon frowned, as if at a complete loss for words.

Unable to hold herself back, the Huayeon Gate Leader stepped in to support her.

"I, too, think my daughter is not wrong. Wasn't this gathering meant for the rising stars of this Jinyang Prefecture? It does seem to diverge from the original intent."

Wei Jinmyeong looked at the Huayeon Gate Leader and spoke mercilessly.

"Gate Leader, the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering is an event for young people. While I appreciate your concern, it is not your place to interfere."

"..."

An embarrassed look flitted across Jin Namjung's face. Next to him, Jin Seoyeon's face immediately hardened.

She closed her eyes as if swallowing an insult.

After all, since the Gate Leader, Jin Namjung, had already stepped back, she hesitated to press further, fearful of making her father look even more undignified.

Jeong-un was watching Wei Jinmyeong.

'Didn't he propose a marital match not long ago?'

Yet his behavior was far from respectful—especially considering he was speaking to the head of that very household.

He had heard that in prestigious families, even their children's manners were subject to strict training—that dignity should be apparent even in their gait or smallest gesture.

According to the ever-opinionated Jo Gwang, they were even made to study the Four Books and Five Classics for culture; anyone failing to master them in childhood was considered a simpleton.

With these thoughts, Jeong-un suddenly spoke up.

"Even among orthodox martial families, there is quite a range of characters."

"... What are you trying to say?"

Wei Jinmyeong narrowed his eyes.

"I heard orthodox martial families teach etiquette rigorously from childhood."

"...?"

"Doesn't the Wei Sword Clan also claim to be a prestigious clan?"

"..."

Realizing his point, Wei Jinmyeong let out a short laugh.

"Are you perhaps, here and now, daring to insult my family?"

"Insult?"

Me? Jeong-un tilted his head slightly, looking at Wei Jinmyeong as if asking whether he failed to see what was wrong with what he had said.

"I believe the one insulting the Wei Sword Clan just now wasn't me."

"How insolent. Are you telling me to reflect on my words?"

"If you've never tried it before, perhaps do so. It might be a refreshing experience."

Even Jeong-un was surprised by the mischievous tone of his own words; he had never spoken this way before.

Had he picked it up from spending time with Baek Il-gang?

With that thought, he continued.

"As you said, I have traveled throughout the Central Plains and witnessed many facets of the martial world. Among them, I happened to meet a child of one of the five great families; it left a deep impression. Even in the smallest step, you could sense noble dignity."

Jeong-un spoke as he recalled Tang Yerin.

Though at first glance she seemed bold in speech and action, a closer look revealed traces of the unique poise characteristic of prestigious families.

He could guess she had received strict etiquette training since childhood.

"So?"

Wei Jinmyeong asked, his brows furrowed.

"If the Wei Sword Clan truly wishes to become a prestigious clan, though you may not walk side by side with those families, shouldn't you at least look in the same direction?"

"... Ha."

At Jeong-un's words, Wei Jinmyeong let out a hollow chuckle. Then, straightening his face, he said,

"So now, a passing guest thinks he can lecture me. When do you plan to leave? I look forward to the moment you step out of the Huayeon Gate."

"Young master Wei!"

Jin Seoyeon quickly stepped in. She had never expected the atmosphere to become this hostile from the very moment Wei Jinmyeong announced his arrival.

She turned to Jin Namjung, intent on bringing the gathering to a close quickly.

"Father, let's end things here for today. The mood has gotten rather—"

"I imagine you'll be crossing the threshold before long."

"...?"

At the sudden interjection, Jin Seoyeon turned her head in confusion.

Jeong-un, looking directly at Wei Jinmyeong, continued nonchalantly.

"After all, I'll have to attend the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering you've so graciously invited me to."

"...!"

Jin Seoyeon's eyes widened in shock.

It never even crossed her mind that Jeong-un would actually accept such an unreasonable suggestion.

She looked stricken and rushed to stop him.

"Young hero Ha, that's—!"

"You have quite the spirit."

But Wei Jinmyeong answered as if he had been waiting for this all along.

"Judging by your words, you really do seem well-versed in the affairs of the martial world. I look forward to our meeting."

"I, too, am excited to build friendships with the renowned rising stars gathered here."

"Don't worry. I'll personally... introduce you to everyone."

Jeong-un nodded silently.

Beside him, the Huayeon Gate Leader watched, face grave—clearly feeling his own powerlessness.

"Seems like Young lady Jin wants to end the gathering, so I'll take my leave. I'll excuse myself for today."

Wei Jinmyeong bowed to the Huayeon Gate Leader, then turned to go, a satisfied smile on his lips.

Then, as if he'd remembered something, he turned back.

"Oh, I almost forgot—there's one thing to clarify."

"...?"

He took a step closer, leaned over, and beamed a grin at Jeong-un.

"Should a martial artist not follow the laws of the martial world?"

"...?"

"And those laws, more often than not, are decided at the tip of a sword."

Then, his smile vanished into a steely expression as he whispered,

"... The order in this Jinyang Prefecture is decided and regulated by my clan. Don't try to lecture me again."

With a burning gaze, he turned sharply on his heel and walked out through the door.

'So they're the ones regulating order...'

Jeong-un repeated Wei Jinmyeong's parting words to himself, quietly snickering.

And so, the gathering ended.

"I am sorry, I think I've spoiled a good occasion because of me."

"No, I should apologize for being unable to protect you."

"..."

"Go and get some rest."

Jeong-un looked gently at the Huayeon Gate Leader, who forced a smile as he replied. His own heart felt heavy.

'He must have gone through much of this, too.'

To bear responsibility sometimes demanded endless patience.

With the Wei Sword Clan—and the Myriad Gold Merchant Guild—tightening the noose, there hadn't been much he could do.

There had likely been many such humiliating moments as the one earlier.

Sometimes resisting, sometimes withdrawing—holding out till now had shaped this present.

"..."

Jeong-un bowed without a word.

Even if it weren't Huayeon Gate, those people were targets that had to be eliminated.

Even if he weren't a member of the Heavenly Martial Hall, it would have been the same.

'There's no way I'd let people like that be.'

He didn't know much about chivalry or righteousness. He hadn't considered it deeply.

He simply couldn't stand those intoxicated by their own strength, oppressing others.

'For those people, "oppression" doesn't even begin to cover it.'

Especially here—the ones in charge didn't regard people as people.

They saw lives as fodder for martial advancement, as tools. Twisted beings living twisted lives. All deserving of death.

As he left the inner quarters, Jin Seoyeon hurried after him.

"Young hero Ha, please, say you'll cancel."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean your agreement to attend the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering."

"Why?"

Jin Seoyeon furrowed her brows.

"For obvious reasons—it won't be a safe place for you. Don't you see what Young master Wei is trying to do? He intends to shame you in front of everyone."

"I'm not concerned."

Jeong-un answered calmly, recalling Wei Jinmyeong's behavior.

'Even more arrogant than I expected.'

Compared to his actual martial ability, his arrogance was over the top.

Judging by his conduct, he really wasn't far from the five great clans.

But in a way, it was understandable.

To control so much territory, he must have deep ties with officials like the area magistrate.

No obstacles in his way at all.

The so-called "non-interference of officials" was a thing of the past.

The royal family itself had supported the creation of the Murim Alliance.

That's why its military arm, the Heavenly Martial Hall, was busy sending warriors everywhere.

'It's a world where strength is power.'

In the martial world, the moment you can sense internal energy and master even 3rd-rate martial arts, you're above commoners.

Gaining more power, you can quickly build your own household and enjoy luxury.

That's why those with fortunes seek out martial manuals first.

"I heard this Dragon-Phoenix Gathering will be held at the Myriad Gold Merchant Guild's manor, correct?"

Jeong-un recalled overhearing such information. Jin Seoyeon gave a slight nod.

"Yes, which makes things even worse. All the participants will be people trying to curry favor with them, and the place itself is their den."

"That must have been trying for you."

Jeong-un recalled what he had observed during his previous reconnaissance.

Even if she didn't know the full situation, it was only natural for her to feel averse simply being present there.

'And to hold a feast, laughing and drinking in such a place?'

Were they careless, or did they just look down on the local martial artists that much?

Either way, it was a disgusting hobby—all too characteristic of the Evil Faction.

"It doesn't matter to me, though. In fact, it's just as well."

As he said this, Jin Seoyeon regarded him with a grave face.

"Young hero Ha."

"...?"

"You mustn't assume this will simply be a light gathering. When martial artists meet, wine and swords are both drawn."

"I'm not taking it lightly."

Jeong-un replied.

'I would never take it lightly.'

He had already witnessed with his own eyes what transpired there.

His perspective had changed since then.

This was no simple matter of punishing a few Evil Faction members who had crossed the line.

It was about wiping out an entrenched power holding sway over an entire region.

"Are attendants or guards allowed at the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering?"

"No."

Jin Seoyeon shook her head.

"As Young master Wei said, only rising stars are allowed. It's supposed to be a free and open assembly. Most will be around Young hero Ha's age. That's the biggest issue, really..."

"I heard the merchant guildmaster's son will attend?"

"Yes. I haven't seen him myself, but it's said he's mastered the recommended method. Even the internal energy I sensed from him was quite solid."

"A martial master as the merchant guildmaster's son. I'm looking forward to it."

"... Young hero Ha..."

Jin Seoyeon sighed in resignation.

"When you go, make sure to stay close to me. As long as I'm there, they won't dare act rashly."

With that, Jeong-un let out a small chuckle.

"Young hero Ha?"

"I'll be sure to stick by your side."

"...?"

"And you must stay by mine. No matter what."

"... What?"

With that, he bid farewell and turned around.

There was much to prepare.