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Chapter 226: The Awakening

As Moyong Hi-ah turned away from Gu Yangcheong and made her way to her residence, something compelled her to stop and crouch down on the darkened path.

“Phew… huh.”

She wrapped her arms around her belly, exhaling deeply, her face tinged with an unusual redness.

“Are you okay, Miss?!”

The servant standing outside hurried over to check on her condition, but Moyong Hi-ah brushed him away, insisting she was fine.

“I’m okay… I’m just having a hard time adjusting.”

“Pardon?”

The heat swirling within her was a sensation she had never experienced before.

It was a stark contrast to the cold she had always wrapped herself in.

The warmth coursing through her body was simply too foreign.

‘…It’s warm.’

She wasn’t cold.

This was something Moyong Hi-ah had longed for deeply.

Though it might have been too much warmth all at once, causing her discomfort.

“Ahhh…”

Beyond everything else, she was overwhelmed with an exhilarating joy—whether it was from pushing away the cold or the thrill of this new sensation, she couldn’t quite tell.

‘…He truly was the answer.’

Whatever it was, it seemed to be what she wished for.

“You know…”

“Yes, Miss?”

“I think I need to add one more thing to our clan’s proposal.”

“What? The clan proposal? Didn’t you finish that already?”

The negotiations with the Gu Clan had been led by Moyong Hi-ah, and the head of the Moyong family had outright rejected any collaboration due to doubts and concerns about their line.

This was the first time Moyong Hi-ah had asked the clan leader for such a demand, putting her own body on the line to gain approval.

Though she secured the agreement, she was told she would need to bring Jin Ryong for evaluation.

Of course, she hadn’t mentioned a thing to Gu Yangcheong about any of this.

“…We should talk about the engagement.”

“Engagement?!”

At Moyong Hi-ah’s words, the servant’s face turned pale.

It was obvious what the topic would be, and it made her anxious.

“Miss… could it be…”

“Yes?”

Moyong Hi-ah nodded at the servant’s inquiry.

Even as she spoke, her face reddened further, likely from the heat enveloping her, flushing even her ears.

Looking directly at the servant, she finally stated, “It needs to be cancelled.”

The need to cancel was regarding the secret engagement occurring with the Nangong family.

Once daylight broke, she rose from her bed and left her room.

Exhaustion weighed on her, though it wasn’t just because she hadn’t slept well that night.

It had to be the mental fatigue settling in.

“…I’m going to die.”

As she trudged outside, three intruders were huddled in the corner of her room.

On one side, Wi Seol-ah and Tang Soyeol were asleep, using Nangong Bi-ah’s belly as a pillow.

Amused, she chuckled softly.

“They could at least sleep in their own rooms.”

Last night had been a mess, caught up for hours trying to explain her situation to Nangong Bi-ah.

It hadn’t needed to take so long to make her understand why she had to go through all that.

Nangong Bi-ah and Wi Seol-ah seemed to have given up understanding midway, though Tang Soyeol, with her relentless curiosity, kept prodding further.

‘Why do I even need to explain this?’

Despite those thoughts, she dutifully explained everything as best as she could.

For the most part…

It boiled down to the deal being too big to refuse.

Yet the conditions offered by the Moyong family to the Gu Clan had been downright shocking.

It left Tang Soyeol nodding her head in agreement.

‘Though she looked at me with those curious eyes the whole time…’

While listening to the story, Tang Soyeol wore an utterly perplexed expression, but knowing her usual strange thoughts, Moyong Hi-ah decided to let it slide.

“Young Master.”

As she sat on the porch enjoying the sunlight, Hongwa appeared and greeted her.

“Did you have a peaceful night?”

“…Did it look like I did?”

Hongwa subtly averted her gaze, not even uttering a word about the three women peacefully snoozing in her room.

After all, with several instances where Nangong Bi-ah or Wi Seol-ah had sneaked in, perhaps it was something she had gotten used to by now.

Of course, upon noticing Wi Seol-ah was among them, her eyebrows knit together in concern.

‘Guess I’ll get scolded later.’

It was odd how Nadong Bi-ah, who treads the line between boldness and audacity, could maintain such a stubborn streak even while receiving scoldings.

‘Could she also be someone who throws a fit like me?’

“I’ll prepare breakfast. Would you like me to cook for the others as well?”

“…Yes, please. Oh, by the way, can I ask something?”

“Yes.”

“How did they get in here?”

“Pardon?”

Putting aside Wi Seol-ah, she questioned how Nangong Bi-ah and Tang Soyeol could casually enter her room.

While Nangong Bi-ah was a free spirit, her behavior did feel half-consciously ignored.

But for someone like Tang Soyeol, who belonged to a legitimate bloodline, it seemed unlikely she’d come here without permission.

Was her inquiry out of place?

Feeling slightly taken aback, Hongwa responded.

“Did you not allow them in…?”

“…When did I say that?”

“Nangong Young Lady and Tang Young Lady surely…”

As she trailed off, noting something odd, Hongwa flinched.

“I’m truly sorry. I should have confirmed properly.”

Seems she had blindly trusted the two girls’ words.

Had she really just let them waltz in without an issue?

“…It’s alright. It’s fine here, but what about the Tang Clan? Are they also fine with this?”

That was the main concern.

While she could grudgingly accept Nangong Bi-ah, would Tang Soyeol truly be left alone if the Tang Clan caught wind of this?

‘If the Poison King finds out, I doubt it’ll end well for any of us.’

There was little room for doubt regarding that.

Considering the Tang Clan would know about studying in another residence.

As well, the fact that Tang Soyeol was around Nangong Bi-ah was largely concerning.

‘…I just hope this doesn’t become a problem.’

Though Tang Soyeol assured her there was no issue on her end.

‘Though trusting Hao Gate isn’t guaranteed either.’

At least it might be a little better.

‘So, how do I sweet-talk Elder Muk?’

Once the thought crossed her mind, she instinctively pulled out the seal he had gifted her.

It was something Elder Muk had given to her.

“If you need to know about something, just use this,” he had instructed.

‘…But what on earth do you want me to do with this?’

Could it be used like the Orb of Heavenly Road? She tried asking and twisting it various ways.

But it seemed it wasn’t that kind of item.

‘Especially since this was made with his energy.’

That thought made her feel uneasy.

Of course, she couldn’t simply throw it away.

‘What would happen if I did?’

Was this perhaps bound to him in a way that it could return to him?

As she examined the seal, figuring out its potential uses, she suddenly felt someone approaching from behind.

Swiftly, two soft hands wrapped around her from behind.

She could tell who it was just by hearing the cute sniffling sound.

“Why are you clinging to me right after waking up?”

“Eeee….”

Gah, of course it was Wi Seol-ah.

“I’m sleepy~.”

“Then go back to sleep.”

“Can’t do that…” “Why? … Is it because you need to eat?”

It was around the time for breakfast after all.

Wondering if Wi Seol-ah was hungry, she started to convey the message to Hongwa when she quietly whispered,

“…Young Master, you’re going today.”

“Ah.” Was it because she had to enter the closed training at noon?

Moyong Hi-ah chuckled lightly at this realization.

“Where would I even go?”

She might indeed be cooped up for two months, but that location was inside the Gu Clan’s territory, so it wasn’t like she would be far away.

“…But.”

The grip around her tightened.

Was it the desire not to let go manifesting as a gentle feeling in her heart?

“…Can’t I go with you?”

“I’ve never heard of someone training in closed confines alongside another.”

“I, I could train too…”

As Wi Seol-ah began to speak, suddenly,

“Gah…!”

Wi Seol-ah’s hands were released, and the warmth at her side dissipated.

Curious about what had happened, she turned to find Nangong Bi-ah pulling Wi Seol-ah away.

Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she straightforwardly said, “Stop that.”

“Sister…”

“…He’s uncomfortable…”

Nangong Bi-ah stated with finality, and Wi Seol-ah bit her lip in silence.

Watching Wi Seol-ah’s glistening eyes, Moyong Hi-ah’s heart sank, but it was best to remain quiet.

“I don’t mind…”

“…You too, just stay quiet…”

“Okay…”

With Nangong Bi-ah still feeling sour from yesterday’s events, there was nothing more she could say.

Knowing that a cranky Bi-ah wouldn’t listen to anything spoken to her made it a necessity to comply.

Glancing around, she noticed a sleepy Tang Soyeol rubbing her eyes and waking up too.

Tang Soyeol, spotting her, jumped and fussed about fixing her clothes.

“Uh, what should I do? What if I snore…?”

“Not much.”

“I snore?!”

“Just joking.”

It seemed that she might have, but hardly to a noticeable extent.

“First, spending our first night like this…”

While Moyong Hi-ah remarked, Tang Soyeol appeared visibly shocked, melting down at the thought.

Leaving the three to their own devices, she then suggested, “…Let’s just eat breakfast.”

Fortunately, her suggestion was met with nods.

Breakfast was indeed important.

As they finished breakfast and prepared to head to the training grounds, she thought,

“…Ultimately, you’re the one heading towards danger.”

“Who’s dying? What kind of reaction will…”

“I’m worried about whether you won’t cause any trouble even when you’re inside.”

Elder Lee, who was still wrapped in bandages, insisted on seeing her off, dragging his weak body despite his pain.

By the way, Gu Huibi had indeed come, but she hadn’t said a word since her arrival.

“Sister.”

Still, nothing in response.

Frustrated, Moyong Hi-ah pressed, “Why are you sulking?”

“Who’s sulking? Do you want to die, younger sibling?”

“Talk with some power in your eyes.”

“My eyes are always filled with power.”

That much was true; a glance at Gu Huibi’s current state showed signs of recovering from her ailments slowly.

While Shin Yi had come looking for her, Moyong Hi-ah denied all claims on her behalf.

“…Make sure to eat well.”

She casually added, and the incredulity washed over her.

“Isn’t it just going to be wall preserves in there? What do you expect me to eat?”

“If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t eat anything.”

“Who am I, a child? If I’m hungry, I’ll find something to eat myself.”

Why would she need to be coddled like a toddler?

Was this what they considered a reasonable reaction in this era?

Sensing her buzzed, Gu Huibi turned swiftly and walked toward her own residence.

“I don’t know, figure it out. I’m off.”

“Alright.”

“Not even begging me to stay; that’s why raising you feels pointless.”

With a huff, Gu Huibi faded from view.

Seeing her go, Elder Lee let out a resigned sigh.

“What did you do this time to make Huibi act up?”

“…I didn’t do anything.”

Truly, she hadn’t done a thing.

In fact, she had gotten rid of the demon energy and even restored her health.

Why was Gu Huibi being such a pain?

“Gu Clan Head won’t be coming.”

“I know.”

After all, no one knew better than she that her father wouldn’t show up for trivial matters.

She didn’t really care.

“…Young Master.”

The weepy Wi Seol-ah bounded into her arms.

“You’re crying again?”

“I’m not crying…”

“…Then please refrain from wiping your snot on my clothes?”

The sensation of her chest becoming wet seemed to be merely a trick of the mind.

“Make sure you eat well. I’ll be back soon.”

“…Okay.”

Petting Wi Seol-ah’s hair, she noticed that she hadn’t had much of an appetite, leaving her food untouched.

…The great Wi Seol-ah left food behind. Was it just because of her? That thought left a strange feeling in her heart.

Though it might be trivial.

As she gave Wi Seol-ah one last stroke, her gaze shifted toward the others.

“What’s with everyone gathering as if for some grand endeavor?”

“…Take care…”

Nangong Bi-ah waved her hand goodbye.

Was it just her eyes playing tricks, or did her gaze seem unusually droopy?

Tang Soyeol too wore an expression that suggested many things to say yet found herself unable to utter a word.

Seeing them off, she waved her hand in farewell and said, “Muyeon.”

“Yes, Young Master.”

Approaching Muyeon, she said, “Congratulations.”

“Thank you…”

Muyeon bowed deeply at her words.

In the time they hadn’t seen each other, Muyeon had risen to a whole new level.

How could she not know? She had proudly announced her ascent to anyone who would listen.

‘…Didn’t she even brag about it to the Sword Sovereign?’

Despite the heavy presence, Muyeon was surprisingly outspoken.

She instructed, “While I’m away, just handle what I asked of you properly.”

“Yes. I will proceed without errors.”

“Right, but don’t go too overboard.”

Speaking of which, Gu Ryeonghwa had made a point of not coming around, suggesting she would see her in two months anyway.

“…Sigh. This is why raising you feels pointless.”

Murmuring to herself about Gu Ryeonghwa brought about an unfriendly glance from Elder Lee.

What kind of thoughts were running through his head?

“Time to head out.”

Leaving the others behind, she set her feet into motion. The two months would pass quickly enough.

‘Honestly, I’m going to get punished for this, aren’t I?’

Especially since it was punishment earned due to causing a ruckus.

“…Young Master!”

As she tried to slip through the gap, Wi Seol-ah called out to her from behind.

“Hmm?”

“Y-You have to hurry out…?”

It wasn’t as if she could just jump up and leave immediately.

“…I’ll try my best?”

“Promise me you won’t forget…?”

Holding tightly onto a gift she had given to her, Wi Seol-ah appeared so pitiful.

Had they grown too attached?

What kind of issue could arise from mere distance?

“Of course, I won’t forget; so no need to worry.”

“…Okay.”

Upon hearing that, Wi Seol-ah finally smiled.

With her reassuring expression in the back of her mind, she stepped forward.

Boom-!

As she fully entered the space, she instantly heard the sound of something sealing shut behind her.

Sure enough, it would be the entrance closing.

‘It’s warm.’

The dim space wasn’t too large, but it was filled with enough heat to make even her sweat.

This was indeed the special training ground the Gu Clan’s bloodline utilized, emanating ridiculous warmth.

Moreover, one corner was stocked full of water and wall preserves.

Two months? She could endure for half a year if need be.

Without hesitation, she plopped herself down on the floor.

Flame Burst.

Closing her eyes, she ignited her flames.

There was no way she could waste these two months.

And additionally,

During this available time, there were important matters to clarify.

‘Hey.’

This wasn’t for summoning Shin Noya.

She didn’t expect a response from him.

She had already made prior arrangements for that.

‘If you’re awake, you should answer.’

Delving her mind deeper, she began to sink into the floor.

Should she go further down to the Lower Dantian? Would that help her be more comfortable?

‘If you don’t respond, I’ll stop feeding you.’

As she pondered how far to go, it suddenly occurred to her that maybe mentioning food provoked a reaction.

[…Grr.]

From the darkness, she heard the faint cry of some beast.

She needed to maintain composure; not understanding what sort of creature it might be was nerve-wracking.

Slowly, her voice took on a casual tone.

“Shall we have a discussion?”

With a feigned playful smile, she addressed her unruly tenant.

 

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