687 - The Outcast Writer of a Martial Arts Visual Novel

“I apologize!” The moment the Jeagal family’s jade token was presented, a reaction occurred immediately. The guard who had earlier flattened me to the ground like a pancake was now kneeling to apologize. “If that’s all it is, then it’s alright.” “I’m truly sorry!” “I understand the difficulties subordinate staff face. It’s important to avoid unnecessary trouble before your superiors react.” I made an understanding gesture, subtly pointing to my waist. Following my gaze, the guard noticed a familiar item at my hip and, startled, inquired: “A token? Are you perhaps a constable?” Indeed, a token. While it couldn’t be used in this jurisdiction, it was still solid proof of being a constable. “Kang Gongja-nim (Master Kang) is an illustrious constable known even in Wu Han.” Bu Chonggwan Unyeob, who was beside us, chimed in with some ready words. “Is that so...” “It’s nothing major. In the future, try not to disregard folks with black hair. You never know when you might come across someone like me.” “I will remember that.” Though aware of the discrimination as a so-called barbarian, I decided to let it slide. The apologetic guard couldn't very well deny the misunderstanding, so he just blushed. “Guards, dismissed.” After the guards left, Bu Chonggwan Unyeob turned to me. “Such valuable information about a notable constable should suffice, don’t you think?” The guards would likely return, saying they apologized and were forgiven, sharing other information about me as well. “Even if they don’t recognize Kang Yoon-ho’s name, the fame of the renowned black-haired constable is widespread in Hubei Province. Soon, even in Hunan Province, the news will spread.” “Good.” It’s easy to drive away a black-haired ‘barbarian’ who came to collect debts. But after hearing about my status and reputation, would they readily make an attempt? Satisfied, I unfastened the token from my waist and placed it alongside my other belongings. “You sure brought a lot of stuff when we left,” Gil San-i remarked, shaking his head. “I’ve had my share of troubles visiting martial clans. One needs to be well-prepared.” Before me lay the token proving my role as a constable, the jade token from the Jeagal family, the token representing Hubei’s Haowen group, and various other items. It would have been nice to have a token from the Tang family too. I couldn’t exactly demand it back after giving it up for Hwa-rin’s rescue, and claiming evidence of being part of the Tang family would ruin my facade. A bit regretful, really. “You mentioned nearly dying at the Tang family too? Considering you’ve had two nearly fatal encounters each time with martial clans, it’s no wonder you’ve grown wary.” Actually, it was three. Do I have some ill fate with martial clans? Why do I always encounter life-threatening situations whenever I visit one? This time, let’s return safely. I came prepared for that. “When asking martial artists to repay money, be wary, like Kang Gongja-nim. They may change at any moment, despite their previous stance.” “Well, if things go wrong, the pillar of the family might be uprooted,” Gil San-i agreed with Unyeob’s words, nodding. Though categorized as orthodox factions in the martial world, the Nine Schools and martial clans have very different natures. The Nine Schools are somewhat religious, with practitioners behaving in religous manners. On the other hand, martial clans are warrior families wielding swords. They may live as orthodox factions due to social and official expectations, but as local nobles immersed in worldly affairs, one must be wary of their unpredictable nature. That’s why I made thorough preparations. “Now, let’s see how these prideful warriors react.” --- “Kang Yoon-ho. He’s reportedly resolved numerous murder cases in Wu Han, captured the fake Mu-Yeong-shin, and even caught a demon.” The extra information about Kang Yoon-ho reached the Jinju Un family’s Ga-ju-jeon, where Ga-ju Un Ja-myung and his close associates were gathered, the very next day. “A demon? That warrants a martial reputation, doesn’t it?” Un Ja-myung’s eyes widened upon hearing such unexpected achievements. “His work as a constable is why he’s known more as an illustrious constable rather than for his martial reputation.” “Ah.” A gasp tinged with surprise escaped Ga-ju’s lips. Defeating a demon. Even orthodox warriors struggle with such feats. How did an ordinary merchant accomplish this? “Is that why the Jeagal family took in this black-haired man as a son-in-law?” “But still! A black-haired person!” “Could this be misheard information?!” Even the close associates found such claims difficult to believe. “Everyone, be quiet.” “…” Whether he’s the successor of the Mankeum Guild is uncertain, but being described as a black-haired brat— He is the Jeagal family's son-in-law, which changes things. “Which father would readily bestow his beloved youngest daughter? It implies that there’s substantial trust vested in the black-haired heir.” Un Ja-myung had heard of Jeagal gaju’s profound affection for his children. “Indeed, quite true.” “If this is what we’ve discovered, what more lies hidden?” Given this as his side activity as a constable, how impactful would his main occupation be? Both Ga-ju and his associates nodded in agreement. Although Kang Yoon-ho is no longer perceived as a mere black-haired barbarian but as an esteemed guest, it didn’t improve their situation. “On one side, we have a long-standing relation with the Siwang elder. On the other, the Jeagal family’s son-in-law. What is this situation...?” “I thought it’d be straightforward.” “At first, it sounded preposterous. Yet, if the debt is owed, it’s owed; why yell?” Ga-ju furrowed his brows, scolding an associate who regretted their rash remark. “My apologies. Words slipped out in frustration.” Nodding, Ga-ju Un Ja-myung pictured Kang Yoon-ho’s face. A black-haired person as the Mankeum Guild’s successor and Jeagal family’s son-in-law. Selected as a successor by Gold-turtle Jang-noya and acknowledged by Jeagal gaju? A mere black-haired individual... This implies possessing something remarkable enough to overlook the discriminated appearance. Jeagal gaju’s affection poses a risk of their involvement in resolving the Un family's debt issue. “Kang Yoon-ho. No, as a guest, I should address him as Kang Gongja. Summon Kang Gongja.” This situation needed to be addressed. YW9peUx5cktZYXhyU2hzY1VsMkQ0VkRPU3UrcUVNbHhVMGZ5M3lrSWlPcVJjTzFRUVduNDh6ZFJaVVJFRWcxYw "I can't guarantee when my uncle will return." Ungajoo, who was seemingly indifferent to my presence at the threshold, spoke with an apologetic expression the moment we met again. “That’s unfortunate news. I came to discuss the debt and was hoping to swiftly return to the side of my beloved fiancée.” It was one of the scenarios I anticipated. I scratched my head with a troubled expression. As the Jeagal family’s jade token swayed on my wrist, I noticed Ungajoo’s gaze fixate on it. Let’s emphasize right from the start—this is a brand new, special edition jade token from the Jeagal family. Got it? “I happened to hear who your father-in-law is…” “Indeed. My prospective father-in-law, the Jeagal family head, was quite pleased with me as a son-in-law, and thus recently granted me permission to marry.” As I smiled and confirmed, Ungajoo’s expression momentarily stiffened, although he kept smiling. I’ve brought with me documents indicating an unimaginable amount of debt, backed by the Jeagal family. It wouldn’t be wise to lightly discuss debt repayment. “Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. But this is a predicament. We’ll need my uncle to return for this discussion to proceed.” “If it’s acceptable, there’s a way for you, Ungajoo-nim, to assure the debt.” “Ahem! Even so, I must hear the thoughts of the revered elder uncle.” Aren't you the family head? Aren’t you the master of Jinju Un? Why are you avoiding my gaze with feigned reluctance? It doesn’t matter. After all, debt repayment isn’t my ultimate goal. Masking my true intent, I feigned a wry smile with a dark expression. “That may be so, but… I’ve come a long way. I can’t just wait indefinitely, nor easily return. It’s quite frustrating.” “While you’re in Hunan, why not leisurely tour Dongting Lake? I’ll arrange an escort for you.” A very tempting offer. I’d love to nod in agreement but, for my purposes, I had to decline. “I appreciate the offer, but until marrying the treasured daughter of the Jeagal family, I must be cautious with my conduct.” Of course, such a tour involves wine and courtesans. In this era, a tour without them is like sightseeing without a camera—unfulfilling. I’m a soon-to-be groom; I need to be careful with my behavior. No father-in-law would be pleased if his son-in-law gallivanted around with women before the wedding. "That's very wise." Ungajoo's immediate acceptance was expected. Good. I've closed one option. Let's move on to the next. “There might be another way to postpone but it's tricky. I left my fiancée in the midst of bridal lessons, claiming I’d confidently return after resolving matters with Jinju Un. If I return without having properly negotiated, what would my father-in-law say…?” Subtly hinting at the potential consequences. Ungajoo-nim, if I return now, I must report to my father-in-law. Claiming I was chasing imaginary issues at Un would harm the family honor. Even with the debt needing collection. Imagine if my father-in-law lent his strength; wouldn’t that trouble Un as well? “Are you truly unwilling to wait?” Exactly what I intended. Ungajoo subtly marked the “returning” option as unfavorable. “Since touring isn’t an option, another excuse might be…” Leaving isn’t an option. Touring isn’t an option. Idly waiting isn’t an option either. Now, I’ll guide him to naturally consider my proposition. “Another excuse?” The choice has been narrowed to one possible goal. “I could claim a delay due to business in Hunan. However, with the small scale of those businesses, even my involvement might not yield significant results... No, claiming business expansion doesn’t seem like a good idea.” Presenting a choice appealing to the creditor, dispelling hard feelings from being disregarded as a ‘barbarian’ while offering a favorable alternative Ungajoo could easily accommodate. “Exactly!” The big bear stepped straight into the trap once again. “Pardon?” Feigning ignorance, I waited for Ungajoo to elaborate. “I’ll host you as a guest of Jinju Un for the time being. If you encounter any issues with your business endeavors, inform my subordinates.” “Would you truly do that?” “Isn’t it the host’s duty to ensure the guest’s comfort? Stay at Un until my uncle returns.” Ungajoo nodded in agreement with ease. It was the response I'd been waiting for. —— “Pack up, let’s go.” Announcing my successful mission to the restrained team. “Aren’t we staying in the guest quarters?” “To avoid leaks with business affairs, given our large group, they’ve provided us with a separate house within the estate.” Naturally, a martial family estate would include a massive mansion. “Perfect.” “I’ll escort you to the west quarters.” We followed the attendant’s guidance to the western wing. “Seems like it’s quite a distance.” Bu Chonggwan Unyeob commented, noticing our journey seemed endless. “They mentioned it’s near the residence of the elder from Siwang. If he comes and leaves unnoticed, that’d be unfortunate. We’re also checking if he’s returned.” Such elders in the martial world prefer secluded, undisturbed areas. “Indeed, staying nearby is wise.” “This is too remote, though.” Gil San-i grimaced at me. “They said there’s a private entrance, so it won’t be an issue.” “That settles it, then.” Even I was uneasy with the increasingly desolate surroundings. The west grounds apparently weren’t well-maintained. The gathering gloom seemed to lend an eerie atmosphere. Is spring still far off? A sudden chill ran down my spine. [Who... is there?] "What did you just say?" "Hm? I didn't say anything." "Must have misheard..." A few days after settling into the western quarters as a guest of Jinju Un, we received news that permission had been granted for the remodeling of the Mankeum Bookstore's library wing.