167 - Gathering, Meeting (9) - The Heaven-Slaying Sword

As the meeting dragged on, one individual found himself in an increasing predicament. It was none other than Mok Riwon. The complications of his relationship with Geol Wang, the unknown instigations of Kwak Chil, alongside his actions in the martial world so far, had all converged, garnering the attention of various people. Thus, the path Mok Riwon trod could never be smooth for even a moment. It goes without saying that visits from the current prominent figures of the martial world were expected. They all praised Mok Riwon's background and martial prowess, seeking to establish connections with him. Then there were the past masters. Convinced by someone's instigation that Mok Riwon was to replace the Sword Saint, these individuals, questioning whether he truly deserved such recognition, grouped together and caused a commotion at the sect of Yongbong before departing. “Hmph, so you know a bit about matters of valor!” They left with such incongruous remarks. Mok Riwon was exhausted. Even for someone like him, who enjoyed the company of others, it was becoming unbearable to be swept up in these social currents without a moment for himself. ‘I just want some rest.’ It was a rare thought for him. “Hmm?” As he passed through a secluded corner of the building, Mok Riwon caught sight of a familiar back. His face brightened. “Jegal Hyung!” “Hmm? Mok Junior?” It was Jegal San. Staring blankly at the weeds on the dirt floor, he lifted his head at the sound of Mok Riwon's voice. Having secluded himself since the beginning of the meeting, Jegal San's presence was especially welcoming to Mok Riwon, who approached him with enthusiasm. “You were here.” “Yes, today I suddenly felt a longing for contemplation, watching these weeds.” Jegal San smiled. Mok Riwon was impressed. ‘Contemplation…!’ It seemed profoundly cool. “I, I will try it too!” Mok Riwon glared at the weeds. The tiny leaves, smaller than a fingernail, fluttered in the cool breeze. Honestly, though, Mok Riwon couldn’t muster any significant thoughts from the sight. Jegal San chuckled, saying, “I used to enjoy watching these weeds when I was younger.” “Really?” “When I would go out to the garden with my mother, I saw more weeds than flowers. She would say, ‘Just because they are called weeds, doesn't mean they are insignificant. To the world of martial arts, they are like the free-spirited wanderers who dash forward on their own without relying on anyone else.’” “Oh….” Mok Riwon uttered a small exclamation of admiration. Suddenly, a thought crossed his mind. ‘This is the first time I’m hearing about Jegal Hyung’s family.’ Jegal San rarely spoke of the Jegal family matters. Interested in the famous families of the martial world, Mok Riwon had been curious about the Jegal family, one of the five great families, but Jegal San always changed the subject. Noticing this, Mok Riwon also stopped bringing it up, making such topics somewhat awkward between them. “…Was your sister very angry?” Jegal San asked. Mok Riwon laughed awkwardly. “Uh, a bit. Yes.” “Uhahat, looks like I’ll be getting into trouble again.” Jegal San laughed heartily. It didn’t last long. The joy in his smile gradually faded, eventually morphing into bitterness. “…Do you think I’m incompetent?” An unexpected question. Mok Riwon replied immediately. “What are you talking about? You’re my sworn brother. I don’t scorn my brothers for being foolish.” “Even just hearing that is comforting.” “I’m serious.” “Then, I am even more grateful.” Jegal San touched the leaves of the weeds. “It's embarrassing to say, but here it goes. I have a bad relationship with my family. Of course, it’s not to the extent of having an archenemy like my sister... but it’s complicated to explain.” “Ah…” “So, I can’t face the clan leader. It’s like I’m throwing a unilateral tantrum, and the frustration is worse because personal emotions shouldn’t interfere with official matters. Everyone in the Jegal family knows it, but still, people are emotional and instinctive creatures, so it’s hard to separate the two.” Jegal San’s hands stopped over the weed. “I’ve caused trouble for many. But I’m not planning to give up.” Jegal San lifted his head, the mischievous smile on his face not as bright as before. “Please apologize to the lady on my behalf. I must go. You know, eyes are everywhere in Maeng.” Mok Riwon didn’t pry further. If Jegal San was keeping something a secret, there must be a good reason for it. Certainly. At first glance, one might mistake him for a lascivious man drooling over married women, but Mok Riwon knew that Jegal San, in truth, was one of the most considerate and perceptive people he knew, much like Dang Hwa-seo. “Leave it to me.” Mok Riwon thumped his chest and grinned. “I’ll speak well on your behalf to the lady!” “You’re not going to ask anything?” “Why would I, if you don’t want to talk about it?” “…That’s true.” “Then I won’t ask! This Mok Riwon is the most patient man in this martial world. And I understand how daunting secrets can be to share. So don’t worry, Jegal Hyung. I’ll forget about today until you feel ready to talk!” Jegal San’s eyes widened. Then he burst into laughter.