A Tale Of A Scribe Who Retires To The Countryside [EN]: Chapter 241

241. The Arrival of Blood Phoenix

Contrary to his expectations, Sohn Bin found himself unable to observe the Namgung Clan’s young members’ training.

Many were eager to greet Namgung Hoon or Namgung Hyang, and the young men were so captivated by Sa Soo-yeon that they abandoned their training altogether. Furthermore, a considerable number of young ladies flocked around Seo-rin.

Occasionally, some hot-blooded youths would cast provocative glances at Sohn Bin, but Namgung Hoon’s imposing presence deterred them from acting rashly.

The same held true for Sa Soo-yeon; her cold expression and Namgung Hoon’s watchful gaze discouraged most young men from even attempting to approach her.

“Shall we head back?”

Sohn Bin, sensing the unproductive atmosphere, suggested to Namgung Hoon, a hint of futility in his voice.

Staying would only disrupt their training further. This thought was reinforced when he noticed Namgung So-yoo quietly excusing herself a moment earlier.

“Understood.”

Namgung Hoon readily agreed with Sohn Bin’s suggestion. As Sohn Bin and his group left the central training ground, he noticed a small group of young men gathered in a corner.

‘Hmm?’

They wore the Namgung Clan’s training attire, but it was clear they were not integrated with the others.

Some were diligently focused on their training, seemingly indifferent to the surrounding activity, while others watched Sohn Bin’s group with a mixture of blatant envy and longing.

Sohn Bin quietly inquired of Namgung Hoon.

“Who are they?”

“Ah, they are…”

Namgung Hoon offered a wry smile as he glanced at them. Noticing his gaze, they quickly averted their eyes.

“They are from the collateral branches of the clan.”

“Collateral branches?”

Collateral branches refer to siblings or relatives who share the same ancestors. However, within the context of a clan, the term is more encompassing, referring to distant relatives who have branched off from the main family.

“Although they share blood ties, in some cases, they are so distant that they are practically strangers. Their circumstances vary greatly depending on whether they have someone in a key position within the clan to support them.”

If they have a connection to someone in a high position within the Namgung Clan, even if they are from a collateral branch, they can obtain official posts or positions within the clan due to that person’s influence.

On the other hand, if no one advocates for them, they may face open mistreatment. In fact, it often goes beyond mere mistreatment.

“It is embarrassing to admit, but the conflict between the direct and collateral branches within the clan is quite severe. The direct line is not pleased with the sudden intrusion of outsiders, while the collateral branches feel resentful about being discriminated against despite sharing the same blood.”

Sohn Bin realized he had inadvertently touched upon a sensitive issue within the family, which was impolite for a guest, even if unintentional.

“I apologize. I asked something I shouldn’t have.”

Namgung Hoon smiled ruefully at Sohn Bin’s sincere apology.

“No, what is there to hide from you, Great Hero? In truth, there are many other problems as well.”

Namgung Hoon said with a sigh.

“What kind of problems?”

Sa Soo-yeon suddenly asked. It was impolite as a guest, but she was not one to stand on ceremony.

“I will explain it,” Namgung Hyang said in a quiet voice.

“The clan was originally a simple organization centered around blood ties. However, after the establishment of the Murim Alliance [a martial arts alliance] and the attainment of relative peace, the Five Great Clans became complacent and began to grow rapidly. As a result, the drawbacks of bloodline-based management and the problems arising from a sprawling organization followed suit.”

Namgung Hoon himself was a prime example of this. Despite his outstanding skills, he was not initially eligible to participate in the Yongbong Tournament [a prestigious martial arts competition] due to his position within the clan.

If Namgung Cheol, the original participant, had not been injured, he would not have had the opportunity to showcase his abilities.

“The clan is aware of these issues. That is why they encourage the Jamryong Tournament [a competition for younger clan members] and the Yongbong Tournament. The intention is to inject new vitality and stimulation into the organization through skill-based competitions.”

“However, that is not without its problems,” Namgung Hoon added.

“Since everyone except oneself becomes a competitor, how can one cultivate the proper martial path? There are even cases where collateral branches are openly insulted and driven out.”

Sohn Bin could now fully understand the gazes the young men had directed at them earlier.

“It’s complicated,” Sohn Bin said with a soft sigh.

“I thought the life of a martial artist was simpler…”

Sohn Bin suddenly recalled what Saja Hyuk had told him.

—A martial artist stakes everything on a single sword. When an opponent’s sword comes crashing down on you, what in the world will protect you from that blade? At that moment, everything else becomes meaningless. And life becomes extremely simple.

“I wish it were so,” Namgung Hoon also lamented softly.

“But the world is not simple. Even a martial artist with a sword has no choice but to live in this world.”

His voice sounded heavy, and Sohn Bin could not think of anything to say in response.

“I apologize, Great Hero. You came all the way to the training ground, but it was all for naught,” Namgung Hoon apologized to Sohn Bin, knowing the reason for his visit.

Sohn Bin was about to shake his head to deny it when he heard Namgung Hyang’s voice from the side.

“How about this?”

Sohn Bin turned to see Namgung Hyang smiling gently as she spoke.

“Among my cherished younger siblings, there is a child named Namgung So-yoo. Her Namgung Sword Technique has been praised even by the elders of the clan. If it’s alright with you, I can ask So-yoo for help.”

Sohn Bin already knew Namgung So-yoo. Just as he was about to acknowledge this, Namgung Hyang continued.

“Moreover, So-yoo has always wanted to meet Young Master Sohn. I think she would be happy to do it. What do you think?”

‘Huh?’

For a moment, Sohn Bin felt something was off. He had no objection to Namgung So-yoo coming, as he had already met her that morning.

The problem was that Namgung Hyang was bringing up Namgung So-yoo at this particular moment.

‘Come to think of it…’

There was another strange thing.

Namgung Hoon was standing right in front of him. Was there really a need to call Namgung So-yoo? No matter how highly praised her Namgung Sword Technique was.

Sohn Bin paused to gather his thoughts, then smiled and said in a calm voice.

“Actually, I already saw Lady Namgung So-yoo this morning.”

“This morning?” Namgung Hoon said, looking puzzled. Namgung Hyang, Sa Soo-yeon, and Dang Wol-ah all turned their sparkling eyes toward Sohn Bin.

“She came to use the training ground in our residence. She said she had seen me at Deungwang Pavilion [likely a local landmark or gathering place] before, so we exchanged greetings. Since she was there for training, we talked a little about swordsmanship as well.”

Sohn Bin spoke with a consistently gentle smile.

“I saw her at the training ground a little while ago, and she seemed troubled, as if she was still pondering her sword. I have similar concerns, so I feel like it’s not someone else’s problem. I don’t want to cause any trouble with this.”

“I see,” the reply came from Namgung Hoon, not Namgung Hyang.

“I was wondering why you were looking at So-yoo, Great Hero. By the way, it seems even someone like you has times when you’re stuck. Hahaha.”

Sohn Bin gave an awkward smile. Namgung Hyang then responded with a gentle smile.

“I understand.”

Not only her but also Sa Soo-yeon and Dang Wol-ah nodded. Even Seo-rin shrugged and said.

“Ooh, I see.”

‘Whew.’

Sohn Bin inwardly felt relieved. There was nothing to hide about Namgung So-yoo.

The problem was Sohn Bin himself being flustered by the sudden situation. That could potentially lead to misunderstandings.

‘Wait, come to think of it, does Lady Namgung Hyang know that I am called Great Hero Jinryong [a title of respect and recognition]?’

Just now, she said, ‘So-yoo wanted to meet you, Young Master.’ Doesn’t that mean she knows that Sohn Bin is called Great Hero Jinryong?

Could Namgung Hyang not know what Namgung Hoon or Namgung So-yoo knew?

“Lady.”

“Yes,” Namgung Hyang replied with a bright expression. However, Sohn Bin couldn’t bring himself to speak. He didn’t have the courage to ask her, ‘Did you know that I was Great Hero Jinryong?’

“Thank you for your concern in many ways,” Sohn Bin quickly mumbled.

Of course, he spoke as naturally and confidently as possible so that it wouldn’t sound like he was mumbling.

Namgung Hyang looked puzzled for a moment but soon smiled brightly and replied.

“You’re welcome.”

After looking around the Namgung Clan a bit more, Sohn Bin’s group returned to their lodgings. And Sohn Bin inwardly resolved to pay special attention to his gaze from now on.

*

*

*

Namgung Cheon, the former Thunder Sword [a title denoting a powerful swordsman], who was supposed to return soon, did not appear even the next day. He didn’t send any separate message, so Namgung Hyang was very troubled.

“I’m sorry, Young Master Sohn,” Namgung Hyang said, bowing her head politely. Sohn Bin waved his hand.

“No, it’s not something you need to apologize for.”

“The Clan Lord is also searching in every way, but we still can’t find him. He’s never been like this… well, there have been a few times, but…”

That was when there was nothing important happening. Knowing that Sohn Bin of all people would be visiting, it was certainly unexpected that he hadn’t shown up yet.

“I’m fine. However…”

Sohn Bin hesitated for a moment before speaking.

“Will there be no problem with reconciling with the Blood Phoenix [a powerful figure or group]?”

“Actually, that’s also a problem,” Namgung Hyang’s expression darkened slightly.

“Of course, this matter is ultimately the decision of the current Clan Lord, Thunder Sword Namgung Kwon. However, everyone knows that our grandfather, the former Thunder Sword, is behind him. That’s why there is less opposition.”

The difference between having the former Thunder Sword Namgung Cheon backing him and not having him was very significant.

During Namgung Cheon’s time as Clan Lord, how many people had defied his will and been ousted from their positions or relegated to collateral branches?

To the clan’s elders, the name Namgung Cheon was a strong wall protecting them and a massive barrier that no one could defy. Even with the prefix ‘former’ attached to that wall, nothing changed.

“He needs to come before we start negotiations with the Blood Phoenix.”

“Knowing this situation, I doubt that would happen, but if it does, the Clan Lord will have a very difficult time,” Namgung Hyang said in a calm voice. But how could they find someone whose whereabouts were unknown? If the Namgung Clan couldn’t find him, no one else could.

“Could he be in a dangerous situation?”

Sohn Bin asked, suddenly worried. Namgung Hyang smiled.

“I don’t think that will happen. There are probably only a few people in the world who could put him in danger.”

Sohn Bin nodded. If Noh Gun were here, he would have asserted, ‘There may be people who get into danger because of that guy, but there’s no way that guy will be in danger.’

“Thank you for your concern.”

“It’s only natural.”

In any case, there was nothing for Sohn Bin’s group to do. They had already looked around the Namgung Clan, and going to see the training would only lead to the same thing happening again.

‘Hmm, it seems Lady Namgung So-yoo isn’t coming at all…’

Sohn Bin started training every morning, hoping to find even a small clue to the words that had been gripping him like a koan [a paradoxical anecdote or riddle, used in Zen Buddhism to provoke enlightenment].

However, Namgung So-yoo had not appeared even once since that day. He felt sorry for having seemingly driven her away and wondered if he had said something unnecessary.

Namgung Hyang saw Sohn Bin’s pensive expression as somewhat disappointed.

“How about this?” Namgung Hyang said in a cautious tone.

“It must be boring to stay in the clan all the time, so how about I show you around the city…”

“A delicious place!” Seo-rin, who was behind her, quickly interjected. Dang Wol-ah’s eyes, hidden behind her veil, also sparkled, and Sa Soo-yeon also showed interest. They too were starting to find their time in the clan tedious.

“Tsk, not even children, and all they think about is food…” Shin-ui muttered with a displeased expression. Seo-rin quickly clung to Shin-ui.

“Let’s go together! There are so many really delicious things in the world! There are also so many skilled chefs!”

Seo-rin spoke as if going out was already a done deal. Sohn Bin smiled at Seo-rin’s enthusiasm and turned to Namgung Hyang, asking.

“Thank you. Then, could I ask for your help?”

Namgung Hyang seemed a little flustered. Showing them around the city was not what she had originally intended.

“Ah, yes… A delicious place… There probably is one. No, there definitely is one.”

Soon regaining her relaxed smile, Namgung Hyang nodded.

“Let’s go.”

Namgung Hyang confidently led Sohn Bin’s group to a splendid building renowned in Namchang City.

It was famous for its high-end cuisine, and everyone, including Shin-ui, said it was delicious, but this was not what Seo-rin wanted.

“Um, a place that’s cheap, delicious, fun, and where you have to line up in the back alleys to eat!”

Seo-rin spoke quite specifically. Dang Wol-ah also nodded faintly.

“It’s alright, Lady Namgung,” Sohn Bin dissuaded her, but Namgung Hyang remembered that he too had shown a disappointed expression in front of the building at first.

“Sister Moryong-rin was good at this kind of thing,” Seo-rin’s passing remark ignited a fire in Namgung Hyang.

“Shall we go out again tomorrow?” Namgung Hyang said with a smile in a quiet voice. But Sohn Bin could clearly see the fighting spirit burning in her eyes.

“A place that’s cheap, delicious, fun, and where you have to line up in the back alleys to eat.”

Namgung Hyang spoke with a still smiling expression but with eyes that were more sparkling than ever.

“Tomorrow, I will definitely guide you there.”

Her spirit was so great that Sohn Bin had no choice but to nod. Seo-rin smiled brightly and answered with a vigorous, ‘Yes!’

*

*

*

Clatter, clatter.

“Whoa.”

The carriage stopped at the coachman’s command. It was early in the morning, but it was common for carriages to stop in front of the Namgung Clan.

However, people stared at the carriage with surprised eyes. Some rubbed their eyes, wondering if they had seen it wrong.

The clerk managing the entry and exit of people and goods, as well as the warriors guarding the gate, had stiff expressions.

It couldn’t be helped. Right before their eyes, the red phoenix flag was proudly fluttering.

Click.

The door opened.

Swish.

The well-trained warriors immediately drew their weapons and took a defensive stance. They also did not forget to contact the inside to call for reinforcements.

As befitting the warriors of the Namgung Clan, all of this was done in an instant. A tense silence descended in front of the Namgung Clan.

Step.

The person who emerged from the carriage amidst that sharp tension was a small and delicate woman.

The frail woman with a pale face, wearing red clothes and holding a small dagger in her hand, was none other than the symbolic figure of the Blood Phoenix, Blood Phoenix herself.

“St, stop…”

One of the warriors opened his mouth toward her. However, his words were cut off before he could finish.

Whoosh.

“Cough.”

A strong killing intent poured out from inside the carriage without restraint. Even a decent warrior could not withstand the unrefined, violent aura of a master.

The warriors’ faces turned pale in an instant, and a man wearing black martial attire and a black hat, Guigyeon Soora, got out of the carriage.

“How dare you point your swords at someone like that?”

Guigyeon Soora openly exuded hostility toward the Namgung Clan’s warriors.

“Is this the etiquette of the Namgung Clan in welcoming guests?”

Each of his words shook the warriors’ qi and blood [life force]. Guigyeon Soora alone had seized the main gate of the Namgung Clan with just his aura.

“Wh, who are you…”

One of the Namgung Clan’s warriors, who still had some skill, squeezed out the words. However, before he could finish speaking, a helping hand arrived from inside.

“Lady Blood Phoenix!”

It was neither a master of the Namgung Clan nor the reinforcements they had requested. However, that one word instantly quelled Guigyeon Soora’s violent aura.

“Ah, Young Master Sohn,” a smile spread across Blood Phoenix’s pale face. It was only natural. The person who had come out from inside the Namgung Clan at that moment was none other than Sohn Bin.