Dark and Light Martial Emperor

Chapter 103: A Shift in Perspective (3)

“Heh, you’ve arrived?”

Yeon Hojeong greeted with a formal bow.

“Greetings, elder. It’s Yeon Hojeong.”

“No need for such formalities,” the elder, Pyeon Ilgang, replied with his usual demeanor.

Though they had met only once, Pyeon Ilgang’s generous aura and kind eyes left a lasting impression. Perhaps that’s why, despite the long absence, he felt as familiar and comfortable as if they had met just yesterday.

“And who might this young lady be? Someone you’ve promised your future to?”

Yeon Hojeong’s face crumpled like a wrinkled brass bowl.

Why does everyone keep misunderstanding? Is this supposed to be fun?

“No, she’s a friend.”

“Oh, is that so?”

Mokbi stepped forward and bowed her head.

“I’m Mokbi. Pleased to meet you.”

Pyeon Ilgang smiled warmly.

“Such a gentle soul. Welcome. Feel free to call me Old Pyeon.”

“Ah, yes.”

“But…”

Pyeon Ilgang’s eyes twinkled.

“Heh, quite unique, aren’t you?”

“Pardon?”

“I’ve encountered countless warriors in my time, but it’s been a while since I’ve seen an archer as finely honed as you.”

Surprise flickered across Mokbi’s face.

She had left her bow and quiver behind. She hadn’t shown any signs of her martial prowess before. Yet, Pyeon Ilgang had recognized her primary weapon at a glance.

‘He’s remarkable.’

An extraordinary elder. His internal energy seemed modest, but his eyes, sharpened by a lifetime of working with iron and fire, were as keen as any master’s.

“What brings you here?”

Yeon Hojeong handed over an axe that was resting on his shoulder.

“It’s become quite damaged.”

“Hmm?”

Pyeon Ilgang examined the axe blade and shaft, his face showing surprise.

“Ha! Has this great axe already suffered so much?”

“I apologize.”

“There’s nothing to apologize for. Weapons are meant to take damage and break. However, this great axe isn’t just any heavy weapon. It was crafted with passion by a skilled smith using fine steel.”

Pyeon Ilgang clicked his tongue.

“I may not be well-versed in worldly affairs, but I’ve heard your name quite often lately. You had a major fight with the Guju Myeong household?”

Yeon Hojeong smiled.

“You’ve heard?”

“Wasn’t the Guju Myeong household known as the foremost martial family until they were publicly denounced? They must have had many formidable masters. Yet, it shouldn’t have been damaged so soon even in a clash with such masters.”

Pyeon Ilgang nodded.

“Your internal energy must be quite rough.”

The more he observed, the more unusual it seemed.

A good smith is a warrior’s friend, but even a master smith knows little about warriors. There’s knowledge only warriors possess.

But Pyeon Ilgang was different. He could deduce the characteristics of a warrior’s internal energy just by looking at the marks on a weapon.

‘He’s an incredible man.’

Vast knowledge, exceptional discernment, and a thorough craftsman’s spirit.

He was a true master smith, honed to perfection. Yeon Hojeong understood why his father held him in such high regard, calling him a divine craftsman.

“To think the owner of such rough internal energy could damage an eighty-catty weapon…”

After a moment’s thought, Pyeon Ilgang nodded.

“Very well. I shall craft a splendid axe for you.”

In truth, Pyeon Ilgang had merely modified an existing great axe.

It was already a well-crafted weapon, worthy of being called a treasure.

However, it was somewhat weak for Yeon Hojeong’s use. Pyeon Ilgang saw this as an opportunity to create a new weapon.

Yeon Hojeong bowed.

“Thank you. How long will it take?”

Pyeon Ilgang chuckled heartily.

“Planning to venture into the world again?”

“Yes.”

“A renowned warrior attracts praise from all, but also enemies who covet that fame. You must receive it before you leave?”

“That would be ideal.”

“Is it urgent?”

“I thought it was, but new duties have arisen. The sooner, the better, but I’m not in a rush.”

“A good mindset. I shall craft a weapon that suits you perfectly. It will take about two months.”

Two months.

A time that could be long or short. But if a master like Pyeon Ilgang was willing to invest two months, it wouldn’t be an ordinary item.

Yeon Hojeong patted Mokbi’s shoulder.

“And do you have a suitable horn bow for this friend?”

“A horn bow?”

“Yes. The stronger the draw weight, the better. She excels in powerful archery.”

Pyeon Ilgang shook his head.

“I do have bows, but none that would suit this young lady.”

“I see.”

“However, I’ll inquire with someone I know. By the time the axe is ready, you should be able to receive it.”

Mokbi bowed deeply.

“Thank you, grandfather.”

“Heh heh heh.”

Grandfather?

It was the first time the young lady had called him anything other than a divine craftsman.

Everyone feared him, but she seemed different. The friendly title unexpectedly lifted his spirits.

“Is there anything else you’d like to order?”

Yeon Hojeong’s eyes shone.

“Could you add a ring to the end of the axe shaft?”

“A ring?”

“Yes, if it doesn’t interfere with the balance…”

“That’s no issue, but do you have a specific use for it?”

“I’m considering attaching a chain.”

Pyeon Ilgang’s eyes widened.

“A chain? To the end of a heavy axe?”

“Yes.”

“Heh, I can’t even begin to guess what kind of martial arts you practice.”

“I’m quite unconventional.”

“So, you’re saying you can handle a chain as well?”

“Yes.”

“A chain… A chain that can withstand the internal energy that damages an eighty-catty weapon…”

Interest sparked in Pyeon Ilgang’s face.

“Understood. I’ll keep it in mind.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ll send someone when it’s nearly complete. I’ll be busy starting today.”

With that, the two left Pyeon Ilgang’s forge and walked down the street.

Yeon Hojeong asked.

“How is it? Our home.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“Are you asking if I’m comfortable here?”

“Yes, it’s nice. But it’s just…”

“Is someone bothering you?”

Mokbi shook her head vehemently.

“Absolutely not. Everyone’s been very kind.”

“Then what’s the issue?”

“It’s just… the servants are doing everything I should be doing…”

Yeon Hojeong couldn’t help but laugh.

Servants, huh? What a masterful way to address them.

“They’re not slaves. They’re people who rightfully earn their wages. For them, it’s a profession.”

“Still…”

“Of course, I tend to do most things myself. But it’s not bad for you to find something to focus on while they do their jobs.”

“Something to focus on…”

Mokbi’s eyes sparkled.

“Martial arts.”

“Something like that,” Yeon Hojeong said seriously.

“I haven’t seen your skills firsthand yet. But I know one thing for sure: your martial arts are far from complete.”

Mokbi admitted candidly,

“It’s far, very far indeed.”

Yeon Hojeong remembered the days of the Black Mist Empire when Mokbi had perfected her martial arts.

Divine archery skills that reached the pinnacle of perfection. Invincible marksmanship that could strike down any target within sight and bare-handed combat that matched the Five Great Generals, a flawless and fantastic martial prowess without a single weakness.

Yeon Hojeong’s eyes brightened.

“If that’s the case, join me during my training sessions.”

“Is that alright?”

“If we can help each other improve, it’s a good thing.”

Mokbi flinched.

Yeon Hojeong looked at her, puzzled.

“What’s wrong?”

“Um…”

“What’s with that hesitant expression?”

Mokbi stammered.

“I mean… I have no intentions of… starting a family with Young Master Yeon…”

It was absurd. Now even Mokbi was causing a commotion.

“Are you kidding me? Have I lost my mind? When did I ever propose marriage to you!”

“If it’s not the case, then why are you getting angry?”

“Ah, my blood pressure!”

“And I’ve heard that…”

“Heard what!”

Mokbi hesitated.

“It seems I’m older than you.”

“So what?”

“…Just saying.”

Yeon Hojeong snorted.

“Speak freely if you want. Who cares?”

“How can anyone speak freely when you glare at them like you want to kill them?”

“When have I ever glared at you? My eyes are naturally like this.”

“There’s no need to have eyes like an axe just because you use one.”

“Were you always so eloquent?”

“I didn’t have many chances to speak before.”

“There are plenty of chances to bathe, so make sure you do that often.”

“Oh, please!”

The bickering pair entered the family estate, and while they didn’t look like lovers, they certainly seemed like friends.

* * *

“Family Head.”

“Hmm.”

“I believe it’s time for expansion.”

Yeon Wi gazed at Lee Baekhyun with a frosty look.

Swallowing nervously, Lee Baekhyun soon puffed out his chest with confidence.

“The branches in Jiangsu are nearly at capacity. If we continue like this, we won’t be able to handle the overflow.”

“Jiangsu Province is vast. There’s no need for the main house to monopolize the trade business. It’s not just about one person’s survival, but everyone’s. Coexistence is the shortcut to peace.”

“I agree with your words, Family Head. But look at these documents. Disputes are already erupting everywhere.”

“…”

“It’s good for everyone to thrive together. However, that requires coordination and fair sharing. You need not handle this personally, Family Head, but the main house is responsible for seven-tenths of Jiangsu’s trade business, isn’t it?”

“Hmm.”

“These are rough people, especially in Zhejiang. There’s no leading clan to mediate. I believe it’s better to extend our reach there and get involved in the entire East Sea’s trade business.”

After a long contemplation, Yeon Wi nodded.

“Your words are reasonable.”

“Thank you.”

“However, this matter requires thorough discussion. More haste, less speed, as they say.”

Lee Baekhyun nodded solemnly, uncharacteristic of him.

“I think so too. Rushing headlong without considering the consequences is problematic in its own right.”

Yeon Wi nodded.

“Call Hojeong.”

Lee Baekhyun smiled.

Calling the eldest son for important matters signifies trust in Yeon Hojeong’s abilities.

The trust between father and son was admirable.

“Understood.”

Shortly after, Yeon Hojeong entered, drenched in sweat from training.

“You called for me?”

“Take a seat here.”

“Yes.”

Yeon Wi explained the situation to Yeon Hojeong.

“…Therefore, there’s a proposal to extend our business to Zhejiang. It’s essentially a preparatory step for coexistence.”

“Oh?”

“What are your thoughts?”

Yeon Hojeong’s eyes sparkled.

‘Zhejiang.’

Expanding the business to Zhejiang could secure more funds. In an emergency, it could even serve as military funding.

Of course, that’s something to be determined later.

“Father.”

“Yes.”

“As you know, there’s a branch of the Moyong family in Zhejiang. They’re making a fortune from maritime trade.”

Yeon Wi’s eyes turned icy.

He hadn’t forgotten that the Moyong family had sent spies to their clan. His son had joined hands with the Moyong family head to bring down a prestigious house, but in truth, the Moyong family could also be considered an enemy.

“I’m also concerned about that. I haven’t forgotten what the Moyong family did, but I’ve decided it’s impractical to confront them right now.”

“It’s impractical. For now.”

“Do you have a plan?”

A confident smile spread across Yeon Hojeong’s face.

And a hint of anticipation.

‘Moyong Woo.’

He rose from his seat.

“I agree. We should proceed as the director suggested.”

“Is that so.”

“However, we need preliminary research to expand our territory, don’t we?”

Yeon Hojeong spoke earnestly.

“In two months, I will go to Zhejiang myself.”