Chapter 200: Marble of Celestial Captivation (3)
Three days had passed since Gu Yangcheon was imprisoned, and it had been two days since the Second Elder had visited him.
There was no need for guards to come and drag him out; Gu Yangcheon entered the prison on his own. The Second Elder remained tight-lipped about the affair.
It was indeed a frustrating situation for the Second Elder.
…The child wouldn’t have acted without a reason.
Unlike in the past, he didn’t believe that Gu Yangcheon would act recklessly in his current state.
They say there’s something peculiar about the mansion…
He had received reports that there was a strange energy surrounding Gu Sunmoon’s residence. Though his body was not in good shape to verify this claim, if the reports were true, it was clear that something was afoot.
Did Gu Yangcheon know about this?
Before he could finish his line of thought, part of him sincerely hoped that it was true. After all, Gu Yangcheon had insisted that he had good reasons for his actions.
He must have acted with prior knowledge.
Furthermore, while handling the body of the First Elder, he discovered that the First Elder, despite being a martial artist of the Fusion Realm, had only a few years left to live.
Having encountered the First Elder several times, he had to admit the First Elder had been good at keeping secrets.
Hmm.
The Second Elder rubbed his beard thoughtfully with one hand while the other was wrapped in bandages—an inconvenience all around.
So…
He relaxed his stiff muscles and addressed the two elder men sitting before him.
What is the purpose of this gathering?
At his weighty question, the two older men averted their gazes.
They were familiar faces from decades past, though their relationships had never been very cozy.
If I remember correctly, it hasn’t been a month since our last meeting…
The only other remaining elders of the Gu Clan, the Third Elder and the Fourth Elder, were now seated before him. They weren’t exactly figures of great importance, their statuses having diminished over time.
They wouldn’t even bother showing up unless summoned by the Lord.
Ugh…
A cough from the Third Elder prompted the Fourth Elder to speak.
First, we’re relieved to see you’ve regained consciousness, Second Elder.
Much obliged.
Let’s get to the point. We have convened here to discuss the Young Master’s transgressions.
Transgressions, you say…
The Second Elder couldn’t help but frown at the Fourth Elder’s remark.
What’s your concern about?
The First Elder has been murdered! That is our concern!
Suppressing a laugh was no easy feat for the Second Elder.
Since when have you cared about him?
Indeed, that’s a heavy concern.
So, shouldn’t we be discussing how we’ll handle this?
Discuss, huh? Very well, let’s talk about it…
Pinch…
The Second Elder pinched his chin in reflection. His gaze seemed focused, yet his body was undeniably strained from lingering injuries.
But let me ask something first…
Speak on.
Is this truly the right time for such a discussion?
His words made the other elders flinch.
It wasn’t their guilt that caused their discomfort, but the palpable fury emanating from the Second Elder.
An Elder returns grievously injured and the Clan’s eldest daughter has been abducted. Do you truly want to discuss this minor affair?
Well…
Moreover, the Lord is not even here. Were you perhaps waiting for this moment?
Second Elder!
The Third Elder’s outburst only made the Second Elder chuckle with amusement.
Don’t raise your voice. Do you really think it’s wise to do so when I’m not even raising mine?
What are you suggesting? Even if he is a blood relative, he assaulted an Elder!
And isn’t that what makes it remarkable?
What?
The Third Elder’s face contorted in confusion as he felt he misheard the Second Elder.
The Second Elder’s comment was bold, provoking such a response. Yet he continued as if unbothered.
Even if the First Elder’s body was crumbling, he wasn’t someone to be trifled with. Gu Yangcheon managed to defeat him—a feat unparalleled at his age.
To what extent the First Elder was injured, nobody yet knew, but it couldn’t deny that Gu Yangcheon had bested him in combat.
This is a historical achievement, especially for a child his age.
The other elders, however, interpreted the matter differently.
The Third Elder, clearly offended, shot back.
Everyone knows you favor the Young Master; yet your words…
I know,
the Second Elder interrupted the Third Elder, an air of mockery evident in his tone.
That’s why I question this assembly. You’re fully aware of my position; so why even gather?
You!
Were you attempting to coerce me or compel me to act as a tool against that child?
Gu Ryoon! You dare!
A laugh erupted from the Second Elder, soon transforming into hearty laughter.
He found the whole situation beyond ridiculous.
Suddenly, he stopped laughing, looking at the elders in serious contemplation.
Are you afraid?
…!
Or are you perhaps scared?
The Second Elder had figured out the real reason for their gathering; they were fearful.
Are you worried about what that child might do next?
Mind your words, Second Elder. What exactly are you insinuating?
If you intend to pretend you’re not concerned, then at least stop with those pitiable expressions on your faces.
Each of them had once been acknowledged warriors before becoming elders.
This included the First Elder and himself, and seeing them reduced to this state made the Second Elder feel ill.
It’s like watching my comrades decay.
They had all fought side by side in the past.
The Second Elder felt reluctant to label their current state as corruption, though he had to admit it was close.
I admit the Young Master has exceptional talent.
Exceptional is an understatement; Yangcheon is indeed a child gifted by the heavens!
…Indeed, his greatness is acknowledged, but that’s beside the point.
Beside the point? What do you mean?
If a young clan member misbehaves, it’s our duty to correct them before it becomes too late. Especially one designated to become the Young Lord of the clan.
It was evident they knew that Gu Yangcheon was destined to become the next Lord of the clan.
As they cast their eyes on Gu Yangcheon, they were merely searching for ways to deal with the inevitable conflict of interests between them.
Devising schemes to prevent interference in their affairs… how petty.
The Second Elder found their intentions pathetic.
Don’t cloak your vile motives in eloquent language.
What?
You referenced “before it’s too late.” It’s well-chosen phrasing, but too late for what? The Lord’s return? Or his ascension to greater heights?
Second Elder! Do you not perceive the danger of viewing him in such a light?
Am I someone who only cares about self-interest? If I were, I wouldn’t bother engaging with the two of you.
Despicable.
The Second Elder was revolted by the sight of them, akin to witnessing rust eat away at an old blade.
What a horrendous sight.
He hadn’t paid much attention to affairs within the clan while overseeing battlefields beyond.
He shouldn’t have focused solely on the First Elder.
At this moment, regret washed over the Second Elder for that oversight.
I don’t care about your plots. However…
The turmoil within his injured body wrestled against the surge of Chi, but the Second Elder prioritized matters far more significant than his pain.
The Chi released from his body formed its shape.
Do not overstep your bounds. If you do, it will not be Yangcheon; it will be I who intervenes!
With that, he left the meeting room.
The Second Elder walked on, rubbing his aching chest.
It’s still somewhat challenging at the moment.
As the Immortal Healer had said, recovery would require extensive care. Even simple actions felt burdensome now.
Ha…
His exhausted body wasn’t the biggest concern; it was the heavy weight of his thoughts pressing down on him.
With his body failing him, there was little he could do.
Even though that child is in a difficult situation…
Beyond losing to the Black Palace Lord, the overwhelming guilt of failing to protect Gu Huibi haunted him.
The Second Elder should have rushed to join the Lord, yet he refrained, knowing he would just be a burden due to his current state.
His task was limited to waiting for his body to heal and giving whatever help he could to Gu Yangcheon in this time.
Few options lay at the Second Elder’s feet.
Ah—Second Elder!
He turned at the sound of a voice, quickly hiding his intense expression.
Oh! It’s you, my dear Ryunghwa!
The youngest daughter of the Lord, Gu Ryunghwa, stood there.
How’s your health?
Of course! I’ve always been healthy, old man! Are you eating well? You seem too thin!
He said with a smile, but tears welled in Gu Ryunghwa’s eyes as they were fixed on his injuries.
Do not cry, little one. I promise I’m doing quite well!
But…
She was a gentle soul, contrasting sharply with the Gu Clan’s reputation for toughness.
Though they were known for their fierce attitudes, Gu Huibi and the rest possessed tender hearts.
Contemplating this, the Second Elder turned to Gu Ryunghwa.
Ryunghwa, what brings you here?
Oh…
She hesitated as to why she was in Gu Yangcheon’s residence.
Um, my sisters invited me for a meal…
Sisters?
After hearing her explanation, the Second Elder walked toward Gu Yangcheon’s residence, having his own reasons for visiting.
Hmm?
As he stepped inside, the sight startled him.
The atmosphere was lively, despite the owner being absent.
A girl jumped to her feet and bowed respectfully.
I greet the Flaming Fist.
Was she from the Tang Clan?
The girl had an adorable appearance, her dark green hair a clear hint at her lineage.
But why is she here?
Most likely, she should have been in her quarters, yet she seemed quite at home.
“Oh! It’s Grandpa Gu!”
From a distance, Wi Seol-Ah rushed towards him.
Considering her attire, it appeared she had been cooking.
Her eyes are still swollen…
Wi Seol-Ah’s eyes were just as red and puffy as when he last saw her.
Likely due to Gu Yangcheon’s incarceration.
I hope he doesn’t find out about this.
The Sword Venerable’s worry surfaced in his mind; he couldn’t help but wonder what thoughts raced through his mind upon seeing his granddaughter in tears.
If his granddaughter cried over a mere man, surely even he might spare a thought on that.
…Oof, even I can’t confront that senior. What would happen next?
He could only hope the Sword Venerable remained in the dark.
Where is your grandpa?
Inquiring about the Sword Venerable, Wi Seol-Ah pointed towards the distant mountain.
He went to gather vegetables! He said there are tasty ones due to spring!
Oh, I see.
The image struck him as peculiar: the renowned sword-wielder digging through the earth with a sickle instead of his glorious sword.
Ah, I’ll go fetch Sis!
Hmm?
Before he could continue the conversation, Wi Seol-Ah dashed into Gu Yangcheon’s room as if she recalled something.
-Sis! Wake up! Grandpa Gu is here!
Sis?
The moment Wi Seol-Ah’s call echoed, commotion aroused from within. Soon enough, a figure emerged.
A beautiful lady with bluish-white hair stood before him, one he recognized all too well.
You are…
I greet the Flaming Fist. I am Namgung Bi-ah of the Namgung Clan.
Namgung Bi-ah greeted him while maintaining the utmost respect.
Soft murmurs filled the air as onlookers questioned, Why is she speaking that way?
Ah, so you must be Yangcheon’s bride?
Yes.
Namgung Bi-ah accepted this title readily, with no hint of embarrassment.
The Second Elder had thrown the comment in jest, but her unflustered nature made him feel a tad bit awkward.
Not yet, Wi Seol-Ah interjected, poking Namgung Bi-ah’s side.
Oh! Were you perhaps sleeping?
No…
Though she stood tall, her entangled hair and weary eyes told another story.
Sis hasn’t slept well for days. That’s why she went into the Young Master’s—Umphh!
Wi Seol-Ah’s explanation fell short as Namgung Bi-ah promptly covered her mouth.
What an intriguing child…
The Second Elder marveled at Wi Seol-Ah; he pondered if she must have been so exhausted that she fell asleep in Gu Yangcheon’s room.
He thought about chastising her but decided against it.
What she did didn’t seem ill-born, and with my current condition, I have no authority to speak on it.
Grandpa Gu…
Hmm?
Wi Seol-Ah approached the Second Elder with careful intent.
Um… When is the Young Master coming out?
Her cautious question weighed heavily on the Second Elder’s mind.
Her inquiry abruptly silenced the room, catching the attention of Namgung Bi-ah and even Tang Soyeol.
Yangcheon, that brat, sure knows how to charm the ladies.
Each of them wore their emotions for him on their sleeves.
Not just the Sword Venerable’s granddaughter, but also the daughters from the Namgung and Tang Clans.
I’m glad to see so many admirers around Gu Yangcheon, yet he couldn’t help but wonder what made him so appealing.
He’ll be out soon,
he declared confidently.
Really?
Of course.
It was the only reassurance he could soundly offer, especially since Gu Yangcheon claimed he’d be released shortly.
That’s a relief…
Having heard this, Wi Seol-Ah’s face brightened with joy.
Oh?
The Second Elder was stunned by the transformation.
Her charming baby fat and round cheeks had been replaced with an elegant beauty that had blossomed over time.
She seems taller… and her face has matured.
She was gradually transitioning into womanhood.
Had Gu Yangcheon noticed this change?
Most likely, he was too distracted by trivial matters to even care.
If you haven’t eaten yet, would you like to join us?
Namgung Bi-ah offered kindly.
Gu Ryunghwa had mentioned that she came for a meal. The Second Elder appreciated the offer, yet he had to refuse.
Thank you for your kindness, but I have some matters to attend to, so I can’t join you for a meal.
Oh…
As he left behind the girls who bore disappointed faces, Hongwa appeared as if waiting, presenting him with a parcel wrapped in cloth.
Thank you.
This food was meant for Gu Yangcheon and himself.
An elder such as himself shouldn’t be running errands, especially not in his condition. Yet he had insisted on taking matters into his own hands.
Take care, everyone. There’s no need to see me off.
Seeing the girls trailing behind him, he hastened his pace.
…Come to think of it, why didn’t I ask why they gathered here in the first place?
His head was swirling with thoughts, causing him to overlook this crucial question.
With that, the Second Elder made his way to the clan’s basement, checked in with the guards, and proceeded toward where Gu Yangcheon was held.
As he walked alongside the torches…
He finally spotted Gu Yangcheon from a distance… Wait, shouldn’t he be inside?
Hmm?
Gu Yangcheon, who ought to be confined within prison walls, was inexplicably standing outside the cell.
Pausing mid-motion, Gu Yangcheon noticed the Second Elder and locked eyes with him.
Oh…
With a startled look on his face, Gu Yangcheon replied as if caught red-handed.
What are you doing?
Glancing from the basket in the Second Elder’s hands to the Second Elder, Gu Yangcheon quickly scrambled for words.
This isn’t an escape attempt, so please don’t misunderstand!
His expression was quite awkward.
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