The 31st Piece Turns the Tables

He prepared a gift?

Yes, he did.

What kind of gift...? Oh, is it something like those things people often prepare at banquets?

Yes, but Lord Zhe Gak has poured his heart into these gifts. They will be on a different level from the ones youve received before.

Hm I wonder what Zhe Gak prepared, for you to say something like that

To show his gratitude to those attending his banquet after the Dragon Palaces event, he has even unlocked his secret storage.

...His secret storage?

Zhe Gak owned a massive, manor in Hong Yeon, the heart of Khan.

However, that was only a fraction of his strength. It was clear that he was capable of much more.

And although it wasnt openly discussed, it was well-known that Zhe Gak kept especially rare, high-quality items in his storage.

It was evident that there were treasures in his storage, and if Jang Du played his cards right, he might even find something useful for himself.

Really? Hes really opening up his secret storage to me?

No, not just you. Lord Zhe Gak has promised to open his storage to all of the Dragons Stones.

Same thing Regardless, Zhe Gak must be desperate, huh? Offering that up so readily.

Lord Zhe Gak has placed high expectations on this banquet.

Hm For now, let me have a talk with Lady Shin Yo.

I will be waiting for your answer at the main gate.

Sure.

Jang Du then lumbered over to Shin Yo.

Lady Shin Yo.

Go ahead.

Ah, did you hear everything?

You speak rather loudly, Jang Du.

Haha chuckled Jang Du before awkwardly scratching the back of his head. But dont you find it strange? Hes opening his secret storage to Dragons Stones. Especially when you consider our current situation

There is nothing strange about it when you consider that we are still in the middle of the Dragon War. Moreover, it is also a tradition to give gifts to the Dragons Stones of the Dragons Flowers who visit, as a way of expressing gratitude.

But its his secret

I am sure he just wants to be seen that much more favorably. Instead of expressing his sincerity through words, hes demonstrating it through his gifts.

Urgh

Whats wrong? I said it was fine for you to go.

But what if something happens to you while Im gone, Lady Shin Yo?

Shin Yo laughed before looking at Jang Du.

I am not a child, Jang Du.

Haha! Still, youre someone I must always protect, Lady Shin Yo. Are you trying to leave me already? I believe its still a hundred years too soon.

To act so self-important in front of me Regardless, rejecting a gift someone has painstakingly prepared could also be viewed negatively. I do not want to leave any blemishes on my path. Additionally, weve already agreed to keep the Dragons Stones out of the meeting, as their presence might make the atmosphere more hostile than necessary.

What if something happens during the meeting, though

Did you forget who I was? Also, he is joining the meeting as well.

He? AH!

Yes, Chi Woo is joining the meeting as well. There is no reason to worry.

I understand I guess I have no choice then. Ill be back after I raid the entirety of his secret storage.

Im sure hes already moved anything truly important elsewhere. Still, he must have filled it with something, so it could still be quite a sight.

Haha And you already know what to do if youre in danger while Im gone, right?

What?

If you just shout Save me, Jang Du!, Ill come anytime, anywhere

Shin Yos face turned red as she began scolding Jang Du!

Shut up and go already! And I never said anything like that, ever!

Hahahaha!

Jang Du sincerely enjoyed these conversations with Shin Yo.

It was a part about him that he, who had lived a rough life, uncovered through protecting the small, fragile girl.

As Jang Du followed Zhe Gaks subordinate out, the other Dragons Stones began to move as well.

And though Seol received the same proposition, he hesitated.

He wasnt particularly interested in whatever was in the secret storage. And while he could refuse their offer, he contemplated whether refusing their goodwill was the right decision or not.

As the banquets atmosphere began to slow down a little, Chi Woo came for him.

I feel somewhat bad that were the only ones enjoying it.

Dont worry, it has been rather fun for me as well. More importantly, did you see that?

Yeah, I did. Everyones leaving? Did something happen?

Seol then told Chi Woo about the proposition that he had just received.

Hm so hes trying to curry favor before the meeting even begins?

It seems likely.

Ah If its Zhe Gaks secret storage, I wish I could go instead, but well, Im sure its fine. Go ahead.

But if I leave, Seol Hong will

Whats there to worry about with me here? Ill be right by her side during the conference, so go ahead. And even if I wasnt here, theres no way Zhe Gak would do anything with Shin Yo present. Besides, the other Dragons Flowers would likely say something if you refused his goodwill. Seol Hong seems to be in a good mood, so theres no reason to end things on a sour note, right?

- So he just decided to speak facts today?

- Chi Woo, we miss your old himbo self

Seol looked at Chi Woo.

Chi Woo had also saved Seol Hongs life in the Sodoong Mine. He was a reliable comrade and could even be considered one of Seol Hongs close allies.

Seol then reflected on his past actions. Perhaps he might have done too much for Seol Hong.

After all, I will have to leave once it becomes time.

Seol couldnt always be there for her.

Seol needed to prepare her now so that she would be fine when the day came for him to leave.

Seol turned his gaze to Seol Hong, observing her chatting pleasantly with another man.

Nod.

Then Ill leave it to you, said Seol.

Yeah.

Translator - goguma

Proofreader - Karane

* * *

Seol Hong was left alone as Chi Woo stepped away.

However, she didnt feel out of place. She was able to meld into the banquets atmosphere instead of just standing around awkwardly.

She interacted well with the others, using her smile and noble-like movements. She quickly picked up on things, one by one, to the point that she felt a bit proud of herself.

Then, someone approached her.

How is the banquet, Seol Hong? Are you enjoying it?

Elder Brother Zhe Gak

Zhe Gak, dressed in a clean attire and his hair slicked back, smiled as he stepped next to Seol Hong.

Its nothing much, huh? Haha... My preparations are a bit lacking, right?

No, its really good. Seriously, its amazing! complimented Seol Hong, looking directly at Zhe Gak.

Zhe Gak had given Seol Hong numerous happy memories.

During her difficult childhood, he sent her letters to cheer her up and provided her with opportunities when no one else did.

Though others often found fault in Zhe Gak, Seol Hong only felt gratitude toward him.

Im glad you like it, Seol Hong. You were also informed about the other matter, right?

Ah, the meeting yes.

Dont think of it too seriously. Well just be having a conversation in a separate building. I just have a lot of things that I want to tell everyone.

Yes, Elder Brother.

Then Ill see you later. I will go ahead first.

As Zhe Gak left, Chi Woo quickly filled his spot.

What did you guys talk about?

N-Nothing much. Just about the meeting

I see. Then lets go as well, it seems like everyones going right now.

With the main event over, only those Zhe Gak had asked to stay remained. The highly ranked Dragons Flowers from the Dragon War all headed to Zhe Gaks annex, including Seol Hong.

Despite being just an annex, it was still quite impressive.

Not only was it similar in size to the banquet hall, but it also had a second floor.

Its Western style made it somewhat out of place in Khan.

Even so, it was evidently high-class, and everyone was surprised by the attention to detail.

He must have poured a lot of money into this, how gaudy.

Looks like something Zhe Gak would do.

If he wanted to waste money like this, he shouldve just given it to me.

Haha youre not wrong.

The other influential figures had already arrived at the annex first.

More importantly, I heard he prepared a gift for the Dragons Stones? I saw all of them grinning ear to ear.

Well, they always put in immense effort for the Dragons Flowers, who arent anything special. And its not like they can enjoy the banquets either. Wouldnt you agree?

No, I dont agree.

Honestly, I dont agree, either. I think Zhe Gak is just overdoing it.

But he has to do at least that much, right? Its not like he had a reason to call any of us to this meeting.

Seol Hong quietly bit her lips.

While it was partially due to the people insulting Zhe Gak, it was also due to the Dragons Flowers looking down on their Dragons Stones.

Seol Hong recognized that it was only thanks to Seol that she had managed to attend this banquet.

He was someone to whom expressing gratefulness every day wouldnt be enough to show her gratitude.

Seol Hong.

Someone called for her.

Elder Sister Shin Yo?

Finally, I can say hello to you. It was difficult to say hello with the number of people that were around you.

I-I apologize.

Theres nothing to apologize for. Lets go in.

Yes.

Before greeting Seol Hong, Shin Yo used a Daoist spell to create a clone made of clouds.

After creating it, she sent the clone to a corner of the annex, hiding it where no one could see.

No one noticed Shin Yo doing this, but for her, it was the least she could do in case something went wrong.

Now that everyones here, lets go in. Lets see what nonsense Zhe Gak has to say today.

I was just thinking the same thing.

They began to speak poorly of Zhe Gak in an attempt to elevate themselves above him.

However, they also kept glancing at Shin Yo and Chi Woo, believing their presence would ensure protection.

Shin Yo was the most adept among the Dragons Flowers at Daoist spells, while Chi Woo was known to be as strong as Tae Yul.

While they were headaches as opponents, there were no greater allies for the Dragons Flowers right now.

Click

As they entered the meeting room, they were greeted by high-class chairs and exquisite bonsai trees, all arranged to showcase Zhe Gaks wealth.

Zhe Gak then sat at the head of the table and placed his interlaced hands upon it.

Everyone, have a seat.

The others immediately began to complain.

How arrogant, Zhe Gak. Even if you are still participating in the Dragon War, youre ranked on the lower end.

You may own this annex, but it is hard to excuse this arrogant behavior. Watch it.

Haha, all of you seem so upset. Did something happen on the way here?

Hmph.

Zhe Gak was behaving quite arrogantly in front of them. Sensing something off, Shin Yo and Chi Woo began to check themselves.

It had been about a minute since they entered the meeting roomwas her Daoist spell, and his ki still intact?

Luckily, it still seemed fine.

Maybe I worried for nothing?

Shin Yo let out a quick sigh as she relaxed.

As long as she could still use her Daoist spells, there was no reason to worry about any threats.

The same was true for Chi Woo, whose ki was also intact.

I dont see a reason for us to growl at each other like this Would you agree, everyone? said Zhe Gak.

If you try anything strange

I was just trying to have a conversation, but we arent making any progress. You all seem so worried Are you scared?

Who are you calling scared?!

Haha, it was just a joke. Why would you be scared after coming all this way

The Dragons Flowers continued to exchange glances.

They were all on guard against one another, but their mutual dislike actually allowed them to work together.

Each of the Dragons Flowers present took pride in being among the remaining members. They were confident that, no matter the danger, they would be able to overcome it with ease.

Fuu Can I finally start talking now?

Go ahead.

Creak

Zhe Gak stood up from his chair.

First, I would like to express thanks to the Dragons Flowers that came today to see me.

At least you have manners.

I wonder what ridiculous thing hell follow this up with, though.

Zhe Gak then continued, fixing his clothes as he did.

I will get straight to the point. I want to work together with everyone for the remainder of the Dragon War.

...What nonsense.

How ridiculous.

Did you forget that the Dragon War was a competition? There was still someone so stupid left in the Dragon War?

Its clear now that hes asking for help because he lacks the strength to handle things on his own. As expected of Zhe Gak how disappointing. But I suppose Id need to care about you first to be truly disappointed, right?

The Dragons Flowers continued hurling insults at Zhe Gak, with some members openly doubting him.

Zhe Gak quickly pressed on, as if trying to convince them otherwise.

Listen to what I have to say. Everyone here has a huge mountain to overcome if they want to reach the end of the Dragon War.

By huge mountain, you probably

Yes, Tae Yul. Are all of you confident that youd defeat Tae Yul?

Inwardly, everyone doubted their ability to defeat Tae Yul on their own.

And Zhe Gak had seized on this uncertainty to press his point.

...I-Ill know once I fight him myself.

Tae Yul has been different from us since birth.

Dont make me laugh!

...Lets hear him out first. Lets say we work together, how would we do it? Even if we work together, it wouldnt work unless we are able to trust each other. Dont tell me Youre not proposing that we all work together under Shin Yo, are you? If thats the case, Im leaving.

Calm down, calm down. I already decided on the method.

...You did?

Zhe Gak then smirked.

Yes, I already prepared one. A way for us to work together without worrying about someone betraying us.

What is it then?

It

Zhe Gak then shot a glance at his subordinates.

Glance!

The Dragons Flowers all tensed up, and the mood in the meeting room quickly shifted.

...is for all of you to serve me.

You must have lost your mind, Zhe Gak!

Youve finally revealed your true colors! Youre

Creaaaak

Thud!

The doors slammed shut.

Everyones face turned white as they felt their powers begin to weaken.

This is Insulating Steel! Its Insulating Steel!

No way! Insulating Steel suppresses ki, too?!

No, this is

Pop!

Fsssss

Smoke began to rise with a popping sound.

Dispersing Powder!

Dispersing Powder was a dust that suppressed ki flow. While Zhe Gak had previously allowed only a small amount to disperse, he now let the entire quantity fill the room.

Dont breathe it in!

Too late! cackled Zhe Gak.

Wham!

Chi Woo quickly kicked the table into the air.

Crumble

Fwip!

Multiple warriors dressed in red, all with strange mechanical devices in their mouths, appeared next to Zhe Gak.

It was clear that the device was to prevent them from breathing in the powder.

Seol Hongs jaw fell to the floor.

Zhe Gak Why

Haha, you too, Seol Hong.

......

Serve me.

Was this your plan from the start?

Yes, I was never interested in you. Only in your Dragons Stone.

Then

Chi Woo then stepped forward.

Seol Hong, get behind me.

Chi Woo the Dispersing Powder

Zhe Gaks expression quickly stiffened as he began scanning the room for Shin Yo.

Damn it Shin Yo! Someone stop her! Stop Shin Yo!

Its too late, Zhe Gak.

Although her ocean-like power was suppressed, she still had a small reserve remaining.

Though it would soon dissipate due to the Insulating Steels effects, she had already prepared a spell for such a situation.

And the small amount of energy she had left was more than enough to activate it.

Clap!

[Shin Yo used Higher Knowledge: Sixfold Voice.]

[Shin Yos voice echoes louder.]

Crackle

The clone that Shin Yo had hidden in the annex began to crackle to life.

Fsss

As Shin Yos connection to the clone began to fade, its legs started to disappear. Despite this, the clone managed to complete the spell.

Its mouth split open, inhaling deeply before releasing everything with a loud shout.

Shin Yo managed to let out a single sentencea loud, desperate shout that would echo throughout all of Hong Yeon.

- Save me, Jang Du!