Episode 72
Miel gazed out the window at the streets of Soseon.
The scenery had shifted from a lively marketplace to a high-end residential area where nobles might live.
At first glance, it looks like an old Eastern mansion, but there’s a hint of modernity mixed in… It’s an odd yet intriguing blend.
Adding to the surreal feeling, Hanlim had referred to Jeong Yunseo’s father as Daegam—an old honorific for noblemen.
“We’re almost there,” Hanlim finally announced.
Through the window, Miel spotted a particularly tall and grand estate towering over the surrounding buildings.
“This is the wealthiest household in the area.”
You can tell just by looking at it…
Miel murmured in awe.
Soon, the carriage came to a stop. Hanlim stepped out first and gestured for the others to follow.
“Please, this way.”
Jade and Troy disembarked and offered Miel their hands to escort her.
Koseliko quickly hid inside Miel’s hood.
“Thank you for your hard work,” Hanlim said to the coachman, while Miel took a moment to look around.
A well-maintained stone path stretched out before them, and large trees stood guard over the estate’s vast and impressive mansion.
“This way, please,” Hanlim said with a polite smile, leading the group to the main gate.
Miel nodded and followed, still taking in the luxurious surroundings.
Come to think of it, ever since we entered this upscale neighborhood, I haven’t seen a single person on the streets…
Just as she was thinking this, Hanlim stepped in front of the large gate and grabbed a round-shaped doorknob.
Oh, that’s…
Then, using the knob, he knocked—thump, thump.
“It’s Hanlim!” he called out.
With his voice, the massive gate slowly opened from the inside.
Miel couldn’t help but let out a quiet gasp, and both Jade and Troy looked on with interest.
A middle-aged man wearing a sword at his waist emerged from within.
“Oh, Hanlim.”
“Yes, have you been well, Captain?”
Hanlim bowed deeply to the man, who appeared to be the captain of the estate’s guard.
Makes sense. Hanlim did say he used to serve here for a long time.
Miel quietly nodded to herself.
“I’ve been fine. But what’s this? Who are these strangers from another continent?”
The man gave them a sharp look—especially studying Jade and Troy with a guard captain’s scrutiny.
“They don’t seem ordinary. Who are they really?”
“I met them on my way back from the Western Continent,” Hanlim explained.
“They’re here to treat Lady Yunseo.”
The captain’s eyes widened slightly but soon relaxed.
“Treat Lady Yunseo? Are you serious…?”
He looked again at the group, doubt in his eyes.
It wasn’t just their striking appearance that drew attention—there was an undeniable air of strength around them, something that couldn’t be faked.
“…Very well. Come inside.”
The captain opened the gate and gestured them in with a cautious tone.
Miel gave a small bow and followed Hanlim inside.
Jade and Troy didn’t pay much attention to the man.
“Still, Hanlim,” the captain said, “you haven’t forgotten you need the Lord’s permission before letting them see the young lady, right?”
Hanlim’s expression stiffened for a moment, but he quickly recovered.
“Yes, I’m aware.”
“Then go on in.”
Hanlim gave another polite bow and returned to Miel’s side.
“Please follow me.”
He led them through the gate, and Miel once again looked around.
This really is the grandest estate in the area.
Beyond the gates, the mansion was stunning.
White stone paths lined the grounds, trimmed gardens decorated the yard, and a large pond filled with colorful koi glimmered nearby.
Beyond that was the main residence—an elegant, old-fashioned structure that was not only majestic, but truly beautiful.
As they walked deeper inside, a few guards came into view.
“Oh, Hanlim. Who are these people?”
“They’re here to treat the young lady.”
Hanlim greeted the guards warmly and explained the situation.
Like the captain, they looked at Miel’s group with some suspicion, but eventually softened.
After all, if the captain let them in, there had to be a reason.
“Understood. Let’s inform the Lord first.”
One of the guards went inside the house.
“Please wait here for a moment,” Hanlim said, trying to smile.
But his face clearly showed tension.
“Hanlim… is the Lord that scary?” Miel asked, unable to hold back her curiosity.
Hanlim’s eyes widened briefly, then looked away.
“Well… not exactly scary, but—”
At that moment, the doors burst open.
A man in his fifties emerged, dressed in luxurious silk garments.
He wasn’t handsome per se, but he had a commanding presence.
From his skin, his hair, and his clothing—it was clear he was a powerful man.
That must be Lord Jeong.
Miel swallowed without realizing it as the man’s gaze scanned the group.
“Hanlim, you’ve brought outsiders into my house?”
One of Lord Jeong’s thick eyebrows rose and then fell again.
Hanlim quickly bowed deeply.
“M-My Lord, they may be outsiders, but they’re extremely skilled individuals.”
“And yet you expect me to let them see my daughter, Yunseo?”
Lord Jeong’s voice sharpened.
From his tone alone, Miel, Jade, and Troy could already tell:
He doesn’t like outsiders.
Hanlim began to panic. What if these important guests took offense and left?
“M-My Lord, I ask you—just this once. Please allow them to see the young lady.”
He looked ready to drop to his knees.
Lord Jeong glanced at him, then responded coldly.
“Outsiders cannot be trusted. There’ve been too many broken promises, too many betrayals.”
At this, one of Miel’s eyebrows lifted slightly.
“With respect, my Lord, don’t you think you’re generalizing a bit too much?”
She couldn’t help but push back. Her gaze had turned icy.
“Generalizing? Hmph. Every outsider I’ve met has proven me right.”
“We don’t know what kind of betrayal you may have suffered,” Miel replied coolly.
“But your daughter’s life is at stake. Isn’t it worth at least considering?”
Her calm but firm words made Lord Jeong’s eyes waver for a moment.
Watching from the side, Jade’s lips curled faintly in amusement.
He casually snapped his fingers.
Snap!
Golden mana rippled out from him, stirring the air and making the garden trees rustle violently.
“We’re mages from the Northern Continent,” Jade said flatly as he stepped forward, standing beside Hanlim.
“Your daughter’s illness—loss of vitality—is known as Mana Poisoning in our lands. It only affects mages.”
Lord Jeong’s eyes widened.
“…What? A mage? Are you saying my daughter is one?”
“Whether she becomes one is her decision,” Jade replied.
“But that’s not the point.”
He tapped Hanlim’s shoulder lightly.
“We came at Hanlim’s request to treat your daughter.
If we waste time arguing, she will die. So choose wisely.”
Jade’s lips curled into a slight smile, but his eyes remained cold.
After hearing everything, Lord Jeong’s expression flickered with internal conflict.
Finally, he gave a slow nod.
“…Very well. Please… take care of my daughter.”
“T-Thank you, my Lord!”
Hanlim bowed deeply, his face lighting up.
“…No need for thanks. If they can save Yunseo, I should be the one thanking them.
Hanlim, take them to her.”
Without another word, Lord Jeong turned and walked back inside.
