The first time I met Pavilion Master Hong Hee was right after Bang Jo-in died. She had summoned me to probe and see how much I knew. After that, the number of times I met the pavilion master in person could be counted on one hand.
Whenever I visited the detached houses on business, it was usually Geuk-hwan who received me. There were also times when Geuk-hwan was not there or was too busy to meet. Never before had Hong Hee appeared with Ye Hyang, her adopted daughter and successor.
It seemed something had truly gone wrong. Or perhaps, something was about to. I first stood up from my seat and offered my greetings.
“It has been a while. Have you been well?”
Sister Soso also stood beside me, holding Ju-gyeong’s hand. Hong Hee smiled warmly and gave a slight nod.
“It is good to see you again, Great Hero Jeong. Did your trip to Shaanxi conclude without incident?”
“Thanks to you, the journey was comfortable. I brought my older sister and nephew along to pay their respects as well.”
Sister Soso politely clasped her fist in greeting.
“I am Yang Soso. This is my son, Kwon Ju-gyeong. Ju-gyeong, offer your greetings.”
At the Black Night Gang, Ju-gyeong had been afraid of the dark-clothed men and hid behind his mother. Even when told to greet them, he had hesitated and bowed reluctantly. Here, it was completely different.