Side Story Chapter 113. The Betrayer (1)
“... Hmm.”
The old man slowly opened his eyes and let out a big yawn.
His face was heavy with fatigue.
There was sleep crust in his eyes, his skin was dry and withered, and the whites of his eyes, filled with veins, were all yellowed.
The glossy silk robe had slipped down, exposing his chest and belly.
Unlike his sunken chest where his ribs faintly showed, his belly protruded slightly—typical of a rich, newly wealthy man.
Yawning repeatedly, the old man cleared his throat a few times and then opened the cap of a nearby wine bottle.
The scent wasn’t strong.
His trembling hands brought the bottle to his lips.
The bright red liquid poured out in a steady stream and disappeared straight into his mouth.
“Ahem!”
Having emptied half the bottle in one go, he wiped his mouth carelessly and looked far off toward the massive iron gate.
After a moment, he spoke.
“I am Ho Beomwonju. May I come in?”
“Yes, go ahead.”
The voice was gloomy and sluggish.
Just hearing it made one's energy drain away—it felt like the very air around him was sinking to the ground.
Boom! The gate opened and an elderly man appeared.
Unlike the old man, his body was strong and his robes perfectly worn.
Though over twenty large candelabra were lit, the large hall felt brighter with his presence.