51.Suspicion and Tension Among the Orthodox Faction

The news that Baek Wol-Hee and Cheong Woon-Jin had settled in Heuk Un-Gwan spread rapidly across the Orthodox factions. The presence of two prominent figures from the Unorthodox faction in what was considered a bastion of righteousness sent shockwaves through the ranks of the Orthodox leadership. Moreover, the name associated with them, Lee Do-Hyun, had long been regarded as an ambiguous figure—neither officially belonging to the Orthodox faction nor entirely separate from it.

Although Lee Do-Hyun had never sworn allegiance to any sect, his past actions, as well as his associations with Han So-Yeon and Yoon Seol-Hwa, had given the impression that he was at least aligned with the Orthodox side. However, the fact that he was now openly coexisting with figures like Baek Wol-Hee and Cheong Woon-Jin was causing significant discontent among the Orthodox elders.

"Is this really true? That Lee Do-Hyun is mingling with those kinds of people?"

The council of high-ranking Orthodox elders exchanged uneasy glances.

"If he was ever truly on our side, why would he associate with such unorthodox individuals? What is he thinking?"

One of the elders shook his head in disbelief.

"That bastard… How can he get so close to figures from the Unorthodox faction? What is he plotting?"

Another elder furrowed his brows.

The problem lay in the ambiguity of Lee Do-Hyun's status. He had never once declared himself an Orthodox warrior. Yet, due to his friendships and past alliances, he was often perceived as one. Now, with his newfound association with known Unorthodox figures, that perception was rapidly shifting.

"He was never formally one of us, but his actions always seemed to lean toward our side. So why this sudden shift?"

A concerned elder voiced his thoughts.

"And what are we supposed to do now? If he truly aligns himself with the Unorthodox faction, he could become a serious problem for us!"

The unease among the Orthodox leadership deepened. Lee Do-Hyun had never relied on their support, nor had he officially joined their ranks. However, due to his association with Han So-Yeon and Yoon Seol-Hwa, he had been considered a potential ally. This had led to a level of tolerance, even acceptance, from the Orthodox side. But now, his close ties with figures like Baek Wol-Hee and Cheong Woon-Jin had changed everything.

"If Lee Do-Hyun truly belongs to the Orthodox faction, why is he growing closer to the Unorthodox faction? What is his true intention?"

One of the elders frowned, clearly disturbed.

"We've put our trust in him, but maybe it was misplaced. His recent actions make no sense."

Lee Do-Hyun had never pledged allegiance to anyone. He walked his own path. He had no master, no sect, and no obligations to any faction. The Orthodox faction had assumed he was on their side, but in reality, he was simply a man who acted according to his own beliefs.

"This could be a serious issue. If he continues down this path, what will become of our faction's position in the martial world?"

Some of the elders were growing increasingly wary.

"Are we going to stand by and watch as he builds ties with the Unorthodox faction? We need to determine where his loyalty truly lies!"

For them, Lee Do-Hyun was becoming an anomaly—a warrior walking the fine line between Orthodox and Unorthodox, refusing to be bound by either.

The elders debated their next course of action. Would they try to persuade him? Oppose him? Or simply watch and wait?

"No matter what he chooses, we must be prepared. The balance of power is shifting, and Lee Do-Hyun is at its center."

**********

Ha Jin-Woo, the Silent Guardian

Ha Jin-Woo had long been a shadow guarding Mi-Ryeong. With an unassuming appearance and quiet demeanor, no one would have suspected him to be one of the deadliest warriors in the region. Today was no different—he lounged at the corner of the village, casually holding a smoking pipe between his lips, his eyes sharp despite his relaxed posture.

However, his instincts screamed of something unusual.

"Something's not right today."

Ha Jin-Woo had learned long ago to trust his intuition.

Unfamiliar figures had entered the village—strangers moving with precision, not ordinary travelers but trained men on a mission. He could tell, even from a distance, that they were targeting Mi-Ryeong.

"Looks like someone finally decided to make a move."

Despite his calm expression, Ha Jin-Woo quickly calculated his approach. He would not allow them to reach her. The village remained blissfully unaware, but Ha Jin-Woo was already in motion, seamlessly blending into the background as he followed them.

The group of men advanced toward Mi-Ryeong's residence. They did not know that death was walking just a few steps behind them.

When they arrived at the doorstep, one of the men whispered, "Move quickly. We grab her and get out."

But before their hands could even touch the door—

THUD!

Ha Jin-Woo struck without hesitation. The first man was down before he even knew what happened. The others barely had time to react before another swift, merciless blow sent the second one sprawling.

One of the remaining intruders reached for his weapon, but Ha Jin-Woo was faster. He grabbed the man's wrist and twisted—SNAP! A muffled scream followed as the man collapsed.

"You're all so predictable."

His voice was emotionless, his movements effortless.

The last remaining intruder stood frozen, realizing too late that they had been outmatched before the fight even began.

Ha Jin-Woo's hand shot forward, gripping the man's throat.

"Leave while you still can."

His voice was calm. But there was no mercy in his grip.

The final intruder barely managed to nod before Ha Jin-Woo released him, allowing him to stumble away in terror. The others lay motionless on the ground, groaning in pain or unconscious.

Ha Jin-Woo surveyed the area. The village was still quiet. No one had seen anything. He had finished his work without leaving a trace.

Satisfied, he turned his gaze toward Mi-Ryeong's home.

"No one will ever reach her. Not on my watch."

For now, the danger had passed. But Ha Jin-Woo knew it wouldn't be the last time. He would remain in the shadows, always watching, always prepared.

And if they came again—he would not let any of them leave alive.