The time that had been night had turned into day.
It meant a whole day had passed.
The journey back to the hideout hadnât taken long. With my body fully healed, my pace was much faster than before.
But there was something odd.
"This so-called hideout is way too easy to find."
Finding the cave entrance had been far too simple.
Yuri had mentioned that some sort of spell was in place to make it difficult to locate, yetâ¦
When we escaped last time and when I perceived the residual effects of the formation, it was clear.
Something about me had changed.
"Stop thereâ¦!!"
The guards stationed at the entrance shouted and moved into a defensive stance upon seeing me.
Fortunately, with Yuri accompanying me, we were able to enter without much trouble.
"Youâ¦!"
Upon returning to the hideout, the White Lotus Sword appeared hastily, her eyes scanning me.
She opened her mouth as if to say something but froze when her gaze fell on Namgung Bi-ah in my arms.
"â¦Ahâ¦"
Her eyes revealed a swirl of emotions.
I knew it.
Seeing Namgung Bi-ah would make White Lotus Sword uncomfortable. She wasnât a heartless person, and the fact that Namgung Bi-ah had willingly acted as bait was likely stirring conflicting feelings within her.
"Take her and check her condition, please. Andâ¦"
Now wasnât the time to dwell on such matters.
I handed Namgung Bi-ah over to her abruptly and said seriously,
"Iâll go speak with the Palace Lord first."
There were things I needed to ask him.
**************
At the Iron Doors
The massive iron doors where I presumed the Palace Lord resided stood before me.
"Turn back," said the figure blocking my way.
The Black Lion.
One of the North Seaâs generals, he stood tall and imposing, glaring at me with suspicion.
"You are not permitted to meet the Palace Lord."
His bladeâs tip trembled with caution. I understood the reason.
"I caused a scene when I left."
After creating chaos and threatening the Palace Lord himself, it was only natural for this man to be on high alert.
In short, it was my own fault.
I raised my hands with my most amiable expression.
"Earlier, I may haveâ"
"Judging by your expression, itâs clear youâre planning something against the Palace Lord. You will not pass."
This bastardâ¦
It seemed my attempt at polite diplomacy wasnât working.
"Sighâ¦"
I lowered my hands and let out a deep breath.
Of course, this reaction was expected. The Palace Lordâs condition had worsened, and he was in hiding for recovery.