Chapter 52

Just as Yoo Jeong-hong had done to Dan Woo-sung, he casually hinted to Hwa Eun-seol about the prize given to the winner of the Phoenix Grand Tournament. Gifts were prepared that were no less impressive than those for the men’s competition. Three roots of century-old snow ginseng, and for the four who reached the semifinals, the right to select weapons from the Alliance’s armory.

Dan Woosung and his group couldn’t help but be astonished.

The leader was thorough in preparation and generous in distribution.

However, the Alliance Leader actually felt apologetic because the century-old snow ginseng was less rare than the century-old purified ginseng. There was absolutely no need for him to feel that way.

Even the Hwa siblings found themselves deep in thought.

I couldn’t help but reflect on the words and reputations about the leader that had been bandied about outside the Emperor’s Association. All I could discern was the intention to look out for juniors in the martial world.

Despite being described as so radical and decisive, he was nothing like that with his juniors.

Only as the meal drew to a close did Chief Yu Jeong-hong suddenly stare blankly at Cheol Myeong-ho.

Cheol Myeong-ho, who hadn’t even noticed whether the rice was going into his mouth or his nose, flinched and bowed his head slightly.

“Leader, my name is Cheol Myeong-ho.”

He had merely offered a greeting, yet Chief Yoo Jeong-hong smiled.

“That scar on your cheek looks like a sword wound.”