Chapter 26
Jeong Charyeon was speechless at Jeok Leegeon's nonchalant words. Whether it was a coincidence or Jeok Leegeon had been following her, at least one thing was clear: she was genuinely glad to see him.
"It's a pleasure to see you again, Sect Leader."
Jeok Leegeon greeted Jeong I-chu politely.
"Likewise."
Jeong I-chu was just as taken aback.
"What brings you here?"
"I came for a drink."
His face was already flushed red, as if he had already had a drink. He was even holding a bottle of liquor.
"Ah, just a moment."
Jeok Leegeon cut between Charyeon and Jeong I-chu and approached the counter.
He placed the bottle on the counter.
"Hey, sis, what's this?"
"How may I help you?"
Ihwa gave a sweet smile. It was hard to believe she was the same woman who had reacted so coldly to Jeong I-chu just moments ago.
"This is supposed to be Bear Bile Liquor, right?"
"Yes, it is."
"Is it still Bear Bile Liquor if it doesn't have any bear bile in it?"
A look of embarrassment briefly flashed across Ihwa's face, but she quickly composed herself.
"What are you talking about?"
"There's no bear bile in here. You're selling this for one hundred and twenty nyang?"
"You seem quite drunk."
"Yeah. I wanted to get drunk, but after drinking this fake liquor, I just have a headache, that's what I'm saying."
"Hey, you can get into serious trouble for talking recklessly!"
Ihwa responded calmly.
Jeok Leegeon narrowed his eyes.
"I overheard in the room earlier that some important people come here. Did you sell this fake liquor to those important people too?"
"Shut up!"
For the first time, Ihwa's voice rose.
"No."
Jeok Leegeon turned around and shouted.
"The Bear Bile Liquor they sell here is fake! Fake Bear Bile Liquor!"
Jeok Leegeon yelled at the top of his lungs.
A Martial Artist standing behind Ihwa stepped forward. Just as he was about to subdue Jeok Leegeon, a nearby door creaked open. A middle-aged man poked his head out.
The man's eyes were deep, and his muscles were firm, far surpassing the Martial arts of Chunpung. Ihwa's face completely stiffened as she recognized him. Ihwa stopped her Martial Artist, and the Martial Artist stepped back.
Ihwa said in a flustered voice.
"A drunk is causing a disturbance. You don't need to worry about it, sir."
"Whether it's a drunk's rampage or a scam, everyone come out and see for yourselves!"
Jeok Leegeon's booming voice was definitely not the voice of a drunk.
Other doors opened in succession.
The man who had opened the first door asked calmly.
"Young man, what grounds do you have for saying that?"
"Why, my tongue is the proof, of course."
"Your tongue is the proof?"
"Because this liquor doesn't have even a single bear hair, let alone bear bile."
"Can you prove it?"
"Of course."
Then the man came outside.
"I am Mak Hwi of the Shoutern Mountains Alliance."
At those words, the surrounding people were surprised and stepped back. Those who made eye contact reflexively lowered their heads or clasped their hands in respect.
Mak Hwi, known as the Tyrant Blade, was a renowned Martial Artist among the experts of the Shoutern Mountains Alliance, known for his outstanding Martial arts and generosity. Moreover, he was the leader of the White Tiger Squad, one of the best armed groups in the Shoutern Mountains Alliance.
"I came here to drink with an important guest today, but you've disturbed the mood with your commotion. However, if your claim is true, this is a serious matter. I just offered that liquor to our guest a moment ago."
Then Ihwa said calmly.
"It's truly fortunate that Great Warrior Mak is taking charge. This incident has caused great damage to our reputation, so I hope you will handle it fairly."
"I will. I'll make sure to deal with whoever is lying."
With that, Mak Hwi casually touched the greatsword at his waist.
Jeok Leegeon said confidently.
"If I prove that this liquor is fake, I'll take all of today's sales."
Ihwa asked coldly.
"And if you can't prove it?"
"You can make liquor with my gall bladder."
Those words meant he was betting his life. With a cold expression, Ihwa nodded in agreement.
Mak Hwi said in a loud voice.
"Alright, I'll be the witness."
As Mak Hwi stepped forward, people began to come out of the rooms one by one.
Those who frequented this place were all high-ranking officials, wealthy merchants, or renowned figures of Jianghu. Although they disliked being the center of attention, there was no need to worry about appearances now that Mak Hwi of the Shoutern Mountains Alliance had stepped forward. Moreover, it was directly related to the liquor they had been drinking, so everyone showed interest.
"Now, then, how are you going to prove it?"
At Mak Hwi's question, everyone's attention focused on Jeok Leegeon.
Charyeon, who was watching, felt anxious.
What on earth is he planning to do?
Before Mak Hwi had stepped in, they could have somehow apologized and ended it. But now, there was no way out.
Jeok Leegeon grinned and said.
"I'll make the exact same liquor as this one without adding any bear bile."
Everyone was shocked by Jeok Leegeon's confident statement.
Mak Hwi said with a very interested expression.
"That means you know exactly what went into this liquor."
"You could say that."
"Then let's see you do it. Now, everyone, let's go to the kitchen."
Mak Hwi led the way, followed by Jeok Leegeon and Ihwa. Jeong I-chu and Charyeon also joined the crowd and went there.
Charyeon was relieved on one hand, and very worried on the other.
Fortunately, writing the promissory note was postponed for now. If Jeok Leegeon could prove this fraud, they might not have to pay for the liquor at all. Naturally, she could only hope that Jeok Leegeon would prove it.
Wait, am I believing in that guy right now? That chatterbox.
At that moment, Jeok Leegeon, who was walking ahead, glanced back at Charyeon.
Their eyes met for a moment.
In that brief moment, Jeok Leegeon's eyes said, "Don't miss my lead and follow me closely."
That kind of look doesn't suit you!
Nevertheless, Charyeon's heart stirred.
