The relationship between Cheonwoohoe and Pungwolru remained solid on the surface, but unseen cracks were beginning to form. After the clash with Hyeolmaeru, Pungwolru resumed normal operations, yet subtle doubts and discontent began to spread.
Makyō's infiltrators within Pungwolru diligently carried out their roles, spreading rumors among patrons that Cheonwoohoe's support was making Pungwolru more vulnerable.
"Cheonwoohoe claims to protect us, but how long can that last? What if another strong opponent like Hyeolmaeru appears?"
"I've heard that associating with Cheonwoohoe doesn't sit well with customers. Isn't it ultimately our loss?"
Moreover, the infiltrators approached Pungwolru's staff directly.
"Does Cheonwoohoe truly care about us? If they weren't using us, why would they expose us to such danger?"
"They claim to protect us, but what are they actually doing for us? Shouldn't we become stronger on our own?"
These seeds of doubt began to take root among the staff.
Within Cheonwoohoe, some trainees questioned the alliance with Pungwolru, wondering if it aligned with their ideals.
"We claim to help the weak, so why are we involved with a pleasure house?"
"Pungwolru serves as an information hub, but does it truly benefit our organization?"
"Seeing some trainees frequent Pungwolru is disappointing. It feels like Cheonwoohoe's honor is diminishing."
These concerns grew louder, leading to discussions in internal meetings.
Cheong Unjin shook his head in disagreement.
"Pungwolru isn't just a pleasure house. It's a vital place where we gather information and provide refuge for the vulnerable."
However, opposing voices were equally strong.
"Even so, our association with a pleasure house could tarnish Cheonwoohoe's reputation. There are already murmurs of distrust from the righteous sects."
Under the subtle manipulation of Makyō's agents, Pungwolru's atmosphere began to shift. They introduced more provocative and taboo-breaking services, gradually altering its operations.
"With Cheonwoohoe's protection, we can afford to innovate. To increase profits, we need to adopt new methods."
"Other places are offering more extravagant entertainment. We need to keep up."
These changes spread through word of mouth, and Pungwolru started losing its original dignity. Noticing this, some Cheonwoohoe trainees began indulging in decadent lifestyles by frequenting Pungwolru.
Lee Dohyeon received reports about the rumors and internal disputes concerning Pungwolru and fell into deep contemplation. He summoned Han Soyeon, Baek Wolhui, and Cheong Unjin to share the situation.
"Reports indicate that Pungwolru is changing. There are rumors that it's undermining Cheonwoohoe's credibility."
"This isn't a trivial matter," Han Soyeon said calmly. "If both the righteous and demonic sects start questioning our relationship with Pungwolru, Cheonwoohoe could become isolated."
Baek Wolhui crossed her arms and added, "But abandoning Pungwolru would mean turning our backs on them. We can't do that now."
Cheong Unjin sighed deeply.
"It's time we directly assess Pungwolru. If we neglect it, the problem will only escalate."
Lee Dohyeon decided to visit Pungwolru himself, accompanied by Han Soyeon, to observe the current situation and converse with the staff.
Upon arrival, Lee Dohyeon immediately sensed the changed atmosphere. Patrons appeared more chaotic and indulgent, and the staff's demeanor reflected fatigue and cynicism.
"Bring the manager," Lee Dohyeon ordered calmly.
When the manager appeared, he pointed out issues within Cheonwoohoe.
"Our staff are growing discontent. Cheonwoohoe claims to protect us, but when danger arises, isn't Pungwolru the one left vulnerable?"
Lee Dohyeon listened quietly before responding firmly.
"We will not abandon Pungwolru. However, if it continues to change as it has, you're inviting danger upon yourselves."
Meanwhile, at Makyō's headquarters, Hyeolmaeru's leader reported to Heukwolcheon.
"Cheonwoohoe's alliance is strong, but Pungwolru could become a vulnerability. Further disruption there could incite internal chaos within Cheonwoohoe."
Heukwolcheon smiled coldly.
"An excellent strategy. Pungwolru is both Cheonwoohoe's key information hub and symbol. If we sever that bond, Cheonwoohoe will collapse on its own."
He tapped his fingers and issued orders to his subordinates.
"Instruct the infiltrators to intensify their efforts. Amplify the voices criticizing Cheonwoohoe within Pungwolru and sow discontent among the staff. Force Lee Dohyeon into making difficult choices."
As Lee Dohyeon left Pungwolru, he shared a brief conversation with Han Soyeon.
"Both Pungwolru and Cheonwoohoe are wavering. A wrong decision could shatter this alliance."
Han Soyeon nodded.
"That's why we must act decisively now. If we don't restore Pungwolru to its original state, Cheonwoohoe will also be at risk."
Lee Dohyeon resolved to restructure the relationship between Pungwolru and Cheonwoohoe. However, the consequences of his decision remained uncertain.
The cracks surrounding Pungwolru were only just beginning.
****
Chapter : The Silent Wind, The Revealed Scheme
Upon receiving the report from Chunhyang, Lee Dohyun convened a meeting. Chunhyang, calm yet resolute, spoke with firm conviction.
"It would be best to send one of my trusted colleagues. She's more capable than anyone I know, and above all, she's loyal."
Lee Dohyun studied her expression.
"Can she handle it? There are spies moving within Pungwolru. This could be dangerous."
Chunhyang offered a confident smile.
"Don't worry. She's not just a courtesan. She's the dearest friend I have—and the one I trust the most."
A few days later, Chunhyang's companion, Yoo Yeonhwa, arrived at Pungwolru. With her graceful poise and enchanting smile, she introduced herself and seamlessly blended into the atmosphere. Her true mission: identify and neutralize the spies hidden within.
Yeonhwa employed both charm and sharp intellect to approach the infiltrators. Through conversations with guests, she turned their own rumors against them.
"I heard Hyeolmaeru plans to bring down Pungwolru?"
She asked, smiling sweetly. One careless spy, lulled by her allure, replied smugly:
"Of course. The Cheonuhoe may claim to protect you, but they won't last. Once we execute the plan..."
Yeonhwa's eyes glinted. She would use their reports against them—reversing the information flow to sow discord inside the enemy's network.
After several days of quiet investigation, Yeonhwa had identified the infiltrators. She relayed their positions and plans to Lee Dohyun, backing her claims with hard evidence.
"They're under the influence of Hyeolmaeru and the Demonic Cult. If we disrupt their communication, we can manipulate their chain of command."
Lee Dohyun nodded.
"Excellent. Let's expose this. It's time we show both the Orthodox and Unorthodox Sects where the rot truly lies."
Secretly, Lee Dohyun distributed Yeonhwa's evidence to leaders of both factions. The implications were damning. The Orthodox and Unorthodox Sects, now aware of Hyeolmaeru's ties to the Demonic Cult, acted quickly—banning their operations and isolating them entirely.
With the spies gone, Pungwolru stabilized. Chunhyang formally thanked Cheonuhoe.
"Thanks to you, we've restored peace. Without your support—and Yeonhwa's courage—this wouldn't have been possible."
Lee Dohyun smiled.
"Standing by our allies is what we do. Pungwolru is one of us. We'll always protect you."
Back in the Demonic Cult's base, Heukwolcheon received news of Hyeolmaeru's collapse. He merely smiled.
"Let them think they've won. That alliance they're so proud of—it's still their greatest vulnerability."
Turning to his subordinates, he gave a chilling order:
"It's time to strike at Cheonuhoe from within. If they pride themselves on helping the weak, we'll make sure that ideal is what shatters them. Break the foundation of their unity—then they'll crumble on their own."
Though Cheonuhoe and Pungwolru had strengthened their bond, the Demonic Cult now had its sights set directly on Cheonuhoe's heart.
The true game had only just begun.