Cough!
“Are you all right?”
“Ah, yes. I’m sorry. Something went down the wrong pipe for a moment.”
Baek Dohyun wiped the corner of his mouth and set the teacup down with formal poise.
A curious gaze met him from across the table.
“Even a swordsman who’s reached your extraordinary state can choke like that. Fascinating.”
“I appreciate the compliment, but I’m human too. Are you not, Lord Goya?”
Hong Goya laughed. No—
“I am as well. Human. I even choke now and then.”
At that, Baek Dohyun showed a faint smile.
His kneel-sit was upright; his eyes held not a speck of disorder.
The vigor and spirit he gave off were pristine. A youth who feels good to meet after a long while, Hong Goya thought.
“I’d heard your story till my ears wore down, but I wanted to see for myself. I had to confirm with my own eyes what kind…