Chapter 23: A Step Ahead
Hideo Takumi's gaze was sharp—like a blade slicing straight through the heart. His eyes locked onto Dai Izuma, who was still trembling, caught between sobs.
"Ask yourself this," Hideo said quietly. "Did you really do all of that out of your own will?"
Dai's tears slowly began to subside. His disheveled expression gradually gave way to a dazed clarity. He wasn't stupid—far from it. He was sharp, but reckless. Hideo's words echoed in his mind like thunder.
As he recalled the events of the day, things began to unravel in his thoughts—like a poorly tied knot. None of it made sense. His actions, his words… they weren't like him. Not even close.
"No way… I mean, sure, I like gambling and I can be careless—but this? I know my limits! I'd never embarrass myself like that… not even if my life were on the line!"
And yet, he had done exactly that. With full awareness. As if… he wasn't in control of himself at all.
Still trapped in his thoughts, Dai flinched as Hideo asked again—his voice softer this time, yet cutting even deeper.
"When you stepped into the Thousand Gold Hall… was Mori Haizou wearing the same clothes as he is now?"
"…Yeah. But why?"
"Did you catch the scent of his cologne? Something pleasant, unusual?"
"I did. It was kind of… distinctive."
"And before everything started, they served you tea, didn't they?"
"Yeah. Same as today. What's your point?"
Hideo let out a low chuckle—more devilish than amused.
"That was the start of your curse, Dai."
Dai stiffened. "Wait… are you saying the tea was poisoned?"
"Poisoned? You think that's all?" Hideo scoffed. "Mori Haizou's clothes, the scent he wears, the tea—everything was part of the setup. You think it's a coincidence? That they serve you tea before gambling even begins? Idiot. Did you really not notice?"
"But… you drank it too! And you're fine!"
Hideo grinned. "Remember when I sneezed after taking a sip?"
"Yeah! It soaked my shirt!"
"Normally, a sneeze just sprays a bit of mucus. But mine soaked your whole front. Doesn't that strike you as… odd?"
Dai blinked, realization creeping into his features. "So… you did that on purpose?"
Hideo shrugged. "Let's just say… I've used similar tricks before. Personal experience, you know?"
Dai let out a dry laugh, a bitter smile stretching across his lips. "Of course. That's the Third Young Master for you. Always a step ahead."
"Anyway," Hideo's tone turned serious again, "I already burned the promissory note. But the rumors about your 'engagement' will probably spread. You need to act now."
"What should I do?"
"There's only one move left. Go home. Tell your grandfather everything—everything. Don't exaggerate, and don't leave anything out. Let him decide the next step. If he hears about it from someone else first… you're finished."
Hideo gave Dai a firm pat on the shoulder.
"Your grandfather still has the power to pull you out of this. You were just a scapegoat in their game. Now, let's turn the tables. Leave your sword and spirit stone with me, and demand a ransom—say, one million silver notes. If they can't pay…"
Dai's eyes lit up. "That's brilliant!"
"But remember," Hideo said firmly, "they staked your sword and stone on honor, not on coin. That gives you leverage. Don't go easy on them."
From beneath his cloak, Hideo pulled out a small porcelain teacup, still holding a few drops of liquid.
"I've been carrying this the whole time. Use it if you need more proof."
Dai accepted the cup as if receiving a sacred relic. Without another word, he bolted out the door—like a warhorse spurred into full gallop.
As Dai's figure disappeared into the street, Hideo smiled faintly.
Trying to trap me? Unfortunately for them… I was already two moves ahead.
Now, he could just sit back and enjoy the chaos to come. The Abe and Mori families were bound to panic. If not for Liu Yufei's intervention—and the strange changes within himself—he might have fallen into their trap instead.
But not this time.
He didn't need to reveal his abilities. Not yet. If people knew what he was truly capable of, he'd draw the attention of every political enemy in the city. That was a risk he couldn't afford.
These powerful families wouldn't act recklessly—not without permission from the real players behind the curtain. As cruel and cunning as they were, even they knew their limits.
Behind him stood Grandfather Jun… and the Takumi family.
Even if their influence had waned, one truth remained: as long as Jun Takumi drew breath, no one would dare break the final line of defense.
One-third of the military's generals still obeyed him.
Even the Emperor treaded carefully around him.
If the Takumi family fell, countless others would fall with them. But while they still stood, so too did the fragile balance of power—and with it, their shield against the storm.
The same was true for the Dai family. Though not as mighty, they were still a force among the elite. If the Takumis and Dais joined hands, even the Liu or Dugu families would be forced to yield.
Yes, the Liu family was rising—bolstered by fresh talent. But they weren't ready to seize dominance. Not yet. Not while Grandfather Jun remained the shadow behind the scenes.
And that… was enough.
Enough to make anyone think twice before crossing Hideo Takumi.