Synopsis

The chapter begins with the patriarch of the Namgoong clan showing off his clan's land and testing the protagonist's qinggong before revealing his true intention: to have the protagonist marry his granddaughter, Hye. In return, the protagonist would receive a large dowry and benefit from the clan's influence. The protagonist is initially appalled at the proposal but then realizes the strategic value of being associated with the clan which may help his own goals and placate the emperor. The chapter concludes with the protagonist beginning training with the Sword King after showing off his qinggong and also having it revealed that he was being tested all along.