Book 12 Chapter 15

Territory of the Hua Shan Sect

- Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, Yu Hwan-gwon

"Eldest Brother!"

Jo Cheon-u, a member of the Vermilion Bird Squad and a first-generation disciple of the Hua Shan Sect, called out to Bi Ryu-yeon.

"?"

With a leisurely, almost oblivious slowness, Bi Ryu-yeon's gaze turned towards a man. Bi Ryu-yeon remained silent for a moment, staring intently at Jo Cheon-u.

"……"

Jo Cheon-u’s expression soured slightly. He was inwardly displeased by his Eldest Brother's gaze, which seemed to be looking at a complete stranger. What was this indifferent attitude, as if he were seeing him for the first time today?

A long, arduous silence hung in the air.

"…Who are you?"

Finally, Bi Ryu-yeon's lips parted. However, what followed was thunder from a clear sky.

"Wh-what?"

Jo Cheon-u's eyes widened like eggs in shock and disbelief. Bi Ryu-yeon tilted his head at the sight.

"……"

Whoosh!

Another long silence ensued. Ignored, Jo Cheon-u stood rooted to the spot like a stake, staring blankly at Bi Ryu-yeon. After a considerable time, a faint smile appeared on Bi Ryu-yeon's usually expressionless face.

"Hahaha, it's a joke, just a joke! Yes, Jo Cheon-u-gun, a disciple of the Hua Shan Sect, a member of the Vermilion Bird Squad, and my junior brother! What is it?"

Although he couldn't quite grasp the tone, which sounded as if he were explaining himself to a third, unseen person, Jo Cheon-u painstakingly forced himself to endure it.

Soon, composing himself, Jo Cheon-u spoke.

"We, we are about to enter the territory of the Hua Shan Sect."

"Hmm, I see."

"Indeed."

"Right."

And so, their conversation ended.

Whoosh!

A gentle breeze rustled between them, brushing past.

Hua Shan Sect, Lotus Peak, Mid-slope, Third Training Ground

"Huuu-"

Lee Gyeong-yeong, a disciple of the Hua Shan Sect, finished sheathing his sword after wielding it without pause from the first to the twenty-fourth move of the Hua Shan Sect's ultimate technique, the Twenty-Four Plum Blossom Sword Forms. It was a sword form he had repeated every single day for seven years, ever since he had passed the basic training and was first taught the Twenty-Four Plum Blossom Sword Forms, a true sect secret. Yet, he still couldn't properly execute the final four moves.

'When will I ever reach that profound state?'

No matter how many times he swung, he couldn't figure out what was wrong. However, his master and senior uncles consistently pointed out his mistakes. But how could he fix what he didn't understand?

Lee Gyeong-yeong had already failed the entrance exam three times. This was his fourth attempt. If he failed this time, he might have to abandon his dream of attending the Cheonmu Academy.

He remembered how surprised he was two years ago when his junior brother, Yoon Jun-ho, was accepted instead of him. That day, he felt like he was going mad with the burning flames of jealousy that consumed his mind. So he raged.

He absolutely could not accept it. That a crybaby coward would become an academy student in his stead. If not for the deep kindness of his Grand-Senior Uncle, such a lie would never have come to pass. That thought remained unchanged even now.

Afterward, he redoubled his efforts and took the entrance exam one more time, but the result was as he saw. He had again failed inexplicably, leaving him in this pathetic state, wildly swinging his sword in the training ground. He still couldn't understand why Yoon Jun-ho had been chosen over him. As the suppressed emotions resurfaced along with bitter memories of the past, anger suddenly surged within him.

"Damn it! Damn it all! Rotten!"

Words he, as a disciple of a prestigious sect, would normally find hard to utter flowed freely in his current miserable mood. The path of swordsmanship seemed impossibly long.

"Senior Brother Lee, Senior Brother Lee!"

At that moment, a voice as fresh as a spring breeze echoed from afar. It was a voice like a warm spring wind that instantly brightened his gloomy heart. The sound grew closer. It was a girl full of vibrant energy, who looked incredibly cute and lively. She was like a flower bud just before it bloomed. It was clear that once this bud burst open, its beautiful fragrance would spread everywhere. The girl's name was So Yu-gyeong, his junior sister. Because of her cuteness and charm, she was currently the favorite of all the elders in the sect.

The girl was also preparing for this year's Cheonmu Academy entrance exam. However, among her peers, her understanding of the Plum Blossom Sword Forms was the most exceptional, so none of the elders predicted her failure. Her treatment was entirely different from his, a fourth-time applicant.

Before long, the girl had approached him.

"Senior Brother Lee! Did you hear the news?"

"What news?"

"Junior Brother Jo Cheon-u has been selected for the Cheonmu Academy's Hua Shan Branch Representative delegation!"

"Of course! If Junior Brother Jo isn't chosen, who else would be?"

Lee Gyeong-yeong nodded with apparent joy. Jo Cheon-u, also known as Hua Shan Yi-eung, was Lee Gyeong-yeong's idol. He possessed a spirit and an outstanding sword qi that would make any man fall for him.

"And I heard another Hua Shan Sect disciple was chosen…"

"Co-could it be Senior Sister Jeong?"

His eyes, asking urgently, were instantly filled with longing. Senior Sister Jeong referred to Jeong Ha-gyeong, known as Hua Shan Yi-seon-nyeo. She was, in a different way, also an object of his admiration, just like Jo Cheon-u.

"No. I heard it was definitely a man…"

Lee Gyeong-yeong's shoulders drooped immediately. His face was visibly disappointed. If it had been Senior Sister Jeong, he might have had a fleeting hope of seeing her face, even from afar.

"Then who could it be?"

"Who knows. We'll find out soon."

However, the passion and curiosity in his voice had already vanished. Ever since he heard that the other candidate was a man…

It was a rather transparent display in front of his younger junior sister. But neither Lee Gyeong-yeong nor So Yu-gyeong could have dreamed that the remaining representative would be Yoon Jun-ho, known for being a crybaby coward.

Hua Shan, Lotus Peak

Hua Shan Sect, Upper Palace, Grand Assembly Hall, Leaf Plum Hall

Here, the Hua Shan Sect Leader, along with twelve elders, were gathered in a meeting. The subject of their discussion was how to welcome the delegation from the Hua Shan Branch, who were reportedly arriving in the Hua Shan Sect's territory soon.

For the past hundred years, this had been a firmly established duty of the Hua Shan Sect. The Hua Shan Sect had always considered this a great honor and performed it with utmost sincerity. Therefore, this year, they could not afford to be negligent in their reception.

The discussion regarding the delegation's welcome was largely concluded. What remained were trivial matters that could be dismissed as old men's idle chatter, but these individuals seemed more interested in them.

"But… I do want to see him."

The Sect Leader said, as if bringing up a trivial topic.

"Indeed. I would like to see him too."

The Sword Connection Elder nodded in agreement. He was in a position to teach swordsmanship to disciples, and naturally, he had a keen interest in swordsmanship from other schools. Though he didn't show it, he was more anxious than anyone about this matter.

"Hmm…"

Emotions spread like paint dropped on a calm lake. The composition of this delegation was greatly stimulating the interest of these elders.

The news that Bing Geom, one of the Five Great Sword Masters of the world, was leading the delegation was the catalyst. As fellow practitioners of the sword, they wanted to witness his sword qi firsthand. That desire had taken root in a corner of their hearts and showed no signs of disappearing. To say they had no such ambition would be a lie.

Elders of a sect rarely leave their mountains unless there is a major event. Consequently, they became increasingly distant from worldly news. Even if rumors of a powerful swordsman spread throughout the martial world, the opportunity to see them in person was as rare as stars in the sky. Of course, as the Hua Shan Sect, one of the nine great sects, renowned for its sword arts, there were always those who lined up wanting to showcase their skills. However, most were mediocrities; only about one in a hundred possessed genuine skill. In other words, it was that difficult to see the real thing.

As one lives in the world, the more boring and tedious things become compared to interesting ones. Furthermore, repeating the same schedule endlessly for decades, even those dedicated to cultivation, would drown in tears flowing with yawns.

At such times, their interest would naturally turn to things outside the sect, leading them to search for amusements like children.

And if that amusement was a Sword Master, one of the Five Great Sword Masters of the world, it would be icing on the cake.

Among them, there were actually those who had crossed swords with Bing Geom in the past. However, none had managed to steal victory from him. The result was always a regretful, narrow defeat.

Therefore, they wanted to witness his sword qi, which had undoubtedly developed further. If the opportunity arose, using this to get revenge would be good. No matter how they thought about it, it was a profitable venture. Everyone gathered in the assembly hall closed their eyes and nodded solemnly. They could not deny that it was a tempting prospect.

"If there are no objections, we will ask Master Guan of Bing Geom to come and demonstrate. For the improvement of Hua Shan Sect swordsmanship."

Although he spoke thus, the Sect Leader genuinely wanted to see Bing Geom's sword qi. The elders nodded in strong agreement with his opinion.

"Well then, let's consider that matter settled. And about this Hua Shan Branch Representative delegation, I can hardly believe that child Jun-ho was selected. It seems like an impossible miracle without the care of the Ancestral Masters."

Then, another elder spoke.

"Indeed. For such a timid child to achieve such a great feat is a tremendous accomplishment for his generation."

Nods of agreement were exchanged. The Sect Leader's gaze turned to one side. An old man sat there, quietly sleeping with his eyes closed. However, no anger appeared in the Sect Leader's eyes. In Hua Shan, there was no one with a higher position than this old man currently sleeping. Despite his appearance, he was the most senior figure in the Hua Shan Sect.

Of course, personally, he wished the old man would sleep in his own quarters rather than the assembly hall, but he couldn't force him. Before this old man, even the Sect Leader was no more than a cute child.

This old man was none other than Yu Hwan-gwon, the pinnacle of Hua Shan sword, and the foremost of the Five Great Sword Masters, the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal.

That fact alone explained everything.

At that moment, the old man, who seemed to be lost in dreams under the midday sun, opened his eyes.

"Is it over now?"

The old man said in a quiet voice, as if still half-asleep.

"It's all over!"

One of the twelve elders replied.

"Ugh, it's always so warm in this Leaf Plum Hall, it's nice. I can always have a delicious nap here. For a weak old man like me, it's a truly grateful luxury. Don't you think so?"

There was no one foolish enough to answer this question. Everyone cleverly evaded the issue by pretending not to hear. It seemed as if their reason for being there was not to attend the meeting but to take a nap. However, no one dared to object or refute the old man's words. They were already accustomed to his eccentricities and unusual behavior.

"Since the discussion seems to be wrapping up, this old man will be going now!"

Just as they could not disturb the old man's deep sleep, no one could stop him from leaving. However, it was never the case that this old man acted arbitrarily, relying solely on his status and authority. If he had, he would never have reached his current position.

The only time this old man made an almost unreasonable request (which was close to a command) was two years ago when admitting Yoon Jun-ho to the Cheonmu Academy.

"Grand-Senior Uncle, where are you going?"

The Sword Connection Elder asked, standing up. Although the age difference didn't seem that significant outwardly, Yu Hwan-gwon, who was called Grand-Senior Uncle by the white-haired Sword Connection Elder.

"I'm going for a walk. It might take a few days, so don't look for me."

It was rare for him to be away for several days, but Yu Hwan-gwon's eyes did not permit any questioning.

"Then, please continue your work!"

While the assembly hall bathed in the lazy sunlight was pleasant, the view outside, revealing the breathtaking scenery of Hua Shan, was also appealing. The cool breeze seemed to invigorate the old man's languid body. A smile graced the old man's lips as he yielded to the autumn south wind.

"I never expected that child to come this far."

Although he had closed his eyelids and slept during the meeting, he had heard everything he needed to hear. Especially when Yoon Jun-ho was mentioned, the old man had almost forgotten his dignity and jumped up to cheer. To the extent that it was an unexpected event for himself, as well as for the Sect Leader and elders, concerning Yoon Jun-ho, whom he doted on so much.

When he left Hua Shan two years ago for the Cheonmu Academy, he was still a timid and fearful child. Because of his disposition, he must have suffered a lot of bullying from those around him. He had long suspected that the child possessed innate talent, but his "innate" weakness, a hypersensitivity to plum blossoms, rendered that gem-like talent useless. Of course, his delicate heart was also a big obstacle.

Then, two years ago, seeing Yoon Jun-ho suddenly enter the Sword Fragrance Realm while wielding his sword, he was astonished. The old man doubted his own eyes and nose, but the unique fragrance was unmistakable. It was on that day that Yu Hwan-gwon decided, even if it meant resorting to unreasonable pressure, to send Yoon Jun-ho to the Cheonmu Academy. How much he was criticized for his baseless favoritism towards a child! Although he did not point fingers at them, knowing the elders' dissatisfaction. Yet, the old man did not waver and saw his will through to the end. The elders had no choice but to follow.

He thought Yoon Jun-ho would suffer greatly at the Cheonmu Academy due to his timid nature, but by chance, he had passed the difficult selection exam for the Hua Shan Branch Representative delegation. This cleared away the suspicious gazes that had been lurking beneath the surface. (Though not completely eradicated.)

For this old man, who had doted on Yoon Jun-ho like a grandson despite the disapproving glances from others, it was incredibly moving. The child had grown into a dignified (?) figure and cleared away those suspicious gazes.

'Perhaps a successor has appeared to play with my toys.'

Whether his cultivation had yielded results, he gained an enlightenment through meditation with his sword exactly one year ago today. It was no exaggeration to say that the past year was spent organizing and refining that realization.

And a year later, a book was completed.

The transmission of martial arts originally relied on scriptures as 2, while the master's teachings accounted for 8. Not only in techniques, but the core of skills called 'Oui' were mostly passed down orally. If one were to transfer this oral tradition into books, it would be impossible to encompass it all even in ten volumes.

Then, why are scriptures needed?

Humans often forget things. Scriptures are a tool to extract techniques and memories from a person's mind. Since humans are forgetful creatures, they sometimes have to bear the inconvenience of the troublesome task of scripture. Also, just because I know something doesn't mean others do, so scriptures are created to reduce that gap.

In other words, most martial arts cannot be mastered solely through scriptures, no matter how excellent they are called. The most well-conveyed aspect through scriptures would likely be inner cultivation techniques. Otherwise, it would be written by a genius who could imbue enlightenment within the text.

However, scriptures also have various useful aspects. Especially when a systematic foundation has already been laid to some extent, theoretical texts extending from those teachings can be of immeasurable help to oneself. In any case, it contained a lifetime's worth of enlightenment. It cannot be passed on to just anyone. First, the vessel must be suitable.

But when he actually wrote the scripture and looked around, there was no suitable person to pass it on to. The Sect Leader was too old. The elders of the same generation were the same. He wanted to pass it on to young blood. However, not everyone could gain enlightenment by reading it. Moreover, it was impossible to convey that enlightenment solely through scriptures. Then, a pure desire arose to have his own successor, separate from the sect's successor. He looked up at the sky; the autumn sky was still high and blue, the clouds white, the sunlight warm, and the wind free.

"Shall I see how much he has grown?"

The old man, well over a hundred and twenty years old, suddenly let out a wry chuckle, as if he had become a teenage boy in his first love. His heart was cheerful, and his chest thumped with anticipation. With a smile from the bottom of his heart, the old man set off for the place he had to go, the place he wanted to go. As if using leg-traveling techniques, the old man's body instantly moved away from the Upper Palace and descended rapidly. He seemed to be in a hurry.

Shaanxi Province, Huayin County.

This is the region where Mount Hua, one of the Five Great Mountains of the Central Plains, is located.

Within it lies a vast city, a place where Mount Hua's shadow falls in the morning and evening. And it is the largest village located before reaching Mount Hua. Although it lacked city walls, its massive scale, steadily grown under the shadow of the Hua Shan Sect, was comparable to a city.

After the great battle at Lightning Strike Valley, they were able to reach this place smoothly without further obstruction. Although their progress was slightly delayed due to the injured, it did not significantly disrupt their schedule. From here on, it was the Hua Shan Sect's backyard, so the Hua Shan Sect's eyes and ears were spread everywhere, making it impossible to find even the Heavenly Calamity Rain, let alone any dark forces.

The delegation from the Cheonmu Academy, led by Jo Cheon-u, arrived in front of the largest inn in this village, called the Plum Blossom Inn.

"This is it."

"Hmm, well done."

Bing Geom nodded with satisfaction. They were able to reach their lodging without any trouble because Jo Cheon-u, who knew the area like the back of his hand, was there.

Who would be the owner of the largest inn in the city closest to the Hua Shan Sect? A hundred out of a hundred times, it would be a disciple of the Hua Shan Sect. Or someone directly related to them.

This was not the only place. The same was true for other great sects. The largest economic entity in the village closest to the sect was always affiliated with these sects. This included not only inns but also escort agencies, taverns, and even entertainment establishments.

They expanded their power and influence under the protection of their sect. How could common thugs dare to extort them or demand tribute? It was unthinkable, unless they had several spare lives.

Looking at the corner of the antique signboard, a small plum blossom, the unique symbol of the Hua Shan Sect, was engraved. This symbolized its protection by the Hua Shan Sect. Of course, given the name Plum Blossom Inn, it was clear how overtly their relationship with the Hua Shan Sect was advertised.

As expected, the owner here was also a secular disciple who had received grace from the Hua Shan Sect. It was a direct example of how important connections and background were in navigating the world.

"Let's go in!"

Bing Geom said. They were scheduled to stay here for a few days.

"Welcome. Welcome to the Plum Blossom Inn, the premier attraction of Hua Shan. We at Plum Blossom Inn always strive day and night for the convenience of our esteemed guests."

As they were about to step inside, the manager, having noticed that they were an unusual group, rushed out to greet them. Perhaps due to his strong sense of professionalism, his introduction was a bit lengthy.

"Where are you from?"

After his long introduction, he seemed to remember that he had kept his guests waiting outside.

"We are from the land where swords and dragons dance!"

Sword Dragon is the symbol of Cheonmu Academy. At Bing Geom's answer, the manager's eyes widened like saucers. Then, in a trembling voice, he asked again.

"Where are you intending to go?"

Without hesitation, Bing Geom replied again.

"The place where plum blossoms never fade!"

"Please, wait a moment. I will inform the owner immediately. For now, please come in."

After the exchange, the manager quickly turned and ran inside. Then, he shouted loudly enough to be heard outside. It was clear that word of the Hua Shan Sect had already been sent.

"We are closed for business today. Please send all remaining guests away!"

Then, as he hurried up the stairs leading to the second floor, he shouted.

"Light up all the lamps! Distinguished guests have arrived. Everyone come out and welcome them with utmost hospitality!"

Bing Geom and the delegation entered, receiving a grand reception befitting royalty. The guests who were eating inside were forced to leave the inn, with polite apologies, without knowing the reason. Although complaints and grumbling arose from various places, they soon subsided at the mention that their meal costs would not be charged as a token of apology. The guests staying in the rooms of the inn were no different. Nearby inns were quickly arranged, and their luggage was moved there in an orderly fashion. However, these guests also swallowed their complaints upon hearing that they would not have to pay for their current accommodation.

Soon, the doors were closed, and a 'Closed for Business' sign was hung. Passersby looked at the sign with puzzled expressions. It was strange for the Plum Blossom Inn, which had been open day and night, sun, moon, and holidays, to have a 'Closed for Business' sign.

A few curious people approached the Plum Blossom Inn, but they were politely turned away without hearing a single word about the inside story.

While the other Cheonmu Academy delegates headed for the dining hall, Mo Yong-hwi was the first to rush to the bathhouse. Perhaps he could no longer bear the accumulated dust on his body. However, even for him, who was usually neat and clean, it was doubtful to others whether he truly looked like someone who had been traveling for a long time. His favorite white robes were remarkably free of stains, as if by some magic. It was a mysterious affair, but no one tried to find out why.

Soon, a feast of delicacies was served in succession before their tables. Wine was also served. Bing Geom and Yeom Do allowed them to drink wine today. As the various fine wines were served continuously, a gleam appeared in Yeom Do's eyes. The long-starved wine worm within him was clearly stirring.

The grand celebratory banquet announcing their arrival at Hua Shan continued late into the night without ceasing.

Bi Ryu-yeon and the delegation were able to fill their stomachs with rich food after a long time, wash away the accumulated dirt in a warm bath, and then sleep soundly on a comfortable bed. As the night deepened and the moon gradually set, their accumulated fatigue melted away into the soft blankets.

The next day!

Bi Ryu-yeon decided to go out. Upon hearing that they were not scheduled to depart until the next day, he decided to explore the village. First, he succeeded in enlisting Na Ye-rin. This beauty, perhaps feeling indebted, easily accepted Bi Ryu-yeon's proposal without refusal. It was something that all the male academy students would envy. When Na Ye-rin agreed to go, Dokgo Ryeon joined as a guardian figure. Eun Seol-ran, intrigued by this, also joined. With these three together, their beauty seemed to illuminate the surroundings as if a golden mist had descended.

Also joining this fortunate outing were Jang Hong, Mo Yong-hwi, Namgung Sang, and Yoon Jun-ho. And Hyo Ryong was also there. However, his words had significantly decreased since that day. Although he seemed to have no trouble with daily life, he was absolutely unsuitable as a conversation partner. Furthermore, his hair was still unkempt, and his beard grew in sparse patches without being tidied. Yet, he showed no inclination to groom himself, appearing quite disheveled. Thus, his former lively demeanor was nowhere to be found, which was a pity for those who saw him. Only a newly formed scar on his forehead, shaped like a sharp thunder blade, caught the eye.

And always by his side was Lee Jin-seol. This was also the case now. It could be called devoted care.

Eun Seol-ran was also extremely worried but did not show it. Today, she decided to forget it and have a good time. It would be a change of pace for Hyo Ryong as well. For them, who had hurried to Hua Shan after Lightning Strike Valley, such a bustling city was a rare sight.

Eun Seol-lan and Na Ye-rin covered half of their faces with veils to avoid the anticipated commotion. However, their naturally radiant elegance could hardly be hidden by such thin pieces of cloth. Still, it was the only choice as it prevented the worst-case scenario.

Furthermore, Dokgo Ryeon and Lee Jin-seol were also of considerable beauty, though they did not realize it themselves. Even with just the beauty of these two, without veils, it was enough to attract people's attention. Therefore, it was unavoidable to draw attention every time they walked. It seemed to be a karma that was destined to follow them.

Many people turned back and followed them, stealing glances at these celestial maidens again and again, but not one of them dared to harbor any other thoughts due to the fearsome, piercing aura emitted by the one-eyed celestial maiden.