23 - Heavenly Demon of the Huashan Sect

Episode 23 The western archives on the first floor of Man-Gyeong Pavilion. Step, step— In the silence of the empty archive, the sudden sound of footsteps echoed. Step. A young man unexpectedly emerged from below. With pristine white skin and distinct features, he was a striking young man, standing six feet tall, whose beauty could charm anyone. This young man, now nineteen years old, was none other than Cheon-Hwi, after five years had passed. “So, is this nonsense finally over?” Standing upright, he glanced at the stairs—the sole path to the secret wing—and clicked his tongue unknowingly. At the same time, Cheon-Hwi's eyebrows rose noticeably, his expression blended with annoyance, yet his allure was such that even this looked endearing. “It took more time than I expected.” He grumbled quietly. The period he had initially anticipated was two years. But, unexpectedly, five had flown by; it was a result far from his expectations. ‘One of them did take some time, though.’ Cheon-Hwi recalled the swordsmanship technique that had troubled him among the fourteen martial arts texts. The other techniques took roughly a year each, but the last swordsmanship technique consumed most of his time. While remembering the swordsmanship technique, a faint smile escaped him. Though it had been troublesome, in the end, he succeeded in restoring it, and today, everything was finally over. “Finally, it's over.” Stretching as he spoke, Cheon-Hwi adeptly closed the passage to the secret wing and turned around. He naturally observed his surroundings. The interior of Man-Gyeong Pavilion hadn't changed in the past five years. Shelves all around filled with books, the place was as silent as ever. Though it was once bustling with disciples, the numbers had dwindled day by day, leaving it in such quiet. ‘I won't be coming here anymore.’ He took in the sight of Man-Gyeong Pavilion one last time. He had spent five years here—long enough to have grown an attachment. “I stayed quite a while, didn't I?” He involuntarily sank into reminiscence, recalling the tasks he had undertaken. Martial arts restoration, martial arts restoration, martial arts restoration... His eyes squinted momentarily. “…It wasn’t worth forming an attachment.” Whenever he came to Man-Gyeong Pavilion, he would inform Hyeon-Cheong of the techniques he'd restored, then devote his entire day to restoring martial arts in the secret wing. Not that he begrudged it. Thanks to it, he had learned the martial arts of the orthodox schools. “Shall I get going then?” He spun around. Today, everything was over: informing Hyeon-Cheong of the restored techniques and visiting the secret wing. Swoosh— He briskly stepped forward. In no time, Cheon-Hwi reached the entrance of the pavilion and cocked his head to one side. “Huh? Where did he go?” He was looking for Hyeon-Cheong, who would typically be guarding the door, and recalled the morning's events. “Ah! He mentioned attending a conference today. He's getting out more now.” Cheon-Hwi contemplated while gazing at the neatly organized desk of books. Five years ago, Hyeon-Cheong refrained from external activities, focusing solely on restoring martial arts. But perhaps his restoration work granted him more leisure, and he had started engaging in external affairs—now even regularly attending conferences. “I had new techniques to share today, but if it's urgent, he'll come find me.” Thinking of Hyeon-Cheong, who visited daily to jot down the recension of the restored martial arts texts, Cheon-Hwi stepped toward the door. Creak— A moment later, Cheon-Hwi opened the firmly closed door of Man-Gyeong Pavilion and stepped outside. It was as tranquil as ever. The beautiful view of the volcano spread out before his eyes. The fifth spring he'd seen; the plum blossoms were in full bloom on the volcano, their intense fragrance mingling with the breeze, tickling his nose. Whirr— As usual, Cheon-Hwi savored the familiar landscape and silence as he walked toward Nak-An Peak. ‘Focus on the newly created techniques from the secret wing...’ While organizing his completed martial arts techniques from the secret wing. Clang! Clang! The sharp clashing sound from afar snapped him out of his reverie. The open view revealed a familiar-looking garden and pavilion. In the courtyard, now much bigger than it had been five years ago, two people—one male and one female—were dueling. A man with a gentle smile and a coldly beautiful woman. They were none other than the mature Jeok-Geum and Seol-Ran. During the duel, which showcased the Plum Blossom Sword Technique, Seol-Ran drew back, lowering her sword. “Your sword end is wavering today.” “Haha. I must have lost focus.” Jeok-Geum smiled awkwardly. Watching him, Seol-Ran sheathed her sword and asked with a concerned expression. “…Is it because of the rumors?” At that, Jeok-Geum's expression darkened, unable to hide his unease. He sheathed the sword in his hand and nodded slightly. “Somehow, I'm worried.” Jeok-Geum was anxious, thinking of the rumors circulating in the martial arts world. “Sigh... The Tyrant’s Gate targeting our clan.” “Don't worry too much, Senior Brother.” Seol-Ran approached Jeok-Geum, offering comfort. “No matter how formidable the Tyrant’s Gate is, they’ll avoid a direct confrontation with our sect.” Perhaps due to the close camaraderie developed while accompanying Cheon-Hwi, she gently reassured the usually cynical Jeok-Geum. “Besides, the Sect Leader has called a conference because of this, right?” Seol-Ran spoke encouragingly, and Jeok-Geum felt his nervousness subside. “Right, you're correct, Little Sister.” “Our task is to practice martial arts and prepare for any potential missions…” As they conversed about the upcoming conference. ‘Hmm? A conference?’ Cheon-Hwi pricked his ears at a timely moment; amidst their conversation, one word echoed in his ears. ‘What’s that? Entering the martial world?’ * * * The conference was held at Woonjung Pavilion. Though Woonjung Pavilion remained unchanged through the years, tension filled the air within. “Everyone has gathered, I see.” The Sect Leader, seated at the head of the table, spoke. For a moment, those seated around the large table portrayed serious expressions. Observing the tense gathering, the Sect Leader motioned with his eyes to Hyun-Ryeo. “A few days ago, Bi-Pung Trading Group requested our help.” At that moment, Hyun-Ryeo spoke up, as if he had been waiting for this cue. “What kind of help do they need?” “They’re asking for protection against attacks from the Tyrant's Gate.” A chilling silence filled the room. Subsequently, an intense aura emanated, suffusing the entire Woonjung Pavilion with an intensity uncharacteristic of a Taoist sect. Just as the tension seemed poised to escalate further— “Bi-Pung Trading Group is connected to our sect through disciple Jeok-Geum’s family,” Hyun-Ryeo added. “So you’re saying we should help them?” “Yes, that is my recommendation.” “Is that your opinion as Hyun-Ryeo or as the head of Jaryeong-gak?” “It’s both.” Hyun-Ryeo replied unwaveringly. “Very well.” The Sect Leader nodded, casting a sweeping gaze over the assembly. “What does everyone else think?” “I agree.” “How could we stand idly by when Bi-Pung Trading Group, who once assisted our sect, is threatened by the Tyrant's Gate and their ilk?” “Indeed, we must assist them.” The responses came swiftly, as though everyone had been waiting for this. Hyeon-Cheong, who had been observing quietly from the end of the table, also concurred. “Refusing to aid Bi-Pung Trading Group would be a stain on our sect's honor." With unanimous agreement echoing in the room, the Sect Leader moved the discussion forward. “Then, who do you think should be dispatched to Bi-Pung Trading Group?” At this, Hyun-Huh raised his hand enthusiastically. Hyun-Huh, with a beard even more impressive than five years ago, drew the attention of the Sect Leader and the others as they turned to him. He waited until he had their full attention before speaking. “I believe it should be the newly appointed Plum Blossom Sword Masters.” “Hmmm…” “True, indeed.” “The Plum Blossom Sword Masters are a perfect choice.” There was widespread agreement among the members. However, not everyone shared the same perspective, as a few dissenters stood their ground. Among them was the Head of Muryeon-gak. “But isn’t it too soon for them to enter the world? They’ve only been Plum Blossom Sword Masters for just over a year and aren’t yet fully proficient in the Plum Blossom Sword Technique.” “You still view the Sword Masters as children, don’t you?” Hyun-Huh replied coolly. “No matter how young or inexperienced they are, they have become the face of our sect as Plum Blossom Sword Masters. If we say they’re lacking, who in the world would trust us?” “That's…” Caught off guard by Hyun-Huh’s directness, the Muryeon Head swallowed his retort and closed his eyes. In truth, he knew Hyun-Huh was right. But his anxiety stemmed from the fear that the Sword Masters might suffer the same fate as Hyun-Gang if they entered the martial world prematurely. Just then, Hyun-Huh’s voice resonated again. “We must be the first to trust them.” The Muryeon Head opened his eyes. As per Hyun-Huh's words, it was time to set them free, time to place trust in the disciples. “You’re right, Senior Brother.” Watching the Muryeon Head concede more easily than expected, Hyun-Huh turned to the Sect Leader with a gentle smile. “Moreover, Jeok-Geum is among the new Plum Blossom Sword Masters. This mission can serve as an opportunity for him to visit his family and gain experience, making him an ideal candidate.” The idea was quickly seconded by the Head of Bi-Gak. “Indeed, it seems apt to send the Plum Blossom Sword Masters.” With even the initial dissenters gradually agreeing, consensus was building. “Does anyone have a different opinion?” The Sect Leader surveyed the room, but none opposed. “Then it’s settled that the Plum Blossom Sword Masters shall be dispatched. Now…” He paused, eyes gleaming. It was a foregone conclusion to send the Plum Blossom Sword Masters, but the next query was the crucial point. “Who should lead them?” Everyone fell silent. It was not possible for the Celestial Elders to leave as they had to protect the sect, meaning a leader would need to be chosen from among the lesser ranks. But even they held significant positions that made it difficult for them to leave. While pondering over the few without current assignments, Hyun-Huh suggested first. “How about Cheon-Soo?” “That won’t work.” Hyun-Ryeo immediately objected. Cheon-Soo was a vital asset as the Deputy Head of Jaryeong-gak due to his exceptional intellect. “He’s currently tied up with handling financial management issues and can’t be spared at the moment.” No one protested further. Everyone was well aware of the recent financial difficulties plaguing the sect, and understood the necessity of Cheon-Soo’s role. Then, suddenly, the Head of Bi-Gak clapped and suggested another name. “What about Cheon-Hyang? Didn’t he return after completing his family affairs? He has traveled the martial world, so he seems apt for this task.” This time, Muryeon Head shook his head. “Cheon-Hyang isn't in good health. I’m not sure what occurred with his family, but he returned to the sect with internal injuries already sustained.” Again, silence descended upon the room. Excluding those two, there were no suitable candidates among the aspirants to take on the leadership role. “Our numbers have dwindled considerably compared to the past.” The Sect Leader smiled wryly. Once, they had more than enough talented individuals to choose for any mission. Now, they lacked candidates entirely, unable even to select one for dispatch. “And we can’t recall Cheon-Yoo from the Martial Alliance...” Hinting at their main disciple Cheon-Yoo, currently tasked with handling recent matters with the Martial Alliance, he seemed at a loss. “I’ll do it.” Mid-conversation, a quiet but firm voice interjected, drawing every gaze toward Cheon-Hwi, who strode forward confidently.