105 - Heavenly Demon of the Huashan Sect

**Chapter 105** Seven weeks had passed since the opening of the gates of Mount Hua. *Screech—Thud!* As if it had been waiting, the gate of Mount Hua closed the moment the designated time elapsed. "Seventy in total." Hyun Ryeo, the head of Jaryeong Pavilion, rubbed her temples as she glanced at the documents before her. 'Did we overreach...?' Perhaps it was because it had been a long while since they accepted new disciples. The sect leader and Hyun Ryeo, not considering the aftermath, had filled the Mughowon, which was reconstructed to accommodate third-generation disciples, to its maximum capacity. "How much money do we have left?" As she calculated with a hand on her forehead— *Bang.* The door swung open, and the haggard-looking Bu-gakju, Cheonsu, approached weakly. "Everyone has entered the Mughowon." "And the uniforms?" "I distributed not only the uniforms but also crucial items like the wooden swords." "Then what's left is..." "Food expenses." Hyun Ryeo frowned. What was the most vital aspect when running a sect? It was indeed the food expenses. As the two sat pondering ways to cut down the food costs, their heads were practically steaming with ideas. "Sigh, let's prepare the provisions received from Bifung Trading Company for now." "Understood." "I’ll figure out how to manage the shortfall somehow, so for now, just go." Despite giving Cheonsu the green light to leave, he lingered. "Uh, Head Pavilion Chief." Cheonsu didn't step out. Instead, he called out to Hyun Ryeo. "What is it?" "Aren’t we accepting new members? I heard that the Medicine Hall has taken in a lot of second-generation disciples this time." Hyun Ryeo chuckled bitterly. The Medicine Hall was enjoying an unprecedented surge in the history of Mount Hua. The main reason was— "It's unavoidable with Sage Su-shin in residence at the Medicine Hall." Indeed, it was the presence of Sage Su-shin. Called the number one physician in the land, Sage Su-shin had secluded himself in the Medicine Hall. Unsurprisingly, disciples who had no interest in martial arts and planned to return to mundane lives slipped into the Medicine Hall instead. Cheonsu understood this well. Even a basic knowledge of medicine was enough to earn a living, but to have learned directly from a sage meant certain renown and respect. Even he felt the desire to abandon Jaryeong Pavilion and enter the Medicine Hall to learn from the sage. But still... "No, Head Pavilion Chief. The Medicine Hall has already accepted five new members. In contrast, what of Jaryeong Pavilion? It's just you and me handling everything, isn’t it?" The injustice of it all gnawed at him. This wasn’t right. Jaryeong Pavilion was pivotal, managing the finances of Mount Hua. Yet only two people were tasked with it! Watching the fuming Cheonsu, Hyun Ryeo spoke in a low voice. "Rest assured, some of the second-generation disciples will be joining soon." "Re-Really?!" Cheonsu's eyes widened. He immediately burst with excitement, bombarding Hyun Ryeo with anxious inquiries. "When are they coming?" "...You'll have to wait a week." "A week? Really?" This response, like cold water splashed on his hopes, turned Cheonsu's bright expression dark again. "But there's so much work to do right now." "The sect leader has urgent matters to attend to first, so it'll be delayed." "And those matters are..." "Isn't it that?" "Ah..." Cheonsu sighed heavily. "So we have to manage everything ourselves for now?" Hyun Ryeo nodded, sharing in his headache. They had just accepted Rin as a first-generation disciple, yet there was no time to even teach martial arts. "Sigh." "Heh." Both sighed in unison. "Let's hang in there for now." "...Alright." Meanwhile, there was someone else within Mount Hua just as busy as Jaryeong Pavilion, if not more so. "You're asking me to supervise the trials for selecting the Plum Blossom Swordmasters?" "Yes, that's correct." Hyun Cheong furrowed his brows at the sect leader's request, made so abruptly at dawn. The Plum Blossom Swordmasters were the face of Mount Hua. Thus, annual trials and evaluations were conducted under strict scrutiny. Disciples were observed daily to see if they possessed the necessary martial prowess, wisdom, and character to hold such a position. Hence his confusion. "Why me, of all people?" Naturally, someone familiar with the disciples' characters and capabilities was best suited for overseeing the trials. But considering his situation— "As you know, I've been sequestered within Mankyeonggak for a long time, with little knowledge of the disciples. How can I, then, supervise the trials?" Hyun Cheong expressed his refusal. "Wouldn’t it be better to entrust it to Mu Ryeon Pavilion's head or Hyun Heo?" "Both the head of Mu Ryeon Pavilion and Hyun Heo recommended you fervently." The sect leader dismissed Hyun Cheong's refusal. "And I also believe that you're well-suited for this supervisory role." "Why do you think that?" "Do you know how many are taking the exam this time?" With emphasis, the sect leader spoke. "Ten in total." It was astounding. Only those capable of manifesting sword auras met the requirements to participate. That implied reaching at least the level of first-rate martial artists. Last year, there were but four candidates. All of whom passed, becoming Plum Blossom Swordmasters. In just one year, ten disciples had reached the level capable of manifesting sword auras. "And eight of them are second-generation disciples taught by you." "It owes more to Chun Hwee than to me. Without the secret remedies brought by Chun Hwee, such results couldn’t have been possible." "But it was your skill that nurtured the second-generation disciples." Confronted with the unyielding attitude of the sect leader— "Sigh. Alright, I'll take on the supervisory role." Hyun Cheong relented with a sigh. "Thank you." A gentle smile graced the sect leader's face. "When will the trials occur?" The sect leader lifted his head in response to the question. The once bare plum blossoms had now fully bloomed, covering Mount Hua entirely. "Tomorrow." On the day of their short meeting, the news spread within Mount Hua—"The trials for the Plum Blossom Swordmasters will be held tomorrow." Meanwhile, in a situation seemingly unrelated to the trials, Jeok Geom was nervously explaining to Chun Hwee, who was breaking out in a cold sweat. "...For these reasons, I might not be able to come for a few days." Upon hearing Jeok Geom’s lengthy explanation, Cheon Hwee cut straight to the point. "So, you can't come because you're serving as a judge for the Plum Blossom Swordmaster selection exam?" Jeok Geom scratched his head awkwardly. "Yes, that's right." "And Seol Ran too?" "Yes, including her. All the Plum Blossom Swordmasters are participating as judges this time." "Got it." Cheon Hwee responded smoothly. While he regretted losing their assistance, he understood that the selection exam for the Plum Blossom Swordmasters was an annual event. "The time has come, I see." At that moment, the scent of plum blossoms wafted gently past his nose. "Sir." "What is it?" "The Sect Leader asked me to pass on a message to you." "What is it?" Jeok Geom hesitated for a moment. "He suggested that, if you have nothing better to do, perhaps you could observe the exam?" His voice grew quieter as he spoke, knowing well how much Cheon Hwee disliked unnecessary tasks. Surprisingly, though— "Alright." Cheon Hwee accepted the proposal. "Really?" Jeok Geom was visibly shocked, prompting a chuckle from Cheon Hwee. "What? Should I not go?" "No, please do!" "When is it?" "Tomorrow morning." "Morning, eh? Understood." Cheon Hwee nodded thoughtfully, considering the exam a chance to see how the selection was conducted. * * * The following day, as the sun reached its zenith, Cheon Hwee headed to Samongpyeong. Typically, the training grounds would be sparsely occupied by first-generation disciples, but today was different. "Do you think he'll succeed?" "Of course he will!" Second-generation disciples, who usually trained at Dorimpyung, were gathered around the arena, faces taut with tension. Three figures were seated at the high table. The Sect Leader, the supervisor Hyun Cheong, and Cheon Hwee. "When does it begin?" "Any moment now." Just as the Sect Leader responded, a gentle breeze swept through. Moments later, ten figures soared over the high walls surrounding the training grounds. In an impressive display, the Plum Blossom Swordmasters showcased their dazzling martial skills, clearly meant to assert their dominance. "That's Cheonryongchulun!" "And there's Mukyuntole as well!" As they performed the esteemed arts of Hua Mountain's aerial techniques, the second-generation disciples watched in awe, their eyes filled with admiration. For a brief moment, they were entranced by the dance of techniques like Cheonryongchulun, Mukyuntole, Hwanhwanmijongbo, and Buuinnyakpyo. *Clap. Clap.* The performance concluded as the Plum Blossom Swordmasters landed gracefully in the center of the training grounds. "Awe-inspiring," murmured the second-generation disciples. Cheon Hwee, on the other hand, was surprised for an entirely different reason. "Wow. That's a lot of unnecessary theatrics." While it appeared to be a dazzling display of martial prowess, a closer look revealed that it was merely an empty show. "They’d benefit more from mastering other techniques, wouldn’t they?" "Ha ha, but doesn’t it boost their morale?" "It seems they are a bit elated." As the Sect Leader and Hyun Cheong exchanged awkward smiles in response to Cheon Hwee’s critical assessment— ‘Let's see...’ Cheon Hwee turned his attention back to the training grounds to observe the Plum Blossom Swordmasters more closely. Naturally, it was Jeok Geom and Seol Ran who caught his eye first. Next, he spotted Jeok Woon, Jeok Jae, and Jeok Bi, who had accompanied him on his journey to Bifung Trading Company. And that was it. He only recognized a few others, knowing neither their names nor their faces. Nor did he care to. ‘Not a single one stands out...’ His gaze eventually rested upon a woman standing in the very center. She appeared to be in her late twenties and had quite an impressive stature. ‘At least there's one to notice.’ He took in her appearance slowly from head to toe. Though not exactly a striking beauty, she had a certain charm that anyone would find appealing. Her physique was perfectly balanced. Perhaps it was her unabashed confidence and the formidable aura she radiated that made her stand out, even though her demeanor bordered on arrogance. ‘Who is she? She looks familiar.’ *Step—* Just then, the woman took a step forward. "Greetings. I am Chunyeong." Chunyeong? Ah, the master sword! Only then did Cheon Hwee recall her identity, but his curiosity remained piqued. "Wasn't she supposed to be in seclusion at Sajaham recently?" "I heard she concluded her seclusion training not long ago," the Sect Leader clarified. "Om Mani Padme Hum." A young Taoist ascended the platform of the training grounds, naturally assuming a stance as he chanted his Taoist name, focusing intently on Chunyeong. "It’s been a while, Senior Sister," she greeted Chunyeong with a warm smile. "Whom would you like to face?" "I wish to challenge Senior Brother Jeok Geom." "Very well." Chunyeong stepped back decisively. Soon, Jeok Geom, who had been observing from the rear, approached slowly and assumed a stance. "My, I never expected Junior Sister Jeok Yeon to choose me as her opponent." Jeok Yeon smiled subtly. "I figured this would be my only chance to spar with you, Senior Brother." "A spar is always possible..." "I desire a duel where we both give it our all." Caught off guard, Jeok Geom hesitantly asked, "...Did you know?" Jeok Yeon nodded silently. "Don't hold back on me this time." "Alright." Upon witnessing Jeok Yeon release her formidable aura, Jeok Geom likewise drew his sword and heightened his Plum Blossom Sword Technique. The exam’s requirements were simple. One had to earn the supervisor's approval through a duel with a Plum Blossom Swordmaster. As the atmosphere intensified— *Tap!* The two launched themselves at each other simultaneously. As Jeok Yeon and Jeok Geom's duel commenced, the Sect Leader couldn't help but express his admiration. "Ha ha. I always knew Jeok Geom was exceptional, but for Jeok Yeon to have improved so dramatically in such a short time is remarkable." Among the second-generation disciples, Jeok Yeon hadn’t stood out. She was, in fact, below average in talent. However, despite her evident progress— "As expected, it's Jeok Geom who has the upper hand." Jeok Geom overwhelmingly dominated her. It wasn’t even a contest. "Jeok Yeon isn't ready yet." Hyun Cheong offered a cool assessment of Jeok Yeon’s performance. Her skills had indeed improved, yet she still fell short of qualifying as a Plum Blossom Swordmaster. "I concede." Before long, Jeok Yeon admitted defeat. The two, smiling in mutual satisfaction, descended from the training grounds. As if on cue, Chunhyang took the stage and called out, "Next, come up." A new second-generation disciple and a Plum Blossom Swordsman soon began their sparring match. Meanwhile, Cheon Hwee watched their duel with a bewildered expression. 'Is this it? You've got to be kidding me.' He had expected more from the exam for selecting the Plum Blossom Swordmasters, only to find it surprisingly underwhelming. "Is that really all there is?" he asked. "Why? Do you have an issue with it?" the Sect Leader replied. An issue? There were plenty. The Plum Blossom Swordmasters were supposed to be key warriors of the Hua Mountain Sect, yet they were only given a single duel for assessment. It wasn't even a fierce battle they had displayed; it was a typical sparring session seen anywhere. Cheon Hwee turned to the Sect Leader. "Are you truly satisfied with this?" The Sect Leader gave him a puzzled look before eventually nodding. "Yes, I am quite satisfied." His words were sincere. Who would have thought that there would be ten candidates taking the exam? Even during the time of Hyungang, they never had this many. Listening to the Sect Leader's response, Cheon Hwee frowned. 'How is the Hua Mountain Sect supposed to grow stronger like this?' This was not the way, Dao teachings or not. Despite the resources provided by the Sacred Incense Group and the Seven Plum Guards, they would never strengthen the sect with such lackluster efforts. 'Tch, do I have to step in again?' Why did everything require so much effort? It felt like he was on the verge of cracking under the pressure. But what choice did he have? For the Hua Mountain Sect to truly strengthen, he needed to persuade these traditionalists with his vision. Resolute, Cheon Hwee spoke up. "That's rather disappointing. To be satisfied with this outcome." "What exactly disappointed you?" "Look at them." Cheon Hwee pointed his finger towards Jeok Geom and Jeok Yeon, who had just completed their sparring. "What kind of duel leaves both parties looking so clean and happy? From my perspective, it seems clear Jeok Yeon has no real interest in becoming a Plum Blossom Swordmaster." He shook his head, sighing. "Perhaps she acknowledged her opponent's superiority and accepted defeat." Cheon Hwee responded sharply, meeting the Sect Leader's eyes. "If Jeok Yeon truly wanted to become a Plum Blossom Swordmaster, would she really have quit halfway?" "That's..." The Sect Leader left his sentence unfinished. "Hmm. You bring up a valid point," Hyun Cheong, who had been listening quietly, agreed with Cheon Hwee's assessment. Sensing an opportunity, Cheon Hwee continued, "For our sect to revive, shouldn't we have more masters among us? Why not strive to create warriors who would give anything to become a Plum Blossom Swordmaster?" "Yet, we've almost regained our former strength," the Sect Leader rebutted. "Are you satisfied with merely that?" Cheon Hwee's eyes narrowed. "I find it lacking." These words sent a tremor through the Sect Leader's resolve. "Then what standards do you propose for satisfaction?" "To become the number one martial sect under the heavens." Cheon Hwee grinned. "Isn't that what we should aim for?"