"S-Sahyung!"
"…"
"What is all this? Despite all the hard work we did, no one is praising us…."
Baek Cheon couldn't find the words to respond despite someone talking to him. It was because he, too, was surprised.
Unexpectedly, there was a huge feast in front of them.
From the perspective of the secular world, it may be somewhat lacking to be called a feast. However, for Mount Hua, this seemed no different from what would be eaten by an emperor.
What's more, that.
That! There was that!
"… isn't that meat?"
"Uh."
Baek Cheon rubbed his eyes.
In front of his eyes was certainly food that had been acquired by killing a living animal and carving its flesh.
How could a pure sect commit such an act?
"Where did the money come from?"
'I want to know the same!'
Just where did Mount Hua even get such money? Where did the meat come from?
"W-wait. Sahyung. Come to think of it, the inside of this place has also changed. I thought it might just feel awkward because we've been gone for so long, but doesn't it look shiny and clean?"
"… now that you mention it, yes."
Baek Cheon looked around. The entire building might not be newly built, but it looked like it had been recently renovated. All the holes in the walls were covered, and the whole place seemed to be fixed cleanly.
"There are new looking halls, and now this place? There's even meat on the table!"
"…"
"I can't imagine what happened to Mount Hua while we were away. Unless some God of Wealth descended onto this place."
Baek Cheon smiled.
God of Wealth? Mount Hua is a sect that the God of Wealth had abandoned.
If any sect could compete with the Beggars Union, it would be Mount Hua.
No, even they might be richer than Mount Hua. Just because the Beggars Union was a group of beggars didn't mean that the sect itself was poor.
But for Mount Hua to have such wealth?
Why did it seem so out of place?
Baek Cheon lifted his head and slightly looked at Un Geom.
"Sasuk. This food?"
"This is food the finance head prepared to raise your spirits. Eat a lot."
No, why is he speaking so casually about this?
Sasuk used to say that he would survive solely on grass, like a rabbit, for the sake of Mount Hua. Where did that Sasuk go, and when did he switch sides like this!?
Even stranger was the reaction of the third-class disciples.
The third-class disciples, who were there to congratulate the second-class disciples, didn't show any surprise at the quality of food placed in front of them.
They just stared at the table sternly.
Baek Cheon listened to their conversation from the side.
"I'm tired of meat, isn't there anything different? Fish or something else."
"Crazy bastard, where will we find fish on the mountains? Do you need to be beaten with a fish to restore your senses?"
What the hell are those idiots talking about?
What? They are tired of meat?
Unable to understand the situation, Baek Cheon, who was frustrated, opened his mouth.
"No…"
"Ahem."
"Hahahahahaha."
"…"
He was about to open his mouth.
Baek Cheon turned his head to the side to shut the mouths of his mates.
'Let's just eat first.'
'We have money, so we get to eat meat. I was sick of having those pills for the past year.'
Baek Cheon, who felt suppressed by the laughs of the others, opened his mouth.
"Is it alright to start eating, even though the elders and sect leader haven't arrived yet?"
"Huh? Ah, I didn't notice. Hold a moment."
"Yes. Thank you."
Un Geom took his chopsticks and put a piece of meat in his mouth. That was the sign that the others could eat, and the Sahyungs frantically moved their chopsticks.
Papapak!
Food bounced into the air.
But there was nothing to worry about. The chopsticks caught everything in the air because it was precious meat that had to be treasured.
Baek Cheon closed his eyes upon seeing everyone's behavior; he felt that he was staring deeply into the abyss.
It might look exaggerated to others, but this was a normal reaction. Mount Hua was the poorest sect in the world, and the disciples were the poorest people in the world.
They had only eaten food made with grains and a few nuts in all their time here. To say it politely, they served healthy meals. But truthfully, it was the cheapest diet that could be afforded.
Besides, thanks to their closed-door training, the second-class disciples only had fasting pills for the past year.
Some, like Baek Cheon, could purchase food with money when visiting family. However, most of the disciples hadn't so much as smelled the scent of meat for years already.
Of course, they were losing control of themselves.
In the meantime, Baek Cheon looked at the third-class disciples leisurely eating their food.
Looking at their nonchalant attitude, he realized that this food was nothing special in the current Mount Hua.
"Sasuk."
Un Geom, who was eating and drinking, turned his head and looked at Baek Cheon.
"What? Does the food suit your taste?"
"It isn't like that… I just really don't understand the situation. Just what happened to Mount Hua in the time we were all away?"
"Right. I didn't think of this from your position."
Un Geom laughed.
"It's too long of a story to tell. You'll find out eventually. All you need to know is that a lucky star rolled into Mount Hua."
"Lucky star?"
It was then.
Kwang!
The door opened wide. The second-class disciples, who were gulping down meat, flinched and stopped at the sudden sound. If anyone could open the door so boldly, it had to be an elder…
'Huh?'
'Are there any elders who are that young?'
'As if!'
Surprisingly, the one who opened the door was Chung Myung. The child, who followed the sect leader earlier, entered in anger.
"There's a place to sit here."
As Jo Gul slightly raised his hand, Chung Myung bowed to Un Geom and then stomped over to the seat. Those nearby the seat moved away slightly so that he could sit comfortably.
Baek Cheon narrowed his eyes at that sight.
'They're taking care of that child?'
Of course, it could happen. If they were polite and good kids.
But the third-class disciples Baek Cheon knew of were quick-witted and violent; the word 'Good' didn't fit well with them.
There was only one reason they would be acting like this.
'Has that child caught them all in his hand?'
It was unbelievable.
But there was too much visible evidence to deny it. The fact that the seat was left for him, and the seat was in the center, with Yoon Jong and Ju Gul on either side.
Yoon Jong is the Great Sahyung of the third-class disciples, and Jo Gul is the strongest of them.
'So, he caught them both?'
But how could this child have turned them into his people? And…
'Why hasn't Un Geom sasuk said anything?'
It was quite rude to kick the door open. It would be troublesome considering that there were second-class disciples and Un Geom sasuk inside; it would have been appropriate to apologize right away.
Un Geom sasuk greatly values morals and manners, so he would definitely say something. Yet, he was casually eating like he didn't care.
'The more I think about it, the less I understand.'
Baek Cheon shook his head. In his eyes, he looked at Chung Myung talking to the others.
"Why are you so angry again?"
"He wants me to go to the Eunha Guild again."
"… again?"
"Right! I'm not some messenger!"
Yoon Jong grinned at Chung Myung's complaint.
"But you liked it at first."
"That was only the first one or two times, ugh."
Chung Myung scratched his head.
"Fortunately, I only need to visit the branch in Hua-Um. If I had to go to Xian city, I would have fallen dead."
Seeing Yoon Jong smile and comfort him and Jo Gul chuckle at the side, Baek Cheon became convinced.
'He has all the third-class disciples in his grasp.'
He wasn't sure what method was used, but it was certain that Chung Myung had power over them.
'In many ways.'
Baek Cheon smiled.
Yoon Jong, the Great Sahyung of the third-class disciples, always treated the seniors with respect.
Baek Cheon thought that Yoon Jong would have bowed to someone kind, but Chung Myung didn't seem to have a kind inclination no matter how Baek Cheon looked at him.
'I'll have to find some time to have a conversation with him.'
While Baek Cheon was curious about the third-class disciples.
"Great Sahyung."
'Hmm?'
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"Ah, I will."
Baek Cheon picked up his chopsticks, but he looked around soon after picking them up.
"Where is Yu Samae?"
"Well? She was here a while ago."
Two disciples looked around.
"She was there until we came into the dining hall."
"It seems like she went off somewhere."
Everyone answered indifferently like this happened a lot. But Baek Cheon didn't like that response.
"Shouldn't we look for her? This banquet is for all of us who went training. We should wait until we're all together to have fun and celebrate."
"But there is no one who can find Yu Samae. If she doesn't want to be found, we can't find her."
"It'll be a waste of energy, Great Sahyung."
Baek Cheon's forehead scrunched together.
"Umm."
Those who saw it turned their heads away, feeling uncomfortable and sighing.
Yu Yiseol was a bizarre person; it wasn't easy to find her unless she wanted to show herself. But since Baek Cheon had this stiff expression, they had to at least pretend to search for her.
'Sahyung favors Yu Samae too much.'
He was normally a calm person that was fair to others, but he would always lose his composure over any issues involving Yu Yiseol.
'Well.'
It wasn't like they couldn't understand, but it was annoying for them.
At the moment when one of them was about to get up, the shut door opened slowly.
Everyone's eyes were upon the entrance.
Through the sunlight pouring in through the opened door, a woman walked in with small steps.
"Samae."
Baek Cheon called.
Yu Yiseol, who came inside, scanned the surroundings as if trying to find someone.
Smiling, Baek Cheon raised his hand.
"Samae, over here…."
Yu Yiseol started to walk, but it was in a direction away from Baek Cheon.
Step! Step!
Yu Yiseol, who walked with a smooth gait, reached her destination and stared intently at the person sitting ahead of her.
Baek Cheon's eyes twitched.
Yu Yiseol asked the man in front of her,
"Can I sit here?"
The second-class disciples, especially the men, were shocked enough for their eyes to pop out of their sockets.
'Did Yu Samae talk to a man?'
'No. When was the last time we even heard her talk?'
But the shock wasn't over.
The man she spoke to was Chung Myung. He responded with annoyance written all over his face and waved his hand like shooing away a fly.
"No, you can't."
"… then let's talk for a moment."
Chung Myung firmly answered.
"No. I don't want to talk to you. Go away."
Is he crazy?
The color drained from the faces of the second-class disciples as they reeled in shock.
'What the hell is going on here?'
Jo Gul couldn't come to his senses.
It was the first time Jo Gul saw her from such a close distance; he wondered if there could be any disciple in Mount Hua who didn't know of Yu Yiseol.
It wasn't because Jo Gul was a third-class disciple. He had never even heard of her having a friendly conversation with anyone. Despite being a disciple of Mount Hua, Yu Yiseol was known to keep her distance from others.
But now, she was talking to Chung Myung right in front of him. Soon, the piercing glares of the second-class disciples all stabbed into Chung Myung like razor-sharp daggers.
'Wow, those eyes could really kill people.'
Well, it was all aimed towards Chung Myung, who was next to Jo Gul. But sitting next to him, it felt inevitable that he would be dragged into the crossfire.
'Chung Myung, please!'
Be respectful, you bastard!
These are the second-class disciples; what is with that tone?
Despite all that, Chung Myung remained calm. In an atmosphere that felt like something was about to happen, Yu Yiseol whispered softly as if nothing was wrong.
"It'll only be a minute."
"I said I'm not interested."
"But it really will just take a moment."
"I said no! Don't you get what I am saying!?"
Watch the way you talk! Speak politely, you bastard!
Jo Gul ended up pressing on Chung Myung's thighs without realizing it, causing Chung Myung to turn his head toward him.
"What?"
"… Uh…"
You shouldn't ask that!
Uh… he shouldn't have asked that in front of his sasuks. He should understand what was happening.
Clicking his tongue, Chung Myung turned his head to Yu Yiseol.
"I have nothing to say or speak about with you."
"But I have something to tell you."
"I really don't want to hear it."
"It is fine, just one minute. Let's go outside."
"No need, can't you see I'm eating?"
"Then, I'll wait until you finish."
The second-class disciples were on the verge of going crazy.
First, they had never seen Yu Yiseol speak so much at once to a younger disciple. No, to be precise, they didn't remember her ever talking so much with any of the second-class disciples either.
But, didn't it seem like Yu Yiseol was clinging onto this man?
Right. The second thing that made them agitated was the attitude of Chung Myung.
'That crazy son of a bitch….!'
'Nothing is going to happen now, right?'
'Doesn't that bastard have eyes?'
'He has to be a true Taoist.'
Burning anger and subtle respect were poured onto Chung Myung.
As a Taoist who cultivates and walks the path of Dao, the first thing one must do is stay away from worldly desires. However, Yu Yiseol's existence was one that destroyed that dedication. No matter how well-disciplined a person was, they had no choice but to listen and stray from their path if Yu Yiseol made a request.
Anyone would, seeing her beautiful face and expression.
However, Chung Myung was openly complaining that Yu Yiseol was annoying him. That was unimaginable for the second-class disciples.
"I said no! I have a lot of work to do. Find someone else."
"I came here for you."
"No, why would—"
It was then.
"Ahem."
Although it was low, it was a sound that spread widely after being imbued with qi.
Everyone turned their heads to see Baek Cheon, who steadily got up from his seat and smiled at Chung Myung.
"Chung Myung, was it?"
"Yes."
A short answer.
But Baek Cheon wasn't angry. In such a situation, showing anger meant that the opponent won.
"I understand that you're tired from visiting the sect leader and taking on various tasks. You're likely even doing work that I'm unaware of. However, since your senior is so kindly requesting your time, don't you think you should hear what she has to say, regardless of how tired you may be?"
Baek Cheon spoke softly to Chung Myung. He thought that it would work out…
"Why?"
Baek Cheon's hand trembled.
Did he hear wrong?
No? So why did he hear the word 'why'?
Shocked, Baek Cheon looked at Chung Myung's expression. Seeing that pouty expression, it didn't seem like he heard it wrong.
Forcing the anger down to calm himself,
'Be calm.'
If he got angry at a third-class disciple, it would reflect negatively on his character.
"Did you say 'why'?"
"Yes."
"There are many reasons. First of all, a person should have manners. There is also a rule which says that you need to respect those above you."
"Ah, manners?"
As if he understood, Chung Myung nodded and looked at Yu Yiseol.
"Senior."
"Yes?"
"Apologize quickly. He's saying that you aren't behaving politely right now."
"…"
Yu Yiseol raised a finger, pointing to herself.
"Yes. Apologize."
"Me?"
"Ugh, you don't seem to understand at all."
Chung Myung explained it.
"This is a party to celebrate the return of the second-class disciples. It's rude to make use of this gathering to sort out your personal affairs and act individually."
"Ah…"
As if that made sense, Yu Yiseol nodded her head, stood from her seat, and bowed to Baek Cheon.
"I apologize, Sahyung. I didn't think that far."
"Ah, no, Samae. That's not—"
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
Just why did it turn out like this?
And when he tried to open his mouth and manage the situation, Chung Myung spoke again.
"Not to him, you should apologize to Sasuk, since you made a mistake around your senior."
"You're right."
Yu Yiseol bowed her head again towards Un Geom.
"This disciple was short-sighted."
Un Geom smiled.
"It is fine now that you understand, so sit down."
"Yes, Sasuk."
It was Baek Cheon who ended up getting Yu Yiseol into trouble. He couldn't figure out what to do.
He was flustered… and it was embarrassing to back down without seeing it through to the end. Aren't the second and third-class disciples looking at Baek Cheon in anticipation of what he would say?
How could he sit back down when so many were watching him? It would turn him into a joke.
He let out a low, empty cough a couple times and looked at Chung Myung.
'Oh no.'
'I need to stop him.'
Jo Gul and Yoon Jong looked at each other.
It was hard to beat Chung Myung with a sword, but it was even harder to beat him with words. This guy had no sense of logic. He would resort to all sorts of sophistry and illogical things if it meant winning.
If the conversation continued, Baek Cheon might end up humiliated in front of them. So, Chung Myung had to be stopped.
"Kuahaha! Sasuk! Congratulations on your return!"
"Isn't today really great? Since the sasuks have returned from training, it looks like we won't have any problems in the future."
Jo Gul and Yoon Jong desperately tried to switch the topic.
They didn't mean to defend Chung Myung. It was simply because they didn't want to see Mount Hua turn into a mess, with Baek Cheon and Chung Myung fighting on their first meeting.
Baek Cheon glanced at the two of them.
Reflected in their desperate gaze, Baek Cheon opened his mouth with narrowed eyes.
"Chung Myung, was it?"
'Ah what a persistent guy!'
'I don't know. I don't know anything.'
Understanding that it was impossible to stop him, the two reached out and grabbed the hem of Chung Myung's robe.
Please, just this once. Just this once in your life, behave politely…
Did he understand their earnestness? Chung Myung opened his mouth.
"You must have had a tough time traveling all the way here."
Oh?
Yoon Jong and Jo Gul were shocked. How long had it been since such pleasantries came out of Chung Myung's mouth…?
"You keep asking the same thing over and over. Do you need to go rest?"
… ehh, as if his character could change overnight.
Damn that consistent bastard!
Baek Cheon's eyebrows twitched.
"I will ask once again. Are you certain that we haven't met before?"
"Nope, I've never seen you before."
"It will be better if you answer honestly."
"Hey, I already told you that we've never met. Do you think I would deceive you?"
Looking at his glistening eyes, no one would think he was lying.
Except for the third-class disciples.
And Un Geom.
Uh… the second-class disciples might also doubt him. Uh… Hm.
"Really? I'll know if I ask."
Baek Cheon turned towards Un Geom. He didn't want to do this, but this was the only way he could regain the upper hand.
"Sasuk. I saw that child in the morning, drinking alcohol at a restaurant in Hua-Um."
Un Geom's eyes twitched.
"Really?"
"Yes. As far as I know, it is forbidden for the third-class disciples to leave Mount Hua. However, it is definitely unforgivable for them to leave behind their uniform and travel in plain apparel down to—"
"It is fine."
"Yes, I saw… huh?"
Baek Cheon, who bowed his head with clasped hands, lifted his head.
Did he hear it wrong again?
No, what was up with his ears? He keeps hearing the strangest answers…
"I said, it is fine."
Baek Cheon looked at Un Geom with a shocked face.
Un Geom was a man who valued manners and discipline above all else. He wasn't strict simply because he was head of the White Plum Blossom boarding house; his strict personality, which was sensitive to the rules, made him the head of the dorms.
And such a person said that it was fine for a third-class disciple to go down Mount Hua even if it was against the rules?
"S-sasuk?"
"That child is allowed to go down Mount Hua without asking for permission."
"Uh, permission? Who would give a child such permission?"
"The sect leader granted it to him. Have you got an issue with that?"
"S-sect… leader? Really?"
He was so shocked that he had covered his mouth with both his hands. Hearing the tone of Sasuk's voice, he knew that asking again would be crossing the line. Somehow, Baek Cheon seemed to be getting off on the wrong foot with everyone today.
"It doesn't matter."
Baek Cheon turned to Chung Myung with a shocked gaze.
Nom-nom-nom-nom.
"…"
Chung Myung was quickly moving his chopsticks and inhaling food as if he had no interest in what was happening. Baek Cheon would have been less angry if the child at least looked at him with a sneer, but this indifference was infuriating.
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
'I'll see this through to the end!'
He had no intention of backing down.
Baek Cheon opened his mouth again, but then a man came in through the entrance.
It was the finance head, Hyun Young, wearing his usual cold expression. He strode in and looked around.
"We greet the elder."
"We greet the elder."
When everyone stood and greeted him, he just waved his hand as if it was annoying.
"Right. Continue having a good time, I shouldn't have come. I am only here to check it out. Everyone, eat as much as you want and rest in peace. I am leaving. Un Geom, be sure to keep an eye on them so they don't play too much."
"Yes. Sasuk."
Baek Cheon, who was still standing, spoke.
"I have something to say to the elder."
Hyun Young, who was about to walk out, turned and looked at him.
"What is it?"
"I apologize, but I saw a third-class disciple drinking alcohol down the Hua-Um today."
"Alcohol?"
"Yes!"
Hyun Young's face contorted.
"A third-class disciple drinking!? Are you sure you saw it with your own eyes?"
"Definitely. He denies that it was him, but I surely saw correctly."
Baek Cheon slightly covered his face to hide the smile under his hands.
It might seem impolite, but that child was the one who provoked him first. So, he had to resort to something like this.
"Who is the disciple you saw?"
Baek Cheon turned to Chung Myung. He was pretending to be calm, but Baek Cheon was sure that Chung Myung was dying inside.
'Don't blame me for this.'
This is to set the rules straight in Mount Hua.
"The third-class disciple, Chung Myung."
"… Who?"
"Chung Myung. That one over there."
When it comes to the elders, they couldn't know each of the third-class disciples by name, so Baek Cheon pointed to the child.
Hyun Young, who looked at Chung Myung, frowned. Then, opened his mouth in irritation with anger rising up.
"What about it?"
"Yes. That Chung Myung drank… huh?"
"What about it?"
"…"
What?
"E-elder?"
Baek Cheon stared in stupefaction while Hyun Young looked at him with dissatisfaction.
'Did I say something wrong?'
Baek Cheon rushed to clarify and repair this situation.
"It's wrong for a third-class disciple to go down to Hua-Um village and drink alcohol. Although the child was given the authority, by the sect leader, to descend at will, was he given permission to drink alcohol too? I don't think he understands what he did."
Hyun Young's face twisted again.
'He seems to have understood it clearly this time.'
And immediately…
"You're someone who doesn't understand words."
"…. What?"
Hyun Young spoke without even trying to hide his anger.
"Did you set the rules for Mount Hua?"
"H-How could I?"
"Then was there any rule in Mount Hua that prohibits one from drinking when they're outside the sect?"
"…"
Baek Cheon couldn't bring himself to answer that question.
No, there was no such rule.
After all, what kind of sect would create a rule that forbids drinking?
But a Taoist should have a sense of propriety!
"And."
Hyun Young looked at Baek Cheon.
"What about it?"
"… Elder?"
"What's wrong with having a couple drinks?"
"…"
Why did it seem like Hyun Young's face kept growing redder and angrier?
That wasn't all.
Eventually, Hyun Young's face turned beet red as he pointed at Baek Cheon.
"There are so many bastards who can't even pay for what they eat here! But the guy who feeds you, goes out and has some alcohol with his own money!? Huh? What do you think you are!? Do you think you can abuse your privilege as sasuk to torment him!?"
'What? S-sasuk?'
"You're eating meat with the money he earned! Now, he goes down and wants to have a drink with the money he saved up! But you can't stand it, so you come to me to snitch on him!?"
Baek Cheon floundered with a stiff face.
It was difficult to understand; why was Hyun Young cursing at him? Was this really just for saying that he saw a third-class disciple drinking?
Is this really elder Hyun Young? Supposedly, he was meant to join the North Sea Ice Palace but ended up in Mount Hua, unable to fully demonstrate his skills. However, he was always known to be calm and cold; is this really the same man?
Seeing Hyung Young, wide-eyed and yelling, it was hard to tell if this was a dream or not.
"If you're really so bothered by it, go down to Hua-Um and make some money… but no! You sit around gaining a reputation just for being a disciple and use your privilege as sasuk to bully him! Swinging swords and meditating all day isn't going to bring any money or food to the table! Your mind! Use your mind and do something worthwhile! Should I open that head of yours and make something useful out of you!? What did you people even do to earn the meat on the tabl—"
Bang!
At that moment, someone violently slammed the door and entered.
"Hahaha! Here you are!"
A very strangely smiling face appeared as Hyun Sang covered the mouth of Hyun Young from behind.
"Eup! Eup! Eup!... let go of… eup!"
"Haha. Let's go outside for a while. To a place away from the kids. Ah, stay still!"
Tah!
The sound of the door closing left the dining hall with a strange silence. No one could open their mouths.
Nom-nom-nom-nom.
In that awkward silence, there was only one sound they could hear, the sound of something being eaten.
"What…"
Baek Cheon mumbled.
"Just what happened here?"
It was a statement that represented the feelings of all the second-class disciples.
--
"Isn't it too strange? Sahyung?"
Despite the question being directed at him, Baek Cheon just silently set down the teacup in his hand. It was an old teacup that he had been using for a long time. Before he went into closed-door training, he thought that this cup had its own charm. But looking at it now, it seemed more pathetic than elegant.
After all, this was the true state of Mount Hua.
Old furniture, old buildings, and old people.
The only hope of the worn-out sect were the disciples, and among them, their greatest hope was Baek Cheon.
However, Baek Cheon returned after a year away, and now his 'hope' seemed irrelevant to them.
"It's strange that new buildings were suddenly built, and it's strange that areas of the sect which were neglected for over a decade are repaired, no… I mean, that's a good thing. We couldn't do any of it before because the sect didn't have the funds. But!"
Baek Sang spoke in a strong tone, unable to hold back his anger.
"Isn't the behavior of the elders too strange? We came back from such a long and arduous training, but the sect leader didn't say much."
"Didn't the sect leader praise you enough for your effort?"
"Still, it's been a year since we've been away…."
"He is a man who is eager for change."
Baek Sang bowed his head slightly. Thinking about it, the sect leader really didn't say much. But it didn't make sense to call him out like that.
"Sect leader could be fine, but wasn't Elder Hyun Young or even Un Geom Sasuk acting the same?"
Baek Cheon didn't respond. No matter what anyone said, it was truly bizarre. It wasn't like they were dissatisfied with their elders, but their treatment was strange.
"Didn't you feel it? The elders were all taking that child's side."
"Baek Sang."
"Yes, Sahyung!"
"I am not that ignorant."
"…"
How could he not understand when he was cursed and yelled at, right to his face?
"Sahyung. That kid, he is quite cocky, isn't he?"
"Hmm?"
"Even if the elders take his side, shouldn't he at least bow his head when we, his direct seniors, come back? But that one…."
Baek Sang went silent after that.
If only that child had sneered or laughed at them, they could have called him out properly, but they couldn't do anything about his indifference.
"Phew."
Baek Cheon narrowed his eyes.
"And I don't understand why Yu Samae is so interested in him. Why, just why…."
A small ripple occurred in Baek Cheon's teacup as his hand lightly trembled.
"It could be that Yu Samae had some reason."
"But she barely speaks with us. I've never seen her talk so actively with anyone until now, and it isn't like we've only spent one or two days with her, right?"
"…"
"Leaving us aside, at least Sahyung—"
"Baek Sang."
"—Yes, Sahyung."
"Don't get too angry."
Baek Sang bowed his head and glanced at Baek Cheon's eyes.
Baek Cheon tried to manage his expression, but it was inevitable that he would show a bit of how uncomfortable he felt. His eyes kept twitching, and he struggled to hold back a frown.
'I lost to that young boy.'
Not even a full saint or an elder?
The difference of level between disciples within sects like Mount Hua is akin to heaven and earth. Just like how the Baek disciples couldn't speak against the Un disciples, Chung Myung also shouldn't be able to speak against them.
'Cheeky bastard.'
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
At that moment, Baek Sang, who bowed, continued.
"I apologize. It's just unfair. We returned after such difficult training, but the elders didn't recognize our efforts; and that snake-like bastard, who appeared out of nowhere, is taking over the sect by playing cute with the elders, right?"
"The time where we could play cute with the elders has already passed."
"You know that's not what I meant."
He knew. He knew it too well.
Baek Cheon let out a low sigh.
'It's a feeling of subtly being taken over.'
Were they away for too long?
In the past, as soon as they returned, the adults would have greeted them warmly and then come to visit Baek Cheon later. Now, they barely showed interest in him.
Instead, they were all looking for Chung Myung.
Baek Cheon was unhappy over the sudden change in status.
He didn't know what Chung Myung did to have such great expectations from the elders and receive their protection, but Mount Hua was his sect.
Baek Cheon was the only one who received the expectations of Mount Hua's elders, and he had to be the guiding light that would return the sect to brilliance.
"Are you going to leave him like this?"
"What more can we do?"
"… shouldn't we at least beat it into him or discipline him? If we leave it as it is, Mount Hua will be a mess. Sahyung should establish order and set him right."
Baek Cheon smiled bitterly.
He didn't like when his juniors talked back to him, but he wasn't the kind to beat sense into others.
"Calm down for now."
"Sahyung!"
Baek Sang raised his voice which made Baek Cheon frown. Seeing that, Baek Sang sighed and lowered his eyes.
Seeing that reaction, Baek Cheon nodded with a satisfied face.
"It's not that I don't want to."
"Then why…"
"There are things we need to know first."
"Huh?"
Baek Cheon shook his head and set the teacup down.
"There is a proper order we must follow. Don't you think it's necessary to know why the elders are all fawning over that child?"
"Ah, right. We should do that."
"He's coming."
"Who?"
As soon as Baek Cheon finished, someone knocked on the door.
"Come in."
Kik.
With the sound of the door opening, the person who entered bowed.
"Disciple Yoon Jong is here."
"Welcome."
Baek Cheon pointed ahead of him.
"Sit down."
"Yes, Sasuk."
Yoon Jong cautiously sat down. He couldn't be sure if he should sit or not despite the offer.
Baek Cheon liked Yoon Jong's attitude.
'This is how things should be.'
Not behaving like that other bastard.
Baek Cheon, who was relaxed, spoke in a soft voice.
"Yoon Jong."
"Yes, sasuk."
"While I was away, you must have had a hard time trying to serve the elders and handle the disciples."
"I just did what I was supposed to do as a disciple of Mount Hua."
"Yes, you're right. That is a natural action. But…"
Baek Cheon paused for a moment, which made Yoon Jong lift his head to examine his expression, and then the expected words followed.
"It seems like strange things are happening in Mount Hua right now."
"… are you talking about Chung Myung?"
Baek Cheon didn't respond, but Yoon Jong knew what he aimed for.
"It is my fault for not leading that sajae properly. If you are angry, please punish me, sasuk."
"No, it's not something you could handle. What I am saying is..."
Baek Cheon smiled.
"Tell me all of what happened while I was away. I'll listen to your story and decide what to do next."
Yoon Jong sighed deeply.
'It's natural for me to explain this to Sasuk, but it feels like I'm betraying Chung Myung.'
Before coming here, Yoon Jong had already told Chung Myung. He asked if he could tell everything to the sasuk who called him. And Chung Myung's answer was simple.
- Go.
"…"
It would have been nice if he had given some instructions.
Yoon Jong glanced at Baek Cheon for a moment and then spoke.
"First, I think I should begin from the time Chung Myung entered Mount Hua."
As Yoon Jong began to slowly unravel his story, the disciples listened to him with bated breath.
And as the story continued, Baek Cheon's face gradually distorted more and more.
Once the story was complete, no one spoke.
Everyone looked at Yoon Jong's face with a serious expression, like they had fallen into trouble.
It was Baek Cheon that broke the long silence.
"So, that child…."
"Yes, Sasuk."
"Discovered the treasure and lost martial arts books of the sect."
"Yes."
"And found a ledger which brought to light the affairs of the businesses under Mount Hua and helped confiscate back the businesses?"
"Right."
"In addition, he even cured the illness of the Eunha Merchant Guild's Elder Hwang?"
"Yes."
"In return, Eunha offered to take care of Mount Hua's finances… and Hua-Um."
Yoon Jong nodded without saying a word.
Thinking back, it was strange. Hua-Um had a life that didn't exist when they first left for their training.
Since they were away from Mount Hua for so long, he just assumed that Hua-Um had improved greatly during their time away, but that wasn't it.
"… right."
Baek Cheon opened his mouth but closed it again.
"I get it."
"Yes, Sasuk. Then, I'll take my leave."
"Alright."
As Yoon Jong left the room, Baek Cheon had a serious look on his face; and the others in the room also had sullen expressions.
"No, just what…."
Baek Sang opened his mouth, feeling frustrated and despondent.
"Then, doesn't this mean that one child solved all of Mount Hua's problems by himself?"
"…"
Shock and consternation could be heard in this disciple's voice.
Baek Cheon couldn't even respond.
The biggest problem with Mount Hua was neither their martial arts nor the small number of disciples. Mount Hua collapsed so quickly because they lacked the money to support themselves.
'It wasn't just that they didn't have money.'
There was an enormous debt.
When he left for training, Baek Cheon's greatest worry was returning after a year only to find the sect abandoned and destroyed.
But Chung Myung solved this issue.
"It's understandable why the elders like him."
Baek Sang laughed in self-derision at Baek Cheon's words.
"Hearing elder Hyun Young yell at everyone about eating meat from that child's money, I thought he was the child of a great merchant, and that he was giving Mount Hua a lot of money. but this…"
He was literally feeding Mount Hua.
Baek Cheon shook his head.
'There's no answer to solve this problem.'
If Baek Cheon was in Hyun Young's position, he would have defended Chung Myung himself. That was how significant Chung Myung's contribution was. He was a child that raised money like a god of fortune and solved all of Mount Hua's financial woes, even the problems which persisted for decades with no resolution in sight.
It's a good thing Hyun Young didn't have children. If his child got into an argument with Chung Myung, his house would be a mess if he kept taking Chung Myung's side.
He could always have another kid, but where in this world would he find another person like Chung Myung?
"… Sahyung, this…"
"Umm."
Baek Cheon racked his mind, thinking heavily.
"If he had only solved one of the sect's problems it would have ended with 'he made a contribution'. But that child is intertwined with the Eunha Guild. As long as he has a connection with Eunha, which manages Mount Hua's finances, and Mount Hua makes money from that relationship, Chung Myung's position will continue to rise."
At least for the foreseeable future.
"… but at some point, wouldn't his importance settle as the sect grows?"
"Right. But will that moment come soon? As you know, this is all…."
Gold falling into a beggar's lap.
It was good to see and good to touch. Even if it wasn't used right away, wouldn't you be happy just to possess it?
Chung Myung was the one who gave gold to the beggar known as Mount Hua. No matter how hard Baek Cheon tried, he couldn't achieve anything like this.
'I can see why the sect leader would meet with that child alone.'
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
When he returned from training, he thought that he would receive looks of adoration and approval from all the elders, but a guy who popped out of nowhere stole away the spotlight and received all of the elders' expectations that should have belonged to Baek Cheon.
It was an issue that couldn't be ignored.
"Is it really such a big deal?"
Baek Mun, who only listened to the conversation till then, spoke.
"The discovery of Mount Hua's treasure was just a coincidence, and wasn't it pure luck that he treated elder Hwang?"
"Sajae."
"Sahyung, Mount Hua is a martial arts sect. It is unacceptable that the sect is giving preference to a child simply because he brought money into the sect. How can the others all encourage it and forget the values of Mount Hua?"
Baek Cheon slammed the table. And spoke.
"Sajae, you should choose your words very carefully. What you said is an insult to the elders and sasuks."
"… that wasn't my intention."
"But you aren't necessarily wrong."
"Yes?"
Baek Chen calmly nodded his head.
"You are right. Mount Hua does seem unfamiliar now. No matter how much money is made, we must focus on our martial arts in order to truly restore the sect."
"You're right."
"That's true."
Baek Cheon nodded at their responses.
"In the end, we have no choice but to get back to the basics. Now, the elders might be interested in him because of his contributions, but once they realize that the conference is approaching, there is no way that they'll be able to pay attention to the third-class disciples."
"Yes, sahyung. You're right."
"So, for now let's focus on ourselves. We can fix that child's attitude afterwards."
Baek Sang glanced at Baek Cheon.
"But Sahyung."
"What?"
"We aren't going to be the only ones to participate in the conference. The third-class disciples will also be included in it."
"Is there anyone here who doesn't know that?"
"We can't be the only ones working hard. Shouldn't we also help prevent the third-class disciples from being humiliated?"
At that point, Baek Cheon looked with interest at Baek Sang.
"What do you think, Sajae?"
"If we're only thinking about ourselves, then it would be fine for us to focus on our own training. However, as seniors to the third-class disciples, how can we forget to assist them? Even if it's a bit troublesome, we should take care of our juniors. It might even help us out in the conference as well."
Baek Cheon grinned.
"As expected, Sajae cares about everyone in Mount Hua more than anyone else."
"I am embarrassed, Sahyung."
"I think it's a good idea. We must have gotten alienated from them since we were away for a year, so it wouldn't be a bad idea to sweat together for a while."
"Yes, Sahyung. That sounds like a good plan."
Baek Cheon and Baek Sang smiled at each other.
In the end, dignity comes from strength. A gentle person is respected, but respect only goes so far.
Even in a family, authority is necessary. If left as it is, a day will come when the third-class disciples run amok without regard for their seniors.
Before that, they had to be put in place.
Teach them why the sasuks were adults and why the third-class disciples must bow their heads.
"I hope that child, Chung Myung, has a talent for martial arts. Then, wouldn't Mount Hua have one more capable person to lead the future generation?"
"The person who will lead the future generation is you, Sahyung."
"I cannot lead forever. It would be for the best if there was a smart child who followed my commands."
Baek Cheon smiled.
"It looked like he couldn't even walk properly, is there any hope for that child to have talent in martial arts?"
Baek Mun said while shrugging his shoulders.
"Shouldn't that be why we teach and lead the juniors? Though it might be a little daunting for Chung Myung."
"I understand."
The three of them smiled happily at one another.
'I need to teach you to properly appreciate the dignity of your superiors.'
Baek Cheon's cold eyes smirked as well.
"Are you sleeping?"
"Uh."
"Ugh, I was dragged to Sasuk's room because of you, and you're lying down so comfortably?"
Yoon Jong's face tensed up.
'I shouldn't bother….'
He had no intention of asking Chung Myung to be polite to him; he threw away such notions on the evening that Chung Myung joined the sect.
Nevertheless, he felt emotional after seeing the Baek disciples treat Baek Cheon with such respect.
'That's how sects are supposed to be.'
Seeing how Baek Cheon was revered, Yoon Jong felt like crying.
'There was a time when I was treated like that.'
After a certain person arrived, everything changed. Bad habits are easy to learn but hard to correct…
"What are you thinking about, Sahyung?"
"… nothing."
This one is the problem! This guy!
There was some respect shown for Yoon Jong in the past, but now Jo Gul treats him like some neighborhood brother!
Yoon Jong took a deep breath and looked at Jo Gul.
"Gul."
"Yes."
"Is it really a good thing that Chung Myung came to Mount Hua?"
"Don't talk about strange things. Did something happen?"
'Is that any way for a junior to speak to their senior?'
Ugh…
In the end, Yoon Jong decided to let go of everything and glanced at Chung Myung, who was lying on the bed, before opening his mouth.
"Senior asked me to tell him what he has been up to so far."
"And so, did you decide to snitch?"
"… what's the point of hiding it?"
"That's true."
They were going to find out eventually anyway.
"And the reaction?"
"Are you asking because you really don't know?"
"… I guess it's obvious."
Yoon Jong and Jo Gul sighed. Seeing Chung Myung still lying on the bed tapping his stomach, they couldn't help it.
'Crazy bastard.'
'Good for nothing bastard.'
Anyway, Baek Cheon wasn't their sahyung; he was their sasuk. How could Chung Myung even think about provoking someone so senior to them on their first meeting?
Baek Cheon wasn't strict with the third-class disciples. However, if the relationship goes sour, there is no way to know what the future will hold.
"Well, it won't be good."
No one in the world can crush Chung Myung. Didn't Yoon Jong and Jo Gul also get defeated by him?
Fortunately, they were able to make the most of their situation. However, if Baek Cheon tries his luck and decides to trample on Chung Myung, then the situation could erupt into an even bigger mess.
"Well, arrows are going to fall on us."
"I know."
Once again, Yoon Jong sighed and looked at Jo Gul.
"We should have assumed this would happen when we learned that the sasuks were returning."
"Right."
"Call the others and tell them to be careful of their behavior from tomorrow on. Even if it's nothing special, if they find something to nitpick, I'm sure they won't let us off easily."
"Yes, I get it."
Jo Gul readied himself to leave with that response, but then he stopped and glanced at Yoon Jong.
"But Sahyung."
"Yes?"
"I am curious about something…."
"About what?"
"If Baek Cheon sasuk and Chung Myung fought, who would win?"
"… don't think about such ridiculous things and do what you are told."
"Tch."
Jo Gul clicked his tongue and went out.
Left in Chung Myung's room, Yoon Jong glanced at the owner of the room, who was still dreaming soundly.
'Who would win?'
Was he asking because he really didn't know?
"… sleep well. Troublemaker."
Now, the peace in Mount Hua was finally shattered. In the future, there will be a lot of commotion.
Chung Myung continued to sleep peacefully; his face seemed absent of any care or concerns in the world. Looking down at him, Yoon Jong sighed before walking out of the room with a subtle smile.
-----
"Listen."
"Yes. Sect leader."
Un Geom reached out and took a teacup.
Plum tea, made by drying plum petals, is one of the things that Hyun Jong is most proud of. Bringing that tea out meant there was quite a lot to talk about today.
"How is it?"
Before Un Geom answered, he glanced at Un Am. He was checking whether it was fine to speak in the presence of others. Hyun Jong, who took the tea, recognized this and said.
"It is fine."
"Yes, then."
Un Geom opened his mouth.
"As the sect leader said, I didn't intervene. And…"
"And?"
"There seems to be a bit of a problem."
"Hmm."
Hyun Jong nodded at it.
"The atmosphere would have turned sour if Hyun Young sasuk hadn't arrived when he did. As the sect leader said, there are subtle sparks flowing between the second and third-class disciples."
"I see."
Hyun Jong sighed.
This happened because of their decision.
'I was in a hurry.'
The difference between the Un disciples and the Baek disciples was too great, and the difference between the Baek and the Chung disciples was too close. As a result, the youngest of the Baek disciples, Yu Yiseol, was almost the same age as Yoon Jong, the oldest of the Chung disciples.
Given that it was customary to have a few years difference between any group of disciples, it was apparent that this problem would explode at some point.
'It was inevitable.'
When they received the third-class disciples, Mount Hua couldn't actually afford to accept any new disciples. At that time, the sect's finances were dwindling to a dangerous low. It had grown so severe that new students were barred from joining.
Then, someone suggested the idea of getting support from the disciples' families in return for allowing their children to join the sect. That was the beginning of the problem.
With Mount Hua desperately struggling to hold together their crumbling foundations, it was necessary to gather funds by any means available to them.
However, even if they had fallen from grace, Mount Hua was still a prestigious sect. They tried to be selective of who they accepted, but for the sake of the disciples who would grow up within the sect, they took the disciples of families who offered support without question.
As a result, Chung disciples are somewhat lacking in martial arts talent.
"In the past, the Chung disciples wouldn't have dared to act against the Baek disciples. But aren't the Chung disciples now different from what they were?"
"Yes."
Did they have a central figure? Didn't that figure change?
A seemingly meaningless change began to ripple out and influence much more than expected. A single individual's existence was affecting not only their group but also the relations between other groups.
With Yoon Jong and Jo Gul as the center of the Chung disciples, they barely passed as third-class disciples of Mount Hua. However, now the third-class disciples were gathered around Chung Myung, who isn't satisfied with merely passing but wants excellent results.
People who are twenty years apart don't see each other as competition, but those who are ten years apart, or even less, have no choice but to be conscious of each other.
"It's my fault."
As Un Geom bowed his head, Hyun Jong firmly shook his head.
"It isn't your fault."
"Sect leader…"
"I was the one who insisted that you be the head of the White Plum Blossom Boarding Hall. Didn't everyone agree at the time? In the first place, this is something we all predicted when we started receiving the third-class disciples ahead of schedule."
These words weren't just meant to comfort Un Geom.
Mount Hua benefited a lot after creating the White Plum Blossom Dorms. But where there is something to gain, there is something to lose.
In the past, no junior would dare to skip the formalities with their seniors, regardless of the age difference.
However, the third-class disciples never received anything from the second-class disciples. They were taught by Un Geom and trained together with their comrades. Naturally, the distance between the two groups was bound to widen.
That was the biggest weakness of the White Plum Blossom Boarding Hall.
Un Geom glanced at Hyun Jong and asked.
"Sect leader. What do you believe we should do?"
Hyun Jong savored the plum tea without saying a word. It felt calming to him, smelling the subtle scent wafting through the air.
"What can we do?"
"But leaving it like this…."
"People are always like that. Would their hearts be satisfied if we intervene and forcefully lead the situation? Sometimes, it isn't wrong to let the disciples clash with each other and learn from their disagreements."
"Sect leader, this is about our disciples."
"If you put your mind to it, you could even change the direction of a river. But if you force the stream to turn, even if it seems plausible at first, there will be problems that arise farther down the flow."
Hyun Jong said with a smile.
"Un Geom."
"Yes, Sect Leader."
"Let's trust our children."
"…"
Un Geom looked at Hyun Jong with a complicated expression. The expression said he had doubts about this.
At that time, Hyun Jong spoke about a different topic than Un Geom expected.
"Baek Cheon isn't that kind of problem child."
"Huh?"
"Don't you think so too?"
Un Geom's face went stiff.
'No, it isn't him, sect leader!'
Baek Cheon isn't the problem. Sect leader! The problem is Chung Myung!
Only then did Un Geom realize that there was a huge gap in the way that the other elders saw Chung Myung compared to him.
The head of the White Plum Blossom dorms, Un Geom, saw Chung Myung up close as he controlled the third-class disciples. However, Hyun Jong and other elders only saw him as an adorable little puppy that brought blessings to Mount Hua!
"Isn't Baek Cheon a careful and upright child? Even if his pride gets damaged and he loses himself to a moment of anger, he isn't the sort of person to harm a child because of it."
Pardon?
Who will hurt whom?
Baek Cheon will hurt Chung Myung?
'This is crazy.'
Somehow, the sect leader was too naïve!
However, explaining it seemed impossible. No, even if he could explain, the sect leader wouldn't believe it.
In fact, Un Geom doesn't fully understand Chung Myung himself. The way that the sect leader saw Chung Myung was miles apart from how Un Geom viewed him; how could he possibly convince Hyun Jong?
"… yes, I understand. Sect leader."
In the end, Un Geom had no choice but to silently leave.
"Un Geom."
"Yes, Sect Leader."
"There isn't much time left before the conference."
As soon as the word 'conference' came out, Un Geom's face darkened.
To be honest, the disciples of Mount Hua didn't have any negative feelings towards the Southern Edge Sect in the past. In the first place, Mount Hua's feelings for the Southern Edge sect had stemmed from a competitive spirit.
But isn't competition inherently between people who are similar and not too different? The gap between Mount Hua and the Southern Edge Sect was like Heaven and Earth. No one had the burning spirit necessary to take down the Southern Edge Sect.
But, even if there was no motivation in this competition, who would want to see their disciples get beat up by the other side?
For the youngest children, the difference between them isn't too great, and the loss is not too humiliating. However, the difference more than doubles when the older disciples take center stage, and it only grows farther when those who trained directly under an elder appear.
"We've solved many problems. But the most important problem hasn't been solved yet. We are only at the beginning, and we need to recreate the splendid glory of Mount Hua."
"I'll keep that in mind, Sect Leader."
"Right. Both of you can leave."
"Yes."
"Yes."
As Un Geom and Un Am left, Hyun Jong got up from his seat and opened the window at the back of his room, so he could see the peaks with melted snow.
There were small flower buds on the plum tree that had grown fast. By the time the conference begins, spring plum blossoms would likely bloom all over the mountain.
'Plum Blossom… Plum Blossoms.'
The Seven Sages Sword is back.
However, Hyun Jong was keenly aware of the fact that it was impossible to reproduce their past glory with just one sword art.
'Perhaps if we still had the Plum Blossom Sword technique.'
Hyun Jong tightly shut his eyes.
He knew that dwelling on what was lost in the past wouldn't bring about a change. This wasn't the time to search for what they lacked; it was time to reinforce what they had.
Even so, regret lingered in the corner of his heart.
"Oh ancestors. Look down on Mount Hua."
Hyun Jong was still unaware that an ancestor had already descended on Mount Hua.
Unfortunately, Hyun Jong made two mistakes.
One was that he thought Chung Myung was a good child.
But from Mount Hua's point of view, it wasn't a large issue. Chung Myung's ultimate goal was to help grow Mount Hua. The more Hyun Jong favored Chung Myung, the wider his activities could be.
It wasn't intentional, but thanks to Hyun Jong giving preferential treatment to Chung Myung, Mount Hua was developing faster.
But the other mistake was more fatal…
Baek Cheon was not as mild-mannered or gentle as Hyun Jong thought.
"Anything…"
"…"
"… Need food."
"…"
The third-class disciples huddled together in their boarding hall had shocking faces.
Chung Myung's practice left the disciples completely drained. He could somehow gauge the strength remaining in each and every disciple and would cruelly use that information to push them to their absolute limits, squeezing out every last drop of sweat from their bodies.
Therefore, after everyone was done training, they would come back with stiff faces and sunken cheeks.
Surprisingly, however, no third-class disciples expressed dissatisfaction from the harsh training.
Of course, they felt like they would die each time they practiced under him, but weren't humans known to be adaptable?
After this terrible training was repeated for over a week, it somehow became more bearable. They've developed so much that even when they stumble into the underworld and lock eyes with that villainous Death, they turn their backs on the Grim Reaper and return on their own.
- The more that iron is beaten, the stronger it becomes, and the more a man gets beaten, the stronger he returns! Moss doesn't gather on a man that's been beaten.
'Moss doesn't normally grow on people anyway! You madman!'
Even worse was that the third-class disciples could see that Chung Myung was right. They could feel their bodies changing day by day.
Now they understood what it meant to have a 'fit body.'
But
The problem was that a new calamity struck the third-class disciples, who believed that they could overcome anything if they just followed Chung Myung's training routine.
"…I think I'm going to die."
"Uh… the sasuks are seriously…."
"Isn't it getting worse each time?"
The Baek disciples were tormenting them.
That day,
After Chung Myung and Baek Cheon confronted each other, they began skillfully bullying the third-class disciples. It was clear that they were deliberately harassing them on each occasion.
"Why are they doing that?"
"Do you even need to ask?"
"Ugh."
All eyes turned to the same location, and the one at the end of the gaze was,
"Huh?"
Chung Myung, who received their gazes, just tilted his head.
"Why are you looking at me?"
"…"
"…"
This bastard was definitely born without a conscience.