The disciples of Mount Hua, who were exhausted and on the verge of collapse from running, came to a hurried stop. Unfortunately for them, they happened to stop right as the Southern Edge Sect arrived at the same location.
Standing next to the third-class disciples, who were gasping and panting for air, Chung Myung awkwardly tilted his head and looked at Sama Seung.
"Me?"
A face that didn't seem to understand anything. Seeing the child's attempt to act innocent, Sama Seung asked again.
"I asked you, what did you just say?"
"Oh, that.'
Instead of answering, Chung Myung kicked the already staggering Jo Gul's shin.
"Ack!"
"Fuck you! Do you have a death wish!? Can't you run straight!?"
"I am your Sahyung, you jerk!"
"Ah, I forgot for a second there."
Chung Myung scratched his head and grinned as he looked at Sama Seung.
"That must be what you heard. So embarrassing."
"…"
Sama Seung glared at Chung Myung with venom dripping from his gaze.
Sama Seung was not stupid enough to misunderstand who those words were directed at. There was no way he would be deceived by a child and his antics.
"This…"
At that moment, someone gently tugged on Sama Seung's sleeve. At this, he stopped himself from speaking and glanced back.
It was Jin Geum-Ryong.
"Elder, nothing good can come from arguing with a child."
"Hmm."
Sama Seung sighed and nodded.
No matter how angry he was, he was an elder of the Southern Edge Sect. The difference in status was too great for him to speak to a child. If rumors spread that a third-class disciple from Mount Hua and an elder from the Southern Edge Sect engaged in an argument, it would disgrace his name.
Jin Geum-Ryong stepped forward.
"Who is this young disciple?"
"Who am I? Would you even know if I told you?"
"…"
Jin Geum-Ryong looked at Chung Myung with blank eyes.
He had never before met anyone who answered him with a question like this. Feeling beyond upset, he calmed himself and smiled.
"Perhaps I might know you? So, why don't you tell me?"
"Well, it isn't difficult. I am Chung Myung."
"Chung Myung?"
Jin Geum-Ryong's smiling face immediately went stiff.
It was a familiar name.
Wasn't Chung Myung the name of the Mount Hua disciple that humiliated the Southern Edge Sect?
Jin Geum-Ryong narrowed his eyes and looked at Chung Myung.
'He's younger than I thought.'
He thought it was absurd.
Thanks to Chung Myung curing Elder Hwang, the Eunha Guild severed their relationship with the Southern Edge Sect and began supporting Mount Hua.
It was such an embarrassment that the Southern Edge Sect refused to discuss the matter, even more so because Mount Hua was at its center.
Thanks to that, the elders and the sect leader were furious. But the one that caused such shame to fall upon the sect was this young child?
"I see. Disciple Chung Myung. But it seems like disciple Chung Myung never learned proper manners."
Although it was an outright rebuke at his attitude, Chung Myung picked his ears and whistled.
"I'm sorry, but I can't hear you very well. Could you come closer and speak up a bit?"
"… what did you say?"
"Are you deaf? Come closer and talk to me. Can't you hear?"
Jin Geum-Ryong's face hardened.
'Just what the hell does this kid believe in?'
If what Lee Song-Baek said was true, this child was knocked back after one strike. This child had little training in martial arts. What did he believe in that gave him the confidence to speak such nonsense?
Unless he was someone with no sense.
It made Jim Geum-Ryong want to pull out his sword and cut down the arrogant child right in front of him.
However, this was Mount Hua and not the Southern Edge sect. He couldn't act carelessly here. This wasn't Jin Geum-Ryong's role to play.
Gnashing his teeth, he tried to speak softly.
"Aren't you a third-class disciple of Mount Hua?"
"That's right."
"Mount Hua and the Southern Edge Sect have shared weal and woe in the past. Since that's the case, and since I am the senior, shouldn't you be the one to come closer to speak? Of course, as long as you have the slightest sense of manners."
"Ah, really?"
Chung Myung chuckled.
"Then, why didn't you say that to your elder earlier? If you think that it's more polite for me to come closer to sasuk, then shouldn't the elder of the Southern Edge Sect be the one going to visit our sect leader?"
'Ah, shit.'
Aghast, Jin Geum-Ryong hastily fell silent.
He was trying to scold Chung Myung, but this child used it as an opening to point out Sama Seung's rudeness.
'I ended up making a mistake.'
No, it wasn't a mistake.
This small child led the flow of conversation like that. Letting Jin Geum-Ryong stumble onto his mistake and admit his elder's fault.
"This…"
At that time, Sama Seung, who was watching the situation, opened his mouth.
"This young man's mouth doesn't seem ordinary."
"Elder."
"Move."
Jin Geum-Ryong, who bit his lip, stared at Chung Myung and then moved back without another word.
Sama Seung smiled.
"Since your actions came from your pure-hearted desire to protect your sect leader's dignity, I won't hold you accountable this time."
"Yes, thank you."
"But you had best remember one thing. Your rudeness and mine aren't the same. Do you know why?"
"… Well?"
"Because of power."
Sama Seung spoke in a low voice.
"It is only when one's actions are pointed out that impoliteness is considered rude. If no one is willing to point it out, it is simply a passing remark. The right to point out such impoliteness comes from power. Your actions are rude because of your weakness, but my impoliteness cannot be considered rude because of my power."
Chung Myung frowned.
"I think you should learn to speak more kindly before worrying about being polite."
"… what a crazy one."
Sama Seung turned away from Chung Myung and looked at Hyun Sang.
"I apologize for the disrespect earlier."
"Ah, no. Elder, why are you like this?"
"Now that the child pointed out what I did, wasn't I being rude? I need to apologize."
Hyun Sang wasn't sure what to do.
It was a strange situation where the person who committed the mistake apologized, yet the person receiving the apology was the one that felt more uncomfortable.
Sama Seung smiled and looked back at Chung Myung before speaking.
"Courage is easy to forgive when you're young. However, one day, your actions may cause you to lose your head. Remember my words."
With that, Sama Seung turned around.
"Let's go."
"Yes, elder."
Guided by Hyun Sang, he led the disciples and began walking again.
Meanwhile, Lee Seong-Baek bowed his head to Chung Myung.
When Chung Myung returned his greeting with a slight nod, he smiled faintly and walked ahead.
As the Southern Edge Sect disciples moved away, Jo Gul spoke with a pale face.
"Have you lost it? What the hell are you trying to do?"
"What?"
"That person is an elder of the Southern Edge Sect! Elder! Southern Edge Sect!"
"Yah!"
Chung Myung kicked Jo Gul in the shin again. He struck the same place as before, and Jo Gul agonizingly clutched his leg as he rolled along the floor.
"Ack!"
"Are you a disciple of Mount Hua? Didn't you hear the bullshit he was spouting towards the sect leader? You think we should hold back?"
"Do you think we're enduring because we want to?"
Yoon Jong stepped forward with a stiff face.
"Of course, we're angry, but his words are right. A man without power has no right to point out the flaws of someone who does have strength."
"Who said we lacked power?"
"…. Huh?"
Chung Myung turned his head and looked at the disciples of the Southern Edge Sect, who were walking away.
'Those bastards, how dare they.'
It was annoying that those thieves were brazen enough to walk into Mount Hua on their own feet, but they even dared to insult the sect leader.
Even though Chung Myung believes that the current sect leader of Mount Hua lacks the qualifications of a real sect leader, Hyun Jong is still Mount Hua's representative. So, Chung Myung must protect his dignity from others.
For those idiots to insult the sect leader of Mount Hua…
Chung Myung's eyes began to blaze in a fury.
"I tried to be good to them. But those bastards, even in a new life, want to start fights with me."
"… No, let's calm down…."
"Chung Myung. Please, I beg of you. Let's think first and then act. Huh?"
The third-class disciples panicked when they saw the look in Chung Myung's eyes. They all knew they would be unable to do anything if Chung Myung got angry.
At that moment, Chung Myung shook his head.
"Did all the Sahyungs get a good look?"
"… what?"
"What those bastards are doing. Even if they ignore Mount Hua, there Is a limit to it. Are Sahyungs going to endure everything they say?"
"… no, we don't want to tolerate it either. But how do you…."
"Listen well, Sahyungs."
Chung Myung spoke with eyes that didn't stop blazing.
"If you lose to those bastards, you will lose everything."
"…"
The faces of Yoon Jong and all the third-class disciples went pale.
Chung Myung's eyes were spitting flames.
"You can lose to anyone else. It doesn't matter where you go or who beats you up. Only those Southern Edge Sect bastards, they are the only ones that you can never lose to. Even if you have to die. Anyone who makes me see such a shameful sight had better be prepared. There will come a day where the one who makes others shed tears of blood will shed tears of blood themselves!"
'What you're saying doesn't fit the situation, you brat!'
'It is the other way around for us!'
'You're the one making us cry bloody tears!'
"Why aren't you answering?"
Chung Myung asked with eyes sparkling in madness. Just the sight made a chill run down their spine.
"N-No. We want to do that too. But we…"
"What? We what?"
Chung Myung approached the third-class disciples with a frightful glare.
"Are you not confident that you can win?"
"R-rather than that…."
"Are you confident enough to die?"
"…"
"Let me see a single loss. Just one. That's fine, right. Let's all die together. You die, and I die too."
"…"
The Mount Hua and Southern Edge Sect conference.
An event that was held to deepen the friendship between Mount Hua and Southern Edge.
However, now it seems like blood would be spilled because of one person's anger.
"That little boy…."
Jong Seo-Han glanced back. Jin Geum-Ryong approached him and quietly asked.
"Are you concerned about him?"
Jong Seo-Han whispered, making sure that no one else heard him.
"Rather than being concerned, it feels ridiculous. I don't know where such a kid came from."
"Leave it alone."
Jin Geum-Ryong spoke in a stiff voice.
"It is the privilege of the weak to go wild and crazy without knowing the truth. Only a foal who doesn't know how high the sky is would act so recklessly."
"That is true, but…."
"I have no remorse; he acted arrogantly on his own will. Since we've come here for the conference, there will be plenty of opportunities for us to punish him in the future."
"I'd love to see if he can still talk like that once I tear off his mouth."
Jin Geum-Ryong smiled brightly.
"That isn't something a virtuous disciple should say."
"He was the one who started this fight."
"True."
To be precise, the Southern Edge sect started this fight, but Jin Geum-Ryong didn't bother pointing that out.
"Don't worry about useless things."
Sama Seung, who was ahead, spoke in a low voice at that time.
"In the end, a warrior will always speak with his sword. No matter how sharp his tongue may be, nothing will change."
"Yes, elder."
"Strength isn't everything. But this is a place where nothing can be done without power. You all shouldn't forget that fact."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Sama Seung narrowed his eyes.
"This time the conference will be interesting. Seeing them behave so arrogantly, they must have something to believe in. We must be sure to thoroughly trample their beliefs and quash their hope. Do you understand?"
"Yes! Elder!"
Sama Seung nodded his head with a smile.
'A very interesting one.'
Still, it was somewhat commendable. Even the elders of Mount Hua were fearful about speaking against the Southern Edge Sect, but that young man stepped forward fearlessly…
Sama Seung stopped and looked back.
The disciples who were following him were startled and halted in place.
"Elder?"
"What's wrong?"
Sama Seung, who was staring back with a fear-inducing gaze, soon calmed his expression.
"No, nothing. It was nothing."
The elder then turned around while gently waving his hand.
Yet, his face hardened again.
Chung Myung clearly pointed out Sama Seung's fault. That meant… he'd heard how rude he was to Mount Hua's sect leader?
'Then…he heard what I said at the gate from that distance?'
It was such a great distance that Sama Seung hadn't even known about Chung Myung's existence.
'No, that can't be right.'
He must be mistaken.
'I must have been nervous. To think such absurd thoughts.'
With a low smile, Sama Seung hurried along.
However, his steps were a little heavier than before.
Sama Seung sat across from Mount Hua's sect leader, Hyun Jong, and carefully observed him.
'Hyun Jong.'
Hyun Jong was the one who somehow managed to hold together the crumbling fragments of Mount Hua and prevent a total collapse of the sect. The sect leader of the Southern Edge Sect had evaluated Hyun Jong as a man who would have excelled in his position if only the circumstances hadn't been so disastrous.
'It's an over-evaluation.'
Hyun Jong had never once shown excellence befitting his title. Anyone willing to sacrifice themselves for their responsibilities would receive a good evaluation.
'However, a person's greatness isn't judged by their character, but by their achievements.'
Sama Seung turned his head and looked around.
To the left and right of Hyun Jong, there were the martial arts head and the finance heads. The Un disciples, including Un Am and Un Geom, were also seated here.
All of Mount Hua's major figures gathered to welcome him. This wasn't the first time he had seen this…
'Definitely.'
It felt a little different than before.
At the previous conference, everyone he had seen looked tired of their lives and depressed.
But now, it felt like there was no pressure binding them, and a subtle relaxation was felt around them.
'I don't like this.'
Sama Seung narrowed his eyes.
It didn't matter what the source of their confidence was. Whether it was money or martial arts, it would just be groundless bravado. There was no way for Mount Hua to do anything except fall.
Sama Seung was dissatisfied with the confident atmosphere the elders of Mount Hua exuded.
"I'm not sure if you'll enjoy the tea."
When Hyun Jong spoke, Sama Seung lightly nodded his head.
"It has a deep fragrance."
"I am glad you like it."
Sama Seung smiled.
"It indeed has a deep fragrance, but I don't enjoy the scent of plum blossoms."
Hyun Jong's eyes widened a little. However, he soon regained his composure and spoke in a soft tone.
"Is there a reason?"
"There are many scents in the forest. The scent of soil, trees, and even the dew on the leaves. But when the plum blossoms are in full bloom, their scent is the only one around. It is so thick that it obscures everything around them."
Just like Mount Hua in the past.
"The world is a place where we exist together to live in harmony. That is why I prefer the subtle scent of green tea over the plum blossom, which breaks down that harmony."
Sama Seung spoke calmly, but the Un disciples couldn't hide their flushed faces. This was no different from openly talking back to the sect leader and criticizing the difference in authority.
However, the Hyun elders took Sama Seung's words differently.
'Does he mean that back when Mount Hua had dominance, we refused to live harmoniously with others?'
Bringing this subject up at such a moment must mean that the Southern Edge Sect still hasn't forgotten their past grudges.
This wasn't something the elder would dare to say in front of any other sect's elders. However, no one pointed out Sama Seung's actions.
As Sama Seung said, respect depends on the one who has power. The moment one becomes unable to punish disrespect and rudeness, their authority slips into an illusion.
With only a few words, Sama Seung managed to create the atmosphere he wanted and spoke with a smile.
"Sect leader."
"Speak."
"We in the Southern Edge Sect have no intention of continuing this tradition and holding any more conferences after this one."
Hyun Jong frowned.
"Can I know the reason?"
"Simple."
Sama Seung smiled and spoke.
"It is because the exchange with Mount Hua doesn't help the Southern Edge Sect develop in any way. Isn't the gap between us already too wide to bridge?"
Hyun Jong closed his eyes.
It was such a disgrace to hear this and to see that smug look on his face. Even elders sitting beside him struggled to contain their anger.
'This bastard…'
Hyun Young's beard trembled.
This was intentional. How could someone say such a thing in front of their Sect Leader?
Hyun Jong slowly opened his eyes.
"The conference isn't just a ceremony to help with development. In the first place, this was done to help foster friendship between our two sects and grow closer—"
"Isn't that just a façade?"
Sama Seung cut off Hyun Jong's words.
"This…"
Hyun Young was boiling past the point of no return when Hyun Sang pressed his knee down, begging him not to act out of line.
Hyun Young looked at Hyun Sang and then at Hyun Jong as he bit his lower lip.
'Isn't he overdoing this?'
Who didn't know that the two sects were as incompatible as oil and water? Even Mount Hua was keenly aware of that fact.
Mount Hua is a sect that boasts its history and tradition. Although it's no longer there, Mount Hua's name proudly stood alongside the Nine Great Sects and had aimed to be the greatest of them all.
Even if it wasn't Mount Hua, but some lesser sect instead, it was impolite to behave like this to their face. Sama Seung couldn't be ignorant of what a wicked deed he was committing.
Sama Seung glanced at Hyun Young and smiled.
Despite understanding the deeper meaning behind that smirk, Hyun Young couldn't do anything but tighten his grip and endure.
Martial arts sects are ruthless.
Those who lack strength have no choice but to endure humiliation from the powerful.
After glancing at each of the people gathered in the room, Sama Seung continued.
"The Southern Edge Sect and Mount Hua have never had a good relationship. To be honest, wouldn't it be more accurate to say that we are closer to being enemies? I'm sure that those in this room likely want to eat me alive and chew me down to the bone."
"… It's not that bad."
"Then, is there anyone here who has good feelings towards me? No, does anyone have any good feelings towards the Southern Edge Sect itself?"
No one answered.
It wasn't difficult to answer 'yes,' but why should they lie? They knew the truth, and so did Sama Seung.
"There is nothing more futile than trying to reconnect a thread which is already severed."
Sama Seung's voice was firm.
As if everything had been decided, and this was just a notice.
When an elder speaks with such confidence, it usually means that the decision has already been settled, and they're simply relaying the message. So, this wasn't just Sama Seung's will, but that of the entire Southern Edge Sect.
Furthermore, the Southern Edge Sect was officially saying that they would stand atop Mount Hua and put them under their feet.
A declaration that they would no longer regard Mount Hua as competition in the future.
It was disgraceful.
Completely humiliating.
And when no one dared to speak, Un Am spoke up.
"Isn't this a bit too sudden?"
"It should have been done already."
"Elder."
Seeing that Un Am didn't back down, Sama Seung glanced at him as if looking down on him.
"Then, do you think Mount Hua has the qualifications to compete with the Southern Edge Sect?"
Un Am went silent. He couldn't answer that.
With a smile, Sama Seung continued.
"I think the Southern Edge Sect has done everything we could to treat Mount Hua with utmost kindness until now."
"Utmost kindness? You are acting too much!"
As Un Am raised his voice, Sama Seung laughed.
"What is too much?"
"…"
"The Southern Edge Sect has forgotten the grudges of the past and helped Mount Hua till now. In fact, isn't it unfair for us to continue like this with Mount Hua? The conference has always been held in Mount Hua, and we've even provided a certain degree of wealth whenever we travel here for the event. Yet, despite our kindness, you still choose to blame us?"
This wasn't right.
Un Am ground his teeth.
The reason why the conference was held in Mount Hua was obvious.
Southern Edge did it to come and ridicule the crumbling Mount Hua and to show off their own martial arts.
The wealth they provided as 'support' to Mount Hua was just a pretense of keeping the sect from refusing to hold the conference.
"Sect leader."
Sama Seung spoke resolutely.
"It might be hard to understand but allow me to simplify it. Once you see the results of this conference, you will be the first to ask that this never happens to Mount Hua again. Think carefully about this if you don't want to ruin the children."
Sama Seung got up from his seat. Then left the room without letting his mood be affected by the change of atmosphere.
While everyone else was too shocked and didn't know what to do, Hyun Jong asked a question.
"Is this path the final one which the Southern Edge Sect has chosen?"
Sama Seung stopped walking and slowly turned his head to look back. Hyun Jong's expressionless face left Sama Seung unable to discern the intentions behind his question.
"That isn't up to me to decide."
With that, the foreign elder opened the door and left the room.
Anguish filled the faces of those who were left behind.
"How can they say such a thing!?"
Hyun Young couldn't hold back his anger and slammed the table. Cracks appeared on the table.
But no one thought of blaming him.
Un Geom opened his mouth with a heavy feeling.
"Every time the conference is held, they've always been aggressive, but this is the first time they've acted so viciously."
"That's right. This is over the line!"
"How can a mere elder speak like that to the sect leader!?"
"Isn't the Southern Edge Sect supposed to come and relay this directly?"
No one could hold back their anger and continued adding to each other's grievances.
Among them, only Hyun Jong quietly shook his head with a sad face.
"… leave it alone."
"But sect leader!"
"Words are sometimes spoken in vain. Would our words have any meaning now?"
Un Am bowed his head. The others also bowed, their faces shifting between expressions of anguish and fury.
Hyun Jong said.
"I can tolerate any amount of disgrace. Even if they spit in my face, I can smile back at them. That isn't what I'm worried about right now."
"… then?"
"I'm worried about the children."
"Ah…"
Un Am's eyes trembled.
"Looking at how he said it directly, surely, the conference will be extremely daunting this time. I can endure the insults they cast on me, but what should I do if our children are going to suffer too?"
Hyun Jong's face turned bitter. As a sect leader of a weak sect, the burden he had to endure was too heavy.
"Then, even now…."
Un Am kept his mouth shut.
He wanted to say 'Then we should stop the conference now!', but before he could even finish speaking, he realized what situation they were in.
It was a disgrace worse than death for those learning martial arts to give up in fear of an opponent.
Moreover, the children can understand the situation well enough. If they are asked to surrender without a proper match, this will haunt them for the rest of their lives.
"My sins are too great."
Hyun Jong sighed deeply. Nobody could find any words to comfort him, and so everyone decided to remain silent.
Un Geom, who was quietly listening to the conversation, spoke up at that moment.
"Sect leader. There is no need to think like that."
Hyun Jong's eyes turned to Un Geom.
"They want to show a clear gap between Mount Hua and themselves in order to spread the news that we're no longer worthy of being a prestigious sect within Shaanxi. It would be a decisive blow for our sect, which has already fallen so far from our peak. Isn't that what they're aiming for?
"True, but we've run out of tricks up our sleeve."
"We don't need any tricks. Wouldn't it be enough as long as we don't let them win so easily?"
"…"
"Sect leader."
Seeing Hyun Jong at a loss of words, Un Geom slightly smiled as he spoke.
"Trust the children. Maybe we'll receive some good news."
"…"
Un Geom smiled as he received everyone's gazes filled with suspicion.
'Now it's your turn to prove yourself. Chung Myung.'
Inside the Blue Plum Dorms, where the guests were housed, a strange atmosphere had settled.
Sitting in the center chair, Jin Geum-Ryong narrowed his eyes and mumbled.
"I don't like this."
He had just finished his meal.
A well-organized housing with mouth-watering food was the perfect way to fill the weary hearts and empty stomachs of those who had just climbed the mountain.
But that very fact was off-putting to Jin Geum-Ryong.
"Did they find a vein of gold somewhere?"
Mount Hua had to be inferior to the Southern Edge Sect in every aspect.
He knew that there was no comparison between Mount Hua and Southern Edge's wealth. Nevertheless, seeing that the gap had narrowed left Jin Geum-Ryong displeased.
Jong Seo-Han glanced at him and smiled awkwardly.
Jin Geum-Ryong was normally a very gentle person. However, if one judged his true character to be gentle, they would be fooled.
The Jin Geum-Ryong that Jong Seo-Han knew was like the sea.
The sea calmly embraces everyone, but it turns to a wild maelstrom that swallows everything when angered. Jin Geum-Ryong was precisely like that. He was usually gentle, but he would become genuinely terrifying when angry.
Jong Seo-Han smiled awkwardly and said,
"It seems like Mount Hua has a bit of money now. Great Sahyung."
"Hmm."
"But in the end, aren't martial arts the most important thing? Even if they dress in fancy silk and eat luxurious meals, it doesn't mean anything if they lack the martial might to support themselves."
"That is true."
Jin Geum-Ryong slowly got up.
And looked at the sahyungs there.
"But!"
He spoke in a voice loud enough for all to hear.
"All I want is a complete victory!"
Everyone held their breath.
"Fame, wealth, martial arts, a complete victory where we exceed them in all facets. Otherwise, there is no meaning. If there is an opening left for Mount Hua to be compared to us, then it is a disgrace to the Southern Edge Sect. Did you forget? Our generation must make our sect into the greatest!"
A powerful determination shone in the eyes of the second-class disciples.
"Keep yourselves controlled. The way you all relax as if you're here on a refreshing holiday makes me sick. Don't forget what our purpose here is. Those who fail to live up to the Southern Edge Sect's standards will never be forgiven!"
"We will keep that in mind. Sahyung!"
"We will never let our guards down."
Clap! Clap! Clap! Clap!
Then, the door opened wide.
Clapping his hands, Sama Seung entered the residence.
"Excellent."
"Elder!"
Sama Seung nodded with a smile as everyone got up to greet him.
"Jin Geum-Ryong's words are exactly right."
"I feel embarrassed. If I had known that elder was coming, I would have never said it."
"No. No. It was an absolutely wonderful statement. The disciples of the Southern Edge Sect need to have such heart."
Sama Seung lowered his hand and smiled.
"In addition to that."
"Yes, elder."
"This time, the conference shouldn't just end with victory. We must defeat them so thoroughly that they would never dare to speak the Southern Edge Sect's name again. Do you understand what I mean?"
Jin Geum-Ryong narrowed his eyes.
"What does that mean?"
"Your sparring will compare both sect's martial arts. It's common sense to be careful not to harm each other. Isn't that right?"
Sinking into thought, Jin Geum-Ryong smiled.
"Elder."
"Yes?"
"Mount Hua's disciples seem to be quite sharp. It appears that they aren't what they used to be."
"Hm?"
Sama Seung's expression hardened when he heard Jin Geum-Ryong's suddenly weak tone. However, he relaxed as he listened to the following words that flowed from Jin Geum-Ryong.
"It's a basic principle to avoid harm while sparring with one another. However, they do seem to be more skilled than expected. So, there is a limit to how much we can hold back. If we want to avoid getting injured ourselves, we may need to break an arm or leg. Is that alright?"
Sama Seung put his hand on his chin, trying to maintain his troubled facade.
"No, that would be unacceptable. No matter how important the spar is, it will mean nothing if our children get hurt. Everyone, you should focus on finishing this conference without getting injured as much as possible. Even…"
Sama Seung smiled and continued.
"Even if it means injuring your opponent instead."
Jin Geum-Ryong smiled and nodded.
"I will take good care of the sajaes and finish this conference without any accidents."
"Hm. Good."
Sama Seung smiled and looked at Jin Geum-Ryong.
He wouldn't need to worry about the conference with a child like this anymore. In the future, when Jin Geum-Ryong becomes the sect leader, he is sure to take the Southern Edge Sect to unprecedented heights.
Of course, he was doing a good enough job now.
"Geum-Ryong."
"Yes, Elder."
"I will not leave too many tasks to you. But I want to ask you one thing."
"Say it, elder."
"Don't leave that cheeky bastard alone."
"…"
A person's face flitted through Jin Geum-Ryong's mind. Perhaps, the others were also thinking the same thing. After all, only one person in Mount Hua was cheeky and arrogant.
"Are you talking about that child, Chung Myung?"
"Yes."
Jin Geum-Ryong smiled brightly.
"Don't worry, elder. I will make sure to break him of his attitude."
"You are short-sighted."
"… Yes?"
Thinking that he had said something wrong, Jin Geum-Ryong immediately bowed his head.
"That child has already done a great job by connecting the Eunha Guild and Mount Hua. I'm sure everyone is aware of that."
"Yes."
When everyone answered vigorously, Lee Song-Baek just quietly bowed his head. Lee Song-Baek couldn't help but feel horrible whenever Eunha was mentioned.
After giving him a brief glance, Sama Seung continued.
"From my point of view, it seems that Mount Hua trusts that child a lot. Yet, he has that kind of personality. Do you understand what I mean?"
"I am a foolish disciple; it is hard for me to understand."
"The world is a place where people with true abilities will rise and overcome any obstacles. Sometimes though, it is a place where people without any unique abilities gain momentum and make ridiculous achievements. It may be detrimental for the future of the Southern Edge Sect if that child is allowed to grow up like this."
Jin Geum-Ryong narrowed his eyes.
'This?'
"It might be too extreme, but isn't he still just a child now?"
"Yes."
"…"
With a hoarse voice, Sama Seung continued.
"Now, that child who barely made a name for himself managed to say everything he wanted against me. What will happen when that child fully matures?"
"… Hmm."
"It will be one or the other. Exceptional growth or complete ruination."
"Isn't he more likely to be ruined?"
"I can't accept that the possibility exists for that child to grow and develop in Mount Hua. That's why we need to nip this problem in the bud."
"I understand what Elder is saying."
Jin Geum-Ryong turned his head.
"Woo-Ryang!"
"Yes, sasuk!"
Seon Woo-Ryang rushed forward from the back.
"Did you hear what the elder said?"
"Yes, Sasuk. Don't worry. I will thoroughly destroy his arrogant mouth so that he never mocks anyone again."
"That won't be enough. Make certain that he can never return to his past self. Entrench the fear of the Southern Edge Sect into his bones and make him regret this for the rest of his life."
"Yes! Sasuk!"
Jin Geum-Ryong nodded.
Seon Woo-Ryang was the most capable of the third-class disciples. Although he was not the oldest, he had the greatest skills.
His skills began to grow and stand out more prominently after the last conference had already ended. Mount Hua would not even believe this child was the same as back then.
He would be the best disciple to handle Chung Myung.
Jin Geum-Ryong smiled brightly and turned to Sama Seung.
"Everything will be as you wish. I will make sure of that."
Sama Seung nodded his head with a satisfied expression.
"I believe you."
More than one could know.
These were the children of the Southern Edge Sect that he raised with all his heart and soul. He held no doubts that all his efforts would help these disciples' skills explode and usher in a new heyday for the sect.
And this conference would serve as an opportunity to announce that to the world.
'I will trample on them.'
An eerie chill rose in Sama Seung's eyes.
"…Are you really doing this?"
"My heart is pounding so hard, I might die."
"I went to the bathroom twelve times today."
"Ah, disgusting."
The third-class disciples couldn't sleep until late at night.
Tomorrow, the day would finally come.
Until now, there was no time to think about the conference; they were so focused on their training that even breathing was difficult.
However, after taking a day off from training to preserve stamina, random thoughts dominated their minds.
"Can we really do well?"
"Didn't Chung Myung say that we could?"
"No, he's never seen those Southern Edge boys, though."
"True, but…"
Yoon Jong sighed.
He knew the sajaes were anxious about tomorrow, but he couldn't find any words to calm them.
'Because I am going crazy too.'
His heart was pounding.
When he turned his head and glanced to the side, even Jo Gul seemed nervous. So, no one could sleep in the late hours before dawn, and they all gathered here.
Yoon Jong scratched his head and asked.
"Chung Myung?"
"Sleeping."
"… his guts must be made out of iron."
Does he not understand nervousness? Or was he also tense?
Tomorrow was the conference. No, it is technically today since midnight had already passed.
Just the thought was making their hearts pound erratically.
"He's been sleeping for a while."
"I saw him stretched out like a dead man. He even snores!"
"… I'm envious of him; I am going crazy here."
As Yoon Jong opened his mouth, a muffled voice came.
"It's not that I have guts of iron, but your guts are tiny like peas."
Everyone's heads shifted toward the stairs in unison.
Chung Mung came down with a sullen face.
"What are you doing? You haven't slept at all and gathered here?"
"B-because I'm nervous."
"Nervous?"
Chung Myung tilted his head.
'He's back at it again! That bastard!'
'How is he going to bully us this time?'
'What? Again!? Will he tell us that he'll kill us if we lose to them? That evil bastard!"
However, Chung Myung's following words deviated slightly from their expectations.
"Why are you so nervous?"
"… Huh?"
"Isn't nervousness reserved for those people who are unprepared?"
Yoon Jong responded.
"No, it isn't like that. We're just afraid that we might not be able to show a good performance tomorrow…."
"Sahyung."
"Huh?"
"Then, is there anything Sahyung could do to improve if we turned back time and had ten more days?"
"…"
None. No, just the thought of ten more days could make him sick. Yoon Jong couldn't imagine suffering through that crazy training for ten more days.
"There's no such thing as nervousness for those who did everything they could. Sahyungs aren't nervous right now. You just don't believe in yourselves. But it's funny, if you are weak, then admit that you're weak. What's really important is whether or not you did your best to prepare. Sahyung, did you give your best effort?"
"… yes."
It was something they could say with certainty. The disciples all did their best.
"Then, that's enough."
Chung Myung snapped his finger.
"No matter what anyone says, I will admit that you have all done your best. So, don't waste your time on useless thoughts and go to sleep. Getting enough sleep the night before a battle is also a skill to keep you in shape."
Everyone nodded.
"Then, go on."
"…Where are you going?"
"I need to train."
"But today is the conference."
"That's nice. However, my training is about ten times more important than that."
With those final words, Chung Myung walked out the door.
And the third-class disciples all let out a sigh.
"Seriously…"
"Heading to practice."
Seeing Chung Myung maintain his normal schedule, even on the day of the conference, everyone present felt like the worries they had seemed meaningless.
"Okay, let's get some sleep."
Yoon Jong spoke lowly.
"Chung Myung is right. If we want to confidently answer that we've given our best efforts, we'll need to sleep to get into perfect form."
"Yes, Sahyung."
Everyone seemed to be in the same mood and got up together.
Yoon Jong, who was watching the others head to their rooms one after the other, looked at the door where Chung Myung had left.
'He's such a strange guy.'
With just a few words, he managed to ease everyone's worries. The disciples that feared they'd get no sleep until dawn suddenly began to feel relaxed and drowsy.
Whatever the conference's outcome, the third-class disciples have become stronger thanks to Chung Myung's strange influence.
Yoon Jong was sure of that.
Chung Myung looked around as he climbed up the mountain.
'She isn't here, right?'
Chung Myung, who was quite nervous that Yu Yiseol would catch up with him, sighed deeply.
"Sigh… what am I doing?"
Chung Myung had nothing in this world he feared. In the past, when he was the Plum Blossom Sword Saint, there were people afraid of him, but he was never afraid of others.
Wasn't the sect leader of the Shaolin sect even reluctant to meet him?
But now, that same Chung Myung was in a situation where he avoided a little girl.
"What am I being made to deal with?"
It would be so much simpler if he could just hit her on the head, wrap her up with a rope, and toss her off a cliff somewhere. But since she's just an innocent nuisance, he can't beat her up, right?
Huh?
What about Baek Cheon?
"That bastard came at me first."
There's a difference between a senior who picks a fight and a senior that's a nuisance.
Well, for the first time in this life… no, for the first time ever, Chung Myung was avoiding others.
"What's become of me!? Why do I need to avoid people this early in the morning!?"
Chung Myung, who stopped to take a deep breath, was ready to run up again.
'Oh?'
He felt something.
"Yah! Yah! I knew this was going to happen! Try fooling a ghost! You can't deceive…huh?"
Chung Myung titled his head.
This qi he was feeling was different from Yu Yiseol's.
Yu Yiseol boasts a weird sense of non-existence; it was something that Chung Myung would have to heavily concentrate on feeling.
So, Chung Myung would listen for her footsteps instead.
However, what he was feeling now was too strong and clear to be Yu Yiseol. And…
"Two people?"
Not just one.
Chung Myung's eyes narrowed, and he moved cautiously as he sensed the qi.
For two people to be meeting in this deep mountain so early in the morning. It felt like a conspiracy.
'I need to see what they're up to.'
Chung Myung's eyes began to sparkle.
Swoosh!
His feet began to swiftly cut through the wind and accelerate. Chung Myung quickly halted and melded into his surroundings as he approached the area that he felt the qi coming from.
And then, he carefully snuck forward and stuck his head out to peer at the sight.
'Huh?'
Chung Myung blinked his eyes. No matter how much he tried to double-check if his senses were right, the sight in front of him didn't change.
One of the two figures was someone Chung Myung knew.
Baek Cheon.
It wasn't strange for Baek Cheon to be here; after all, this was still Mount Hua's territory.
But the other person standing there was unexpected, he wasn't from Mount Hua, and the situation seemed strange.
'Why is he here?'
Jin Geum-Ryong.
Jin Geum-Ryong, one of the Southern Edge Sect's greatest disciples, stood opposite Baek Cheon with an odd expression.
'Why are the two of them meeting here?'
It was definitely a conspiracy.
Chung Myung cautiously moved closer to listen in.
"You seem to be doing well."
Jin Geum-Ryong smiled brightly and spoke to Baek Cheon. But Baek Cheon's face clearly expressed his displeasure.
"You seem to be at ease."
"Isn't there a reason for that, Dong-Ryong?"
"Pffft!"
Jin Geum-Ryong and Baek Cheon both turned their gazes toward the sudden sound.
'Ah, shit!'
Chung Myung desperately held his breath and concealed himself.
It was almost unbearable for Chung Myung to restrain his laughter when he heard the word Dong-Ryong. (Bronze Dragon)
The two looked at each other again. They probably thought it was just a passing beast.
Baek Cheon's face contorted.
"Don't call me by that name. I am Baek Cheon."
"Don't think of throwing away the name your parents gave you. No matter what anyone says, you are Jin Dong-Ryong."
'Ugh. Please, just stop already.'
Chung Myung clutched the floor and tried not to laugh.
'Oh shit. I might die. Dong-Ryong. Baek Cheon's real name is Dong-Ryong! Ah, my stomach might rip at this rate!'
Chung Myung's body trembled and was cramped as he fought to hold back his laughter.
Baek Cheon's face quickly turned red as if it would burst.
"It's Baek Cheon!"
"Fine, Dong-Ryong."
'Wow, he is really losing it.'
Baek Cheon hated it so much that his face was burning red, but the other guy just kept calling him Dong-Ryong.
'Such a bad personality.'
Whether or not he knew about Chung Myung's internal evaluation of him, Jin Geum-Ryong continued to speak with a smile.
"Isn't Mount Hua a great place to live? You look pretty good too, don't you think?"
"What are you trying to say?"
"I just wanted to see you."
A smile grew on Jin Geum-Ryong's lips.
"To see what kind of an ugly life that little brother of mine who ran away from home to beat his older brother was living in Mount Hua."
"You saw that two years ago, didn't you?"
"I never get tired of kicking a defeated dog; not even a hundred times would be enough."
Baek Cheon's face crumpled.
This was Jin Geum-Ryong's true character. He was merciless to those he considered weaker than himself. He usually disguises himself with a kind face, but he was rotten inside.
How long had Baek Cheon been bullied by him?
"What do you say? If you get on your knees and beg, I can accept you into the Southern Edge Sect."
"Don't spout shit."
Baek Cheon looked straight at Jin Geum-Ryong.
"I am Baek Cheon, the Great Sahyung of Mount Hua's second-class disciples. My dream is to make Mount Hua into a well-known sect that stands above the Southern Edge Sect. So don't say such words in front of me again."
'Oh?'
Chung Myung looked at the two in front of him with shining eyes.
Let's see.
So, these two are brothers, one Geum-Ryong (Golden Dragon) and the other is Dong-Ryong. (Bronze dragon)
'… I really want to meet their father, at least once.'
He needed to meet the enemy that caused his belly such pain. What on earth did he think when he named his children like that!? That's why Baek Cheon ran away!
Baek Cheon spoke with a growl.
"Since I know you're just speaking hollow words, I'll ignore that remark. After all, I know that even if I begged, you would simply mock me and act like it never happened. That's just the kind of person you are."
"Haha, being brothers is strange. You know me so well, despite being apart for so long."
Jin Geum-Ryong, who had been smiling until then, suddenly changed his expression and turned cold.
"You made the wrong choice."
"…"
"If you wanted to defeat me, you should have entered the Southern Edge Sect. Maybe then you might have had a chance, but you chose Mount Hua instead of the Southern Edge Sect? You fled to a crippled sect to defeat me? Hahahaha! Even a dog would find this funny!"
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
"Do not look down on Mount Hua."
"Oh?"
"Yes, you're right. The reason I joined Mount Hua was that you despised it. I will lead Mount Hua and defeat the older brother who ignored and looked down on me."
"Such a foolish idea, so stupid that it makes me feel dumb for listening. It's exactly like you."
Ignoring the constant flood of spiteful words, Baek Cheon firmly said.
"In the beginning, I certainly was childish. But now, I really like Mount Hua. Living my life as Baek Cheon, Great Sahyung of Mount Hua's second-class disciples is the most rewarding experience for me."
'Ohh?'
Chung Myung looked at Baek Cheon with a subtle sense of pride emanating from his eyes.
'So that's his story?'
He did say that he needed to grow stronger. So, there must have been a reason behind it, right?
Chung Myung felt a bit moved by Baek Cheon's words.
'Ah, this is so….'
"You think it's rewarding to live as the disciple of a crumbling sect? In this ruined mountain? Has your mind gone astray?"
'That son of a bitch!'
Hearing what this bastard had to say, Chung Myung grew furious.
'I just need to punch him once!'
"Yes."
Baek Cheon answered firmly.
"It might seem strange, but I understood once I stayed here. I'm not the sort of person who is happy living comfortably in a rich sect with nice food, clothes, and education. At the very least, this place needs me here. I can set a goal and help develop this sect. Mount Hua is a sect that has given me a goal to strive for. Furthermore, it is a home which embraced me affectionately!"
"Affection?"
Jin Geum-Ryong frowned.
"Such weakness. When I see you talking like that, I understand that you've lost your sense of reality. Let me tell you. You're already finished. As a result of your pathetic choice, you will live the rest of your life in humiliation, forever left behind as a third-rate martial artist. Nothing more than a servant. Meanwhile, you will watch me rise as the future sect leader of the Southern Edge Sect from your withered hovel."
"Well, I don't really care. I am going to live my life regardless."
"You're going to live your life like trash. Well, at least it will be fun for me to watch."
Jin Geum-Ryong said with a sly smile.
"But I'm not one to watch on the side for long. Rather than waste time waiting, I will show you tomorrow. You'll see just how stupid it was for you to choose Mount Hua instead of the Southern Edge Sect."
Jin Geum-Ryong tilted his head as if contemplating something before a wretched sneer covered his face.
"No, No. Maybe this was a good choice. After all, there's no better combination for a ruined sect than an idiot disciple."
"I don't mind you insulting me, but your foul mouth has no right to speak of Mount Hua. Watch yourself, or I'll tear that mouth of yours off."
"… someone like you?"
Jin Geum-Ryong glared at Baek Cheon as he trembled in anger.
After staring for a while, Jin Geum-Ryong suddenly smiled.
"There's no need to rush. The time will come when you realize it. Neither you nor Mount Hua will be able to make their marks on the world after tomorrow. I'll make certain of that."
Jin Geum-Ryong glanced once more at Baek Cheon before descending the mountain.
Baek Cheon sighed deeply as he stared at Jin Geum-Ryong's slowly fading figure.
'Can I do it?'
Jin Geum-Ryong is a strong man that always achieves his goals. Aside from his poor attitude, he was still more talented and greater than Baek Cheon.
Baek Cheon bit his lip.
'I shouldn't let myself be shaken.'
He is Baek Cheon of Mount Hua. One day, he would become the sect leader of Mount Hua and lead everyone into glory.
Baek Cheon, who was mumbling to himself, finally steeled his determination and turned around.
"Wow, look at this admirable kid."
"Ah! Fuck! You scared me!"
Baek Cheon was so terrified at the sudden words that he fell backward on the floor. He was so shocked that he thought his heart would burst through his throat.
When he finally settled down, he saw Chung Myung nodding his head with a pleased expression.
"You, you… why are you here?"
"Dong-Ryo… ahh, Do-Do, Dong-Ryong."
Baek Cheon's expression crumpled when he heard Chuny Myung's words, while the culprit himself struggled to hold back his oppressive laughter.
"… you heard everything?"
"Oh my, Dong-Ryong. I was amazed by your wonderful heart, which holds such pride for Mount Hua."
Chung Myung nodded, while Baek Cheon sighed.
"Are you a ghost? I couldn't even feel your presence."
"Well, that is to be expected."
"… I haven't done anything wrong, but don't tell anyone about this. Others might not think of this as a good thing."
"Don't worry, Sasuk. This is Chung Myung! I'm the man with the heaviest mouth in the world."
"…"
Doesn't that mean that his mouth can't hold anything?
Baek Cheon wrapped his head around the idea of being caught.
No one except the sect leader and a few elders knew about this. But of all the people to find out…
"Hmm. So, Sasuk is Jin Geum-Ryong's younger brother?"
"Even though we're brothers, we don't have a friendly relationship. Our mothers are different…."
Baek Cheon sighed and tried to talk.
"Since I was little—"
"Ah, don't bother."
"Huh?"
"I don't have the time to listen to such trivial drama. It's obvious. He is the eldest or youngest, you were defeated by your talented sibling and didn't get treated well, so you ran away from home and came to Mount Hua."
"… don't just summarize other people's lives."
But it was right.
"You did well."
"Right. So… what?"
Baek Cheon titled his head.
"I said that you did well. Coming to Mount Hua."
Chung Myung had a different expression from before. It wasn't the mischievous smile that scratched a person's nerves to anger them. Rather, it was simply a gentle smile.
Then, Chung Myung spoke with a heavy voice.
"No matter your origins or what your story is, Sasuk is a disciple of Mount Hua. You weren't wrong to abandon the Southern Edge Sect and choose Mount Hua; we will prove it."
Baek Cheon couldn't say anything.
This didn't seem like a speech that should come from such a young child. Strangely though, when Baek Cheon listened to Chung Myung's words, he felt his heart at ease.
"We'll prove it? When?"
"When?"
Chung Myung chuckled.
"Today."
And then he turned away.
Soon the sun would rise, and the conference would begin.
"Let's run wild, Sasuk."
He couldn't hear the other part, but,
Now is the time to crush those bastards!
The day of the Mount Hua-Southern Edge Sect conference had finally dawned.
Hyun Jong was quietly looking at the second and third-class disciples lined up in front of him.
Seeing the hardened and stiff expressions on the faces of these children, Hyun Jong felt his heart clench. Even the children lined up in front of him understood the weight of their burden at this conference.
Hyun Jong felt as if his heart would break.
He wasn't sure when things had changed, but this burden should originally have been shouldered by the elders and the sect leader. However, at some time after the initiation of this conference, the responsibility of proving the sect's worth and defending its honor passed onto the sect's young disciples.
Hyun Jong believed that even the second-class disciples were too young to carry this duty.
Not to mention the third-class disciples.
Still, he felt infinitely grateful to the children who withheld all complaints and stepped forward despite their worries.
"Sect Leader."
Hyun Young recognized the anxious atmosphere, and Hyun Jong slightly raised his head.
The sect leader had fallen into sentimental thoughts and left the children standing in silence for too long.
Hyun Jong coughed to ease himself out of his emotional thoughts and spoke with a soft voice.
"Everyone seems nervous."
Hyun Jong looked at the children and shook his head.
"You don't have to be so stiff. It doesn't matter whether we win or lose. All you must do is use this as an opportunity to learn and grow."
Hyun Jong made eye contact with everyone as he spoke with determination.
"No matter what the outcome may be, you are all the proud disciples of Mount Hua. All you need to do is remember that fact."
It was crudely spoken.
It was a speech that didn't rouse their morale or seek to inspire the students to defeat their opponents and bring glory to Mount Hua.
But those words eased the disciples' tense minds, and their expressions began to soften.
Hyun Jong nodded when he saw that everyone had begun to relax.
"I will keep watching over you. So go."
With that, Hyun Jong turned and walked away; Hyun Young quickly followed after him.
"You won't go with them?"
"No matter how difficult this conference may be, there is no need for those who will watch and those who will fight to arrive together. The children must also have things to say between themselves. Let them have their time together."
"Yes, sect leader."
Hyun Young signaled to the other elders and Un disciples before they quickly followed Hyun Jong.
As the second-class and third-class disciples sighed, one person stepped forward.
Baek Cheon.
He stood in front of everyone with a determined face.
"Today, we will fight the Southern Edge Sect."
Baek Cheon's gaze landed on Chung Myung briefly before returning.
"As the sect leader said, there is no shame in losing. What is shameful is failing to do your best. When we fight, we fight as proud disciples of Mount Hua."
"Yes! Sahyung!"
"Let's go!"
With a resolute expression, Baek Cheon led the second-class disciples. A fierce aura of determination emanated from the second-class disciples who followed behind him. Even Yu Yiseol, who was farthest back, showed a much more serious visage than usual.
"Ahem."
Yoon Jong snuck out to the front as the second-class disciples headed off.
And the third-class disciples warmly welcomed him.
"What, does the Great Sahyung have something to say?"
"No, let's just do this. Such days scare me."
"Haa. Seriously, I heard fighting turns people crazy."
'These bastards…'
"Look at you bastards, thinking that I can act like Baek Cheon sasuk!"
"I get it. Let's move already; my legs hurt."
"If you're going to be like this, let's all say something. Jo Gul Sahyung. Go ahead and stand ahead of us. It will save some time."
"Uh."
Yoon Jong took a deep breath.
'They were all such good kids in the past.'
How did things end up like this?
Yoon Jong turned his head and looked at the culprit.
Even though a massive event like the conference was happening, Chung Myung looked like he was dying from boredom.
"Chung Myung."
"Huh?"
"Do you have anything to say?"
Chung Myung laughed.
"Is there anything worth saying?"
Chung Myung turned his head and spoke calmly.
"Let's finish this quickly and go eat. Move it."
Yoon Jong unwittingly smiled at Chung Myung's casual remark.
"Come, you brat."
He didn't know about the others, but he was sure of one thing.
Normally, Chung Myung was a madman. But in times like this, Yoon Jong felt reassured by his presence.
"Let's go!"
Yoon Jong took the lead and guided everyone to the conference.
Following him, Chung Myung's eyes seemed to glimmer.
The Mount Hua–Southern Edge conference is an event created for both sects to exchange techniques and experience the other.
Of course, there is a deeper intent internally since it was a way for the Southern Edge Sect to intervene with Mount Hua's growth and humiliate them. On the surface, however, both sects maintained the appearance that this event was held out of mutual respect.
Therefore, this event never entertained visitors.
Until now, only the members of both sects had gathered together to witness the exchanges.
And this event was no different.
At least, that's what everyone thought before they arrived at the hall.
Whisper.
"…"
Hyun Jong stared with his eyes wide open.
After passing through Mount Hua's gate, one would find the great training hall. Due to the nature of the event, they required a large space. Therefore, the conference was held here without exception.
Until now, all of Mount Hua's and the Southern Edge Sect's disciples would line up on the left and right sides of this wide area. Today, however, a rather strange scene was playing out.
"W-what are they…?"
An unknown crowd had gathered in the training hall, with more people continuing to pour in.
What was more bizarre was that they each held some kind of item in their hands. Every one of them was carrying either chairs or tables.
Hyun Jong was taken aback by the unexpected situation. Un Am quickly approached him with an urgent face.
"Sect Leader."
"What happened here?"
"A massive swarm of people flocked to the front gate and demanded to see the conference for themselves. There were too many people gathered for us to refuse."
"Uhhh."
Hyun Jong shook his head.
"Did the Southern Edge Sect call them here?"
If so, the purpose was obvious.
Their goal must be to show how horribly they crush Mount Hua.
He didn't notice at first, but upon closer inspection, there were many colorfully dressed middle-aged men. Among them were some familiar faces to Hyun Jong; he could tell that many of the people here were Shaanxi's officials.
Even local celebrities were called, and all around them were people in official uniforms.
Considering their influence, once they witnessed the events here, they would spread the news all over Shaanxi.
'This is bad!'
Hyun Jong, who felt a bit anxious at that concerning thought, spoke in a lower voice.
"Don't you know that strangers aren't allowed inside without permission?"
"But sect leader."
"Aren't their intentions clear?"
"I-it is true, but…."
"Huh?"
A low voice was heard in Hyun Jong's ears.
"Sect leader, I don't believe this is something we coordinated before, is it?"
Hyun Jong turned his head.
The Southern Edge Sect elder, Sama Seung, approached them with a slightly embarrassed face.
Hyun Jong paid particular attention to his 'embarrassed' expression.
'Did the Southern Edge Sect really not do this?'
If Sama Seung had gathered everyone here, there was no reason for him to be so bewildered. He would have leisurely walked in with a grin.
Hyun Jong snuck a glance at Un Am.
"What happened?"
"I tried to stop them, but the person who brought them—"
"Is me, Sect Leader."
Both Hyun Jong and Sama Seung shifted their sights to the new arrival and witnessed a familiar smiling face approach them.
"Elder Hwang?"
"Elder Hwang?"
Hwang Mun-Yak of the Eunha Merchant Guild.
"It's quite exhilarating."
Elder Hwang arrived, and the two representatives greeted him. Still, they each had their own doubts.
With a bright smile, Hwang Mun-Yak said.
"Since the conference is being held, I thought there should be some excitement, so I invited an audience."
"Hmm."
Hyung Jong frowned and was about to refute when Sama Seung's response beat him to the punch.
"I don't think it's a bad idea. Since this will be the last conference, it should be alright to make it a grand event."
Sama Seung held the power of the Southern Edge Sect.
Hyun Jong sighed.
If Elder Hwang had invited this crowd, and the Southern Edge sect agreed to it, it would be difficult for Mount Hua to oppose the decision. Was he going to tell those who just climbed Mount Hua to return with nothing to show for it?
'I can't do that.'
Word would spread that Mount Hua was too harsh to their guests. It would be even worse when considering the influence of the officials here.
'It will be difficult.'
It would be difficult to deal with them.
In the end, Hyun Jong had to sigh and smile.
"Sure. Since you're here, please enjoy yourselves."
"Thanks for your understanding, Sect Leader. Well then."
Elder Hwang smiled and turned around. The others who gathered also smiled and headed to the audience seats prepared by Elder Hwang.
Elder Hwang, who led the crowd, raised his head and looked at Chung Myung.
'Will this be fine?'
Chung Myung nodded.
Exchanging glances, Elder Hwang was left with an awkward feeling.
'This young disciple always surprises me. What is he going to do this time?'
It was none other than Chung Myung who requested that Elder Hwang gather the influential people of Shaanxi. Chung Myung secretly visited Elder Hwang and spoke to him in Hua-Um.
- First, I need you to gather all the famous people you can.
'I did what I was told. I don't know what will happen next, young disciple.'
Looking at Hwang Mun-Yak's gaze, Chung Myung smiled.
'The best way to taste success is with others watching!'
What's the point of fighting each other when there's no one around?
Even if they produced good results, no one would believe it, and the Southern Edge Sect can simply deny anything Mount Hua says. Therefore, he had to make sure that everyone could see the results with their own eyes.
"The preparations are done."
"Huh?"
"No, nothing."
How could anyone else know what he had planned?
Anyway!
'My Sahyung! I'm using my head! Hurry and take back what you said about me being stupid!'
- Right, I suppose a small brain is still a brain.
"Can't you compliment me!? How great would it be if you could praise me to my face?"
Jo Gul frowned and leered at Chung Myung.
"Why do you keep talking to yourself? Are you nervous?"
"…"
While Chung Myung sighed, the preparations were finished.
The chairs and tables were neatly arranged, the audience was seated, and the servants brought everyone refreshments too.
"It looks like it's starting."
Someone's nervous voice could be heard.
Un Am walked to the middle of the training hall. Standing in the center, he looked around and clapped his hands.
Straightening his chest, he took a deep breath and loosed a solemn and hoarse voice.
"Then, let's begin the Mount Hua-Southern Edge Sect conference."
The atmosphere grew heated in an instant.