Chapter 107: Someone Who Will Teach You Better Than Anyone. (1)

People who travel from Hwa-eum District all the way to Hwasan Sect to watch the Jehwajeon tend to look forward more to the second day than the first.

Even setting aside the Third Generation Disciples, the main fighting force is actually the Second Generation Disciples.

Those with talent would have bloomed their plum blossoms long ago.

Even if not, this is the time when they would be starting to bloom their plum blossoms.

It’s already visible from afar. The pure sword paths and inner energy mingling to bloom petals.

Unlike during the time of the Third Generation Disciples, you could tell just by the distance between the martial arts stage and the spectator seats.

[It’s good.]

A clear sense of pride could be felt in Shin Noy’s voice.

Meanwhile, I had to look around for my companions.

As expected, it wasn’t too difficult to find them. Since the atmosphere was drawing attention, I just needed to go to where a decent number of people were gathered.

As I walked towards the expected location, Namgung Bi-ah, wearing a veil, was already looking around.

Did she notice me?

Wi Seol-ah had already spotted me and was waving energetically.

I pushed through the crowd and approached.

“Young Master!”

“Did you come to watch today too?”

I ruffled the hair of Wi Seol-ah, who greeted me like a puppy.

Tuk.

I felt a sensation on my stomach and checked, only to find Namgung Bi-ah leaning her head towards my belly.

Hoo… hoo…

I could hear her breathing. It sounded like she was breathing heavily, as I could hear it clearly near my ear, but why was she doing this?

“Are you not feeling well?”

When I asked, she shook her head. She looked somewhat exhausted, so I gently stroked her hair.

Her breathing slowly returned to normal.

“If you’re not feeling well, why aren’t you going inside to rest?”

Could she be this tired? Wondering if she had a fever, I casually placed my hand on Namgung Bi-ah’s forehead.

Perhaps due to the sudden touch, Namgung Bi-ah flinched slightly.

Her forehead was gradually getting warmer.

Did she really have a fever? She was fidgeting slightly, and I wondered what was wrong.

[…Kid, you’re doing more mischievous things than I thought.]

‘What are you talking about.’

[It’s because you’re needlessly fiddling around that Yeo-a is acting like this, isn’t it?]

What kind of nonsensical talk is that? While momentarily finding it absurd, I slightly moved my hand away at Shin Noy’s words.

“Hoo…”

As soon as I removed my hand, Namgung Bi-ah gasped for breath. It seemed different from before.

‘…Is it really because of this?’

Recalling how Namgung Bi-ah’s previously cold forehead had instantly warmed up gave me a fuzzy feeling.

Feeling somewhat embarrassed, I wiped my hand on my clothes.

“Hmm…”

Namgung Bi-ah, who had been catching her breath, looked at me and made a subtle expression.

Then, she put her nose near my stomach and started sniffing.

“Are you crazy? What are you doing with so many people around?”

Startled by her sudden action, I pulled my waist back. Why is she acting like this all of a sudden?

“Something… feels different?”

Namgung Bi-ah’s gaze became a bit clearer. I had to inwardly swallow my surprise at her gaze, which was examining my body bit by bit.

‘…She’s clueless about other things, but so sensitive when it comes to this.’

Never mind Sword Empress or Sword Master, how does she distinguish the difference? Her intuition is just too outstanding…

Could it be because she has the talent to inherit the Sword Empress’s title someday? It was slightly frightening.

[…But her senses are just like a dog’s.]

‘Calling someone a dog, Noy…’

Even as I said that, I inwardly thought that sniffing like that was indeed like a cat or a dog.

Suddenly, someone grabbed my clothes and pulled them downwards, and when I looked, it was Gu Ryeong-hwa.

“Oppa… sit down for a moment.”

Gu Ryeong-hwa was nervously looking around. It turned out that gazes were slightly focused on us.

Especially the gazes of the men felt sharp.

I cleared my throat and sat next to Gu Ryeong-hwa. Luckily, there was an empty seat.

I felt a strange emotion looking at Gu Ryeong-hwa. It was because she wasn’t trembling while holding onto my sleeve.

Although surprised, I didn’t show it. I leaned slightly towards Gu Ryeong-hwa and asked.

“You came looking for me earlier, right?”

“Ah, I went to ask if you were going to watch the Jehwajeon, but they said you went to train, so you weren’t there.”

Me?

Gu Ryeong-hwa came to invite me?

This was truly surprising, so I couldn’t help but widen my eyes. Gu Ryeong-hwa saw my expression and frowned.

“Why are you making such an ugly face?”

“…Ugly?”

“Sorry, it’s just ugly.”

“…”

After saying that, she chuckled to herself. It was quite a surprising sight, even cracking jokes casually.

‘Even if she couldn’t overcome everything.’

She must have overcome a lot, and feeling like I hadn’t done anything to help her, I felt a bit bitter.

“But how did you know? That I was looking for you.”

“I went to see your master.”

“…Huh? Why?”

“What do you mean ‘why’? I just went to see her because I had something to discuss.”

The Sword Empress looked much healthier. Along with that, I once again realized how much demonic energy could affect a martial artist of the Sword Empress’s level.

“My master often talks about you, Oppa.”

“Huh? The Sword Empress?”

“Yeah. She says all sorts of good things.”

Good things? I don’t think I’ve done anything specific to appear that way.

Still, if she sees me in a good light, that’s good, so it’s not bad.

“So I refuted all of it, saying it was nonsense.”

“…”

“Saying I resemble my mother, how could she say such ridiculous things…”

Her voice still carried a playful tone. Of course, the idea of resembling my mother was something I found absurd myself.

After a bit of casual chat, I spoke to Gu Ryeong-hwa.

“I’m planning to leave for my family’s estate tomorrow.”

“Huh…? Tomorrow?”

“Because I decided to leave right after the Jehwajeon ends. I already informed your master beforehand.”

After this, I had to go tell Shin Ui. Gu Ryeong-hwa just nodded at the news that I was leaving tomorrow.

Gu Ryeong-hwa seemed somewhat disappointed, likely because once she returned to her family’s estate, she wouldn’t be able to return to Hwasan for at least a few months.

‘Perhaps she’s relieved that I’m going with the Sword Empress.’

Since the biggest reason she didn’t want to go to her family’s estate was the Sword Empress, her hesitation seemed to have lessened now.

Since the conversation seemed mostly finished, I shifted my gaze towards the Jehwajeon.

Namgung Bi-ah, who had been leaning on my shoulder and sleeping soundly just yesterday, had a focused expression today.

‘I wonder if Yeongpung did well.’

No matter how much of a genius Yeongpung is and the youngest Plum Blossom Swordsman, the current Second Generation Disciples are undeniably active fighters.

It seemed difficult for Yeongpung, who was still in the realm of late-stage disciples, to compete.

Wondering if he had perhaps already fought his match, I subtly asked Gu Ryeong-hwa.

“Yeongpung Sa-jil lost his first match; his opponent was Dae Sa-hyeong.”

Yeongpung happened to fight Shin Hyeon right from his first opponent. If it were others, they might have tried a little.

‘Still, since it’s Yeongpung, he won’t be discouraged by losing somewhere.’

He might feel bitter, but he’ll probably bounce back quickly.

The Jehwajeon ended earlier than when the Third Generation Disciples competed yesterday.

Seeing that some contact was made with the elders mid-way, it seemed like the Martial Arts Alliance had finally sent a message.

As the sun was gradually setting, it meant quite some time had passed since I left.

As expected, it seemed the Martial Arts Alliance had made a move.

Was it a spy? Or is the Alliance itself rotten?

Either way, it wasn’t particularly surprising.

Unlike my attempt to slip away during the Jehwajeon yesterday, I ended up watching until the very end this time too.

It was true that the matches of the strong swordsmen were interesting, but the three pairs of eyes watching beside me were sparkling too brightly.

More than the matches, time just flew by watching them.

[So you’re saying you wasted all your time lusting after women, aren’t you?]

‘…How does that become that?’

While refuting Shin Noy’s words, I also thought that it wasn’t entirely different.

When we reached the lodging after it ended, I said to Gu Ryeong-hwa.

“Stay for dinner.”

Gu Ryeong-hwa showed a surprised expression at my invitation. Her face suggested she never imagined receiving such an offer.

“It’s late.”

I could tell she was probably going to climb the mountain to see the Sword Empress again in the dark. It was obvious.

Gu Ryeong-hwa looked hesitant for a long time at my words. Namgung Bi-ah, who was beside her, gently stroked Gu Ryeong-hwa’s back.

Gu Ryeong-hwa pondered for a moment, then slightly shook her head.

“Later… Today, I already planned to eat with my master.”

I nodded at Gu Ryeong-hwa’s answer. It seemed too much for her yet.

It was possible she might have overexerted herself a bit even when joking with me earlier.

“Next time… Let’s definitely eat together next time.”

Gu Ryeong-hwa, making plans for the future, was clearly smiling.

I didn’t say much more. This was enough.

“Okay.”

After exchanging brief farewells with Gu Ryeong-hwa, I returned to the lodging.

There was a faint, pleasant aroma.

It seemed like they were making something using the mushrooms I gave them earlier.

‘Should I have fed her before sending her off?’

Suddenly, that thought crossed my mind. As I entered the lodging first, Namgung Bi-ah and Wi Seol-ah came in behind me, chatting softly.

I guessed they were probably talking about the Jehwajeon they saw today.

“So, earlier…”

Wi Seol-ah stopped mid-sentence. She looked startled, seeing something.

‘What is she looking at?’

Following Wi Seol-ah’s gaze, I saw Hong Wa standing there.

[She seems quite angry.]

‘Yeah…’

She had a face like a tiger. As far as I knew, attendants didn’t learn martial arts, but I couldn’t help but feel a little intimidated.

“…Uh… Unni?”

“Seol-ah.”

“Yes…?”

“Unni has something to say, shall we go along for a moment?”

“Ah, no…?”

“You’ll come along? Good girl, Seol-ah.”

Hong Wa forced a smile, but it was even scarier. Wi Seol-ah, her usual strength gone, was dragged away the moment Hong Wa grabbed her.

“Un, Unni… wait…! Young Master!”

She called out to me pitifully, but I could only wave back helplessly.

Fortunately, Wi Seol-ah was able to return by the time we had dinner.

However, when she returned, she looked half-dead, as if she’d been thoroughly scolded, and nestled into Namgung Bi-ah’s arms.

“Are you okay?”

When I asked, she didn’t answer and just shook her head. Namgung Bi-ah gently stroked Wi Seol-ah’s head with a kind touch.

Watching that, I said playfully.

“Want some Yakgwa?”

Immediately after, I saw Wi Seol-ah’s ears perk up. Seeing that, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud.

---

As soon as the next day dawned, I went to find Mae Hwa-seon with the Sword Empress.

Since I had asked Mun In the previous day to pass on a message, I could meet him easily by arriving on time.

“…Welcome.”

Mae Hwa-seon’s somewhat haggard face caught my eye.

He probably heard about the branch’s affairs. Seeing the Sword Empress’s similar expression, she must have heard it too.

Mae Hwa-seon forced a smile as he looked at me.

“It seems you’ve gained a great enlightenment.”

As expected, Mae Hwa-seon seemed to have immediately noticed that I had reached my peak.

Having too many strong individuals around was also a problem.

“I wanted to congratulate you wholeheartedly, but… the situation doesn’t allow it.”

“It’s alright. You don’t need to worry about it.”

At my reply, Mae Hwa-seon brought a box from behind and handed it to me.

“After talking with the imperial physician, he said it seems your body has recovered enough to be given Elixir Pills.”

The closed box opened, and a subtle fragrance emanated from within. Just by looking, I could tell how potent the condensed inner energy inside was.

“Originally, I wanted to give you the Ja-so Dan, but… it’s a shame I couldn’t bring it because the elders strongly advised against it.”

As Mae Hwa-seon spoke regretfully, Shin Noy had a fit.

[What? This crazy bastard, he tried to give Ja-so Dan!?]

I could understand Shin Noy’s reaction here. The Ja-so Dan is one of the few potent elixirs comparable to Shaolin’s So-hwan Dan.

It wouldn’t be easy for Hwasan Sect’s martial artists, who couldn’t easily consume it themselves, to give it to an outsider.

While it was disappointing from my perspective too… consuming more inner energy now would only be poison.

Because I had to consume the demonic energy obtained from the Rakshasa, as well as the flower I acquired earlier.

“And this…”

Mae Hwa-seon took out an accessory from his robe and handed it to me.

I carefully accepted it; it looked like a common accessory with a red jewel embedded in it.

“What is this?”

A gift of an accessory, suddenly? Mae Hwa-seon said nonchalantly as he took the accessory I received.

“That’s an item Gu Ryun entrusted to me.”

“Elder Yi?”

I was momentarily flustered by the sudden mention of his name. I hadn’t expected Elder Yi to come up here.

“It’s an item he gave me beforehand to give to you when you leave.”

“What does that mean…”

When I leave? Then when did Elder Yi know I would come to Hwasan Sect?

Leaving my bewilderment aside, Mae Hwa-seon continued speaking.

“If it were something like a family heirloom of the Gu family, he would have hidden it to tease you… but looking at it, it didn’t seem like that at all.”

“Hidden…?”

If it’s someone else’s family heirloom, he would have tried to hide it… What dangerous words are these?

I shuddered to imagine what kind of bets Elder Yi’s drinking buddies made, given how casually they engaged in such terrifying behavior.

[…They’re crazy… They’re truly crazy.]

Shin Noy’s lament could be heard.

“In gratitude, these are all I can give you for now.”

Mae Hwa-seon looked like he wanted to give more but couldn’t help it.

From my perspective, this was more than enough.

It wasn’t just one or two Elixir Pills; it looked like a quantity of at least five or six.

Moreover, just by the energy contained within, it was definitely not a small amount.

As for the bracelet, I didn’t know how to use it, so it was something I’d have to ask Elder Yi about later.

Given Hwasan Sect’s current situation, it was difficult to ask for anything more.

Beyond this, considering the considerations made for my return to my family’s estate and the care I received while at Hwasan Sect, this was an excessive reward.

‘The important thing isn’t this either.’

I looked at the Sword Empress, who was quietly listening beside me.

After all, I went so far as to ask the Sword Empress to bring me here.

I carefully asked Mae Hwa-seon.

“Sect Leader.”

“Yes.”

“Do you remember when I told you I might have a request for you last time?”

“I remember.”

“Regarding that, I’d like to make a request now.”

It was something I hesitated about. Given Hwasan Sect’s current atmosphere, I was reluctant to ask for anything, but I didn’t know when I’d return to Hwasan Sect again.

And this was indeed the best time.

“That’s fortunate. It will put my mind at ease knowing there’s more I can do for you.”

Mae Hwa-seon smiled as if pleased.

Even seeing his smile, I hesitated for a moment, but I recalled the Sword Empress saying it would be alright during our conversation.

Thinking of that, I finally opened my mouth.

“I would like to request… the position of an honorary literary disciple of Hwasan Sect.”

Mae Hwa-seon’s eyes widened at my words.