Chapter 708
Chapter 708
Chapter 708. Whereabouts (5)
The Zhongnan Sect disciples in the village finished breakfast and came out to patrol the village.
But far in the distance, they saw people entering the village.
The Zhongnan Sect disciples were startled and ran to them, asking,
“Huk! S-Senior Brothers! Even Junior Uncle! Has something happened?” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
At this, Jinbaek, who was their Junior Uncle and representative, said,
“I heard a report that Master Seonhyeopmirang had come to this village.” (Jinbaek)
At this, they nodded.
Because the Senior Brother leading them had personally gone to the Zhongnan Sect to report the news.
Since the news had to be delivered quickly, the fastest-footed Senior Brother had gone in person.
“Since Master has come near our sect, it is only proper courtesy to invite him and treat him well, is it not?” (Jinbaek)
At Jinbaek’s words, the disciples could not help being inwardly surprised.
They knew Eun Seoho’s fame was high, but they had not known it was to the extent that Junior Uncle Jinbaek would personally come out to escort him.
“Where is Master right now?” (Jinbaek)
“He is at Nokra Inn over there.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“Why is he staying at an inn, and not in our sect’s reception room?” (Jinbaek)
“W-well, that is...” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“We urged him, but he flatly refused.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“He flatly refused? What did he say when he refused?” (Jinbaek)
“Th-that is...” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
The disciples broke out in cold sweat and hesitated, and Jinbaek, sensing something strange from them, asked as though interrogating them.
“Hurry and tell me. What did he say?” (Jinbaek)
At the force contained in those words, the disciples eventually had no choice but to tell the truth.
“He said he did not want to stay with fake Daoists who changed their attitude because someone’s circumstances had changed.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“Mm?” (Jinbaek)
Jinbaek’s brows narrowed.
Because he realized something had happened.
As befitting someone called Seonhyeopmirang, Eun Seoho was truly a good person.
Even his withdrawal from the martial arts competition at the Grand Murim Banquet had been because he had been injured while saving people from a fire.
Beyond that as well, he was famous as someone who performed countless good deeds and was always courteous.
That was why he was not someone who carelessly spat out harsh words.
The fact that such a person had said something like that meant the disciples had surely done something wrong.
‘Circumstances had changed... Could it be?’
Two people by Eun Seoho’s side came to mind.
Changun and Myeongjong.
‘But it cannot be that he said such a thing because of a disciple of the Mount Hua Sect...’
Then there was only one answer.
“Surely you did not speak or behave disrespectfully toward Changun, who is with Master?” (Jinbaek)
“......!” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
The disciples flinched visibly.
At this, Jinbaek let out a sigh and asked,
“Just what disgraceful conduct did you show?” (Jinbaek)
“That is...” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
They could not readily answer.
“Enough! It will be better for me to ask directly.” (Jinbaek)
---
When I heard that a guest had come from the Zhongnan Sect, I came down to the first floor of the inn.
He is someone I met before at the Grand Murim Banquet.
“It has been a long time.” (MC)
“Oh! Do you remember me?” (Jinbaek)
“Of course. Are you not Daoist Jinbaek, a second-generation disciple of the Zhongnan Sect?” (MC)
“That is right. Jinbaek, second-generation disciple of the Zhongnan Sect, greets Master Seonhyeopmirang.” (Jinbaek)
He continued.
“I heard that you had visited Mount Zhongnan. At this, the Sect Leader said he could not possibly let you leave just like that, and sent me to invite you to have at least a cup of tea before you go.” (Jinbaek)
“I see.” (MC)
I could guess why the Sect Leader was inviting me.
There was also the connection with Warrior Changun, but he likely wanted to receive donations from the Eunhae Trading Company through me as well.
Unlike clans, which not only have many sources of income of their own but also openly present their worldly side, sects are perceived as being detached from material things.
Because of that, their own fixed sources of income amount to little more than tribute paid by the shops around the Zhongnan Sect.
Beyond that, it is difficult for them to openly earn money.
So their dependence on donations cannot help being high.
On top of that, for several years, famine had reduced the number of worshippers, and donations had fallen as well, so their finances must be rather tight.
Even though the prohibition on alcohol had been lifted, things still had not recovered to their previous level.
This is true not only of the Zhongnan Sect, but of other sects as well.
Honestly, from my position, it is not a bad thing either.
If I can have a cup of tea with the Sect Leader, give a donation, and build a connection with the Zhongnan Sect, that is a profitable deal.
Because of Warrior Changun, there is a connection, but it is only at the level of a friendly relationship.
But if I build a closer relationship with money like this, it will help me in the future.
I clasped my hands and said,
“How could I refuse the Sect Leader’s request?” (MC)
“Thank you.” (Jinbaek)
He hesitated for a moment, then clasped his hands again and said,
“I heard that the disciples in this village showed disgraceful conduct. I apologize.” (Jinbaek)
According to Warrior Changun’s explanation, the disciples in this village are third-generation disciples.
Under the Sect Leader and Elders, those who take charge of each institution are first-generation disciples.
Those below them are second-generation disciples, and they are said to be the ones in charge of core practical duties, including Daoist Jinbaek who came to see me now.
Warrior Changun is a third-generation disciple.
In the Zhongnan Sect, before becoming a formal disciple, one goes through the stage of being a training disciple, and at that time, they are divided into main disciples, outside disciples, and departed disciples.
If one cannot endure the training and leaves, one becomes a departed disciple.
They are disciples who are not even recorded, and are not counted as disciples.
After completing all training, those with talent can become main disciples, but the rest become outside disciples.
The Zhongnan Sect’s outside disciples, simply put, refer to disciples who remain in the outer hall.
It is somewhat different from lay disciples, who exist for connections with that sect.
Even among those of the same generation, only main disciples are given many benefits, such as the opportunity to learn higher martial arts.
As such, there is a tremendous gap between main disciples and outside disciples.
It is said that those who become formal disciples of the Zhongnan Sect, both main disciples and outside disciples, are assigned to guard the villages below Mount Zhongnan in monthly rotations as a kind of training.
In Warrior Changun’s case, he is awkwardly caught somewhere between an outside disciple and a lay disciple, though.
I shook my head and said,
“I am fine. It is not as if I was the one who heard bad words from them. However...” (MC)
I looked at the air and let out a sigh.
“Hoo, it is nothing.” (MC)
“What on earth happened for you to be like this?” (Jinbaek)
“I am sorry. Since it is a matter related to the honor of the Zhongnan Sect, I cannot speak of it lightly.” (MC)
At my words, Daoist Jinbaek looked even more frustrated, but I did not answer and said,
“The Sect Leader must be waiting. Let us go at once.” (MC)
“...Understood.” (Jinbaek)
Meanwhile, the Zhongnan Sect disciple who had come with Daoist Jinbaek was talking with Warrior Changun.
“It has been a long time. Have you been well?” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“Of course.” (Changun)
“Is the sect... at peace?” (Changun)
“It is not bad.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“That is a relief.” (Changun)
“It seems you are concerned. Well, that is only natural. Though things turned out that way for you, it does not mean you are not my peer. So if you need help, come find me anytime.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“Thank you.” (Changun)
“Of course, I decline anything that would put even me in danger.” (Zhongnan Sect Disciple)
“You punk, I would not come looking for you for something like that either.” (Changun)
Hearing that conversation, it seemed Warrior Changun’s reputation had not been bad.
And the other Zhongnan Sect disciples seemed all right as well.
That Daoist called Yugak was the strange one.
A little while later.
We climbed up to Louguantai, where the Zhongnan Sect was located.
At the sight of the Zhongnan Sect after such a long time, Warrior Changun seemed to feel newly moved.
Soon, the gate leading into the inner hall came into view.
“Then, the rest of you, please follow me.” (Jinbaek)
At his words, Warrior Seou spoke as representative.
“No. We will wait here.” (Seou)
“Please sit in the pavilion right over there and wait while having some refreshments.” (Jinbaek)
“We are...” (Seou)
At this, I said,
“I would like it if you rested comfortably in the pavilion. This is not a dangerous place, and it is where the Sect Leader of the Zhongnan Sect resides. But if I think that all of you are suffering under this blazing sun, my heart will ache and I will be bothered, so I do not think I will be able to concentrate on my conversation with the Sect Leader.” (MC)
At my words, Warrior Seou nodded.
“Understood. Then we will do that.” (Seou)
Like that, my bodyguards headed to the pavilion right beside us, and I followed Daoist Jinbaek into the inner hall.
In that way, we arrived at the place where the Sect Leader resided.
As befitting the place where the Sect Leader was, strict security was laid out there.
And the formation surrounding that residence strengthened that ironclad security even further.
“Sect Leader, Master Seonhyeopmirang has arrived.” (Jinbaek)
Soon the door opened, and we went inside. The Sect Leader welcomed me.
“Junior merchant Eun Seoho greets the Sect Leader.” (MC)
“I am called Sect Leader Geumdeok. Welcome. You must have had much hardship coming from so far away.” (Geumdeok)
“Thank you for welcoming me like this.” (MC)
“Have a seat.” (Geumdeok)
I sat across from the Sect Leader, and soon refreshments were placed on the table.
“It is Ziyang Maojian. I do not know whether it will suit your taste.” (Geumdeok)
“It is a tea I like. Thank you for treating me to such precious tea.” (MC)
After seeing the Sect Leader lift his teacup, I picked up mine and took a sip.
Seeing the soft taste wrap around my tongue, it was top-grade tea.
“It has been a long time since I saw you before.” (Geumdeok)
“It has.” (MC)
“Has Changun adjusted well?” (Geumdeok)
“Of course. At first, he seemed a bit awkward and struggled, but now he appears to have fully adjusted. He has also made some personal achievements, so it seems he will reach the peak realm before long.” (MC)
“Huh! That is truly joyful news.” (Geumdeok)
“And... he still cherishes the container of Gold Wound Medicine you gave him before.” (MC)
“...That fellow, really.” (Geumdeok)
The Sect Leader wore an embarrassed expression.
Now should be good.
I placed the envelope I had prepared in advance on the table.
“Please accept this.” (MC)
“What is this?” (Geumdeok)
You know full well, yet you ask.
“It is a small token of sincerity. I would be glad if it could be used for the development of the Zhongnan Sect.” (MC)
“Hoho, I will not refuse.” (Geumdeok)
The Sect Leader accepted the envelope while hiding his joy.
“If you are not busy, stay for a while before you go.” (Geumdeok)
“Thank you for the offer, but I am busy with work and must hurry to Beijing. I ask for your understanding.” (MC)
“Not at all. If you are busy with work, how could I hold you back? When you come next time, please visit comfortably.” (Geumdeok)
I clasped my hands and expressed my thanks.
“Understood. And... before I leave, there is one thing I would like to ask of you.” (MC)
“What is it? Tell me.” (Geumdeok)
“Among the disciples in Ongok Village, there is a Daoist called Yugak.” (MC)
“Yugak... There was such a child among the third-generation disciples. Did something happen?” (Geumdeok)
“When I saw him this time, he seemed to have great potential for future development.” (MC)
“Is that so?” (Geumdeok)
“Yes. However, compared to his inner arts, his body seemed weak. So if he lives for a year wearing training weights of about one hundred geun and strengthens his body, his balance will improve and he seems likely to grow even faster.” (MC)
“Training weights?” (Geumdeok)
“Yes. Of course, you may not have training weights of that degree prepared, so I will request the smithy in Ongok Village to make them for you. Of course, at my own expense.” (MC)
“Huh, for you to care that much for the training of a disciple! It is truly something to be grateful for.” (Geumdeok)
“Is it not Warrior Changun’s sect? Then, may I ask you to do this?” (MC)
“Of course. I will pay attention to it.” (Geumdeok)
I intend to prepare training weights totaling about one hundred and thirty geun for both arms, both legs, and the waist.
One hundred and thirty geun is about the weight of one sack of rice.
It would be a burdensome weight for an ordinary adult to lift, but for a third-generation disciple of the Zhongnan Sect, wearing it and living will not kill him.
Though it will be so difficult that he grits his teeth.
As I said, I hold grudges for quite a while.
To think he tried to pay the price for looking down on Warrior Changun with nothing more than a single scolding!
What a sweet dream.
In truth, I also considered making him clean the latrines, but then I thought that would make me look too petty, so I changed the method.
Later, they will come to learn what rude words and conduct Daoist Yugak showed, but who would personally have training weights made just to trouble someone?
The cost of the iron is no joke either.
So the people of the Zhongnan Sect will think, ‘Though he spoke and behaved rudely to his bodyguard, he forgave him and even cared about his training!’
Ah, of course, I deducted the price of making the training weights from the donation.
.
.
.
After finishing my conversation with the Sect Leader like that, I came out of the inner hall.
My bodyguards were waiting in front of the gate to the inner hall.
“Is your business finished?” (Seou)
“Yes. Then let us go back now.” (MC)
Like that, we descended from Louguantai, where the Zhongnan Sect was.
The fact that Warrior Changun did not look back on the way down must be proof that he had settled his feelings to some extent.
I returned to Ongok Village and immediately went to the smithy.
“You have come?” (Blacksmith Yeom Ui)
“Yes. I have one request.” (MC)
“Please tell me.” (Blacksmith Yeom Ui)
Then I commissioned the training weights I had spoken of to the Sect Leader earlier.
“When they are made, please send them to the Zhongnan Sect.” (MC)
“Understood, but hearing you speak that way, are you perhaps leaving right away?” (Blacksmith Yeom Ui)
“Yes. Work has piled up in Beijing.” (MC)
After that, I also said farewell to the chief of Ongok Village, then mounted my horse.
Palgap had already finished preparing to depart.
As expected of Palgap.
It has not been many days, so if we ride the Zhujiang horses and run quickly, we should be able to catch up to Head Escort Hacheol’s party, right?
* Kkui! (Geumryeong)
It is possible? But we have to hold the reins tightly?
I warned the group.
“Hold the reins tightly and lower your waists. We are going to run at full speed from now on.” (MC)
“Yes.” (Bodyguards)
“Hiyah!” (MC)
At my command, the Zhujiang horses snorted steam through their noses and gradually began to increase their speed.
And then...
In an instant, we passed the lower slopes of Mount Song and reached Kaifeng, and after passing Kaifeng, we crossed the Yellow River.
In only two days, we had reached the lands of Hebei.
As expected of Zhujiang horses.
Far in the distance, I could see the flags of the Eunhae Trading Company and Changin Escort Agency.
At that moment, Warrior Yeo Eungam said,
“When you go to Beijing now, there must be a great pile of documents waiting.” (Yeo Eungam)
I had no choice but to stop the horse I was riding.
“What is the matter?” (Yeo Eungam)
“I suddenly feel afraid to go to Beijing.” (MC)
* Kkui! (Geumryeong)
Hurry up and go work?
That is how you can earn your food?
Geumryeong, is that not too much? At times like this, you are supposed to comfort me.
* Kkui? (Geumryeong)
Hoo, enough. I should not have said anything.