Chapter: 556
The path from the guest house to the Shaman’s home.
The climb up the mountain didn’t take too long.
As Yu Baek had said, I was being treated quite warmly during the ascent.
‘Even being treated warmly is just about the quality of a carriage.’
A carriage emblazoned with the Shaman’s emblem.
I was simply riding in one of those, but for now, that should be enough.
At the very least, it gave me the feeling of being treated well.
However, there is a problem.
“Just what did you do…?”
Because it was a confined space, my younger sister’s voice seemed unusually loud.
I frowned slightly at Gu Ryeong-hwa’s words and replied, “What do you mean—how did I do it? I just did it.”
“No…! Don’t joke with me…!”
No matter how I thought about it, it seemed Gu Ryeong-hwa couldn’t believe me and kept pecking at me with questions.
“That Dragon Sword… Wasn’t it the Dragon Sword Ji-cheol?”
“… What?”
After hearing Gu Ryeong-hwa’s words, I had to tilt my head.
Dragon Sword…?
‘Did that guy have a nickname or something?’
That Ji-cheol, who was just talking nonsense without even understanding the context.
From Gu Ryeong-hwa’s reaction, it seemed that he must have been famous.
‘Well, I guess it makes sense.’
Having now reached the peak of maturity, I must have reached a level of skill that would naturally have a nickname by the standards of the Central Plains.
‘I guess with so many monsters around, I had forgotten for a moment.’
I had unknowingly underestimated the level of talent.
“Brother, if you’re not careful, you could get hurt, you know?”
“Who’s gonna get hurt, you little punk?!”
thud-!
“Ugh…!”
With him constantly poking at me, I ended up giving him a whack on the forehead.
‘Hurt? As if!’
If Ji-cheol was at that level among the great disciples, then it seemed likely that he would be the one to lead the Wudang in the future.
‘It looks like he wouldn’t even be able to beat Youngpung, though.’
Compared to Youngpung, who was the youngest among the three great disciples of the Volcano Sect, Ji-cheol seemed weaker.
Furthermore,
‘I think Woohyuk would win too.’
Sanryong, the third disciple of the Shaman, would likely not be pushed back by Ji-cheol either.
Of course, if considering both are geniuses on different paths, Ji-cheol is still quite the character.
Only…
‘He’s just that kind of guy.’
I’m not really impressed.
Regardless of his level of skill and talent, he was just that type of person.
‘Should I have hit a little harder?’
A feeling of regret washed over me a bit late.
If I had lost, I could have hit him more—what a shame I didn’t.
‘If the old man was going to butt in, he should’ve done it sooner.’
So I wouldn’t be this irritated in the first place.
It would have been easier if that crafty old man, Yu Baek, had jumped in earlier.
‘He’s been testing the waters too much.’
The old man seemed so eager just to observe that I ended up being a bit rough with it.
Tsk.
As a result, I had learned a lot, so I had to think of it as a blessing in disguise.
Well, what I found out…
As I climbed Wudang Mountain, I was in the process of confirming those matters.
It wasn’t exactly valuable information, though.
‘It looks like there’s business with the Shaman.’
For now, that was nothing more than a hunch.
It would be odd not to know this since it was directly indicated by Ji-cheol and Yu Baek.
There was something going on with the Shaman.
It was obvious to anyone observing.
‘I’m not sure what the issue is, but it must be pretty significant.’
Ji-cheol’s attitude hinted that he was genuinely vexed about it.
Inside of that, multiple pieces of information seemed to seep through.
There was a strict attitude when greeting the Volcano Sect for a scheduled visit.
It was filled with arrogance and self-importance.
‘Somehow, it doesn’t look like they are just in it for the contest.’
They probably wanted to establish dominance first before making some move.
That implies that they secretly observed the elders while doing this.
What that means is…
‘What happened earlier was all part of the plan.’
That must have come from orders higher up in the elder hierarchy.
‘They are wary of outsiders, especially those who could move in and out of the Shaman.’
That means there must have been an incident making them cautious about strangers.
‘What could it be?’
Was there some kind of incident with the Shaman around this time?
No idea. My memory isn’t the clearest…
‘The problem now is that the memories from my past life are practically worthless.’
Except for the major events, most of them have become twisted, making it hard to rely on my memory.
That means…
‘I need to figure it out on my own.’
In any case, I’ll eventually learn this when I get there.
‘Because I made it this far.’
This was the reason I intended to show Yu Baek that I was deliberately pushing Ji-cheol.
Figure it out yourself. Isn’t that the polite thing to do?
That was the intention.
‘If you’re bringing me to the Shaman now, it means you’re accepting this.’
It provided both justification and rationale.
That left the Shaman with two options.
‘Either send the Volcano back disrespectfully or explain things by the book and “politely” request understanding.’
From here, I was sure that the Shaman would choose the latter.
‘The Shaman’s current position isn’t strong enough to make enemies.’
Though it’s said that Jang Moon-in has become the leader…
The Volcano Sect is an ancient power. Its historical value is significant.
Would the Shaman dare to admit fault against such a formidable sect?
‘While it may look a little foolish, they aren’t that dumb.’
Even though they are experiencing rapid growth, their standing isn’t substantial just yet.
In a situation where perceptions in the Central Plains are critical, the Shaman wouldn’t dare.
What’s more…
‘Haven’t they already messed up once?’
It’s the point where they got caught trying to do something foolish.
I thought they might try to cut off their tail in a hurry, but I figured they wouldn’t do anything more foolish than that.
“So.”
I turned my gaze and said, looking straight ahead.
“Please, lighten your expression.”
“…”
The one who heard my words was Yeongpung.
Yeongpung awkwardly smiled at my request.
“What are you looking so grim for?”
“…It’s not that. I just feel nauseous from the motion…”
“If you feel nauseous at that level, it’s a serious illness. Don’t you know?”
“…”
“The carriage is so smooth; there’s absolutely no way you’d feel nauseous.”
You’d need to experience a ride from a White Lotus Sword user to understand what I’m talking about.
Ah, now that’s how you get seasick on a deserted island.
Since I hadn’t experienced it, I couldn’t trust Yeongpung’s words.
“Did something go wrong? Why such a sour face?”
“…That’s not it. I simply feel bad for the old master…”
“Why apologize? You were the one who barged in.”
“…”
“Even if you apologize, it’s me who should be apologizing, not you, so why is the dojo sulking like that?”
I wasn’t even sorry.
Honestly, I feel more annoyed that I didn’t hit him harder.
‘I did prepare something, so I might use it later.’
Whatever may happen, it shouldn’t be something Yeongpung would act like that for.
“Instead, you should complain. Ask why an outsider is making things uncomfortable. Say it that way.”
Yeongpung flinched at my blunt tone.
“No, how could I dare say that?”
“I mean it—that’s what you should do. That’s only fair.”
“What do you mean by that…?”
“You said it yourself: you’re the descendant of the Volcano Sword.”
“…!”
I referred back to what Yeongpung had declared.
“I don’t know what you think, but if that’s truly the case, no—regardless of whether it’s true.”
If Yeongpung were to directly claim to be a descendant of Shin Noya…
“You ought to be confident. If you are a student of the Volcano, you ought to be even prouder about it.”
“…”
At the very least, that’s what Shin Noya would have said.
No, perhaps he would have drawn his sword to cut down Ji-cheol the moment he sensed disrespect towards the Volcano.
Since I was really not a student of the Volcano, I just kept my silence.
Yet, Yeongpung wasn’t like that.
It seemed like he was confused, likely from being thrown into a circumstance he had never experienced before.
Even then, he should have maintained his dignity.
“If the Dojo steps back there, it would be no different than Hwasan retreating.”
“…Y-young Master.”
“To retreat implies that it was truly the case, and that the seal of the letter given by the Plum Blossom means exactly that.”
“…”
At my words, Yeongpung closed his mouth and made a deeply pained expression.
Then he looked at me, about to speak.
“I’m sorry…”
“Don’t apologize.”
I had to cut off Yeongpung’s words.
“Even words of gratitude, even words of apology. At the very least, you shouldn’t be saying those now, Elder.”
I couldn’t help but feel annoyance creeping into my tone.
Why?
‘Why am I annoyed?’
I pretended not to know, but it was something I obviously understood.
“Next time, don’t act like that. Just keep that intention in mind. That’s all you need.”
“…Yes.”
I was unsettled by the memory of something he’d previously said.
I remembered that Yeongpung had referred to himself as a descendant of the Hwasan Sword.
Whether it was true or not.
Yeongpung, who seemed so timid, looked just like Shin Noya behaving this way.
That was annoying.
‘Don’t create situations that require bowing your head, and don’t bow your head where it isn’t necessary.’
That’s how a character like Shin Noya would be.
That’s how I would live my life.
Thus…
If you’re going to call yourself a descendant, then live like one.
This statement carried that meaning.
Yeongpung wouldn’t have any way of knowing this, of course.
Afterward, I closed my eyes and took a moment to regulate my breathing. For a fleeting moment, an uncomfortable silence lingered within the carriage.
“We have arrived.”
As those words rang out, I quickly opened my eyes.
Then I immediately pulled back the curtain that had been stretched out in the carriage.
I sighed as I felt my energy returning to my danjeon.
‘I’m exhausted.’
I already sensed many eyes watching and ears straining to listen.
Feeling all those annoying gazes, I started to ponder.
If I were to torch something, where should I start?
‘If possible…’
I’d want to burn it from the roots.
It was a moment full of thoughts.
“Thank you for your efforts in coming here.”
Immediately after arriving at the Shaman’s home, we found the residence of Yu Baek.
“I would have liked to let you rest comfortably. I sincerely apologize for not being able to do so.”
Yu Baek said this with a smile.
“And, a sincere apology for the commotion caused by my incompetent disciple earlier.”
Slurp.
Tea spilled onto the table set before me.
“I am Yu Baek of the Wudang, and I hold the status of elder. Moreover, in this situation…”
Yu Baek said with a smile.
“I am here as a representative for the Shaman’s head, Jang Moon-in.”
When the old man introduced himself, the group reacted as if they were waiting to speak.
“I am Gu Ryeong-hwa, the second disciple of the Volcano Sect.”
“I am Yeongpung, the third disciple of Hwasan Sect.”
As soon as the two finished introducing themselves, Yu Baek’s gaze turned toward me.
Feeling that gaze, I continued.
“I am Gu Yangcheon of the Nine Houses. And over there is my escort.”
“…?”
Seongyul, who had suddenly become my escort, wore a puzzled expression but didn’t deny it.
Fortunately, he seemed to be somewhat aware.
After hearing my introduction, Yu Baek’s eyes brightened.
“Since this is the matter of the Shaman and the Volcano, may I inquire why a young master from the Volcano is here?”
“No, I mean, I am a member of the Volcano, after all.”
“What does the young master imply?”
“Yes. I might not carry a nameplate, but I have the status of an honorary disciple.”
Just after resolving matters at the Volcano.
It was a title I received from Jang Moon-in in anticipation of any troubles caused by the pottery within my body.
Since I’m an outsider, I can’t learn the martial arts of the Volcano Sect.
But I had been recognized as a member of their sect through favor.
That’s what the title of honorary disciple implied.
“… Oh…”
Yu Baek nodded shortly upon hearing that.
‘I didn’t expect to be able to use this here.’
This made it easier to get involved in the work, which was a good thing.
‘You know, if you prepare something, it will find a good purpose eventually.’
“… So you’re an honorary disciple. It seems that Hwasan has received great favors from you.”
“Yes, well… roughly speaking.”
I decided not to go into lengthy explanations, so I skimmed over it.
In the meantime, Gu Ryeong-hwa and Yeongpung were giving me rather uncomfortable looks.
Their expressions seemed to question if it was acceptable to treat an elder from the Shaman this way.
‘So what are you going to do about it?’
To me, this was already quite an appropriate way to greet him.
If concealing my true feelings from that sly old man counts as an effort, then that’s the best I could do.
‘I feel unwell.’
The actions I’ve taken and the impressions I felt…
That old man radiated an unmistakable rat-like quality.
At that moment…
“Um, Elder.”
Yeongpung cautiously approached Yu Baek.
“Speak.”
“I heard that the Swordmaster is visiting the Shaman.”
“Oh, that’s correct. The Swordmaster is currently at the Shaman.”
After hearing the answer to Yeongpung’s question, Gu Ryeong-hwa’s expression brightened.
‘So the Swordmaster is really here.’
Since I only heard about it without having a proper meeting, I thought perhaps it wasn’t the case.
Fortunately, it seemed like the Swordmaster was indeed here.
“Soon enough, he should be bringing the items.”
“What items are you referring to…?”
“The items that the guests wish to have returned.”
At Yu Baek’s words, this time Yeongpung’s face lit up.
So, the after-sales service was underway.
‘You’re saying he’s bringing them personally?’
With that thought, I discreetly hid my left arm.
‘…He’s bringing this.’
The Shaman possesses the needed artifacts.
When I first heard this news, I thought, “What nonsense is this?”
But with the Swordmaster indicating that he’s bringing it himself, it feels quite believable now.
If there’s a problem here, though…
‘Is it really true?’
What I’m getting at is, I’m unsure how this matter will play out.
If the Shaman actually has the item…
What, then, is this thing wrapped around my arm right now?
‘I came here to check on that.’
Those doubts couldn’t be avoided.
“Moreover, there’s business within the sect. Please understand that we must go through certain procedures prior to the item’s retrieval.”
I directly questioned Yu Baek.
I thought now was the best time since I had been anticipating an explanation.
“What’s the business?”
For clarification on why the Shaman needed to be so cautious with outsiders.
To the question woven from those uncertainties,
Yu Baek spoke.
“It’s simply a matter of a letter arriving at our main office recently.”
“A letter?”
“Indeed.”
I was curious as to what kind of significant letter warranted such behavior.
“The letter didn’t contain extensive content, but it was the sender that raised concern.”
I paid close attention to Yu Baek’s words.
And, after the next statement escaped his lips, I had to suppress my astonishment.
“Wind, Cloud, and Phantom Thief.”
“…!”
“He sent a letter to us.”
Even though it’s not in vogue now, it was the nickname of a highly famous warrior from the old Central Plains.
As Yu Baek rightly stated, just that name could shed light on the present situation.
Wind, Cloud, and Phantom Thief, Anonymous.
“I declare that within five days, he will take the Shaman’s emblem.”
Another way to say it?
He was indeed called a Phantom Thief.
Also,
‘…So why is that old man’s story surfacing now?’
He was someone I recognized, holding a nickname I was well aware of.
My site has received a lot of DMCA notices, lol. From now on, I will update the MTL on https://darkmtl.com/.
The site is fast and lightweight because there are no ads yet. However, the theme is different from Cybor-TL, so take some time to familiarize yourself.
Support me by donating at least $10, and you'll have the right to request any novel from Novelpia (excluding 19+ content) using a newly developed tool.