Chapter 289
Before the Heaven-Shaking Hall, at the Small Training Ground.
There, A-yeon—the rightful successor of the Sword Pavilion—was swinging her treasured sword, its blade now gleaming white.
Meanwhile, Wi Cheon-gyeong circled her swiftly, searching for an opening.
With each passing moment, A-yeon's sword strokes grew faster, and in response, Wi Cheon-gyeong's movement technique accelerated as well.
'As expected.'
From a distance, Bu Eun-seol faintly nodded as he observed their duel.
'She's trying to break through to the Transcendence Realm using the Equal Enlightenment Shift.'
A-yeon's martial prowess had yet to reach the Extreme Heaven Realm.
Even so, she was now demonstrating skill akin to someone who had already stepped into it.
Analyzing the enemy's height, physique, the direction of the sun and wind—every possible factor—she could discern their techniques.
Because she was employing the Equal Enlightenment Shift.
'Now I understand why she asked to spar with me.'
Thanks to Bu Eun-seol's guidance, Won Se-mun had mastered numerous sword studies and become an exceptional swordsman.
Moreover, Jo Nam-cheon's Black Poison Demon Art made his skin impervious even to the slash of a treasured sword.
Yet A-yeon had subdued both of them in an instant.
She had shattered Won Se-mun's swordplay by exploiting the gaps and vulnerabilities between his martial forms, despite their formidable power.
Against Jo Nam-cheon's hardened body, she unleashed ever-shifting sword strokes, denying him any chance to close the distance and securing victory.
And she had meticulously explained the reasoning behind each move, weaving in the principles of martial arts to impart profound insights to the two men.
'She wants me to teach her something as well.'
Her magnanimous demeanor was undoubtedly calculated.
'Even casting aside the pride of being the Sword Pavilion's successor...'
A-yeon's attitude was the struggle of a martial artist who had abandoned all pride, striving to ascend to greater heights.
Warrior Spirit.
Ever since meeting Bu Eun-seol, a blazing warrior spirit had ignited within her.
'Since she's mastered the Equal Enlightenment Shift, she'll gain much from sparring with me.'
The Equal Enlightenment Shift allowed one to analyze an opponent from every angle, foreseeing their techniques and movements in advance.
With such a method, she would be able to gauge the level of Bu Eun-seol's martial prowess—and even discern the nature of the True Void he wielded.
Shiiing! Clang!
Meanwhile, the duel between A-yeon and Wi Cheon-gyeong reached its climax.
Wi Cheon-gyeong had not only deeply mastered the Flying Dagger Art, footwork techniques, and even chaotic swordplay—he was also remarkably perceptive and cautious.
Though she had pinpointed Won Se-mun and Jo Nam-cheon's weaknesses in about ten moves, her duel with Wi Cheon-gyeong had already passed forty moves.
'I see.'
Finally grasping Wi Cheon-gyeong's flaw, A-yeon's eyes gleamed.
Swish!
As she closed in swiftly, Wi Cheon-gyeong instantly hurled a dagger.
But A-yeon deflected its tip with pinpoint precision and thrust toward his throat in the same motion.
Click.
With the sword's edge at his neck, Wi Cheon-gyeong raised both hands in surrender.
"I yield."
As he bowed his head, A-yeon clasped her hands together.
"I learned much."
"Yet I cannot comprehend."
Wi Cheon-gyeong cautiously asked,
"How did you block the dagger and strike my throat in a single move? That would require at least two separate actions."
"Young Hero, your daggers never deviate even a fraction."
A-yeon answered plainly.
"So this time, I anticipated the dagger's trajectory beforehand and executed the Quick Sword Form. Because I knew your dagger would aim for my vitals without the slightest error."
Now it was clear—A-yeon had known that Wi Cheon-gyeong's Flying Dagger Art never missed and had turned that very precision against him.
"To think perfection itself could become a flaw..."
As Wi Cheon-gyeong wore a hollow expression, A-yeon spoke.
"Overly refined and meticulous techniques only make it easier for the enemy to predict your Sword Path. In the future, you should practice mixing in feints and variations to confuse your opponent."
Having gained profound insight, Wi Cheon-gyeong clasped his hands.
"My gratitude. This was most enlightening."
"You flatter me."
With Wi Cheon-gyeong's defeat, Bu Eun-seol's gaze settled on Myo Cheon-u.
Now it was his turn.
Thud. Thud.
From where he had been standing far off, Myo Cheon-u slowly stepped onto the training platform and clasped his hands.
"I concede."
"Without even fighting?"
A-yeon blinked her large eyes in surprise. Myo Cheon-u smirked.
"The palm techniques I've devised recently consist solely of killing moves—ill-suited for sparring."
Having fought numerous battles under Bu Eun-seol's command, Myo Cheon-u's martial arts had recently advanced by leaps and bounds.
His palm techniques, in particular, had diverged from those of the Extinction Palace, forming a unique school of their own.
Moreover, wielding bare hands as weapons required channeling immense internal power.
Against a master like A-yeon, this wouldn't be a duel—it would be a real battle.
Seeing how generously she had guided the others in martial arts, Myo Cheon-u had no intention of staking his pride on a pointless match.
"Then what if we spar using only techniques, without internal power?"
Understanding his predicament, A-yeon made her offer.
Myo Cheon-u responded with a bitter smile.
"But if I use Palm Art without employing Internal Energy, wouldn't that strip away its essence? I fear I might end up suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of A-yeon."
Though he spoke those words, Myo Cheon-u's aura was by no means inferior to A-yeon's.
In truth, he was deliberately holding back—so that she could have the chance to spar with Bu Eun-seol.
"I see."
A-yeon, realizing his consideration, pressed her palms together in gratitude.
"Understood. Thank you."
"Well then, only one remains."
As Myo Cheon-u turned his head, his gaze fell upon Yu Un-ryong, who was being half-dragged forward by the unit members, still clad in his scholar's robes.
"Fine. Let's do it."
Originally, Yu Un-ryong had intended to concede defeat outright, just like Myo Cheon-u.
But after witnessing A-yeon's duel, his thoughts had changed.
Not only was her martial prowess extraordinary...
She was also the perfect opponent to showcase the techniques of his newly devised Ten-Joint Staff.
"Sanghak Unit Commander, Yu Un-ryong. I shall learn a thing or two from Lady A-yeon."
Swish—
In the same instant, the Ten-Joint Staff unfurled from his sleeve.
When infused with Internal Energy, it became rigid as a spear, yet in its usual state, its ten segmented joints allowed it to be wielded like a whip.
Now, he would finally unveil its true brilliance.
The next day, in Yu Un-ryong's office.
Once again, the unit commanders had gathered.
But this time, Yu Un-ryong himself was not working—instead, he was huddled with them, deep in discussion.
"Truly, a martial artist of his caliber deserves an equally outstanding partner."
Yu Un-ryong was fervently making his case.
A-yeon, the successor of the Sword Pavilion and the future Sword Empress—her martial skill was not only exceptional, but her talent rivaled even Bu Eun-seol's.
"Without a doubt, she will surpass the title of 'Number One Woman in the World' and become a master who encompasses all under heaven."
At Yu Un-ryong's impassioned words, the unit commanders—including Myo Cheon-u—fell into thoughtful silence.
"Well, there's some truth to that. Both of them are, frankly, a little obsessed with martial arts."
The other commanders nodded in agreement.
"And her looks are no less stunning than Lady Yeon's."
If Yeon So-ha was the dazzling morning sun, then A-yeon was the moonlight illuminating the night sky.
Though she was not counted among the Three Beauties of the World, her beauty was no less extraordinary.
"That won't do."
At that moment, Wi Cheon-gyeong interjected.
"Have you forgotten that the Sword Pavilion is a branch of the Mystic Path? How could its successor possibly marry?"
"Ah, right."
Won Se-mun smacked his forehead, but Yu Un-ryong shook his head.
"Even if she's a nun of the Mystic Path, once she leaves, that's it. Haven't there been disciples of the Sword Pavilion who returned to secular life and married?"
"But she's the successor! And it's not like she came here as a prospective bride for the Lord."
At Wi Cheon-gyeong's rebuttal, Myo Cheon-u spoke up.
"Look at your Lord properly. His martial arts, his stature, his position—where does he fall short? Sure, his personality is a bit cold, but..."
He continued with confidence.
"With that face and bearing, even Lady A-yeon would eventually relent and accept his feelings. Besides, her temperament is calm—just as Yu Un-ryong said, she'd make a fine match."
Of course, the idea of Bu Eun-seol actively pursuing a woman was unthinkable.
But the unit commanders, oblivious to this, merely nodded along.
Clap, clap, clap.
Another round of applause erupted.
Thus, Bu Eun-seol's future spouse was unofficially decided.
Meanwhile, Bu Eun-seol sat in his office, massaging his temples.
"This is troublesome."
The situation instigated by Supreme Cult Commander Yeop Hyo-cheon had spiraled beyond control.
Before he knew it, a towering pile of portrait scrolls and envelopes had accumulated on his desk.
These were not left by Wind Cloud Brigade Commander Baek Yeon.
Rather, once the rumor that he was seeking a bride spread throughout the martial world, every minor sect and family with even a hint of prestige had sent portraits.
The only saving grace was that his appearance was not as widely known as his reputation.
If his peerless beauty—like moonlight scattered upon a river—had been common knowledge?
The Demon Hall would have been paralyzed by the flood of visits from Demonic Path Families.
"For now, I'll deal with them one by one."
Today was the day of his duel with A-yeon.
Originally, she had intended to face him immediately after defeating Yu Un-ryong.
But Yu Un-ryong had proven unexpectedly tenacious, forcing her to expend considerable energy.
Since she also needed time to transcribe the Five Poisons Sect documents stored in the Hidden Demon Pavilion for the Sword Pavilion...
They had agreed to rest for a day before their duel.
Just then, an attendant outside spoke in a trembling voice.
"Pardon the intrusion, Lord."
"What is it?"
"The Jipma Manor Lord requests your presence."
"The Jipma Manor Lord?"
Bu Eun-seol's expression turned puzzled.
Dan Wol-hon had left for Hangzhou with Dan So-ok for recuperation—since when had he returned?
"Understood. Inform him I will arrive shortly."
Exiting his office, Bu Eun-seol immediately made his way to the guest hall.
There, seated with a thunderous expression, was a towering middle-aged man.
His skin was slightly dark, and his eyes exuded the imposing majesty of Mount Tai—none other than Dan Wol-hon himself.
"Manor Lord."
Bu Eun-seol pressed his palms together in greeting.
"Hmph!"
Dan Wol-hon snorted, abruptly rising to his feet and stepping closer to Bu Eun-seol. His voice dropped low, simmering with restrained fury.
"Are you trying to provoke this lord right now?"
"I don't understand what you mean."
"You think just because I refused permission, you'll go fool around behind my back?"
Dan Wol-hon sucked in a deep breath before his voice boomed like a temple bell.
"Did you really think this lord would fall for such petty tricks?!"
"Lord—"
"No. Absolutely not."
Dan Wol-hon's massive frame trembled with suppressed rage as he leaned in, his rock-like face mere inches from Bu Eun-seol's.
"I will never forgive you for making my So-ok cry."
"Lord, I think there's been some misunderstanding. I—"
"Enough."
Dan Wol-hon hesitated for a moment, as if wrestling with an unbearable dilemma, before finally raising his hand with visible effort.
Three fingers—middle, ring, and index—extended in a rigid gesture.
"Three years."
His expression twisted with reluctant suffering as he pressed his fingers close to Bu Eun-seol's face and repeated,
"So—three years."
Then, his eyes bloodshot with frustration, he growled,
"Three years should be... acceptable, shouldn't it?"
"I don't follow."
"What's the damn rush?! Can't you wait just three measly years?!"
Dan Wol-hon's roar sent his head snapping to the side.
"Any more than that is impossible! I need to prepare my heart, too!"
Rambling incoherent threats, Dan Wol-hon finally glared at Bu Eun-seol for a long moment before exhaling sharply.
"That's final!"
With that, he stormed out, his face a picture of bitter resentment.
Bu Eun-seol watched his retreating back with unfocused eyes.
Only now did he realize—the rumors about seeking a bride must have reached Dan Wol-hon's ears.
'Chief Doctrine Commander!'
If Bu Eun-seol had been the Demon Hall's head of the Demon Hall at that moment, he would have immediately dismissed Yeop Hyo-cheon.
'What kind of scheme is this?'
There was still much to do.
The Heaven-Severing, Earth-Destroying Sanctuary, the Fleeting Moment Boat, and even Hell Blood Citadel, whose support he had secured after the recent incident, the remaining Demonic Path Ten Gates remained uncooperative.
And yet, in the middle of all this, someone had spread rumors that he was recklessly searching for a bride?
"Hah."
A stifling energy rose in his chest, prompting Bu Eun-seol to step outside and walk toward the Flower Red Pavilion.
He needed fresh air to sort through his tangled thoughts.
How long had he walked? By the time he arrived at the pavilion, his gaze was hollow as he watched petals scatter in the breeze—
"Lord."
A servant hurried over, bowing hastily.
"Upper Flower Jin has visited the main hall and requests your presence."
"Her?"
Bu Eun-seol couldn't comprehend it.
Jin Seol—why was she looking for him now?
When he returned to the guest hall, the seat Dan Wol-hon had occupied was now taken by a woman in pale pink robes—Jin Seol herself, sitting with composed grace.
"Upper Flower Jin."
Bu Eun-seol clasped his hands in greeting, and she returned the gesture lightly.
"Lord."
"What brings you here so suddenly?"
"I heard the Chief Doctrine Commander offered you my marriage proposal."
"Ah, that—he didn't even ask for my opinion—"
"It's fine."
Her expression remained frosty.
"I, too, have no intention of entering an engagement with anyone yet."
She studied him with piercing eyes.
"But spreading such rumors before they've even settled, then inviting women into the Hidden Demon Pavilion—isn't that too hasty a decision?"
Bu Eun-seol immediately grasped the situation.
Jin Seol believed he was deliberately stirring scandal to reject the Chief Doctrine Commander's proposal.
From her perspective—already embroiled in enough gossip—this must have felt like a direct insult.
She had come here, furious, to confront him.
"There were unavoidable circumstances. I never intended to disgrace you."
"Circumstances?"
Bu Eun-seol hesitated.
Where to even begin explaining?
"First, A-yeon of the Sword Pavilion is recovering her stamina for our duel."
"And the Young Palace Lord of the Divine Maiden Palace?"
"She—"
Just as Bu Eun-seol inhaled deeply to explain—
"Excuse me."
A woman in snow-white robes stepped into the hall.
Yeon So-ha.
"My apologies. I didn't mean to intrude... but I happened to overhear my name while passing by."
The guest hall of the Hidden Demon Pavilion was not a place one could happen to pass by.
Clearly, she had come here deliberately upon hearing Jin Seol had sought Bu Eun-seol out.
"So you're Upper Flower Jin."
A woman's intuition was terrifying.
In an instant, Yeon So-ha recognized the woman before her as the one entangled in marriage talks with Bu Eun-seol.
"A pleasure. I am Yeon So-ha, Young Palace Lord of the Divine Maiden Palace."
Removing her veil, she bowed gracefully.
"I've heard the Demon Hall boasts both a dazzling flower and a radiant jewel."
Her gaze, gentle yet unyielding, settled on Jin Seol.
"Seeing Upper Flower Jin in person, I now understand those rumors were not exaggerated."
Within Murim, Jin Seol was known as the Flower Among Demons, while Dan So-ok was called Silver Scale Jade Leaf. Together, they were hailed as the Flower Jade Twin Phoenixes.
"For one counted among the Three Beauties of the World to say such things—I'm overwhelmed."
Though Jin Seol's words were humble, her expression remained icy.
She had instantly discerned Yeon So-ha's intent—removing her veil to greet her was a deliberate move to suppress her presence.