Chapter 674
"Huff... Huff..."
The Peak Realm Members lay sprawled across the ground, gasping for breath.
Their bodies were covered in wounds, and some members were immobilized by muscle spasms.
Yet, without exception, satisfied smiles lingered at the corners of their lips.
They had done it. They had accomplished this impossible task.
Not only that, but they had also experienced firsthand how their martial prowess had grown beyond what they had imagined.
Even though the Divine Guard Unit had dispatched a second-rate corps, their numbers were a staggering ten times that of the Peak Realm Unit.
Which meant, at the very least, their martial prowess was now on par with a first-rate corps.
"Commander Seon-u has been urgently summoned by the Vice Alliance Leader and has already returned to the Martial Alliance."
At that moment, a messenger from the Martial Alliance approached the resting Peak Realm Members and relayed the message.
"Commander Seon-u instructed you all to rest here before returning to the Alliance. That is all."
Having delivered his message, the messenger turned and left.
"Ugh..."
Tae Mu-ryong, clutching his waist, barely managed to push himself up and muttered,
"Then we should follow the Commander back."
Jeong Jong-do and the other members also used their long swords as makeshift staffs to haul themselves upright.
As the injured members slowly made their way back, they noticed numerous people climbing the mountain, carrying various items.
Sensing something odd, Tae Mu-ryong observed them carefully.
They appeared to be ordinary civilians, yet they ascended to the abandoned Merit Temple and proceeded to light incense in the ruined Great Hero Hall.
"Buddhist prayers in that abandoned temple?"
Tae Mu-ryong found it strange.
The Merit Temple was derelict—why would anyone offer incense there?
Swish. Swish.
Meanwhile, some of the people were diligently cleaning the interior of the Great Hero Hall and hanging lanterns around the space.
"Excuse me."
Unable to suppress his curiosity, Tae Mu-ryong entered the hall and asked the people inside,
"Why are you offering Buddhist prayers in this abandoned temple?"
"Isn't it the Qixi Festival now?"
A man hanging lanterns replied calmly.
"Though this Merit Temple is no longer maintained, there are rumors that it still carries a spiritually powerful presence."
According to the man's explanation,
nearby villagers believed that the Merit Temple still emanated a sacred energy.
Because of this, people would climb up during the Qixi Festival to offer Buddhist prayers.
"Well, during Qixi... people do visit temples to make offerings everywhere."
In Buddhism, the Qixi Festival was a time to pray for the health and longevity of one's family and the prosperity of descendants.
And since it happened to be Qixi, and the Merit Temple was rumored to be spiritually potent, worshippers had flocked here to make their wishes.
"I see. Thank you."
Having grasped the situation, Tae Mu-ryong nodded.
Without hesitation, he turned and rejoined the waiting members.
The Defense Trial had concluded.
The Martial Alliance announced the results—an utterly bizarre and bewildering declaration.
―All participants of the Defense Trial have passed.
Peak Realm Unit: All members.
Heavenly Might Hall: Fifteen members.
Clear Radiance Hall: Ten members.
Hall of Ascending Martial: None.
Martial artists in the Alliance tilted their heads in confusion at the strange results.
If everyone had passed the Defense Trial, why were these odd numbers being announced?
Soon, the shocking truth came to light.
―Alongside the Defense Trial, they had also tested reputation and loyalty, it seems.
As it turned out, this examination had been a dual test—not just of defense, but also of the subordinates' loyalty.
The current Qixi Festival was one of the most significant periods for Buddhist offerings.
The Defense Trial had taken place in temples where such prayers could be made.
And now, the three candidates for the Heavenly Martial Brigade leadership were in the midst of giving their all for the trial.
The Alliance had observed whether members would voluntarily offer Buddhist prayers for their superiors.
Becoming a unit leader in the Martial Alliance wasn't just about effort.
It required the kind of loyalty that would make subordinates willingly lay down their lives—something that could never be forced, only given freely.
The results?
The Peak Realm Unit, without being ordered, had all offered prayers for Bu Eun-seol.
The Heavenly Might Hall and Clear Radiance Hall had a few members who did the same.
But among the Hall of Ascending Martial's subordinates, not a single one had made an offering for Yuk Jang-cheon.
―What an absolute disgrace!
When Yuk Jang-cheon heard the news, he erupted in fury.
He couldn't even begin to accept these results.
Since when was offering—or not offering—Buddhist prayers a clear measure of loyalty?
In the end, he stormed to Bukri Seung's office to protest.
"This can't even be considered a proper test of one's standing! Whether or not someone offers Buddhist prayers has nothing to do with loyalty, does it?"
Bukri Seung, who had been reviewing documents in his office, regarded the fuming Yuk Jang-cheon with calm detachment before speaking.
"You're right. Buddhist prayers have no connection to loyalty whatsoever."
"Then why was such a result announced?"
"It was at the request of the senior members."
"What do you—"
"This Defense Trial was conducted in the absence of a commander. Naturally, it was never meant to test leadership ability."
Bukri Seung blinked tired eyes as he spoke.
"Moreover, the outcome could vary depending on the skill of the attacking unit members and the terrain itself."
"..."
"We merely wished to assess the capabilities of their direct subordinates—how well-trained they were."
—The Martial Heaven Unit candidates were to lead their direct units to a designated location and defend against incoming enemies.
As Yuk Jang-cheon recalled Bukri Seung's orders, his expression twisted in shock. Seeing this, Bukri Seung gave a faint smile and shook his head.
"Don't worry. This test result has no bearing on their final selection."
"No bearing? What do you mean?"
Bukri Seung smiled faintly.
"If I had to put it into words, this test was... a consideration for someone's sake."
"I can't understand this at all."
"Everyone passed the Defense Trial, so they passed. It just wasn't the second test, that's all."
"Not the second test? What are you—"
As Yuk Jang-cheon stiffened in surprise, Bukri Seung asked,
"What exactly did this Vice Alliance Leader say when initiating the Defense Trial?"
"Well, that the Martial Heaven Unit candidates were to lead their direct units in the Defense Trial—"
Yuk Jang-cheon's words faltered mid-sentence.
Only now did he realize Bukri Seung had never called it the second test.
'Damn these old bastards!'
The Martial Alliance was always like this.
A bunch of decrepit old men sitting at the top, bending the rigid rules just once or twice—
All while their own backsides rotted in those very seats.
"Are you saying this Defense Trial wasn't the real test?"
"If I had to say... yes."
Bukri Seung sighed and shook his head.
"It would be good to have an outstanding young talent as the Unit Leader. But most senior members wish for someone with abundant experience to take the position."
He looked at Yuk Jang-cheon with a regretful expression.
"The ability to sway the hearts of one's subordinates is also a commander's skill. After all, a Unit Leader is also a candidate to lead the Alliance in the future."
When Yuk Jang-cheon fell silent, Bukri Seung spoke again in a low voice.
"Think about it. Do you really believe one's ability alone is enough?"
His tone carried a faint reprimand, as if criticizing Yuk Jang-cheon's unilateral tendencies.
"Vice Alliance Leader."
"I'm not blaming your temperament, Warrior Yuk. But wouldn't this be a good opportunity to reconsider how you treat your subordinates?"
When Yuk Jang-cheon couldn't respond, Bukri Seung smiled kindly.
"Think about why the senior members went through the trouble of preparing such a test, spending both time and resources."
Seeing Yuk Jang-cheon still wearing an uncomprehending expression, Bukri Seung sighed.
"Didn't I tell you? Many senior members have high expectations for you, Warrior Yuk."
Finally, he laid it out plainly.
"But there was just one thing—your lack of favor among your subordinates as a potential Unit Leader. That's why we conducted this test."
Only then did Yuk Jang-cheon's eyes widen in realization.
Did this mean the Martial Alliance's high command had prepared this test specifically for him?
"I... truly had no idea."
As Yuk Jang-cheon lowered his head, finally grasping the full picture,
"If you keep this in mind going forward, Warrior Yuk, you could truly become an outstanding Unit Leader."
Bukri Seung smiled faintly.
"But if you don't correct this beforehand, it'll be difficult. Especially once you become Unit Leader."
Not a single word Bukri Seung spoke was wrong.
If things continued like this, even if he became Unit Leader, he would fail to earn his subordinates' loyalty—
And ultimately, he might wield no real influence even among the other Unit Leaders.
After all, the authority of a Unit Leader's position...
Stems from the absolute loyalty of one's subordinates.
"I was short-sighted, Vice Alliance Leader."
Yuk Jang-cheon could hardly contain the surge of emotion.
The high command, including the Alliance Leader himself, wanted him to become Unit Leader?
Then if he simply passed the remaining tests, becoming Unit Leader wouldn't be difficult at all.
"I will never disappoint you."
"No need for such words."
Bukri Seung maintained his composed smile.
"We've always had high hopes for you, Warrior Yuk. Do your best."
"Thank you."
Yuk Jang-cheon bowed with utmost respect.
"Then I shall take my leave."
Exiting the Justice Pavilion, Yuk Jang-cheon was in high spirits—yet at the same time, a chill ran down his spine.
Only now did he recall the icy gazes of his subordinates watching him in the conference room.
'Have I favored Cheong-a too much?'
Her wisdom was unmatched, but unfortunately, Cheong-a had always been somewhat arrogant.
"If it had been the Revered Chancellor Gongson, he would have perceived his subordinates' discontent and swiftly addressed it."
"But Yuk Cheong-a is stubbornly like me."
She trusts only her own wisdom, never truly listening to the words of others.
I must do better from now on.
Yuk Jang-cheon took a deep breath.
No matter what trials lay ahead, he resolved to listen carefully to his subordinates' words.
—"Now, let us begin the second trial."
Bukri Seung finally announced the formal test for the second gate.
It was a trial both exceedingly ordinary and profoundly difficult.
—"Obtain a letter of recommendation bearing the personal seals of the sect leaders from the Nine Great Sects and One Gang or the Eight Great Clans."
A Martial Alliance Unit Leader was a candidate for the next Alliance Chief.
If one maintained close ties with the major figures of the Righteous Faction, it would be a tremendous advantage in governing the Martial Alliance.
Of course, it wasn't strictly necessary for a Leader.
Which was likely why there was no limit on the number of recommendation letters one could gather.
"But bringing just one won't be enough."
Yuk Jang-cheon, who had been in conference with his senior officers, grimaced.
This incident had made it painfully clear to the entire Martial Alliance that he lacked the trust of his subordinates.
The problem was, Yuk Jang-cheon didn't just have strained relations with his own men—he was also on less-than-friendly terms with the sect leaders of the Nine Schools and the Eight Great Clans.
When he had led the Nine Heavens Society, he had recklessly expanded its influence, repeatedly clashing with the Nine Schools and the Eight Great Clans.
That was why, when the Nine Heavens Society collapsed and Yuk Cheong-a made her proposal, he had chosen to join the Martial Alliance without hesitation.
Of course, after joining the Alliance, he had diligently built connections with its high-ranking members.
But with the figures of the Nine Schools and the Eight Great Clans? He still had no ties whatsoever.
This trial was exceptionally troublesome for Yuk Jang-cheon.
"Once I become Leader, I'd naturally forge those connections anyway. Why insist on this kind of test?"
As Leader, he would inevitably wield significant influence over the Orthodox Murim, making it impossible not to establish relations with the sect leaders of the Nine Schools and the Eight Great Clans.
In fact, as Leader, he could even cultivate those connections from a position of superiority.
Yuk Jang-cheon had never felt the need to build those bridges in advance.
And yet, of all things, the second trial required recommendation letters from them?
"Well, nothing to be done about it."
He clicked his tongue in frustration.
He had resolved to overcome this trial together with his subordinates, no matter what.
But in this case, even if they united their efforts, it wouldn't make much difference.
"Once again, I have no choice but to rely on Cheong-a."
A bitter smile touched his lips.
Back when the Divine Nun of the South Sea was still alive, she had guided Yuk Cheong-a to build connections not just within the Martial Alliance, but also with the figures of the Nine Schools and the Eight Great Clans.
If Yuk Cheong-a stepped in, obtaining multiple recommendation letters wouldn't be too difficult.
"First, I must secure the position of Leader."
There was only one reason Yuk Jang-cheon so desperately wanted to become Leader.
If he reached that level of authority—
He wouldn't have to worry about others' perceptions.
He could forge connections freely, and live the rest of his life without ever having to ask anyone for favors.
"Becoming Alliance Chief can come later."
Yuk Jang-cheon had to—
Rise beyond his ambiguous position as Hall Master of the Hall of Martial Ascension and soar one step higher.
***
Dragon Coil Hall, Yuk Cheong-a's Office
She was deep in thought.
This trial had made her acutely aware of how precarious Yuk Jang-cheon's position had become.
Father's vessel is too small.
The senior officers of the Martial Alliance—no, the old monsters—had placed their expectations on Yuk Jang-cheon.
But that was only if he met those expectations.
What if he fell short? They would discard him without hesitation.
That was simply the nature of the Martial Alliance.
Then, would the Clear Radiance Hall Master be the answer?
Mu-gyeol, the Clear Radiance Hall Master, whom the Alliance Chief himself had nominated as a candidate.
Not only did he possess exceptional talent—enough to lead the Heavenly Rain Forest at a young age—
But when considering all factors, he was also the figure who best aligned with her own objectives.
No. How could I repeat the same mistake?
Yuk Cheong-a shook her head.
Hadn't she already suffered the bitter consequences of abandoning Yuk Jang-cheon and switching to that man, Baek Mu-seong?
A truly genius figure who met her conditions would never be someone she could control at will.
That's exactly why I recruited Father to the main Alliance from the beginning.
The Palm King, Yuk Jang-cheon.
Though he wasn't a father who offered warm paternal affection—
Though he was selfish, dictatorial, and incapable of understanding his subordinates' hearts...
From a strategist's perspective, Yuk Jang-cheon was an ideal figure to grasp and wield as she pleased.
Moreover, his abilities were by no means lacking.
His martial prowess was unquestionable, he had a keen eye for talent, and his foresight in deploying subordinates was unmatched.
Moreover, he possesses insight befitting his years along with a certain gregarious charm—if he so chooses, he can get along amiably with anyone.
He also has the self-awareness to recognize his own lack of strategic acumen, which makes him willing to accept a strategist's counsel without question.
'Don't be impatient. The situation isn't entirely unfavorable.'
Even if Yuk Jang-cheon suffers some humiliation from this incident, it doesn't matter.
What is certain is that the Martial Alliance's high command does not want a young leader emerging from the new generation.
Considering that alone, Yuk Jang-cheon still holds a relatively advantageous position.
If he can just pass the upcoming examination smoothly, he—a man already supported by the Alliance's veteran members—can become the leader.
'No more overthinking.'
Though she had admittedly been momentarily swept up in the winds stirred by Seon-u Jin and Baek Mu-seong, the younger generation's rising stars...
Yuk Jang-cheon was not a man to be underestimated. With her support, he would undoubtedly ascend to the leadership position.
Knock knock.
But just then, a low voice called from beyond the door.
"The Clear Radiance Hall Leader requests an audience with the Deputy Hall Lord."
"The Clear Radiance Hall Leader?"
Her eyes flashed at the unexpected summons.
With the leadership examination in full swing, why would the Clear Radiance Hall Leader seek her out now?
'He was abruptly nominated as a candidate and lacks solid backing.'
Even if he wore out iron shoes visiting the Nine Sects and Eight Great Clans, he'd still struggle to gain support—so why come to her?
Could he possibly be here to ask for her help?
"Let him in."
With a creak, a tall man in white robes entered.
His features were as refined as a beauty's, yet his broad frame and strong jawline exuded an unmistakably masculine aura.
This was none other than Mu-gyeol, the Clear Radiance Hall Leader.
"Clear Radiance Hall Leader Mu-gyeol pays his respects to the Deputy Hall Lord."
Though well into middle age—over a decade older than Yuk Cheong-a—he maintained an exceedingly deferential posture and tone.
In the Martial Alliance, only rank and authority mattered.
"..."
Instead of responding, Yuk Cheong-a stared fixedly at Mu-gyeol.
This visit was entirely unforeseen.
Just moments ago, she had been considering whether to approach him with a tempting offer to bring him under her wing.
Yet here he was, coming to her first?
"What..."
After a long silence, her lips finally parted.
"...brings you here?"
Her voice was icy, devoid of even the usual pleasantries.
Mu-gyeol was, after all, Yuk Jang-cheon's competitor.
And since she had already chosen Yuk Jang-cheon once more, there was no need to feign warmth toward his rival.
"I have heard that Deputy Hall Lord Yuk possesses not only exceptional strategic insight but also an unparalleled mastery of the Alliance's affairs."
Mu-gyeol continued calmly.
"So much so that, even if elevated to the position of Chief Strategist, you could immediately assume your duties without delay."
"How unpleasant."
Yuk Cheong-a's eyes flashed coldly.
"Since when does the Hall Leader hold the authority to evaluate this Deputy Hall Lord's capabilities?"
"My apologies."
Mu-gyeol clasped his hands respectfully.
Watching him, Yuk Cheong-a replied with frosty detachment.
"A leading candidate for the Heavenly Martial Brigade Leader is showing excessive courtesy, it seems."
"Until now, I have only handled tasks directly assigned by the Alliance Leader. I have no foundation within the Alliance itself... nor much familiarity with its operations."
"Such excessive humility. For the Clear Radiance Hall Leader—favored enough to be personally nominated by the Alliance Leader—to say such things..."
"Allow me to speak frankly."
Mu-gyeol glanced around cautiously before continuing.
"The Alliance Leader placed me among the candidates for one reason alone: to ensure a certain individual—one who must never become leader—is eliminated."
Yuk Cheong-a's gaze sharpened.
"Who are you referring to?"
"Seon-u Jin."
Mu-gyeol's tone remained steady.
"He is riddled with suspicious traits and has risen far too quickly. Should such a man become leader, the Alliance's standing would plummet beyond recovery."
Yuk Cheong-a's eyes widened.
Mu-gyeol—head of the Heavenly Rain Forest, the Alliance Leader's covert organization—had been forcibly installed as Clear Radiance Hall Leader and recklessly pushed into the leadership race.
And the reason?
To eliminate Seon-u Jin.
Mu-gyeol went on.
"But he has already secured the absolute trust of several high-ranking Alliance members. We cannot recklessly remove him."
Yuk Cheong-a nodded slowly.
Seon-u Jin enjoyed Gongson Dan-gyeong's unwavering support, shared a close bond with Bukgung Ryeong, the Honorary Guardian, and—through repeated deeds—had even earned the favor of Vice Alliance Leader Bukri Seung, who normally disdained young masters.
Even the Alliance Leader himself could not disqualify Seon-u Jin from the race without just cause.
"So, what do you want?"
"Guide me."
Mu-gyeol smiled faintly.
"With the Deputy Hall Lord at my side, I believe we could paint a grander picture."
Yuk Cheong-a's fist clenched unconsciously.
Mu-gyeol—the Clear Radiance Hall Leader, acting on the Alliance Leader's secret orders—was extending his hand to her?
If she cooperated and produced favorable results...
Wouldn't that mean gaining the terrifying backing of Jeong Cheon-je himself?