Chapter 175
Upon his return to Shaoxing, Baek Mu-Gun resumed his daily life. Meanwhile, the Loyal Heart Alliance established its first branch, the Iron Blood Branch, in Nanping, Fujian Province.
This new branch consisted of over seven hundred members from small martial clans in Fujian Province. Given the size of this group, a substantial facility was required to accommodate them. After careful consideration, the Loyal Heart Alliance decided to repurpose the Evil Blood Gang's manor as the headquarters for the Iron Blood Branch. The manor was spacious enough to house up to a thousand individuals, making it more than sufficient to accommodate them.
However, gathering martial artists from various small clans was only the beginning. It was important to establish leadership to guide them and personnel dedicated to enhancing the martial prowess of the Iron Blood Branch. To that end, the Loyal Heart Alliance appointed Nam Seon-Gyo, the Commander of the Sea Palace Heavenly Might Corps, a combat unit within the Sea Palace Sect, as Head of the Iron Blood Branch. Additionally, they designated Lee Jin-Won, the Commander of the Jiuhua Dragon Sword Corps, a combat unit of the Jiuhua Sect, as the Deputy Head.
Afterwards, twenty instructors were tasked with teaching martial arts to the members of the Iron Blood Branch, all of which hailed from the Baek Sword Sect. They had received training from Mu-Gun in the specific martial arts intended for the branches. These included the Loyal Iron Blood Cultivation Method, which focused on internal energy cultivation, as well as the Twelve Iron Blood Sword Art.
Both of these martial arts were creations of Mu-Gun, drawing inspiration from various martial traditions. While they weren't on par with Ascension Realm martial arts, they were easy to learn and held significant power. This made them an ideal choice for members of the branches who needed rapid growth. Once they arrived, the instructors sent by the Loyal Heart Alliance to Nanping immediately began teaching these two arts to the Iron Blood Branch members.
Originating from small martial clans, the martial artists of the Iron Blood Branch had never received proper martial arts training. Most of the martial arts they were familiar with fell within the third-rate category, with some at best considered second-rate. The two arts they were being taught now were not at the Ascension Realm, but still far surpassed those used by small martial clans. Mu-Gun had poured his heart and soul into creating these martial arts.
The martial artists of the Iron Blood Branch desired to learn genuine martial arts, and these arts more than fulfilled their desires. With access to these techniques, the Iron Blood Branch members dedicated themselves to learning and training with unwavering determination.
However, not everyone possessed the same level of commitment. While they now had access to superior martial arts, those lacking the will to truly train only went through the motions for the sake of appearances. The instructors responsible for teaching these martial arts to the Iron Blood Branch didn't invest their time in reforming these individuals. They found it more efficient to focus on instructing those martial artists who were genuinely motivated to learn, rather than attempting to correct the apathetic ones.
Most of the Iron Blood Branch's martial artists trained with a newfound passion. Also, several martial clans in Jiangsu Province began to express interest in joining the Loyal Heart Alliance. Among them were the martial clans previously under the authority of the Luyang Sect.
The Council of the Loyal Heart Alliance engaged in discussions regarding the inclusion of these clans. At its core, the Loyal Heart Alliance remained open to anyone desiring to join its ranks. Nevertheless, accepting the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's influence would effectively encroach upon the territory of the Namgung Family.
"If we accept them, the Namgung Family will definitely not take it lightly," said the Jiuhua Sect Patriarch, Lee Geom-Hwan, expressing his concern.
"How long will we continue to fear the Namgung Family? The strength of the Loyal Heart Alliance is undoubtedly on par with the Namgung Family. What I'm saying is that we no longer need to be cautious or wary of them," said Tae Gong-Pyo, the Wind Saber Sect Patriarch, indicating his discontent with Geom-Hwan's stance.
"That's correct. Furthermore, we haven't forcibly encroached on the Namgung Family's domain; rather, the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control are willingly seeking to join the Loyal Heart Alliance. This means they hold a significant level of discontent with the Namgung Family," added Byeok Cheol-Seong, the Patriarch of Byeok Sword Manor.
"It's undeniable that we've grown more powerful, but nothing good will come from clashing with the Namgung Family. Furthermore, its very important to avoid sowing internal discord, especially when our longstanding adversary, the Nine Celestial Demons Sect, remains a pressing concern. What's more, the potential benefits we'd gain from accepting the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control are rather limited. Wouldn't it be unwise to provoke a conflict with the Namgung Family when the gains are minimal?" asked Shim Seok-Gun, the Patriarch of the Clear Sun Sect.
"While that may be true concerning the material gains, this is a matter of the Loyal Heart Alliance's dignity, something far more significant."
"We don't need to jeopardize our dignity in order to avoid a confrontation with the Namgung Family. Most importantly, we founded the Loyal Heart Alliance not to showcase our strength, but to topple the Nine Celestial Demons Sect. For that purpose, we must steer clear of disputes with the Namgung Family," Geom-Hwan responded.
"As the Jiuhua Sect Patriarch pointed out, maintaining harmony within murim is of utmost importance for our grand cause of overthrowing the Nine Celestial Demons Sect, at least in the eyes of the public. By refraining from allowing clans that could potentially spark a territorial dispute with the Namgung Family to join the Loyal Heart Alliance, we can garner more support and respect from the martial world, all without compromising our dignity," explained Kang Won-Hee, the Patriarch of the Kang Household, reinforcing Geom-Hwan's stance.
Turning to Baek Cheon-Sang, who had been silently listening, Byeok Cheol-Seong asked, "What do you think, Alliance Leader?"
"Dignity and honor are very significant in murim. However, the greater cause of murim takes precedence. Our primary objective is to topple the Nine Celestial Demons Sect, and for that purpose, unity within murim is crucial, as pointed out by the Kang Household Patriarch. I believe it's best not to accept the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control into the Loyal Heart Alliance, not out of fear for the Namgung Family, but because the greater cause of murim should come first," Cheon-Sang expressed his viewpoint.
"I totally agree with what the Alliance Leader said. Murim's grand cause must be our top priority," stated Jeong Won-Hyo.
Jo Jin-Myeong stated, "I think so too. Moreover, the concerns raised by the Wind Saber Sect Patriarch and the Byeok Sword Manor Patriarch may not hold much weight. There won't be many who interpret our decision as fear of the Namgung Family. It's important to remember that the Thunder God's successor, who defeated two Supreme Realm demonic practitioners, the Asura Divine Demon and the Asura Undying Immortal, during the recent incident, is with the Loyal Heart Alliance. With such a remarkable member in our ranks, there is no reason for anyone to doubt our resolve."
His mention of the Thunder God's successor brought conviction and agreement from a substantial number of delegates.
"Then, we've discussed a lot about this; it's time to vote. As previously stated, we will base our decision on a majority vote. Those in favor of accepting the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control into the Loyal Heart Alliance, please raise your hands." Cheon-Sang initiated a vote.
Delegates on the Council expressed their opinions openly and voted according to their individual perspectives. Out of the thirteen present, including the Alliance Leader, only three raised their hands. These three supporters were Byeok Cheol-Seong, the Patriarch of Byeok Sword Manor, Tae Gong-Pyo, the Patriarch of Wind Saber Sect, and Yong Gun-Seong, the Patriarch of Draconic Tiger Gang.
Cheon-Sang continued, "Now, for those who believe we should refrain from accepting the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control into the Loyal Heart Alliance, please raise your hands."
In response to his request, all ten remaining delegates raised their hands. Following a majority vote, the Loyal Heart Alliance decided to reject the applications of the martial clans under the Luyang Sect's control. Furthermore, Cheon-Sang made certain to clarify the reasons behind this rejection so that the denied martial clans wouldn't misunderstand.
Once the decision was made, and the Council meeting concluded, Cheon-Sang promptly contacted Mu-Gun to inform him of the Council's resolution.
"Well done. Stirring trouble with the Namgung Family is not advisable at the moment," Mu-Gun concurred.
"I think so too. It's not wise to expand our territory given the current circumstances."
"Exactly. We should prioritize internal stability and manage the number of martial clans seeking entry into the Loyal Heart Alliance."
"If we establish two more branches in Shaoxing and Suzhou, and train their members using the martial arts you've developed, we can indeed bolster our internal stability."
"That's true."
The delay in establishing the branch in Shaoxing was primarily due to lacking a suitable base to accommodate its members. The Shaoxing headquarters of the Loyal Heart Alliance United Corps was still under construction. Essential facilities such as the Alliance Leader Hall, the Twelve Council Halls, and the Thirteen Demon Slayer Quarters had only recently been completed. With no provisions for the branch members to lodge and dine, the formation of the branch was postponed. However, due to hastened construction efforts, the branch would soon become a reality.
"By the way, how do you plan to lead the Loyal Heart Alliance in the future?" Cheon-Sang asked.
Mu-Gun replied, "The Loyal Heart Alliance has evolved into a significant power in murim. Even if we don't promote the Baek Sword Sect itself, we can still embody its noble ideals through the Loyal Heart Alliance."
"In that case, the Baek Sword Sect should remain the Leader Clan of the Loyal Heart Alliance."
"Father, your martial skills make you a strong candidate to lead the Loyal Heart Alliance."
Cheon-Sang suggested, "Rather than me, why don't you consider taking on the role of Alliance Leader?"
"You're proposing that I become the Alliance Leader?" Mu-Gun was surprised.
"Yes, I believe it would be better for you to lead the Loyal Heart Alliance, given your martial prowess and your esteemed reputation in murim."
The growth and unity of the Loyal Heart Alliance were primarily attributed to the presence of the Thunder God's successor, Mu-Gun. Cheon-Sang believed that Mu-Gun, the true backbone of the Loyal Heart Alliance, should hold the position of Alliance Leader.
Mu-Gun shook his head, countering Cheon-Sang's suggestion.
"No, if I were to become the Loyal Heart Alliance Leader, my actions would be restricted. It's more effective for me to operate freely as I am now to combat the Nine Celestial Demons Sect."
To Mu-Gun, the role of the Loyal Heart Alliance Leader held little significance. Just like the Zhejiang Martial Alliance, when he established the Loyal Heart Alliance, his primary goal was to build a force capable of safeguarding murim against the threats posed by the Three Greatest Demonic Sects. In the process, both the Baek Sword Sect and the Loyal Heart Alliance would naturally gain influence.
However, Mu-Gun had no desire to use that authority to dominate murim. He envisioned the Loyal Heart Alliance as an organization inheriting the Heavenly Descent Thunder God Sect's mission: to protect murim from the Three Greatest Demonic Sects while maintaining minimal authority. Therefore, if the situation demanded it, he would accept the role of leader, but at present, he had no interest in that position.
Cheon-Sang said firmly, "If you are declining for my sake, it's unnecessary."
Mu-Gun emphasized, "I'm not refusing because of you. It's simply the best choice at the moment. Besides, you are more than qualified to be the Loyal Heart Alliance Leader, Father."
"Very well, I won't press the matter any further if that's your preference," Cheon-Sang conceded.
"In that case, I'll take my leave. I have a sparring session scheduled with the seven wanderers."
"Of course, go ahead."
With that, Mu-Gun said his goodbyes to Cheon-Sang and made his way to the training hall, where the seven wanderers awaited.
* * *
After finalizing the application process for Jiangsu Province's small martial clans, the Loyal Heart Alliance turned its attention to establishing the Righteous Blood Branch, the second branch. They anticipated that over five hundred members from these small martial clans would join the Righteous Blood Branch. As for its base, the Lee Household in Suzhou was chosen for this purpose.
The selection of the branch head and deputy head for the Righteous Blood Branch was a subject of discussion within the Council. Ultimately, the Baek Sword Sect's White Dragon Corps Commander, Baek Cheon-Gi, was designated as the Branch Head, and the Wind Saber Sect's Flutter Wind Corps Commander, Tae Gong-Do, was appointed Deputy Head. Both Cheon-Gi and Gong-Do swiftly headed to Suzhou. They were accompanied by the instructors tasked with teaching the branch members the Loyal Iron Blood Cultivation Method and the Twelve Iron Blood Sword Art.
With the establishment of the Righteous Blood Branch, the organizational structure of the Loyal Heart Alliance grew even more robust. Although the branch's martial artists did not constitute a formidable force, due to their lack of skill, the Loyal Heart Alliance anticipated substantial growth as these martial artists improved their abilities through Mu-Gun's martial arts.
During this time, Mu-Gun delegated the management of the Loyal Heart Alliance to Cheon-Sang and dedicated himself to a rigorous schedule of sparring and martial arts discussions with the martial arts masters residing at the Baek Sword Sect. He sparred with renowned figures such as the three Sword Immortals, the Four Peerless Wanderers, the seven wanderers, the Qiankun Hands, the Daybreak Swordmaster, and Cho Woo-Kyung, totaling seventeen in all. Each day, he rotated through these experts, sharing insights and exchanging martial arts knowledge.
His busy schedule left him with little time to spare for his wives, let alone his own martial arts training. Despite this, Mu-Gun showed no signs of displeasure and remained fully committed to his sparring and martial arts discussions. As a result, all seventeen martial arts masters made significant progress. Notably, four of the seven wanderers achieved a profound level of enlightenment and reached a proper Absolute Realm through their interactions with Mu-Gun.
The three Sword Immortals, the Four Peerless Wanderers, the Qiankun Hands, and the Daybreak Swordmaster also experienced breakthroughs in their abilities, ascending to higher levels. Cho Woo-Kyung was also steadily advancing and nearing the threshold of achieving a proper Absolute Realm. Mu-Gun took immense satisfaction in witnessing their growth, knowing that their progress would fortify the Baek Sword Sect and the Loyal Heart Alliance, making it easier for them to confront the Nine Celestial Demons Sect.
* * *
On a typical day at the Baek Sword Sect's training hall, Mu-Gun engaged in his regular sparring session with the Four Peerless Wanderers. However, their intense training was interrupted when Baek Mu-Ok made a personal visit to the training hall. Mu-Gun immediately recognized that Mu-Ok's presence signified an urgent matter, and, in response, he asked for Yang Cheol-Gons understanding and paused the spar.
What brings you here? Mu-Gun asked Mu-Ok.
Mu-Ok explained, "We have a guest who came from the Beihai Ice Palace."
"The Beihai Ice Palace?" Mu-Gun asked, surprised.
Mu-Ok confirmed, "Yes, the Beihai Ice Palace's Young Matriarch has asked to see you, Brother."
Mu-Gun's surprise deepened, "The Beihai Ice Palace's Young Matriarch personally sought me out?"
"Yes, it seems there are some troubles at the Beihai Ice Palace."
"Troubles?"
Recently, there has been treacherous behavior reported within the forces beyond the borders, and I think it is related to that, Mu-Ok reported.
Treacherous behavior?
It is not yet certain, but there is a possibility that those rebel groups are connected to the Nine Celestial Demons Sect. Mu-Ok continued.
It is certainly possible that it is the Nine Celestial Demons Sect. So, where is the Beihai Ice Palaces Young Matriarch right now? Mu-Gun asked.
For now, I guided her to the distinguished guest hall.
Okay. I will quickly wash up, so make sure she is treated hospitably.
Understood.
I think we will have to finish our sparring session early today. Mu-Gun turned to the Four Peerless Wanderers, seeking their understanding.
Is our sparring that important? Dont worry about it, the Four Peerless Wanderers said.
Mu-Gun swiftly exited the training hall and made his way to his residence. After a quick wash, he put on fresh clothes and proceeded to the distinguished guest hall.
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