Heavenly Demon Divine Saint - Chapter 113

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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Chapter 113
Cheon So-hyun rapidly skimmed through the secret manual once more.
Since he had been too focused on the martial intent to properly examine the contents, he wanted to at least grasp the gist of it.
The Arahan’s Radiant Body was indeed a weighty martial art.
Each realm he aimed for and every emotion embedded in the text carried the weight of Mount Tai. To avoid being crushed beneath that heaviness, it seemed he would need to approach it with a light heart instead.
Suddenly, he understood why the majority of martial arts left behind by Arahan had been so focused on defense.
‘He intended to endure until Cheonsin’s awakening was complete.’
Persisting and persisting until his vital energy was depleted—the technique had been devised to bring down that entity.
Just how powerful had that Celestial Demon been?
As he pondered Cheonsin, the Cult Leader suddenly came to mind.
What would happen if he emerged into the Central Plains?
Surely a terror no less than that of Cheonsin would swiftly spread across the entire Central Plains.
Though the Cult Leader had somehow failed to become the Heavenly Demon, his martial prowess was such that one could scarcely dare to hold a contrary opinion.
Even with his previous life’s martial skills intact, he would find it difficult to guarantee victory against such a master as the Cult Leader.
Of course, matters would differ after reaching the Diamond Indestructible Body, but if the Cult Leader led forth countless cult followers, the entire Realm would surely groan under the weight—as certain as seeing fire.
As his thoughts reached that point, he felt his body grow hot of its own accord.
‘…This is not the time for such thoughts.’
Cheon So-hyun gathered the Arahan’s Radiant Body and bowed to Beop Gang.
“Keeper, I shall take my leave now.”
“Go carefully. You may return the Arahan’s Radiant Body to the Main Temple once you judge that you have completed it yourself.”
Cheon So-hyun nodded.
“I have gained a meaningful martial art thanks to you. I shall see you again.”
“Yes, I shall pray that fortune in martial arts follows your path ahead.”
Cheon So-hyun promptly exited the Janggyeong Pavilion and approached Hyegong, who had been waiting for him.
“Have you been waiting long?”
“Not at all. You emerged sooner than expected. Did you find something that pleased you?”
“More than one or two things. I thought my eyes would roll right out of my head.”
“Ha ha, then all is well.”
Hyegong stood with his hands clasped behind his back, gazing toward the distant mountains. He did not ask what I had brought.
He simply pointed ahead as if satisfied with my choice.
“You haven’t had proper rest, so let us depart now.”
As Hyegong took a step forward, he suddenly stopped dead in his tracks. His previously serene expression went blank in an instant. It was because of the object held in the hands of Cheon So-hyun, who had drawn near.
‘…The Sengrok Kasaya?’
A divine treasure left behind by Bodhidharma himself. So precious that none of the successive Abbots had dared to lay hands upon it.
Hyegong’s voice, not having anticipated that I would bring out the Sengrok Kasaya, was laden with bewilderment.
“Y-you, that is….”
“As you can see, what I have chosen are the Sengrok Kasaya and one secret manual.”
Cheon So-hyun extended the objects held in both hands forward.
Hyegong’s gaze settled upon the cover of the secret manual.
‘The Arahan’s Radiant Body?’
It was a name that even Hyegong, who had mastered numerous martial arts of Shaolin and ascended to the position of Abbot, had never heard before. Sensing that this was no ordinary technique, Hyegong asked.
“Is this a martial art recommended by the Patriarch?”
Cheon So-hyun nodded.
“He said it was an incomplete scripture and told me to try completing it. I only skimmed through it briefly, but the contents were so intriguing that I brought it along without hesitation.”
“Well done. The fact that the Patriarch entrusted it to you directly means he judged it to be the most suitable technique for you. You’ll certainly be able to master it well.”
“Yes, that’s what I’m counting on.”
Even as Hyegong offered these words of encouragement, his eyes remained fixed on the Seungrok Kasaya. It was unavoidable—the garment was like the very soul of Shaolin itself.
“But… it seems you’ve taken quite a liking to that kasaya, Cheon benefactor.”
Cheon So-hyun fluttered the Seungrok Kasaya as he spoke.
“Of course. It was written there that it was left behind by Bodhidharma himself.”
“….”
“As you instructed, I selected the most precious treasure from among those inside.”
Hyegong stared at him intently.
He took the Seungrok Kasaya?
He nearly blurted out such words.
Even if he gave away half of the Janggyeong Pavilion, the Seungrok Kasaya was not to be parted with. It was that symbolic a relic.
‘There were secret manuals, elixirs, and protective armor—why of all things….’
Hyegong tore his gaze from the Seungrok Kasaya and looked at Cheon So-hyun. A radiant smile was plastered across his face, brimming with genuine joy.
‘Yes, of course he’d be delighted. What kind of object is that….’
Settling his turbulent heart, Hyegong smiled back at him.
“Congratulations. There were countless treasures stored in the Janggyeong Pavilion—your discernment is truly remarkable.”
With those words, Hyegong cleanly shed his lingering attachment.
After all, wasn’t it precisely because of such profound gratitude that he had granted access in the first place?
That Hye Gwang’s successor had taken the kasaya was no mistake. He was the one who had given Hye Gwang the chance to part ways—every treasure in the Janggyeong Pavilion would not be too great a price.
“Had I been in your position, I would have chosen the Seungrok Kasaya as well. Setting aside its historical significance, it would be genuinely beneficial for cultivation. I offer my gratitude once more.”
Hyegong offered his congratulations with sincerity.
The Seungrok Kasaya was the very treasure he had held the access rights to yet never dared remove throughout his entire life—so precious he had never even held it in his hands. In truth, it had never been his to begin with.
‘Yes, it found its true master.’
That was enough.
Hyegong resolved never to look back again.
Whether Cheon So-hyun knew the depths of his heart or not, his lips were stretched wide in a grin.
“Haha, I’m the one who should be grateful. You’ve allowed me to claim such a treasure. I hope you remain in good health for many years to come and continue to serve as Abbot.”
As Cheon So-hyun grinned widely, Hyegong suddenly asked.
“What else are you planning to take next time?”
“Whatever you offer, I’ll gladly accept. I’ve already spotted a few more items.”
“Very well, off you go now.”
Hyegong chuckled lightly and gestured forward, moving his steps. As he passed through the hazy barrier of the formation, Cheon So-hyun watched his expression carefully from the corner of his eye.
‘Truly, his patience is remarkable, isn’t it?’
It must have pained him terribly, yet the Abbot Senior Brother didn’t cast a single glance at the Seungrok Kasaya. Should one call this the fruit of great cultivation?
In any case, having enjoyed himself sufficiently, he held out the kasaya to his senior brother.
“Abbot, please accept this.”
“…Hmm? Accept what?”
“I simply felt it would suit you far better than myself. Isn’t this the kind of robe that truly shines only when worn by the one who represents Shaolin?”
Hyegong’s eyes widened in surprise.
His expression laid bare his astonishment. He had never imagined that Cheon So-hyun would offer him the Seungrok Kasaya.
Though momentarily taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, Hyegong quickly regained his composure.
He shook his head.
“There’s no need. I granted you access to the Janggyeong Pavilion solely for your future. If you feel it unnecessary, bring me something else instead—perhaps a spiritual elixir that might aid your cultivation.”
“I’ve already received everything I need.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“My Master spoke of you so often that I grew weary of hearing it. He would laugh while complaining about your tedious teachings, yet he spoke of you frequently.”
“…!”
“Since those teachings have come to me in full, haven’t I already received more than enough?”
Hyegong’s pupils trembled.
He realized that Cheon So-hyun had chosen this robe as a gift for him from the very beginning.
It was less joy than bewilderment. This was a treasure of the Janggyeong Pavilion itself. To forgo such a precious opportunity and bring a gift for him instead?
Hyegong’s lips parted slightly. Words did not come easily.
Cheon So-hyun placed the Seungrok Kasaya into his hands.
“Don’t embarrass me—accept it quickly.”
In that instant, Hyegong’s shoulders trembled. The moment the robe touched his skin, an extraordinary energy seeped into him.
‘Is this a relic of the previous generation…?’
The dharmic power flowing through the robe was something he had never experienced in all his years.
A firm yet warm energy permeated his heart.
Like armor, like a steadfast shield—it was as though the warmth of Bodhidharma himself transcended the centuries and reached him now.
He never imagined that a single object could stir his emotions so deeply. He, who prided himself on transcendence above all else.
“You refused, saying there was no need, yet now your mouth hangs open in wonder. Come now, put it on. How much longer will you simply hold it?”
“Even so, that’s rather….”
“Let me help you.”
Cheon So-hyun unfolded the robe and draped it across his shoulders. As if meeting its true master, the Seungrok Kasaya settled smoothly upon Hyegong’s frame.
“Ah, truly—clothes make the man! It suits you remarkably well. Ha!”
Watching Cheon So-hyun’s bright laughter, Hyegong’s eyes rippled with emotion.
It was the moment he understood what it meant to be at a loss for words. Gratitude overwhelmed him—a swelling, indescribable surge of profound emotion.
“How does it feel?”
“…It’s wonderful. Wonderfully so—I lack the words to express it.”
Hyegong’s voice trembled faintly.
“Whenever the Sect Leaders of the Nine Sects subtly boasted of their predecessors’ treasures, I never truly understood their sentiment. Now, at last, I comprehend their hearts. Thank you for such a precious gift, Cheon.”
Hyegong carefully caressed the robe.
Even with free access to the Janggyeong Pavilion, given his nature, he would never have worn this robe unless someone had taken it out and placed it in his hands.
‘…That fellow truly is blessed with good disciples.’
Hyegong swallowed his admiration and lifted his gaze.
“I’ve experienced emotions I never would have known otherwise, thanks to you. I’m grateful. You must not have eaten yet—go down and have your meal.”
* * *
Hyegong descended the mountain path with a radiant smile.
It had been a truly joyful day. The unexpected gift was one thing, but the presence of Cheon So-hyun was another—it had been a long time since his spirits had been lifted so.
Hyegong resolved to treat him with proper hospitality and released the formation. He gently caressed his robes in secret, savoring the warm dharmic energy as he walked slowly down the path.
Then, suddenly, his head turned.
“Cheon So-hyun?”
For some reason, Cheon So-hyun stood motionless at the midpoint, smiling. There was something unsettling about that quiet expression.
“…What is it?”
“I’ll be descending the mountain now.”
“What are you saying? You’re leaving already?”
“Yes, I’ve grown quite weary of temple fare.”
Hyegong knew that wasn’t the real reason. As a Warrior himself, he understood exactly what kind of man Cheon So-hyun was.
“Even if one’s path is resolute… couldn’t you rest here for a while?”
Hyegong’s tone carried an unmistakable note of reluctance.
“Stay just one more day. Hye Gwang has other senior brothers, and there are many disciples and young monks I’d like to introduce you to. There are some around your age, so it won’t be tedious.”
Cheon So-hyun shook his head.
“I must go now. I’m in quite a hurry.”
His answer was calm, but his heart was deeply conflicted. He too longed to remain at Shaolin.
He wanted to stay longer, to mingle and talk with his brothers, to see how much the young monks had grown.
Most of all, he wanted to continue the conversation he hadn’t finished with Abbot Senior Brother.
He wanted to ask, one by one, how he had been faring, how shocked he was at news of my rebirth, whether he had fully composed himself.
But he couldn’t allow himself to do so.
‘I must hurry.’
Only by returning swiftly could everyone remain safe. If war erupted in Shaolin or the Central Plains, it would plunge him into unbearable turmoil.
If he didn’t return to the Namgung Family in time, he would invite unwanted suspicion, so he had to depart as quickly as possible.
‘Yes… this is for the best.’
Hyegong read the emotion Cheon So-hyun couldn’t quite conceal in his expression.
It was conflict—a mixture of resolve to move forward despite knowing this path opposed his own desires, mingled with frustration.
Yet Cheon So-hyun’s eyes remained steadfast. Faced with that unwavering gaze, Hyegong could not press further.
“Then… will we meet again?”
Cheon So-hyun’s lips curved upward.
“Of course. We should see each other so often you grow tired of it. As soon as the temple gates open, I’ll visit as soon as I hear word.”
Hyegong smiled bitterly.
“There will be no time for idleness, then.”
With his resolve hardened, he assumed the half-palm salute.
“Travel safely, Cheon So-hyun. In the darkness that surrounds all things, your recklessness has become the lantern of our Main Temple. I will cherish it for a long time—come visit again.”
Cheon So-hyun faced him and respectfully raised one hand in return.
It was the first time he had performed the half-palm salute since his rebirth.
“I have learned much during this time. Please take care of yourself and remain safe, Master.”
Hyegong’s eyes widened.
“Master? I taught Cheon So-hyun nothing, so why does he call me Master?”
Cheon So-hyun smiled gently.
“I learned much by watching over your shoulder. Since you taught my Master so rigorously, it is as though you taught me as well.”
“I see….”
Only then did a faint smile bloom across Hyegong’s lips.
Thinking of it as a connection forged through karma, much like the admonishment he had heard from Hye Gwang’s heart transmission, the heaviness that had settled in one corner of his chest seemed to scatter somewhat.
“I shall await word of your journey. The path will be treacherous, so descend with care.”

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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