Before the wedding ceremony, a ritual is performed.
It’s a sacrificial ceremony to capture the will of heaven in this place and wish for good fortune. After that, offerings are made again to the Huang Nation, its guardian spirits, and ancestors. Following this, more offerings are made to my family, the Ho Clan.
While I could summarize this in just a few words, isn’t there a multitude of actions stemming from the mere mention of a sacrificial ceremony? I read the ceremonial scriptures, burn incense, properly invite the spirits, pour libations, present food, and after the feast, I must also ensure the way is clear for the souls to return and send them off.
I navigated that intricate process seamlessly.
It was the result of being drilled by the officials of the rites department for several months. Oh, the great power of repetitive learning! I’m pretty sure that even if I lost my soul now, I could execute this long and complicated procedure flawlessly.
As I became the living macro #1 and proceeded through the ceremony, I overheard whispers among the guests who were experiencing this lengthy ceremony for the first time. Being a royal wedding, they wondered what was different. As I moved according to the proceedings and kept an eye on the guests, I noticed everyone was trying hard to stifle their boredom.
Wi Seoryeon had been resting her chin on her hand with a haughty posture for a while, and Tang So-yeol was still yawning despite getting pinched by Tang Do-yeon.
I couldn’t help but smirk at the guests’ reactions.
Honestly, the reason the ceremony had dragged on this long wasn’t due to the complexity of the royal customs.
It was simply the result of my stubbornness to have all five brides involved in the ceremony.
Usually, even if multiple brides are taken at once, the ceremonies would be held separately according to common custom in the Central Plains. However, this joint wedding ceremony, which seemingly challenged that custom, forced the officials of the rites department to grab hold of their necks and bring forth primitive, ancient rites, resulting in the long ceremonial procedures we are now experiencing.
The simple reason I had to push for a joint wedding ceremony was clear.
If each bride had been married one by one, it would naturally create a clear “hierarchy” based on the order of the ceremony, designating one as the first wife and another as the second wife.
I didn’t want such a hierarchy to emerge among my wives. That kind of ranking wouldn’t help us live happily together; it would only serve as a hindrance.
So, I figured I must endure this long and tedious ceremonial process. Enduring this pain is the duty of a head of the family, isn’t it?
Thus, I turned off my ego and went through the proceedings in a meditative state for a while. Finally, the lengthy ceremony came to an end.
As the officials stepped down from the altar and moved to the banquet area, the once-distracted guests finally realized that the wedding ceremony was about to begin and straightened up their postures.
“On this auspicious day, when the heavenly gods and guardian spirits gather here, we declare the commencement of this wedding ceremony!”
“The groom! Originally from Sacheon! His courtesy name is Brain Knife Outcast, and he is the eldest son of the Ho Clan, named Cheon-an!”
As I took my place at the groom’s seat following the guidance of the officials, my once-quiet heart began to thump with excitement. For this moment… there had been such a long road filled with various events leading up to this. I had embodied Park Mun-su in Ak-yang, founded a fan club for Hyeok Gi-rin, defeated my outcast father-in-law from the Sacheon faction, laughed like a fool in Liaoning, and even rebuilt the Yeo-ga Mountain Villa.
All those events were for this moment.
“Now, let the brides make their appearance!”
With a light gasp, five people entered the ceremony hall. I took in their appearances one by one.
First was the Black Cat.
Today, the Black Cat wore the most splendid attire of anyone. Dressed in a bright crimson base, the flower petal embroidery in a myriad of colors suited her perfectly.
Back when she was a Sacheon Outcast, the Black Cat would often throw off her dark robes and wear luxurious clothing whenever she got the chance. Now that I think about it, that obsession with lavish attire may have unconsciously been a way to chase after memories of my mother-in-law.
The expression on the Black Cat’s face, adorned in what was undoubtedly her mother’s heartfelt creation, looked happier than ever.
Next, my eyes fell on Miss Yeo Il-ye.
Dressed in a modest white outfit with green trims, she appeared more suited for a discreet lady than for a wedding.
That outfit was stumbled upon during the reconstruction of the Yeo-ga Mountain Villa. Considering the expression on her face that day, it was likely her mother’s clothing.
Although it lacked flair, I felt the outfit brought out Yeo Il-ye’s unique charm for that very reason.
Next up was Hyeok Gi-rin.
The red fabric signifying royalty was embroidered with golden threads. Today, there were numerous gold accessories hanging behind her. It was an unparalleled splendor.
Yet, there was something innocently pure about the smile that lingered on Hyeok Gi-rin’s face amidst all that opulence.
Next was Dokgo I-seol.
Instead of her usual flamboyance, Dokgo I-seol wore a simple white robe embroidered with the Black Dragon motif. Despite fewer accessories than usual, I wondered why her elegance wasn’t diminished at all.
As I scrutinized Dokgo I-seol briefly, I quickly realized why. Though plainly dressed, the outfit fit her perfectly, tailored to highlight her beauty. It was evident that she had put effort into refining that simple appearance, which made it all the more striking.
In contrast, Moyong Yeon-hwa wore an outfit that didn’t significantly differ from her everyday attire. Sure, it was made more elaborate than usual, but she simply wore an outer robe over the clothing embellished with the Moyong Clan’s embroidery. It suggested she hadn’t dressed up too much, just that her base fashion was higher in quality.
Before I knew it, all five brides stood right in front of me.
And while looking into their eyes, the sudden thought struck me.
Ah, I’m really getting married now.
With that realization came a wave of nerves.
“Bride! From Honam! Her courtesy name is Black Cat, and she’s the eldest daughter of the So Clan, named Yeon-hwa!”
“Bride! From Yunnan! Her courtesy name is Red Bamboo Swordswoman, and she’s the eldest daughter of the Yeo Clan, named Il-ye!”
“Bride! The legitimate descendant of the Great Huang Nation! Her courtesy name is Hyeok Gi-rin and she’s named Geum Myeong-wol!”
“Bride! From Yunnan! Her courtesy name is ‘Best Beauty in Yunnan,’ and she is the third daughter of the Dokgo family, named I-seol!”
“Bride! From Liaoning! Her courtesy name is Spring Breeze, and she is a direct member of the Moyong Clan, named Yeon-hwa!”
While I was immersed in those thoughts, the ceremony continued smoothly.
As the brides were introduced, six cups placed on the altar were gradually filled with alcohol. Once we drink from this alcohol, we will become husband and wife.
To be honest, various anxieties were still swirling in my mind. In the future, at the Yeo-ga Mountain Villa — or rather, Ho-ga Mountain Villa — will I be able to make Black Cat, Yeo Il-ye, Hyeok Gi-rin, Dokgo I-seol, and Moyong Yeon-hwa happy as I determined to?
Will I really be able to do this well?
Doubt and apprehension still lingered in my heart.
Nevertheless, I reached out for the cup with conviction.
It was because the joy shining in the eyes of the five who faced me and also stretched their hands toward the cups was evident. If this marriage brings joy to me and my companions, then what is there to hesitate or ponder about?
Thus, without any hesitation, I emptied my cup.
And we became husband and wife.
*
What’s the most crucial matter for those who have just married?
Isn’t it the first night together?
It’s been a week since that first night.
‘That was great…’
Lying alone on the bed, I shook my head as I tried to recall the memories from the previous night, the first night of our newlywed phase. I plan to keep that memory close to my heart without the need to revisit it.
And truth be told, there was no need to recall that first night.
Ever since that day, we’ve been enjoying delightful moments every night.
“Haaa…”
Lost in those fluffy memories momentarily, I soon sighed, remembering the reality. I wanted to maintain that dreamy atmosphere, but reality was harsh.
One end is merely the start of another.
Could there be a moment where that sentiment resonates deeper?
The wedding ceremony had come to an end; however, what had ended was just the ceremony, not the marriage itself. Unlike stories where happiness radiates from brides with bright smiles or teary-eyed joy concluding the novels, real life is unending, meaning that matters beginning with the wedding continue even after the ceremony is over.
Only after becoming a married man did I truly grasp why the culture of honeymooning existed.
After the once-in-a-lifetime event that left me drained, I was forced to either head abroad or travel to some destination. Is it for romance? Or to create special memories?
Those interpretations might hold some truth.
However, I believe the true purpose of a honeymoon is to give couples time to focus solely on each other.
Why do I think that?
Because what I need most right now is just that time. If I had gone on a honeymoon? At this moment, I would have been snuggling up with my wives. I felt a strong desire for intimate moments together, yet the reality forced me to counsel the guests as soon as the sun rose.
Why must I be newlywed only at night? Why is there no advanced custom of honeymooning in the Martial World?
“Aah, I don’t want to do this…”
Still, I have to fulfill my obligations… Drooping my shoulders, I reluctantly put on my outer robe when my wives entered, freshly ready.
Black Cat, perhaps recalling last night, momentarily wore a weird expression. Hmm, thinking back on last night’s events, I suppose that would make sense.
As an aside, Black Cat is quite vulnerable at nights.
Perhaps embarrassed for being a bit too fluffy, she cleared her throat and said.
“Shall we go, husband?”
“Hmm. Ahem… Let’s go, my wife.”
Black Cat twisted her body as if feeling awkward at the term ‘my wife.’ Hyeok Gi-rin, with a sidelong smile, commented.
“Oh my, dear Yeon-hwa, you should get used to being called wife.”
Imagine Hyeok Gi-rin teasing Black Cat! It’s something I wouldn’t have dreamed of before marriage.
“Ugh… What’s the deal, senior? It’s all your fault! You suddenly started using honorifics and all!”
Seeing Black Cat unfairly blame me, I could only scratch my neck helplessly. What should I say? The moment I call her ‘wife’ makes it feel as if I ought to use honorifics.
Hyeok Gi-rin chuckled at Black Cat’s embarrassment and said.
“Well, the issue with titles can be sorted out slowly. Still, you must endure it when showing off in front of guests.”
“Tch, I already know that much!”
“Now, now, off we go. The guests have been waiting eagerly.”
“Yes.”
Now, looking around the guest area that had turned into a banquet hall, there were so many people I had to greet. Those who were once merely my guests had now become everyone’s guests.
“Are you enjoying yourselves?”
“Welcome! Would you like a drink?”
“Of course!”
I scanned the guests gathered at this place.
Since the celebration had been ongoing for a week, I had already established bonds with many of the guests. Moreover, the guests had been mingling with one another, leading to numerous small gatherings where they shared cups of wine.
“Here, take a drink.”
“Thank you, Sect Leader.”
I accepted the cup offered by the leader of the Song Clan. The Song Clan held a position similar to that of the Cheon-ho Sect. It was a clan well-known within Gwangju, but viewed as lesser-known among the vast martial world.
The leader of the Song Clan was one of those passionate people about the affairs of the martial world. If he had become the regional overlord, he would naturally be interested in making a name for himself, and to do so, one must understand the prevailing conditions.
“Are you enjoying your newlywed life?”
“Haha. These days couldn’t be better.”
“It’s truly a blissful time.”
Lighthearted banter and casual chit-chat opened up the flow of conversation. However, the subsequent dialogue had a clear purpose.
“To completely restore the villa that was burned down before… I assume quite a fortune was spent. I envy your wealth to manage such a feat.”
“Haha, I merely got lucky with an investment that went well. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Gwang-cheol Workshop? They developed a groundbreaking smelting technique, and I had invested a little money there.”
“Oh, I see… So, you also have an eye for investments.”
He was probing my intentions. More accurately, he was trying to gather information about any new powers emerging in the martial world.
“Even so, it’s astonishing how you managed to restore this massive villa in one go.”
“I’ve heard that the Lord of the Dark Dragon Sect greatly supported you in both material and spiritual ways…”
He seemed to be looking into how much stake my family holds in this Ho-ga Mountain Villa.
“By the way, I noticed that the nameplate has changed to Ho-ga Mountain Villa now. Are you planning to take over as the head of your family, Ho Cheon-an Great Hero?”
“You would be more than capable of becoming a sect leader, so it’s not odd if you were to create a new faction.”
He was also testing whether I might create my own faction or clan.
Well, I already had a predetermined answer to such inquiries.
“Haha. A martial world faction? I merely wish to establish a family and rest in peace.”
That was a declaration of my tentative retirement.
Why is it a tentative declaration and not a definitive one? Because I’m still too young to announce retirement. With a long life ahead of me, who could say what would happen later if I prematurely declared retirement?
“Indeed, is that so?”
Though I said that, no one seemed to believe me at all. Having gone through countless similar situations over the past week, I simply accepted it with indifference.
Truth be told, no one believed my words when I proclaimed the possibility of tentatively retiring from the martial world. Not just the guests who came from afar but even people close to me.
Jeong Sam and Yeo Jin-sang scoffed at my words, while Yu Sa-yeon, Yoo Gyeong, and Dokgo Yeongcheon looked at me with the expression, “What kind of scheme is he up to now?”
Given that the guests gathered here had reasonable doubts about me, it was only natural.
After the non-substantive conversation, I rose from my seat and spotted Wi Seoryeon, who was intensely engaged in a gamble with Tang Do-gyeong.
“Hmm.”
Speaking of which, how has Wi Seoryeon taken my declaration of tentative retirement? Since she was always diving into gambling as soon as our eyes met, there had been no opportunity to hear her true thoughts.
It looked like the game between her and Tang Do-gyeong was nearly over, so now would be the perfect time to ask.
I slipped into the audience watching the conclusion of their wagering. From what I could tell, it seemed Wi Seoryeon was edging out a win given that Tang Do-gyeong’s gambling funds had hit rock bottom.
Today’s game was dice.
Clink, clink.
Listening to the sound of the dice rattling in the cup, I realized that Wi Seoryeon’s gambling skills had remarkably improved. How should I put this? While this round wasn’t my game, the noise from the cup was notably muffled.
It almost sounded like there was water in it. To discern the dice’s changes rolling inside, one would need exceptional skills.
It appeared my efforts over the last week to keep a lead against Tang Do-gyeong were not mere luck.
Despite the differences in their years of gambling experience, there’s a gap in standing between Tang Do-gyeong and Wi Seoryeon. Tang Do-gyeong had devoted himself to honing the Tang Clan’s Dark Dragon Strategy, while Wi Seoryeon had merely wandered around the world focusing solely on gambling.
If she keeps progressing like this, perhaps Wi Seoryeon could become a gambling prodigy.
Lost in those thoughts, the dice tumbled to a stop.
“I bet on 2.”
“I won.”
The result of the rolled dice was 8, and Tang Do-gyeong calmly conceded defeat. Some guests who were watching the exhilarating display of dexterity between Wi Seoryeon and Tang Do-gyeong offered their accolades and drifted away.
“Then, am I next?”
“Forget it. Today let’s just drink.”
“Hmm. Fair enough.”
Light snacks were arranged before us as Tang Do-gyeong, Wi Seoryeon, and I settled around a table. With no need to waste time, I immediately got to the point. What did they think about my tentative retirement?
Wi Seoryeon responded with a small chuckle to my question.
“Do you really intend to retire?”
“Why? Isn’t it reasonable?”
“Not really. If it’s Ho Cheon-an I know, the moment you decide to retire, you’re the type to act on it immediately.”
…Was I really that decisive a person? To resolve that question, I turned my gaze to Tang Do-gyeong, who nodded in agreement.
“It seems there are lingering feelings for the martial world, which causes you to create such potential rumors.”
Following Wi Seoryeon’s observation, I fell deep into contemplation. Do I really have any lingering feelings for the martial world? Lingering, lingering…
To be honest, it’s not that I had none. Looking at this wedding alone, there are quite a few reasons for me to feel a sense of lingering attachment. First of all, I never managed to send an invitation to Seo Mun-yeon who gave birth to Six Star Chen. Though I heard the Moyong Clan successful reunion, my latest engagement has rendered its aftermath unclear.
How could I send an invitation to the hiding couple who’ve decided to live in seclusion?
Next, I must feel some lingering sentiments about being unable to invite the Hall Master of the Martial Forest Alliance, Yeon Cheon-baek. If I could have invited him, it might have alleviated the guests’ suspicion, who eyed the Heavenly Demon Sect or Huang Family warily.
Of course, Wi Seoryeon’s idea of lingering feelings doesn’t pertain to the wedding itself. I merely want to express that every matter tends to leave behind some lingering thoughts. However, even if such feelings exist, if someone asks whether I would go back and redo the wedding, I would shake my head.
That leaves me with the question of why I cannot decisively declare retirement as Wi Seoryeon said, perhaps due to these lingering feelings for the martial world.
Lingering feelings. Lingering feelings.
What in the martial world am I actually holding onto?
Desire for martial arts?
I can cultivate martial arts here at Ho-ga Mountain Villa anytime.
Then how about the desire for fame?
That’s out of the question.
Though I have grown accustomed to being recognized now, fundamentally, I’ve lived half my life worried about whether I’d achieve fame. Frankly, what meaning would it even have if I were to become more famous than I already am?
Creating a new sect?
I’m not so sure.
The reason I chose the Lightning Great Swordmaster and learned the Single Cut Blade Technique was not due to any admiration for them. They were merely the best means by which I could defeat Jeong Cheol within my capabilities.
As much time as I have spent honing these techniques, I’ve grown attached to them, but would I genuinely desire to form a sect based on the Enlightened Cloud Thunder Technique and Single Cut Blade Technique? The answer is no.
To put it more frankly, neither Single Cut Blade nor Enlightened Cloud Thunder Technique were the martial arts of my preference. In a Rock-Paper-Scissors game, one can become the ultimate rock that crushes paper, giving rise to a heated tale you might find in a shonen manga. But I prefer a character that toyed with their opponents using multiple moves instead of someone hot-blooded and silly.
Adventuring or hunting for opportunities?
Haven’t I done enough? At this point, I’m tired of just riding on carts. While I am a bit curious about the original homeland of Korea known as Hwan-guk, just the thought of embarking on a journey across hundreds of miles makes me shiver.
So, just what in the martial world am I clinging to?
I could not find an answer to that question until I stood up from my seat.
