The Divine And Demonic Doctor [EN]: Chapter 349

After Bum Gye-wi and his group joined, the Divine Devil Valley became a hive of activity.

Although it wasn’t closed-door training, the duration was open-ended, so there were many preparations to be made.

To focus on training, they needed to identify potential operational problems within the merchant guild and medical clan and prepare countermeasures in advance.

Jeok-san was entrusted with full authority over the merchant guild, and Pung Jin-sung took over the medical clan. However, Sa Mu-sim, as the chief manager, had to directly intervene and handle many of the large and small issues that arose.

In particular, Neung So-mil held meetings almost daily with the Wiso leaders stationed in Muwi.

To prepare for his absence, he divided the jurisdiction and responsibilities within the territory and thoroughly checked and prepared the emergency response protocols.

Dan Ahk-seon was also busy, meticulously preparing for the upcoming training.

On the fifteenth day, Dan Ahk-seon, judging that the preparations were nearly complete, brought up a crucial matter in a meeting with everyone.

“I believe all the preparations will be finished soon. But there’s something I want to confirm beforehand.”

Dan Ahk-seon turned his head towards Byeok Hwa-ryeong.

“As before, this training will involve martial arts research. To facilitate that, you must disclose all the *gyeol* [key techniques] and stances of the Hainan Sword Sect’s martial arts.”

Byeok Hwa-ryeong paused, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes.

Even for Dan Ahk-seon, the disclosure of the Hainan Sword Sect’s secrets was a very sensitive issue, steeped in tradition and guarded fiercely.

“If you’re unwilling, you don’t have to participate.”

Byeok Hwa-ryeong hesitated for a moment at Dan Ahk-seon’s considerate suggestion.

But the hesitation didn’t last long.

Bum Gye-wi, meeting her gaze, nodded with a confident and encouraging expression.

“I heard about it from Gaga before. You three have already shared the core *gyeol* of your mental cultivation techniques.”

If those who possessed martial arts that could shake the world had disclosed their secrets, there was no reason for her to hesitate.

Moreover, this was a rare opportunity, a stroke of good fortune that might only come once in a lifetime.

It would be a lifelong regret to throw away such a chance because of petty pride or misplaced secrecy.

Above all, she didn’t want to be separated from Bum Gye-wi, even for a moment.

“I will participate too.”

Dan Ahk-seon smiled warmly and nodded, pleased with her decision.

“You made a good decision. It will definitely be a great help to each other, fostering growth and understanding.”

“Then, on this occasion, those two guys too…….”

Byeok Hwa-ryeong, who had opened her mouth with a playful smile, trailed off, her expression shifting to one of mild annoyance.

Jongri-chu and Jang Cheol-woo, who had been keeping an eye on them from a distance, had vanished without a sound, likely attempting to avoid the situation.

“Those guys?”

Byeok Hwa-ryeong, with a hint of fire in her eyes, was about to take off in pursuit when Dan Ahk-seon stopped her with a gentle smile.

“I hope participation is based on their voluntary will. Coercion would defeat the purpose.”

At those words, Byeok Hwa-ryeong sighed softly, reining in her impulsive reaction.

“I showed an unsightly appearance. I apologize.”

“It’s okay. I’m sure the two of them have their own reasons. Perhaps they need time to consider.”

It was then that Dan Ahk-seon brought up an unexpected topic, changing the subject smoothly.

“And I’m thinking of having one more person participate in the training.”

Cho Ahk-ryang tilted his head, a puzzled expression on his face.

No matter how he thought about it, he couldn’t think of anyone else who would be suitable or available.

“Are you saying there’s someone else here who can participate? Someone we haven’t considered?”

Dan Ahk-seon smiled enigmatically and nodded.

“You’ll find out soon. Patience, my friend.”

Three days later.

Cho Ahk-ryang, who was the first to leave his residence, approached Dan Ahk-seon, who was already prepared and waiting with an air of anticipation.

“So, today’s the day. The start of the intensive training.”

Dan Ahk-seon smiled and nodded, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

Soon after, Han Seol-hwa, Bum Gye-wi, and Byeok Hwa-ryeong emerged from their residences and gathered in front of Dan Ahk-seon, ready to begin.

And not long after, Sa Mu-sim and Neung So-mil also entered the Divine Devil Valley, having completed their urgent tasks.

“Welcome, everyone. I’m glad you could all make it.”

Han Seol-hwa smiled slightly at the sight of Dan Ahk-seon greeting everyone with a bright and enthusiastic smile.

“Is he really that happy? He seems almost giddy.”

“He must have been waiting for today more than anyone else. His passion for martial arts is truly something to behold.”

They knew better than anyone else about Dan Ahk-seon’s strong desire for martial arts and his dedication to improving his skills.

“I’ll show you what I’ve prepared for today. I hope it meets your expectations.”

Dan Ahk-seon raised his hand and pointed towards the elixir warehouse, a gesture filled with pride and anticipation.

He had poured his heart and soul into preparing for this training, leaving no stone unturned, so he was more confident than ever in its potential success.

The group, following Dan Ahk-seon, entered the warehouse and were immediately surprised by what they found.

The moment they opened the door, a clear and invigorating fragrance immediately captivated their senses, filling their noses with an intoxicating aroma.

But this was nothing compared to the visual surprise that followed.

Hundreds of elixirs were neatly arranged before their eyes, a dazzling display of alchemical artistry.

Each elixir had a different size and color, reflecting its unique properties and ingredients, but at a glance, they all radiated a special energy that was clearly not ordinary.

“These are elixirs prepared specifically according to your individual constitutions and needs.”

Interest flashed in the group’s eyes, their curiosity piqued by this personalized approach.

Come to think of it, each of their names was written in front of the elixirs, which were separately classified according to type and intended use, a testament to Dan Ahk-seon’s meticulous planning.

“So that’s why you examined our pulses so carefully. You were gathering data to customize the elixirs.”

Cho Ahk-ryang, belatedly realizing the reason behind Dan Ahk-seon’s thorough examinations, let out a low exclamation of understanding.

Dan Ahk-seon smiled bashfully and nodded, acknowledging the truth of Cho Ahk-ryang’s observation.

“First of all, I focused on enhancing your inner strength as much as possible. I also prepared healing elixirs and waist elixirs in case of internal injuries during training.”

It was then that Neung So-mil made a surprised expression, his eyes widening in recognition.

“Huh? Isn’t that the Sacred Water Divine Pill? Those are incredibly rare and potent!”

Dan Ahk-seon smiled and nodded, confirming Neung So-mil’s astute observation.

“That’s right. This time, I plan to use them all without holding back. I’ve prepared three for each of you, so you can expect a significant effect. I’ll tell you separately when to take them for optimal results.”

“Huh……. I don’t know if I deserve to enjoy such blessings. This is far beyond anything I expected.”

“You’ve worked harder for Muwi than anyone else so far, dedicating yourself tirelessly to its prosperity and safety. Compared to what Uncle Neung has done so far, this feels rather insignificant.”

“Valley Lord…….”

Neung So-mil’s nose tingled with emotion, touched by Dan Ahk-seon’s genuine appreciation.

It’s said that men are willing to give their lives for those who recognize their worth and value their contributions.

Of course, he hadn’t done it expecting a reward like this, his dedication stemming from a deep sense of loyalty and responsibility.

But when his efforts were recognized so openly and generously, his heart was filled with warmth and gratitude.

“It will be a truly luxurious training experience. We are incredibly fortunate.”

Cho Ahk-ryang let out a low exclamation, impressed by the scale and thoughtfulness of Dan Ahk-seon’s preparations.

Han Seol-hwa and Bum Gye-wi’s reactions were not much different, their faces reflecting a mixture of surprise and appreciation.

In particular, Byeok Hwa-ryeong couldn’t close her gaping mouth, completely stunned by the sheer abundance of resources.

She had also taken elixirs to improve her inner strength in the past, but they were nothing compared to the legendary Sacred Water Divine Pill, a treasure beyond her wildest dreams.

It was then, amidst the awe and excitement.

“Someone’s coming. I sense their approach.”

At Neung So-mil’s words, the group’s gazes turned towards the entrance of the warehouse, their curiosity piqued.

Dan Ahk-seon smiled knowingly and nodded.

“I guess he’s arrived now. Right on schedule.”

“Are you talking about the person who decided to participate in this training at the last minute? The one you mentioned earlier?”

Dan Ahk-seon answered Cho Ahk-ryang’s question with a confirming nod.

“Yes. I asked him to come here right away, so we could begin without further delay.”

After a moment of anticipation, a person appeared from the entrance, stepping into the warehouse.

“Who is that? I don’t recognize him as a martial artist.”

Everyone’s eyes were filled with bewilderment, their expressions reflecting their surprise and confusion.

It was such an unexpected person, someone they wouldn’t have considered in a million years.

A person they saw often and were now quite familiar with, a fixture in their daily lives.

But he was an ordinary person with no apparent connection to martial arts, a simple physician.

“Don’t tell me the person you’re talking about is Physician Joo? Joo Cho-woon?”

Dan Ahk-seon smiled warmly at Joo Cho-woon, his eyes filled with genuine affection.

“Welcome, Jang-myeong’s father. I’ve been waiting for you. Thank you for bringing him.”

As soon as those words were finished, a small figure appeared from behind Joo Cho-woon, peeking out shyly.

It was Joo Cho-woon’s son, Joo Jang-myeong, a young boy known for his gentle nature and frail health.

Joo Jang-myeong, who stepped forward hesitantly, looked around with a timid expression, overwhelmed by the presence of so many powerful individuals.

Then, when his eyes met Dan Ahk-seon’s reassuring gaze, he smiled awkwardly, a flicker of nervousness in his eyes.

“I came because you told me to come……. But I wonder if there’s anything I can help with? I’m not very good at martial arts.”

“Of course, there is. It will definitely be helpful to each other, a mutually beneficial experience. Your unique perspective will be invaluable.”

Only then did Cho Ahk-ryang fully realize that the person Dan Ahk-seon had invited to this training was Joo Jang-myeong, a seemingly ordinary child with a hidden potential.

‘Come to think of it?’

Joo Jang-myeong was also learning the Wihwa Divine Art, a healing technique passed down through generations.

Dan Ahk-seon had directly taught it to him, and Han Seol-hwa and Bum Gye-wi had also assisted in the process, guiding him and offering their support.

But there was a significant problem, a seemingly insurmountable obstacle.

“But didn’t you say that child can’t use martial arts? That his body is too weak to withstand the rigors of training?”

The purpose of teaching the Wihwa Divine Art at the time was simply for treatment, to alleviate his suffering and improve his quality of life.

It was an internal energy cultivation technique designed to assist his heart, which was not functioning properly due to a congenital condition.

Others didn’t show it outwardly, maintaining their composure, but they were showing a slightly surprised reaction, questioning the logic behind Dan Ahk-seon’s decision.

At this time, Dan Ahk-seon approached Joo Jang-myeong and gently placed his hand on his pulse gate, focusing his energy and attention.

“Jang-myeong, would you like to try using the Wihwa Divine Art? Show us what you’ve learned.”

“Now? Here?”

“Yes. There’s something I want to check, something I need to see for myself.”

Joo Jang-myeong nodded obediently and closed his eyes, trusting in Dan Ahk-seon’s guidance.

And slowly, with focused concentration, he began to draw up the Wihwa Divine Art, channeling his inner energy.

Dan Ahk-seon, who was carefully checking the flow of true energy with a serious and intent look, soon smiled slightly, a hint of satisfaction in his expression.

“As expected. Just as I suspected.”

Cho Ahk-ryang showed a puzzled expression at Dan Ahk-seon’s nodding, unsure of what he had discovered.

“What’s wrong? It doesn’t look that special on the outside. He seems like an ordinary child.”

“Check it out yourself. Feel his pulse and see what you can sense.”

Cho Ahk-ryang took Joo Jang-myeong’s pulse in place of Dan Ahk-seon, focusing his senses and channeling his own energy.

After a moment of intense concentration.

Cho Ahk-ryang tilted his head, a thoughtful expression on his face.

As he had initially expected, the amount of true energy filling Joo Jang-myeong’s dantian [energy center] was woefully insufficient, barely registering on his senses.

It was hardly even worthy of being called inner energy, a mere wisp compared to the vast reserves of a seasoned martial artist.

But…….

“This is?”

Interest flashed in Cho Ahk-ryang’s eyes, a spark of intrigue igniting within him.

He noticed that although he was using the same internal energy cultivation technique as Dan Ahk-seon, the Wihwa Divine Art, its nature was subtly different, possessing a unique quality.

‘It’s surprisingly pure! Even more so than Physician Dan’s! The energy is incredibly refined and focused.’

Although the amount of inner energy was minimal, almost negligible, the true energy flowing through the meridians themselves was surprisingly pure and constant, like a clear and unwavering stream.

‘Where?’

Cho Ahk-ryang, feeling a surge of curiosity, subtly poured a small amount of his own true energy into Joo Jang-myeong’s pulse gate, attempting to probe its depths.

Then, he felt a considerable repulsive force, a surprising resistance to his intrusion.

It was a considerable rebounding energy that exceeded his expectations, a testament to the boy’s inner strength.

And that was only for a moment, a brief surge of defiance.

The true energy, which had been momentarily disturbed, quickly found its place and continued its stable flow, maintaining its purity and unwavering course.

“Hmm.”

Cho Ahk-ryang exclaimed softly and took his hand away, impressed by what he had discovered. Dan Ahk-seon opened his mouth with a knowing smile.

“Unlike me, this child has been devoted to the Wihwa Divine Art for survival, relying on it to sustain his life. As such, he has reached a level of purity in the Wihwa Divine Art that no one else can match.”

Unlike Dan Ahk-seon, who used the Wihwa Divine Art to gain inner energy and enhance his martial prowess, Joo Jang-myeong learned the Wihwa Divine Art to survive, to combat his illness and prolong his life.

Naturally, he had never neglected its operation, practicing it diligently and consistently, even for a moment.

And Joo Jang-myeong’s special constitution also played a significant part in this unique development.

When he first taught the Wihwa Divine Art, he struggled fiercely, facing numerous challenges and setbacks.

Joo Jang-myeong, who had been suffering from illness for a long time, had meridians that were hardened too early for his age, hindering the flow of energy.

Therefore, it took a considerable amount of time and effort to open the path for the true energy to move freely through his body.

Nevertheless, Dan Ahk-seon did not give up, remaining steadfast in his commitment and doing his best to open the meridians, one by one.

He chose a straightforward method of not bypassing the blockage of true energy, but stubbornly and persistently, accurately and surely making a path, overcoming each obstacle with unwavering determination.

Thanks to this rigorous and meticulous approach, Joo Jang-myeong was able to repeatedly operate the Wihwa Divine Art in the most basic yet accurate way, mastering its fundamentals.

“Just as the results of cooking differ depending on the cook even though the recipe is the same, the same Wihwa Divine Art has subtle differences and characteristics depending on the person, reflecting their individual nature.”

Cho Ahk-ryang nodded thoughtfully at Dan Ahk-seon’s insightful explanation, understanding the underlying principle.

“Is it the same skill, different tune? A variation on a theme?”

It means that even among the same musicians, the tune is different, reflecting their unique style and interpretation.

Come to think of it, this may have been a characteristic of the Wihwa Divine Art, its adaptability and flexibility.

Generally, secret arts called divine arts, especially internal energy cultivation techniques, adapt people to martial arts, shaping them and molding them to fit its specific requirements.

From the method of operating true energy to the order, to the consciousness and lifestyle…….

To reach a perfect level, they follow sequential steps and processes under a thorough plan, adhering to strict guidelines and regulations.

On the other hand, the Wihwa Divine Art was taught, but no special restrictions were placed on the training process, allowing for individual expression and adaptation.

As a result, he could only vaguely guess that the internal energy cultivation technique had its own individuality according to each person’s constitution and characteristics, a unique fingerprint of their inner self.

This was an interesting part even for Cho Ahk-ryang, who had already reached the ranks of a grandmaster, a master of martial arts.

‘Come to think of it, that guy also suddenly showed his potential while learning the Wihwa Divine Art.’

Neung So-mil flinched for no reason at Cho Ahk-ryang’s gaze, feeling a sudden unease.

Regardless.

Cho Ahk-ryang wore a meaningful smile, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

He belatedly realized why Dan Ahk-seon was trying to train with Joo Jang-myeong, understanding his hidden motive.

“Training will be quite interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing what we can all learn from each other.”

From that day on, a joint training session began with eight people living together, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and mutual growth.