114

Chapter 114 - Management - Part 1

Sticky Martial World.

Or so-called Erotic Martial World. Broadly speaking, this genre is known for its martial arts novels with many erotic scenes and more narrowly, it refers to the erotic martial arts novels that emerged during the dark age of Korean martial arts novels decades ago.

These Sticky Martial Worlds that appeared during the dark age were essentially pornography at a later stage, so they were called 'Noryeong Martial Arts' after tweaking 'Norpo', which is 'porno' spelled backwards.

Martial arts fans refused to even consider Sticky Martial Worlds as martial arts, deeming them closer to erotic fiction. However, one cannot entirely ignore the influence of Noryeong Martial Arts.

Sticky Martial World played the role of a boundary that divided old-school and new-school martial arts novels, and whether one noticed it or not, cliches from these works still prevail in numerous martial arts cliches to this day.

It is an undeniable fact that during the dark age of martial arts, the genre was sustained commercially by these works. 

This commercial viability is precisely why I took notice of Sticky Martial World.

Even during times when the popularity of martial arts novels plummeted, Noryeong Martial Arts remained in demand.

"Starting with Sticky Martial World, I will make martial arts novels popular again."

Begin with Sticky Martial World to let readers experience the fun of martial arts novels.

If I write an interesting Sticky Martial World, it won't only be for the erotic parts; readers will emerge who find joy in the martial arts elements.

Then, it will be time to write martial arts novels like the Stormy Martial Heroes Chronicles again.

"I will become the grandmaster of martial arts novels."

Kang Yoon Ho, the pioneer of the martial arts genre. By starting with Sticky Martial World, he touched the hearts of people throughout the martial world with numerous martial arts novels.

When it comes to martial arts, Kang Yoon Ho; when it comes to Kang Yoon Ho, martial arts.

Speaking of today's martial world (武林), they think not of the nine orthodox sects, but of martial arts novelist Kang Yoon Ho.

It's like dreaming of riding a dragon—a seemingly absurd dream.

For an ordinary foreign scribe to gain renown in this martial world, shouldn't one at least dream this big?

"Sketching out the dragon."

Drawing the dragon might turn into a snake or a worm if it fails. However, one must attempt to draw the dragon to have the ability to draw a snake or a worm at all.

I began writing down the basic plot for the Sticky Martial World that would turn into a dragon.

"Just follow the cliches."

In this world, I will be the one to pioneer the Sticky Martial World genre. What is trite yet proven fun will feel fresh and innovative here.

"The issue is how to present it to the readers."

I muttered to myself with a sigh as I looked over the cliches noted for Sticky Martial World.

Even if I write enjoyable cliches, it's a problem. 

Certainly, someone must have enjoyed the fun derived from the cliches in Stormy Martial Heroes Chronicles, but no one had read it.

Of course, if I fail, I can always print out another novel with the press. But human nature desiring to succeed on the first try cannot be ignored.

"Maybe I should attract some attention with the title."

How about the title "Rebirth in the World of Martial Arts~A Story of the Martial World, but Replete with Steamy Scenes~"? Indeed, title baiting seems to be the best strategy for an amateur writer.

"Are you going to keep doing that?"

"Didn't you sleep? Go to sleep."

Was she awakened by my talking to myself? Turning my head, I saw Dang Hwa Rin lying in bed, looking towards me.

"...I felt anxious sleeping alone."

She averted her gaze from mine, as if embarrassed, and spoke.

"The attic does have that effect. That's why I said to sleep at your grandfather's house."

Although the attic of the large bookstore building was spacious, the ceiling wasn't high. Though I had cleaned up somewhat, the cluttered environment along with the low ceiling and unfamiliar bedding wasn't likely to contribute to a good psychological state.

"The steward uncle said that we don't know when the mansion will be handed over, so I should sleep here!"

I was just offering advice and she retorted, raising her voice at the end of her statement accusingly.

"No, even then, it's better to sleep at home rather than waiting for it to be handed over..."

"Forget it. Just lie down beside me."

She scooted to one edge of the bed, deliberately making space for me and thumped the spot indicating for me to lie down there.

"How can we both fit on such a small bed? Just throw down a blanket. I'll sleep on the floor."

Even after clearing the attic, the bed that appeared to be for overnight lodging seemed too cramped for two.

"There are lots of things to do tomorrow, from stocktaking to book organizing—how can I sleep on the floor? Stop this nonsense and lie down already."

Dang Hwa Rin, with a demure expression, continued tapping with the tips of her fingers on the spot meant for me.

Was this the same woman who initially said men and women cannot share the same bed?

It's late at night; time to sleep.

Sticky Martial World may start with a single step, but so must the management of the bookstore. Tomorrow begins with stocktaking and organizing books, and soon after, I'll need to promote the bookstore's reopening.

'Wait, promote?'

A bright idea suddenly streaked through my mind. I sprang to my feet energetically and strode towards Dang Hwa Rin.

"Hwa Rin."

"Huh? What's wrong?"

Dang Hwa Rin, sensing something unusual in my expression, clutched the blanket up to her collarbone with one hand.

"About the bookstore renovation. Would it be alright if I tried something my way?"

"On your own terms? What are you planning?"

"I'll tell you tomorrow."

I lay down on the bed with a smile, seeing Dang Hwa Rin's perplexed face.

"It's you... it must be a good idea, right?"

She watched me smiling for a while, then seemingly convinced herself and closed her eyes with a satisfied expression.

That's right. Just trust me. If all goes according to plan, I'll be able to manage the bookstore without worries about Sticky Martial World. Sleep peacefully.

"Hwa Rin, sorry, but could you move a bit further to the edge? I'm worried we might touch while sleeping."

"This is as far as I can go."

"...I'm still uneasy."

The next morning, just as I had feared, my awakening was more reminiscent of a rom-com protagonist than suitable for me.

--------

"Hwa Rin. I want to go to the place that the steward uncle mentioned before."

Without bringing up this morning's event, a silent agreement made, we put aside all other affairs and headed out after purchasing another bed.

"..."

When I looked towards Dang Hwa Rin, she promptly turned her head away.

Are you still upset? I'm sorry. But how is it my fault? You're the one who said sleep beside me. The tender, bouncy sensation is still lingering on my fingertips—I have no right to protest though.

"Hwa Rin?"

"...Follow me."

Dang Hwa Rin walked ahead without looking at my face.

"I've heard the talk. You're proceeding with the bookstore renovations? Indebted to the Baek family head for a lifetime, I'll do it almost at cost."

The place we visited was a contractor known for interior renovations in Uichang.

Whether it's the present day or here, interior renovations are fraught with issues and costs. Thanks to the steward uncle, it seems we've come to a reliable establishment.

"Yes. I plan to carry out larger-scale work than you may have heard."

I detailed my plans to the contractor.

"Oh my. It seems that this bookstore will become something the likes of which has never been seen before if this renovation proceeds. But even at cost, the work you described will require quite a budget."

The contractor informed us about the estimated total cost.

"Yah... Yoon Ho, we don't have that kind of money."

Finally speaking up. Dang Hwa Rin, upon hearing the cost, grabbed my sleeve in panic.

"I'll pay the down payment now and the rest in installments with each stage of the work."

"Yah. Yoon Ho."

"It's okay. I'll pay for everything."

I reassured her with my payment as she looked on with unease.

"Is it really okay?"

Dang Hwa Rin, as we left the premises, asked with a concerned face.

"Don't worry. If I empty my pockets, I can cover the construction cost."

Besides, I have another money pouch for emergencies. It's regrettable to use all of Dang Soo's severance, but with a promise of dedication at a fair price, I see no reason to refuse.

The construction must proceed according to my plan for both my novel and my wealth to thrive.

It's all an investment for my future.

"For me, you're investing your entire fortune..."

Dang Hwa Rin looked at me with tearful eyes, as if she were choked with emotion.

"Ha ha. I told you. I'll continue to help you out in the future."

No need to correct her misunderstanding now. Hwa Rin, I hope you're moved enough to later give me a larger share of the bookstore.

"You've stirred up a mess this morning… No, never mind. Yoon Ho, I'll buy lunch. Let's go."

Dang Hwa Rin seemed to sting with guilt before grabbing my sleeve and pulling me along.

"Yah. You don't have money."

"I have some pocket money from the steward uncle. Follow me!"

I returned to the bookstore after savoring the meal she bought with all her pocket money.

Starting with the next meal, I'll be honest and pay for it myself.

-----------

Originally, the bookstore of Dang Hwa Rin's maternal grandfather had been operating for over 50 years.

After accruing wealth through other businesses, the bookstore had been fine with just maintenance. As such, it certainly looked old-fashioned and outdated.

Old books crammed haphazardly into the shelves; the shelves themselves were warping under the weight of years.

Books were fetched by clerks for customers by request, serving more as a giant book warehouse than a shop, hoarding half a century's stock.

Even the oldest second-hand bookshops of today would look more modern than this one.

"Let's move this way!"

"There are so many books!"

"Miss, where should we move these books?"

"Move them over here, please!"

The renovations went smoothly, feeling like a well-made investment.

"Will this really make the shop successful?"

Dang Hwa Rin looked at the completely transformed bookstore and asked me doubtfully.

"Of course! This is how it's done in Joseon."

I gazed fondly at the revamped bookstore.

Business as usual could have paid off Dang Hwa Rin's debt in 20 years.

But, if there's a chance to thrive with better sales strategies, and a way to resolve my worries while dealing with languishing stock, isn't it worth being bold?

Even more so, when the method is tried and true.

The renovated bookstore looked like a modern megastore.

Near the entrance, instead of bookshelves, there were tables with books laid out. The center of each table had signs reading 'Book of the Month', 'Store's Recommendation', 'Year's Bestseller'.

'I'll obviously need to follow the tried and true bookstore sales strategies.'

There's no need to keep all the books in one place.

Popular books and practical books should be readily accessible to boost sales. Deeper inside, the shelves can hold academic tomes that are regularly sought after.

It was no longer a dreary place with the musty scent of paper and ink that one visited only out of necessity, but a shop where one might stop by to see if there's anything they needed.

This new system will surely boost sales more than the old one.

'And a place to promote Sticky Martial World.'

Book of the Month. Store's Recommendation. It's like web novel main banner promotions. Even in the present day, publishers hustle with bookshops to get their books displayed on these tables.

Now I have the power to do so as I please.

If I write a Sticky Martial World, my book will surely be placed there.

"A lot has changed."

The steward uncle, upon hearing of the reopening, visited the bookstore with a surprised look.

"Welcome!"

We greeted the steward uncle with happy faces.

"It's so different from the old bookstore that I can hardly recognize it."

"Hwa Rin and I worked hard to create this."

Though the laborers did 99% of the work, it's the 1% of the idea that counts.

"Ha ha. Now I understand why the lady refused to come live in the mansion even after my invitations. You both worked so hard to create this. Just looking at it, I can tell it's made to be successful."

The steward uncle looked around with a satisfied expression. But wait, what did he just say?

"Huh? Hwa Rin was supposed to stay at the bookstore because you, steward uncle…"

"Ack! Yah! Some customers just went upstairs, hurry and go see them! I'll take care of things here!"

Dang Hwa Rin suddenly panicked and pushed me towards the upstairs.

"Alright! Alright! I'm going!"

A martial artist should control their strength. How could she push me indiscriminately just because customers are present?

I was shoved by Dang Hwa Rin and headed up the stairs where the customers had gone.

The first customers on the second floor.

From the stair landing, I dusted off and looked up at the second floor.

'The second floor is also ready after a new renovation.'

It's not just the first floor that received an overhaul. The second floor is prepared for its rebirth as well.

This was all in preparation to make this bookstore the number one in Uichang.