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“The Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors!”

I, along with Jin So-cheong, was moving towards the vicinity of Hubei Province, buoyed by excitement.

“You look unusually anxious, Master,” Jin So-cheong remarked.

After hesitating at her question, I leaped up about twenty peaks using my light body technique and replied, “Brother, I will do whatever it takes to succeed this time.”

“It’s indeed important. If you gain recognition from the Wudang Sect, everything will improve significantly,” she countered, her tone conveying a sense of uncertainty.

“But you know, if you’re all flustered like this, you won’t be able to bring your skills to bear. Martial prowess requires harmony of mind, skill, and body, so please try to calm down by the time we reach Wudang Mountain.”

“Understood.” I appreciated Jin So-cheong’s concern, grateful even if it was her own way of showing it.

‘I’m sorry, Brother.’

I couldn’t carelessly mention that Mangnyang was overworked due to stress. It wasn’t just about trust in Jin So-cheong; there was simply nothing conclusive to determine yet. All I could do was to handle my part flawlessly.

Soon enough, we reached a small village about fifty li away from Wudang Mountain. After running all day, we decided we needed a place to rest. However, in such a small village, there weren’t any inns, so we had to stay at the village chief’s house.

“Thank you for hosting us,” I said.

“Ha ha, it’s just for a day,” he replied.

Of course, it wasn’t free; we had to pay three taels of silver. With a bitter smile, I prepared for bed, eager to recharge my internal power and energy because we would be heading to Wudang Mountain tomorrow.

The next day, we reached the entrance to Wudang Mountain. Jin So-cheong casually lifted up her round hat she had bought before coming.

“Master, you know about the Sword Disarmament Ground, right?”

“Yes,” I responded.

Sword Disarmament Ground! It was a famous location within the Wudang Sect where anyone wishing to enter must leave their weapons behind. Considering a warrior’s weapon is as crucial as life itself, it was absurd, but the Wudang Sect had adhered to this tradition since its inception. We were only about a hundred steps away from it.

I stayed silent, muttering, “How arrogant.”

“Isn’t it? I think so too,” she said, echoing my sentiments.

It was an overwhelming form of arrogance and humiliation. Leaving behind a weapon that was like life itself flaunted the Wudang Sect’s status. In fact, apart from the Wudang Sect, no other sect in the Jianghu had the audacity to create such a ground. It also meant that the Wudang Sect was so powerful that they could operate the Sword Disarmament Ground without a hitch.

Jin So-cheong smirked mischievously. “Should we shake things up a bit?”

I shook my head vigorously. “Knowing what your idea of ‘shaking things up’ entails, I can’t possibly agree.”

“Huh?”

“If it were any other time, I might consider it, but not this time.”

I knew Jin So-cheong could go wild like a god of destruction when provoked, having once reduced the Zhongnan Sect to ashes without batting an eye. I had witnessed that firsthand.

‘I’m here to talk with the Wudang Sect today, so today is just not the day.’

I earnestly said, “Brother, please. It’s better to just talk.”

Jin So-cheong sulked, her spear drooping in disappointment. “But I really can’t stand letting those lawmongering folks walk around with their arrogance.”

“If that’s the case, then I’ll go up alone.”

“Ugh… there’s no helping it.” Jin So-cheong reluctantly agreed to my wish. I thought, ‘Phew, lucky me.’ With how Jin So-cheong single-handedly wrecked the Zhongnan Sect in the past, if she went in this time, the Wudang Sect would probably be obliterated.

When we arrived at the Sword Disarmament Ground, five Wudang disciples quietly appeared before us. They bowed respectfully and spoke, “May I ask from where you hail?”

“We are Baek Woong and Jin So-cheong from the Thunder God Lineage.”

“….!!”

The Wudang disciples exchanged surprised glances upon hearing our introduction. They seemed familiar with the reputation, good and bad, of the Thunder God Lineage. Then, one of the elders stepped forward and looked at us sharply. “I am Mugwang (無光), a disciple of the Wudang Sect. If it’s not too much trouble, may I inquire what the Thunder God Lineage seeks with our sect?”

So “Mu” was his family name. This meant he was part of the later generation of notable figures, a practitioner of the celebrated Wudang Eight Swords. Given his skill, he must have been at least an expert level martial artist, nearing peak mastery.

I replied, “I’m afraid I can only disclose our business if you are an elder or the leader. It’s merely something concerning your sect’s secret techniques.”

“What…!!” Mugwang’s face turned sour with anger. He must have felt insulted, considering himself just a mere gatekeeper. However, I couldn’t downgrade the Thunder God Lineage’s reputation, so I calmly continued. “Let it be known, if you act haphazardly, it could lead to significant repercussions.”

“Mmm.”

He composed himself and replied, “Very well, then follow me. I shall guide you to a place where you can stay.”

“Agreed.”

“But before that, I must ask you to disarm here.”

“What if we refuse?”

At that moment, Mugwang and the four other Wudang disciples had an air of tension surrounding them, sparks practically flying from their eyes.

“I hope you make a wise choice.”

It was clear that the atmosphere was serious; the remaining four appeared to be on the same level as Mugwang. I quickly deduced that the Sword Disarmament Ground held significant security with formidable experts on standby.

But I still couldn’t grasp why such a simple rule required such intense enforcement. Was the Sword Disarmament Ground not just a place to keep dangerous weapons out of study grounds? Or perhaps it was a symbol of pride for the Wudang Sect? Either way, as a disciple of the Thunder God Lineage, I found it hard to comprehend.

Seemingly sensing my confusion, Jin So-cheong folded her arms and chimed in. “Hey, Mugwang.”

“What is it?”

“Aren’t you scared standing guard at a place like this? We’re not here with malicious intent, yet you’re treating us this way. What if some rogues came and tried to kill you?”

“…”

“You know your skills are decent, but there’re plenty of martial artists who could easily take down five of you!”

Jin So-cheong’s words weren’t mere provocation; she was genuinely curious. Mugwang seemed to catch on to her intent. After a brief moment of contemplation, he nodded before responding. “If my attitude came across as disrespectful, my apologies. However, I have a duty to uphold, and I must ask for your understanding.”

“And regarding the fear part, you got me there. It’s possible that a demon master could come and annihilate us all, and if that happens, we’ll be dead.”

Having reached that conclusion, Mugwang clenched his fist resolutely and continued, “But that doesn’t mean we can let any monsters or weapons into a place where our junior disciples cultivate. Even if we die, we’re prepared to defend this passage. We believe the sect will take vengeance for us if we die.”

His words were full of conviction.

“Hmm…”

Jin So-cheong pondered with her arms folded before nodding in understanding. “Alright, I get it.”

Without hesitation, she inserted her spear into the ground. I followed suit and disarmed. As we walked behind Mugwang, Jin So-cheong commented. [Wudang does seem strong. Even their lower disciples have solid physiques.]

[That’s only natural for the two major righteous sects.]

[The leader of Wudang must be quite impressive too. Do you think we can sway them?]

It seemed Jin So-cheong wanted to test Wudang’s aura, to see if their upper echelons matched the lowly disciples. After all, the saying goes, “Only the cleanest upper waters lead to the clearest lower waters.”

And the results of our test were unequivocal; the Wudang Sect was indeed as formidable as the mountain it was named after. Given Jin So-cheong’s cautious tone, it’s likely they were a breed untouchable by the Zhongnan Sect.

[Let’s do this.]

I was resolved to turn Wudang into allies of the Thunder God Lineage, even if it cost me my life. If I failed this task, Mangnyang’s clever schemes would come crumbling down, and that would be unacceptable!

Upon entering the Wudang’s receiving hall, we waited for a considerable amount of time.

After what felt like several moments, Mugwang opened the door and stepped in. “The leader wishes to see you. Follow me.”

We walked about five li along the mountain path. It was quite a distance for an average person, indicating just how extensive the Wudang territory was, with bases set all over Wudang Mountain.

Upon reaching the chamber of the leader of Wudang, three formidable martial artists awaited us, flanked by a dozen polished Wudang seniors.

“You are the messengers from the Thunder God Lineage?”

A deep voice echoed as a white-haired elder with a long beard, exuding charismatic authority, sat on a central chair adorned in Wudang garb. Two other elderly figures, gaunt and similarly dressed, stood at his side. They didn’t have a great aura, appearing almost mundane, but I recognized they were indeed at the pinnacle of mastery, exhibiting the state of returning to simplicity even amidst its most complex form.

As that incredible energy met mine, I felt the palpable gap in mastery – despite being on the level of peak experts, I was far off from their league.

“Truly remarkable!”

Slightly overwhelmed, I bowed and said, “I am Baek Woong from the Thunder God Lineage, along with Jin So-cheong.”

“I am Cheongpungja (靑風子), and these are my disciples, Cheongil (靑一) and Cheonggyun (靑筠).”

“It’s an honor to meet the leader of Wudang.”

Cheongpungja, the Unmatched Sword Immortal! He was currently the leader of Wudang and famously the greatest swordsman without a rival. Without a doubt, he was the pinnacle of martial skill in this realm, and also the master of Wei Zhi-hun, the leader of the True Heaven Alliance. Among the Daoist sects, he was an absolute figure, one whom the first among their ranks could only dream of matching.

Cheongil and Cheonggyun were peers of extraordinary mastery as well, symbols of the Wudang Sect. As I absorbed the presence of Cheongpungja, I began to speak my reason for coming.

“I apologize for the sudden visit…”

“You Thunder God disciples are marked by the True Heaven Alliance as infamous enemies, having recently extinguished the Huashan Sect. No worse miscreants exist in the world, and now you dare to come here, seeking death?”

As Cheongpungja’s words washed over me, the atmosphere thickened as the three peak masters unleashed their mighty aura. It felt like an immense force turned physical, pressing against my surroundings. They had stopped hiding their true power, employing formless energy to pressure me. But no matter how much their power was, it couldn’t compare to that of a Dharma Guardian, so I stood firm.

“This is getting irritating!” Jin So-cheong’s brows furrowed, and suddenly, she waved her hand.

Whoosh!

“…!!”

“What?!” All the Wudang disciples were shocked. With just a wave of her hand, Jin So-cheong had sent the aura of Cheongpungja, Cheongil, and Cheonggyun scattering like leaves in the wind. They did not appear injured, but their surprise was apparent, especially on Cheongpungja’s face, who stood up abruptly as if he’d been scalded.

“How could someone at your age reach such a realm…?!”

Jin So-cheong coldly retorted, “You come expecting us to leave our weapons and break under pressure? This is all Wudang has?!”

“What did you say…?!”

“Let me clarify; I’m currently holding back out of respect for my Master’s request. But if I’m forced to act, there’s no one in this room who will survive.”

At that moment, I couldn’t help but wonder if an Asura had manifested before me. An overwhelming formless energy surged from Jin So-cheong, sweeping the area in a tempest of raw power. The Wudang peak masters couldn’t withstand it and were sent reeling, blood spurting from their mouths.

“Ugh!” “Argh!” The three renowned martial masters stumbled back a few paces, struggling to regain balance. It was astounding that the strongest, Cheongpungja, only managed to step back one step, glaring wide-eyed at Jin So-cheong. She hadn’t used any physical weapon; her presence alone had shaken the room.

With a smirk, Jin So-cheong observed, “I just returned what you gave me, so don’t blame me.”

“Brother, this is a bit… ” As I looked around, the place resembled a battlefield, with Wudang masters unconscious, and others meditating to regulate their Qi. If Jin So-cheong had injected even a hint of malice, they’d all be dead without exception.

Jin So-cheong’s assertions sounded less like idle threats as Cheongpungja furiously retorted, “Do you think you can threaten the Wudang Sect with force?!”

“I absolutely can. Because the proposal I bring is something you won’t be able to refuse,” Jin So-cheong shot back.

“What did you say…?”

“Here.”

Jin So-cheong glanced at me, and I realized she had set up a meeting platform for me. ‘Jin So-cheong figured Wudang’s arrogance would make them dismiss my words anyway.’ She understood that any strength they exhibited would prompt arrogance, allowing me to speak freely under in those circumstances without triggering hostility.

Feeling grateful, I slowly said, “Leader Cheongpungja, I stumbled into a fortuitous encounter recently, one that could potentially be grand.”

“I believe it holds great relevance to the Wudang Sect, and I came to return it.”

“…!!”

Indicating toward the eagerness around me, I coyly hinted that perhaps it would be best to discuss this in a more discreet manner. Cheongpungja’s face turned contemplative as he said, “Mmmm. Everyone else leave. Step back one hundred paces.”

“Leader…”

“It’s pointless; if Jin So-cheong wants to fight, you’d all be useless.”

As the Wudang disciples cleared out, only the two from Thunder God Line and three from Wudang remained. Cheongpungja glared at me, “So you say it’s related to our Wudang’s secret techniques?”

“It would be a misstatement to say ‘our Wudang,’ it’s the culmination of an absolute master’s teachings.”

The correction didn’t escape Cheongpungja’s ears, and both Cheongil and Cheonggyun’s expressions shifted suddenly, as if catching wind of something vital. “You don’t mean…”

“What I have acquired is the legacy of the legendary Jang Sam-bong.”

“…!!”

Hearing this, Cheonggyun trembled with disbelief, shouting, “You’re telling me the sorcerers have obtained that great man’s enlightenment?”

“If that were untrue, we wouldn’t come seek you out under these circumstances.”

Cheongpungja’s urgency was palpable, “Well, show it to me.”

“If you wish, then…” I replied, glancing at Cheongpungja.

“Since I’ve left my weapon at the Sword Disarmament Ground, may I borrow one? “

“Use this one.” With that, Cheongpungja tossed his sword toward me. I caught it reflexively, feeling the immense internal power he infused into it. Even an ordinary practitioner could find themselves bleeding and dying from such an attack.

I couldn’t help but chuckle. ‘That must’ve hurt his pride pretty badly.’

Once settled, I started demonstrating each and every technique Jang Sam-bong had crafted.

As my body followed the Qi effortlessly, everything I had worked so hard on began to bloom in full fruition—starting with the Cave-Collapsing Sword and the Heavenly Contraction Sword, showcasing their unique allure.

“Oh…”

“That’s…!!” Their minds gained clarity as they witnessed the blade bending space or the other blade pulling things in. My previous movements were adequate, and then I swiftly transitioned to showcasing my remaining martial skills.

True Martial Seven Cuts Classic!

Heavenly Five Divine Decisions!

Tai Chi Yau Ji Willow Sword!

Seven Stars Shadow!

These four techniques hadn’t been honed for real combat, but if they could appreciate the greatness of the Heavenly Contraction Sword and the Cave-Collapsing Sword, they would understand the true caliber these moves possessed.

Regrettably, I couldn’t even attempt what was supposedly the Peerless Technique. That one was said to be an unparalleled, mighty martial art, believed to be beyond comprehension and exceedingly challenging.

Finally, as I unveiled the Seven Stars Shadow, darting across the cardinal directions, a grand spectacle erupted, ending a long display that lasted precisely three hundred seconds. After I regained my composure and sheathed the sword, Cheongpungja voiced his astonishment.

“Do you know what the names of those techniques are?”

“Of course.”

“Please share them.”

“Cave-Collapsing Sword, Heavenly Contraction Sword, True Martial Seven Cuts Classic, Heavenly Five Divine Decisions, Tai Chi Yau Ji Willow Sword, and Seven Stars Shadow! Jang Sam-bong himself claimed these were the realizations of his later years, so most of the Wudang Sect members likely wouldn’t know them.”

Cheongpungja sighed heavily, “That’s incorrect. Excluding the Cave-Collapsing Sword and the Heavenly Contraction Sword, all the others are our sect’s secret transmissions with proven effectiveness. As for those two, they remain under the instruction of our master’s disciple still alive.”

“Master’s disciple?”

What was that supposed to mean? Cheongpungja, who seemed ancient and seasoned, left room for another disciple? As I mulled it over, Cheongpungja’s deep-set eyes shifted toward us. “It seems it’s true that the Wudang’s secrets have been acquired by a disciple of the Thunder God Lineage. What do you seek from our Sect?”

“It’s nothing remarkable. Our lord has decided that further conflict is unnecessary and intends to formalize a truce with the True Heaven Alliance. I propose we return the Wudang techniques in exchange for support in a ceasefire and persuading other sects.”

“…”

Cheongpungja resumed his seat, his lips moving slightly, indicating to Cheongil and Cheonggyun there was a silent conversation underway while my own partner kept her ears open for any shift in tone.

[Master, there are some terrifyingly powerful figures approaching us.]

[What? Who are they?]

[I can’t tell. What I do know, however, is they’re stronger than the three in front of us.]

[No way.]

[You need to decide quickly. If we’re going to escape, it has to be now.]

Clenching my teeth, I thought, ‘If this fails, Mangnyang’s plan also fails, and his life will be at risk. I can’t let that happen!’

While I would normally evade recklessly, I couldn’t afford to do so out of pride. [No! I’ll hold my ground a little longer.]

[Understood.]

A moment later, Cheongpungja addressed us. “I’m sorry, but I cannot make this decision myself. I must leave it to the master to decide.”

He was passing the buck!

Staring at him in disbelief, I growled, “The leader of the Nine Great Sects can’t even decide for himself? Do you really expect me to believe that?”

“I think the same, but I have no choice. Regardless, the Cave-Collapsing and Heavenly Contraction Swords belong to the master. I must hear his will.”

Just then, a loud crash reverberated from above, as two explosive figures descended through the ceiling.

Were these the ‘monstrous masters’ Jin So-cheong mentioned? One was a scruffy-looking teenage Daoist, and the other was a monk clad in robes. The former looked younger than even me.

The teenage Daoist glared critically at Cheongpungja, “Why didn’t you summon me sooner for something this important?”

Cheongpungja and the two others immediately knelt, bowing their heads to the ground, “We greet the Bright Dragon (名龍子)!”

Next to him, the monk spoke quietly, “I was having a delightful game of Go with the Bright Dragon when something this large came up.”

“Hmph! What good is being a revered sage when you can’t even read the heavens?”

“I’m sorry for that, but I don’t appreciate that title, Bright Dragon.”

Upon hearing their exchange, my mind went blank. ‘… I’m doomed.’

Bright Dragon and the Master of Zen! Bright Dragon was an unparalleled shatterer and a legendary figure rumored to have achieved the state of returning to simplicity. The Master of Zen ranked as one of the top three figures in the Shaolin Temple!

Having these forces appear was a serious issue. They were the highest forces of the righteous sects from the Shaolin Temple and Wudang; their presence alone caused my heart to race!

 

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