---

“`html

Flesh and Blood.

I decided not to mention my achievements in subduing the Blue Demon Four Evils. I was too eager to test my martial skills right away, not wanting to waste another moment. I even asked Master Hyuncheon to take the credit for the subjugation.

“Haha, truly a righteous hero!”

Master Hyuncheon praised me, but I could only manage a weak smile. It was amusing to think that I could be praised for having slaughtered over a hundred humans. I kept that thought to myself as I took my leave of Master Hyuncheon.

‘My blade is pretty messed up.’

Of course, after slicing through more than a hundred foes, my sword was bound to get damaged. No matter how I coated it with sword qi, wear and tear was inevitable. I could feel the blade had dulled significantly, so I decided to stop by Taekyung Village to buy a new one. While I could sharpen the old blade, I had plenty of expenses given the allowance Lee Kwang had given me, so it made more sense just to get a new sword.

Waving my new sword in the air lifted my spirits a bit.

Tydaht!

As I made my way toward Jo Byeok Village, my steps felt light. It was because the dark mood that had persisted in my heart was finally washing away.

Tragedy had disappeared.

The fact that no intense tragedy, which had brought both heavy despair and righteous indignation, had occurred was refreshing and liberating. Although there was a sense of emptiness from not having used my own strength to stop it, I still felt good. Perhaps my strong push to subdue the Blue Demon Four Evils was driven by the desire to fully enjoy this feeling.

‘Isn’t it time I could live as I please?’

With that thought, my heart felt buoyant and cheerful. Of course, I needed to explore the reasons behind these feelings. Once I arrived in Jo Byeok Village and successfully made contact with the Black Night Gate, I planned to defeat them in a spar. Surviving against the Eight Demons of the Demon Path would be bragging rights for me.

A few days later, upon arriving in Jo Byeok Village, I recalled the village chief’s words.

‘I was told to look for a fool named Han Kwang-il in this village, right?’

I knew the best way to find such a fool was to head to an inn or a gambling house. Since I was tired after reaching Jo Byeok Village, I decided to unpack my things and rest at the inn, planning to search for him the next day. While I was enjoying some dumplings and vegetable dishes at the inn, suddenly—

“…?!”

I was shocked when a bright white object flew through the inn door. I almost slashed it instinctively, but it turned out to be a paper bird. The paper bird flapped its wings and landed right on my table.

The paper bird seemed almost alive. Suddenly, it lost its vigor and collapsed, appearing just like an ordinary sheet of paper. I was bewildered and watched the paper bird for a moment before reaching out to unfold it.

Inside was a letter written in a familiar handwriting.

[It’s been quite some time since I first received the request. Have you fulfilled your tasks adequately? I, Mangnyang, have done extensive research on the divine sword you brought, and I think it is time for me to share this with you. If you have time, please come find me. – From Mangnyang]

“……”

I realized this paper bird was created through some kind of technique. It was likely an illusion technique conjured by Mangnyang himself. However, I couldn’t believe Mangnyang, whom I knew, could perform such precise and superior techniques as he didn’t have a talent for sorcery whatsoever. It was clear he had dramatically improved his skills over the last three years.

‘What should I do?’

Now that I had found out how to meet the Black Night Gate, I could easily challenge them to a spar, maybe even as soon as tomorrow. But if I lost and especially if I couldn’t escape and ended up dead, I’d have to start all over again. Was it worth the risk just to hastily challenge the Black Night Gate?

Nonetheless, it was true I was desperate to test my current strength. After pondering for a while, I shook my head.

“I have no choice. I must go see him.”

Even though I vowed not to seek out Mangnyang until I had built sufficient strength, the information regarding the Seven Luminaries secret treasure was currently vitally important. I would rather die knowing than regret not uncovering that information. Besides, I felt compelled to learn how Mangnyang had gone from using basic techniques to mastering advanced sorcery.

With no other options, I decided to return to the Jinrang Valley where Mangnyang resided, essentially retracing a path I had almost completed, making me feel like a training puppy. But it was unavoidable, so I bolted back up the mountain paths.

Tydaht!

“… Back again…”

A few days later, I returned to Taekyung Village, letting out a sigh. However, while resting at the inn, I noticed some odd looks from the people around. When I glanced around in confusion, one of the locals cautiously approached me and asked,

“Could it be true that you are the hero who recently subdued the Blue Demon Four Evils?”

“……?”

“Your appearance and features are strikingly similar… If you are truly him, we would love to host you in our Hua Clan.”

I realized then that the news of my victory over the Blue Demon Four Evils had spread. I suspected Master Hyuncheon must have been behind it. I had merely told him to take credit for the deed, but it seemed he had shared with the world that I had been a part of it.

‘Ugh… pointless things.’

Annoyed by Master Hyuncheon’s unnecessary kindness, I couldn’t understand why he felt the need to share my glory when others sought to achieve such honor. Regardless, this situation wasn’t particularly appealing, so I shook my head.

“I’m not that great, and I have a long journey ahead. Till next time.”

“Ah… but…”

That was when—

“Ah! There you are!”

As I turned my head, I saw an extraordinarily beautiful woman appear at the entrance of the inn, accompanied by a few attendants. The surrounding crowd began to stir, indicating that her status was very high. I recognized her face, so I couldn’t help but bow.

“Greetings.”

“I truly didn’t think you would manage to subdue the Blue Demon Four Evils. I can’t believe this young hero, Baek Woong, possesses such profound martial skills!”

“It’s unrelated to me, Lady Hwa-Ryeon.”

Lady Hwa-Ryeon from the Hua Clan smiled lightly and said,

“Is that so? Master Hyuncheon has widely shared the tale of the young hero who fought alongside him. The officials and townsfolk are all buzzing about your exploits.”

“……”

“Even if you’re busy, I hope you can visit our Hua Clan for at least a day. The Blue Demon Four Evils had blocked our village’s trade route, causing us great trouble. If we don’t express our gratitude, the world will mock our family, so please help!”

Her words were neat and polite. With the eyes of the crowd upon us, it wouldn’t be wise to abruptly leave this situation.

‘Crap… If word spreads that I’m from Azure Dragon Martial Arts School, it might tarnish their reputation. I can’t risk any actions that would disgrace Azure Dragon Martial Arts School!’

Lee Kwang had been keeping his distance and testing my character. While he acknowledged me as a successor, he could easily take back his teachings if I were to cause any significant issues. Unlike before, I now had an ambition to grow stronger, and holding onto ‘honor’ was no small burden.

With no other option, I nodded.

“Very well.”

I followed Lady Hwa-Ryeon and her attendants to the Hua Clan. The reason they didn’t refer to themselves as a prominent family was that their members were not directly involved in the Jianghu, and they lacked martial arts. They strictly controlled Taekyung Village through economic power.

A moment later, I had the chance to meet Hwa Jong-taek, the head of the Hua Clan. Upon seeing me, he greeted me with a beaming smile.

“Oh! Baek Woong! It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’ve been eager to see you.”

Surrounding Hwa Jong-taek were several servants and attendants, trying to display their grandeur and dignity. But all I could think was how ridiculous it looked since I had witnessed much greater spectacles in places like Luoyang.

What surprised me was that I had seen Hwa Jong-taek’s face before.

‘… He’s the fanatic I beheaded during my first infiltration.’

The one really crazy fanatic who had a woman’s head tucked under his arm! At that moment, I didn’t bother distinguishing each fanatic, but now the memory rushed back as I realized Hwa Jong-taek had been wandering this mansion, infected and transformed by madness.

Perhaps mistaking my astonishment for admiration, Hwa Jong-taek laughed heartily.

“Haha! Thanks to you, the trade routes have reopened, and I’ve avoided a huge loss. At the very least, I’ve gained five hundred silver coins, how could I not be grateful? I shall ensure you are treated to half of that!”

“Ah… I appreciate the sentiment, but I must be on my way.”

“Such a pity… Even so, please allow us to host the young hero for today! Haha!”

“Uh… okay…”

“Come! Let’s have Young Hero Baek Woong inside.”

As I entered, a lavish banquet was already prepared. The table was filled to the brim with extravagant dishes that could probably break the table. There was chicken, duck, goat, and even high-end dishes I had seen back in Luoyang. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that I had never experienced such a luxurious meal in my life.

“Dig in! We’ve even invited renowned chefs from Luoyang for today!”

“Well, if that’s the case…”

As I awkwardly sat and began eating slowly, I realized every dish was truly gourmet and delicious. I hadn’t had a good meal while staying in inns, so now I could eat to my heart’s content. While I was munching on a chicken leg, Hwa Jong-taek struck up a conversation.

“You look quite young, but how come you possess such powerful martial skills?”

“I was just lucky.”

“Haha, that’s quite humble… Battering through the hundreds of bandits under the Blue Demon Four Evils is not something an ordinary person does.”

“That was all Master Hyuncheon’s doing.”

Gulping.

I continued to evade the praise by focusing on my delicious meal. After all, they were the ones treating me, so I had no reason to refuse. I thought about simply enjoying this feast and then taking my leave. Suddenly, a thought crossed my mind, and while holding a duck leg, I asked,

“I’m curious, have you heard any rumors about suspicious groups or heretical sects around here in the past three years?”

Hwa Jong-taek cocked his head.

“Hmm… I haven’t heard of such things…”

“Was there anything else unusual?”

“Hmmm…”

Hwa Jong-taek pondered for a moment before snapping his fingers as if remembering something.

“Ah! Now that I think about it, the Golden Eagle Guards visited and stayed for about seven weeks for some investigation.”

“……!!”

They did?! I hastily dropped my duck leg and said,

“Please tell me more about that!”

“This happened exactly three years ago. The Golden Eagle Guards came from the Imperial Palace to conduct an investigation and stayed in our village for about seven weeks. There wasn’t any way to refuse, so we hosted them.”

“What were they investigating?”

“I don’t know exactly, but I vaguely heard they were searching for ruins. They left without any apparent success.”

“What kind of ruins?”

“I’m not sure. The leader of the Golden Eagle Guards only spoke a few words to me. It seemed they had come to this land specifically to find it.”

Ruins.

Somehow, I felt that it was connected to the Seven Luminaries. Otherwise, the Golden Eagle Guards, who were supposed to operate in secrecy as sorcerers performing human sacrifices, wouldn’t have openly shown themselves in the village. I was glad I had been invited to this meal, so I opened my mouth.

“Haha… Do you want to join the Golden Eagle Guards? It seems young warriors all dream of joining them.”

“Not particularly interested now.”

I casually changed the subject and chatted with Hwa Jong-taek for a bit more while enjoying the meal before I headed to the bedroom prepared for me. The attendants had filled hot water, allowing me to bathe.

After lying down to sleep, about half a moment later…

“……?”

I sensed a frail silhouette entering the bedroom. Although the darkness concealed her, my developed Qi Sense easily picked up on that fact. Curious, I propped myself up and saw that the figure had come close and began to touch my chest.

“Stay still.”

“Lady Hwa-Ryeon?”

That voice belonged to Hwa-Ryeon. She had seemingly slipped into the dim room, clothed in a flimsy garment that resembled a mere rag. I was startled upon recognizing her voice.

Her intentions were clear, so when she pushed me gently and started to crawl onto the bed, I spoke up.

“I’m just a guest; there’s no need for the lady of this house to do such things.”

In truth, I felt uneasy, not pleasantly surprised. I worried that I could get entangled in something awkward and it might hinder my future plans. Then Hwa-Ryeon hesitated, speaking in a self-deprecating tone.

“I’m not the lady of the house; I’m Hwa Jong-taek’s fifth concubine.”

“What?”

“For someone with wealth and power, having multiple concubines isn’t odd. I merely have to do this kind of thing from time to time.”

Swish…

“Let’s enjoy today together…”

Hwa-Ryeon’s delicate skin started to settle lightly on my body. I thought that if I surrendered to her now, it would surely lead to a pleasurable experience. She was a rare beauty, a golden opportunity had presented itself. Moreover, her words implied that this was undoubtedly orchestrated by Hwa Jong-taek!

However, it felt so wrong. I gently pushed Hwa-Ryeon’s shoulder, rising from the bed.

Surprised, she looked at me, and I calmly stated,

“I’m not really into this kind of thing.”

“What do you mean? The lord didn’t object to this…”

“It’s not that I’m impotent or anything.”

“Then?”

I spoke firmly.

“Right now, I’m going through a crucial period where I need to focus my mental energies. I have no room to be distracted by other matters. It’s hard enough to keep myself in check without getting lazy. I simply have no capacity to embrace someone into my heart.”

“So you’re saying that means I’m unattractive?”

“It’s not that at all. I just don’t want to be unhappy anymore.”

I understood that if I established a connection with Hwa-Ryeon, my future might take a different path. This wasn’t something I could easily brush off with a casual night’s dalliance. If I were to transcend life or death through rebirth in the future, passing through Taekyung Village would always remind me of Hwa-Ryeon.

And should tragedy repeat itself again, my mental strength would surely deplete. The guilt from not being able to protect the victims of tragedy would multiply manifold.

In the end, I was rejecting her advances for extremely self-serving reasons. Although Hwa-Ryeon didn’t know the details, somehow, as a woman, she seemed to understand my feelings. She wore a somewhat sorrowful expression and shook her head.

“You refuse to let others into your heart.”

“I don’t need your understanding. This is my life.”

“Hehe… I want to assert my own life quite forcefully too.”

Hwa-Ryeon, with a forlorn smile, stood up from the bed. As she exited, she said,

“I’m sorry for the intrusion. Please rest well…”

After she left, I continued to focus on my internal training for a while and then drifted off to sleep. Though slightly regretful, I resolved not to regret my choice.

Having fallen into momentary pleasures had derailed me too often; I decided instead to tread cautiously, step by step.

And the next day, I received a rather unusual gift from Hwa Jong-taek.

“What’s this?”

The gift was a phoenix statue made of silver. Hwa Jong-taek, with an awkward expression, said,

“I heard you rejected Hwa-Ryeon. I thought I had offended you, so I’ve been pondering through the night on what to do, and I decided to offer you this heirloom.”

“An heirloom?”

“Indeed. My ancestors received this when they settled in Taekyung Village. It is said to be a treasure made from a very faraway land in the east. While I cherish this statue, I would like you to forgive me for my rudeness.”

“……”

He offers a woman, then a treasure to compensate for any perceived rudeness. Hwa Jong-taek might seem like a straightforward, generous man, but my long life experience taught me this was anything but that.

If I had bedded Hwa-Ryeon, he might have leveraged that to bind me to the Taekyung Village through blood ties. And the moment I accepted this treasure, he could capitalize on my growing reputation in the Jianghu to elevate his clan’s status. Everything was a calculated move.

Still, I decided not to refuse. The backstory behind this heirloom seemed unique. Showing it to Mangnyang might yield surprising information.

“I’ll gladly accept it.”

“Haha… then safe travels.”

After parting ways with Hwa Jong-taek, I set off promptly toward Jinrang Valley.

Tydaht!

‘Quite some time has passed. It’s been almost two months since I left Azure Dragon Martial Arts School.’

Master Lee Kwang had given me a timeline of six months. I still had ample time, but I felt oddly anxious. There were too many things to address. I particularly felt the urge to gain even a bit more practical combat experience before clashing with the Black Night Gate.

As I climbed the stairs to Mangnyang’s house upon arriving in Jinrang Valley…

Woong—

“… Huh?!”

I noticed that the Mangyun Formation beneath me, which previously flowed like water, had suddenly become intensely unstable. My senses were disrupted, causing illusions to flicker at every stair. I calmly channeled my internal energy to neutralize the effects of the Mangyun Formation, though I was shocked.

‘The power of the Mangyun Formation has increased exponentially!’

If I hadn’t raised my available internal energy through training, I surely would have fallen victim to illusions right then and there. I was keenly surprised as I climbed up to Mangnyang’s thatched house.

Whew!

“It’s been a while, Baek Woong!”

Mangnyang suddenly appeared, as if teleporting in alongside a dark cloud. That wasn’t just simple cloud manipulation; it was undoubtedly advanced sorcery. I exclaimed in surprise.

“What’s going on?”

“Hahaha… I need to thank you first. I was originally unable to use any sorcery, but thanks to you, I’ve managed to grasp middle-grade techniques and reach the upper echelon.”

The exuberance flowing through Mangnyang was evident on his face. He had always appeared free-spirited before, but he now radiated a lively energy, distinctly different from the gloomy aura he had before.

I grew curious and asked,

“What happened? Please give me the details.”

“Let me explain. Sit down.”

As I took my seat, Mangnyang revealed the treasure sword he had strapped to his waist. It was a divine sword I had won after defeating the spider in the ruins hidden in the pond on Mount Huang. And it was also the item I had entrusted to Mangnyang for the interpretation of the oracle bone script three years ago.

Mangnyang leveled the sword horizontally before speaking.

“You’re quite the trickster.”

“What do you mean?”

“Why didn’t you mention that interpreting this oracle bone script requires substantial internal power? I struggled for ages, training in martial arts I never intended to.”

Zing!

“……!!”

Then, golden light radiated from the sword Mangnyang held as the engraved oracle bone script surfaced. Those characters wouldn’t appear without substantial internal energy, revealing that Mangnyang had accumulated significant internal strength. I was taken aback.

“What martial arts did you learn?”

“I practiced the Twelve Heavenly Channels Scripture alongside the Taiyi Divine Technique. I even concocted potions for boosting internal power through alchemy to speed up the process. In just one year, I could finally see the oracle bone script.”

“Hmm…!!”

I was astounded. Mangnyang’s current level of internal power was now approaching first-class martial artist standards, surpassing your average second-rate martial artists. Accomplishing this within just three years was not trivial at all. It seemed Mangnyang didn’t want to share much more and dove into discussing the oracle bone script.

“This oracle bone script was written in the Yin Dynasty.”

The Yin Dynasty! An ancient state also referred to as Shang. It’s often referred to as Yin-Shang when combined with the same name. The Yin Dynasty was the last capital of the Shang dynasty, known since ancient times as the capital city of the Shang Dynasty during the reign of King Pan Geng to Di Xin. The name “Shang” in merchants and commerce originated from this nation, as it derived from merchants wandering in search of a place after losing their homeland.

As I recalled what I knew about the Yin Dynasty, Mangnyang continued.

“As you know, the Yin Dynasty was established by Cheng Tang after he defeated the last king of the legendary first dynasty, the Xia. This oracle bone script dates back to the reign of King Tang, and it appears this divine sword was made during that same period.”

“During King Tang’s reign…”

“The contents of this oracle bone script are as follows: [I offer sacrifices to heaven. I cut the turtle’s head and limbs to pay to heaven. May the gods be pleased. Oh, Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, bestow us blessings. Thus, I received the water of the Seven Luminaries.]”

I furrowed my brows, as I didn’t fully understand the meaning of what Mangnyang had translated. I knew the ancient sword discussed sacrificial offerings, but the mentions of the Three Sovereigns and Seven Luminaries didn’t quite connect for me. Yet as I recalled the origin of the Seven Luminaries secret treasure from Master Hyuncheon, my thoughts clicked into place.

In support of my contemplation, Mangnyang elaborated.

“The true name of this sword is the divine sword representing the water of the Seven Luminaries among the secret treasures—”

As I listened intently, I gasped.

“Its name is Moya.”

“`

 

---