Book 2 Chapter 18

What the master should take.

Ho Cheonsang, a sword master of Hoamenggeom, was engrossed in his post-meal training in his residence, Mukhogeon.

This time was always his regular post-meal training time, so

he had always warned his disciples to be quiet and not disturb him.

But today, as if the outside was unusually noisy, his training was shattered by a message brought by the head steward, Seo Mungi. The message Seo Mungi brought was so shockingly immense that it shook his very spirit.

It was reported that the outer court of the estate had been devastated by two intruders, and those two intruders had already entered the inner court. Even though the guests and inner court warriors had all tried to stop them, they were utterly outmatched, an unbelievable report.

The Hoja was largely divided into the outer and inner courts, with inner court warriors being much more skilled than outer court warriors. The protectors guarding the inner court were also considered masters who had reached a considerable level. Moreover, the guests invited from various martial arts circles were all warriors evaluated as at least first-class. The fact that they could not stop just two people and were in disarray made Ho Cheonsang doubt his own ears. He even harbored suspicious thoughts that the head steward might be playing a prank on him, colluding with others. But judging from the urgency on the head steward's face and the sweat drenching his entire body, it seemed like no joke at all.

As soon as Ho Cheonsang heard this shocking news, he rushed out to the inner court courtyard. In his haste, he didn't even put on the top he had taken off during his training, running out bare-chested. As he breathlessly rushed into the courtyard, Ho Cheonsang glared at the two uninvited guests. His gaze then focused intensely on one of the middle-aged men. He didn't notice the inner court warriors lying piled up like luggage on the floor, nor the guests bleeding from their noses and unconscious, nor the still unharmed inner court warriors and protectors facing the situation with barely suppressed terror.

All his attention was riveted on that one middle-aged man, never wavering. Just moments ago, he had doubted his ears; now, he doubted his eyes. This was because he recognized at a glance that one of the two was the renowned Yendo, Gwak Yeonghui. Of course, anyone who couldn't recall his name upon seeing Yendo's distinctive appearance would probably be only Gam Unsu, a foolish disciple of Hoja. If they had a proper discerning eye, would they have dared to rashly charge forward without knowing their own limits?

Just a short while ago, Ho Cheonsang couldn't believe that his estate was attacked in broad daylight, the outer court breached, and intruders reaching the inner court.

'What were all those disciples and guests who just eat and live here doing? Were they just idly twiddling their thumbs?'

It was true that such deep doubts arose. But now, he could believe the fact of the intrusion. Of course, Bilu Yeon and Yendo's side only considered it a simple visit. When Ho Cheonsang himself rushed to the scene, the elders and protectors within the estate, who were performing their duties, had all abandoned their work and rushed out to confront the intruders. However, no one dared to make the first move. This was because they all knew for sure who one of the intruders was.

The warriors currently lying fallen in the inner court had met a tragic end by rushing in without confirming the opponent's identity. By the time they confirmed that one of the intruders was Yendo, dozens of warriors and three or four guests had already fallen unconscious. It was a crisis that could have completely ruined the foundation of the estate. Therefore, everyone was just watching each other, hesitant to act rashly. The atmosphere within the estate grew increasingly tense, and a heavy, unavoidable tension permeated the air.

Bilu Yeon and Yendo disliked this commotion and tension. It felt like a simple matter was unnecessarily becoming complicated. They had come with light hearts, but felt the people were making too much trouble for them. However, the two did not realize that the situation had already become a tangled mess. In fact, they didn't even want to bother. They were full of confidence that they could resolve it with a single stroke, no matter how complicated the situation. Whether they were relaxed or dull-witted, it was undeniable that they were both beings far beyond the common sense of ordinary people.

To break this standoff, Ho Cheonsang politely bowed to Yendo, performing the ritual of clasping his hands, and spoke first. As the master of Hoja, he had the responsibility to resolve the situation and find a way forward.

"I am Ho Cheonsang, the master of this estate. Though undeserving, my fellow swordsmen praise me as Hoamenggeom. It is a threefold honor to meet the renowned Yendo, Gwak Daehyeop, one of the five great sword masters of the martial world."

Ho Cheonsang spoke with the utmost politeness. Although they were uninvited guests, considering Yendo's position in the martial world, it was impossible to treat him carelessly.

"What brings you to our estate, Gwak Daehyeop?"

"……"

Yendo did not reply. He remained silent. Having been dragged into something he didn't want to do, his mood was naturally not calm.

"Gwak Daehyeop, please tell us the purpose of your visit to our estate."

Ho Cheonsang asked politely once more. His state of mind was also extremely uncomfortable. Yendo stood there blankly without any reaction, even after being asked politely a second time. Bilu Yeon poked Yendo's side with his elbow. It was a gesture urging him to answer quickly.

Because they had agreed to keep their relationship secret before coming here, Bilu Yeon could not rashly step forward. If they made a mistake, their relationship could be exposed. While it wouldn't be a serious matter for Bilu Yeon, it could be very detrimental to Yendo. Yendo also did not want to risk that. Finally, Yendo's mouth opened. His voice was low but dignified.

"I came to receive one item."

"An item? What item are you referring to?"

No matter how much he thought about it, Ho Cheonsang couldn't help but be bewildered.

"I truly have no idea what you are talking about."

Yendo resolved Ho Cheonsang's curiosity as he tilted his head in confusion.

"It is an item that a person without qualification claims to be the master of. It is the Seungryongpae (乘龍牌)."

"Seung, Ryong, Pae (乘龍牌)!"

Not only Ho Cheonsang but also all the warriors in the surrounding standoff let out the same exclamation of shock. It was natural.

Seungryongpae (昇龍牌)!

A special privilege granted only to a select few recognized first-class sects. It was a token that certified the qualification for one disciple from a meticulously selected first-class sect to apply for the special admission examination of the Cheonmu Academy without going through the annual Seungcheonmuje. The Seungryongpae (昇龍牌)!

This token, carved with a dragon ascending to heaven riding a sword over the dragon gate, was as precious as life itself to young warriors dreaming of the future. And now, Yendo was asking for it as if it were nothing. It was an unreasonable demand that defied all common sense. It was a demand that could never come from a rational, sensible person.

"Gwak Daehyeop! You must be joking, right? That item already has a designated owner."

"Is that so? I heard that the Seungryongpae has no owner. I distinctly heard that only strength was the criterion for determining the owner of the Seungryongpae. Is that not so? If not, then my ears must be wrong. If you have something to say, try and say it?"

Everything Yendo said was true. According to the rules set by the Cheonmu Academy, anyone with sufficient strength could legitimately obtain ownership of the Seungryongpae through a proper martial arts duel. However, this was under the condition that it would not result in life or death. The academy rules clearly stated that if life and death occurred during a duel, both parties would be disqualified. This condition was added to prevent countless casualties from occurring over the Seungryongpae.

If even this minimal condition were not attached, the value of the Seungryongpae could create a river of blood. Though regrettable, what Yendo said was a fact without an iota of error.

"However, that already belongs to our second son, Unsu. Isn't it extremely unfair to claim to decide the ownership of that now?"

"Unsu? Ah, the weakling who collapsed earlier? He was pathetic. He only learned the form of swordsmanship, the shell of it, and thought he had mastered it. Can swordsmanship without the intent of the sword be called swordsmanship? So I gave him a little lecture. It was a good lesson. You should be grateful to us. We saved you from a great disgrace. They say this is a narrow escape from death. You are all very lucky this time."

Ho Cheonsang's eyes widened at Yendo's long, sarcastic tirade, which was unlike him. He clenched the hilt of his beloved sword, Nuhoado, so hard it felt like it would crumble. A ferocious fighting spirit, as if he would draw his sword and end their lives, radiated from his entire body. The trembling of his hand clutching the sword hilt was proof of this.

"So it was Gwak Daehyeop who lectured our Unsu?"

"No, it wasn't me who lectured him, but this one."

Yendo's hand pointed to Bilu Yeon, who was standing silently beside him. Naturally, Ho Cheonsang's gaze turned to Bilu Yeon. Despite facing Ho Cheonsang's piercing, tiger-like gaze, Bilu Yeon remained unfazed. In fact, he even smiled and waved as if he were greeting Ho Cheonsang.

Although Bilu Yeon's action was purely innocent and without malice, it was an unbearable insult that turned Ho Cheonsang's stomach. Even to the onlookers, Bilu Yeon's absurd behavior was no different from digging his own grave. Ho Cheonsang's fierce tiger eyes gleamed with anger. He ground his teeth. He must have thought that a young brat was mocking him.

However, he had no idea that Yendo, a supreme master and one of the five great sword masters of the world, had been defeated by Bilu Yeon, a seemingly utterly insignificant young brat, and had become his disciple. Unless he was a god, how could he know such hidden secrets of the martial world? If he had known, he would not have harbored such rash thoughts of thoroughly punishing Bilu Yeon. Ho Cheonsang gritted his teeth inwardly. "If I don't discipline that fellow, I am not human," he resolved firmly.

"Then, should I hold you responsible?"

Since they had disciplined his child, he intended to discipline them in return. His voice clearly conveyed his intention to repay the debt with interest. Hearing this, Yendo chuckled. It was a laugh that clearly meant, "You, a mere speck." Even if he was careless, how could Ho Cheonsang possibly handle the monster that even he himself couldn't defeat?

Ho Cheonsang had no idea that he himself, not Bilu Yeon, was the one digging his own grave. Of course, Yendo was not so considerate as to explain all these facts to Ho Cheonsang. He knew well that if such a disgraceful fact were revealed, all he would receive would be ridicule and contempt. Yet, even if Bilu Yeon were to be beaten to a pulp by Ho Cheonsang, he would have nothing to lose, and in fact, would gain immense benefits. He could eliminate this annoying fellow without lifting a finger. But then Yendo suddenly acted unexpectedly. He stepped in to stop Ho Cheonsang's actions.

"Oh? Try it if you can. But you'll have to defeat me first."

Ho Cheonsang was startled by Yendo's remark. Yendo himself was stepping forward for a seemingly insignificant brat. His surprise at Yendo, who was so different from the rumors, was natural. Yendo, who hated being bothered by crowds and such actions, was voluntarily taking on the trouble of wielding a saber.

Was there anyone of his age who could move Yendo? Ho Cheonsang glanced at Bilu Yeon again, but he couldn't figure it out at all. Despite the suddenly serious atmosphere in the courtyard, Bilu Yeon remained leisurely, with a playful smile, as if he were enjoying it. This was the ease of life that only chosen people could possess. Had Bilu Yeon already reached that state of effortless detachment at such a young age? Or was it simply due to his foolishly optimistic personality? It had not yet been confirmed.

"Are you going to do it yourself?"

Bilu Yeon whispered to Yendo's ear. His eyes were filled with countless, sparkling expectations, like stars. He was going to resolve it himself, without causing any trouble for him. With a completely unfounded assumption that Yendo had finally submitted from the heart, he was lost in a pleasant mood, forgetting that the one offering the reward was not thinking of him.

"I will… do it!"

Yendo himself would personally take on Ho Cheonsang's duel. Without causing him any trouble, by himself. Bilu Yeon was truly pleased. Yendo pushed Bilu Yeon aside with his large, cauldron-like hand and stepped forward. Bilu Yeon stood beside him, clapping enthusiastically. It seemed to be cheering him on. Though it didn't seem to be very effective.

However, Yendo taking on this duel was by no means for Bilu Yeon's benefit. Submission from the heart? A passing dog would laugh at that. It was the opposite. Having been reduced to Bilu Yeon's disciple, Yendo intended to vent at least a little of the countless mental and physical frustrations he had unknowingly accumulated. In other words, although Ho Cheonsang would be shocked to learn this, he was merely a simple outlet for Yendo to relieve the pent-up frustrations that had accumulated over time. Moreover, Yendo had never liked Hoja, who claimed to be a reputable sword lineage, with their mediocre skills. Naturally, Ho Cheonsang, the master of Hoja, standing in an awkward posture, was quite an eyesore.

There was one more reason. From the moment he crossed the threshold of this Hoja, a nagging feeling that had been stimulating his nerves made his nerves extremely sensitive, further worsening his impression of Hoja and its master, Ho Cheonsang. Yendo's mood was currently completely awful. Therefore, combined with the release of his anger, he decided to firmly teach them a lesson this time. And thus, he resolved to make them realize that there is heaven beyond heaven, a heaven outside of heaven (天外天).

Although belittled as insignificant and trivial by Yendo, Ho Cheonsang was, after all, the master of a sect (主人). He was by no means an opponent to be underestimated. Both of them, wielding swords and sabers, possessed a demeanor and spirit that was extraordinary, like peerless martial artists who had experienced the depths of martial arts. If they clashed, it would never end as a simple, trivial fight.

However, Ho Cheonsang still felt a lot lacking. In terms of momentum and experience, he still felt unable to match Yendo. Yendo also regarded Ho Cheonsang as nothing more than a mere target for venting his anger. A target for venting his anger that might show some reaction. Of course, Ho Cheonsang belatedly sensed this, which only fueled his anger further. However, despite his intense anger and boiling fighting spirit, his hand clutching his beloved sword, Nuhoado, trembled slightly. It had been a considerable time since he gripped the sword hilt, but the subtle tremor had not subsided, and his hands were covered in sweat. It was an unavoidable expression of his inner instincts. However, his current situation was a thorough fight to the death (背水陣); there was no longer any room to retreat.

"I will gladly receive your teachings."

Ho Cheonsang spoke politely according to etiquette. However, judging by the way he spat out the words, he seemed to have absolutely no desire to learn. Rather, his demeanor was one of showing off his skills. His fighting spirit (覇氣) alone was worthy of praise. Yendo nodded. It meant, "Come whenever you're ready."

Without either of them making the first move, they both drew their swords and sabers simultaneously. Yendo, yielding the first move, stood rooted to the spot, unmoving. Naturally, Ho Cheonsang leaped forward first and struck Yendo with his sword with tremendous force. A powerful sword (强劍) of the Hegemony Path (覇道), emphasizing strength and destruction! It was truly a fearsome momentum. In an instant, the sword and saber clashed.

"Bang!"

With a deafening roar, an explosion occurred. The swords and saber clashed, but instead of a metallic sound, an explosion rang out. The impact of the powerful surge of energy emanating from the point of collision between the sword and saber sent dust and pebbles flying, and a raging wind whipped the hair of the onlookers and flapped their long robes violently. A tingling sensation flowed through the bodies of all the onlookers. They could all directly feel the clash of energy and its aftereffects. It was the first clash.

Although the dust generated by the collision obscured their vision, with a sweep of Yendo's hand, a gust of wind mysteriously blew away the thick dust, and soon the figures of the two appeared before the eyes of the people.

'Oops! This is bad!'

Ho Cheonsang was inwardly aghast. While his opponent, Yendo, stood like he was rooted to the spot, not moving an inch, how was he? He had retreated eight steps backward, kicking up dust, leaving deep, clear footprints on the ground. The deep, clear footprints clearly indicated the extent of his embarrassment. The clear footprints stamped on the ground were clear evidence that his body had moved vigorously to disperse the force, commensurate with the degree of embarrassment he suffered from one exchange.

Even with just one offense and defense, the superiority of martial arts after this single exchange was evident. Not only were there footprints only on Ho Cheonsang's side, but his blackened face, his curly hair singed by the heat, and his blackened, disheveled clothing, all clearly and dramatically explained the difference in their abilities.

Ho Cheonsang's hand had almost been torn off from the fierce impact, like a gunpowder explosion, when his sword clashed with Yendo's saber. Along with the explosion, heat energy surged, and a storm of intense heat swirled violently around his entire body. He was barely able to extricate himself. In his state of struggling to even maintain his own body, counterattacking was out of the question.

Indeed, it was Yendo's signature move, the rumored 'Sword Strike Blazing Heat Energy (劍擊 暴炎氣)', or simply 'Sword Flame Energy (劍焰氣)', a rare, ultimate technique. He had thought the rumors were exaggerated when he heard them, but encountering it directly, it was more than rumor. The thought of clashing swords again made him tremble with fear. He even doubted his own martial arts, which he had been so confident in, wondering if his skill was only this much. It was a complete defeat.

Ho Cheonsang knew. He knew that Yendo had deliberately slowed down his hand the moment the sword and saber clashed. Even by holding back, he had inflicted such a loss on him. Ho Cheonsang drew his sword first. The moment he drew his sword, it was a single stroke. But Yendo, either looking down on him or giving him the first move, stood unmoving. Such Yendo, after clearly seeing and confirming Ho Cheonsang's attack, drew his saber to defend. A perfect late-comer (後發制刃). And a perfect difference in skill. In terms of speed, strength, and internal energy, he was no match for Yendo.

With just one exchange of swords, a single offensive and defensive transition, Ho Cheonsang was completely depleted. He felt so ashamed he wanted to hide in a rat hole. However, even if he was going to die, he couldn't back down like this for the sake of his pride. It was too pathetic and shabby to back down now. Ho Cheonsang resolved to fight a decisive battle. It could even be called a final struggle. It was a man's pride.

At this moment, a voice of salvation, a guiding light from heaven, came to rescue him.

"Stop!"