Book 27 Chapter 4

Fighting the Dragon

- The Nest of Emptiness

"Disciple."

"Yes, Master?"

*Snap!*

"Ouch! Damn it, why’d you hit me!"

"How can you not do even one thing properly? If it’s like this, the slave from the Bi Lei Sect is much better than you."

"A slave? Where would such a luxurious thing be in this stingy sect?"

"Why wouldn't there be? There used to be. At this rate, you’ll only end up as a server."

"Was I… a server?"

"Originally, a disciple is only a paper’s width away from being a slave or a server."

"What is that paper’s width difference?"

"Of course, it’s whether you can learn the martial arts of the Bi Lei Sect or not. Other than that, you can think of it as all the same."

"Other than that, it's all about making money, cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry!"

"Yes, that’s right. Why are you asking something so obvious?"

"Damn it!"

"If you’re upset, raise a disciple yourself. For that, wouldn't you need to grasp the essence of this ‘Empty Low Object’ first? To accept the whole world, you must first empty yourself. Those who cannot empty themselves will not gain. To gather different energies into one, empty yourself. The more you empty, the more you will gain."

"Is that so?"

"Of course. Now, so, empty your pockets too."

"Why my pockets?"

"This principle applies to money as well. If you empty your pockets a lot, you can fill them with more money, can’t you?"

"Lies! Lies! Lies!"

"Are you saying you don’t believe this master who is teaching you the great principles of the world?"

"Of course! Emptying your pockets will only make you poor!"

I could believe everything else, but I couldn't believe that last statement. No, I didn't want to believe it. How did he know, as if by magic, that I had some money stashed away secretly from Master?

"Tsk tsk, you’re so suspicious, you who can’t even control one dragon properly. Listen carefully, disciple. The four dragons that have taken roost in your body. Their power will only grow stronger with time. One day, they might even tear you apart. That's why you can never take off the Dark Dragon Pill. But remember this. If you cannot control those four dragons, you will never attain the 'Thunder God'! So, empty yourself!"

Empty yourself— Empty yourself— Empty yourself—

"Ugh…"

Bi Ryun had closed his eyes, sat in a cross-legged position, and let out a short groan. His master's words from long ago echoed in his ears like an auditory hallucination.

Currently, Bi Ryun was circulating his Qi. However, the location was not ideal. Usually, during Qi circulation, the body is mostly defenseless, and even a minor external shock can lead to Qi deviation. That's why it's usually done in a hidden and quiet place. That's the common sense of the martial arts world. But now, Bi Ryun was performing Qi circulation in the heart of enemy territory, surrounded by dozens of enemies. His only protector was Hyo Ryong. Even Seo Hae Wang Rak Bio couldn't help but be bewildered by this brazen act.

"Is that guy's courage sticking out of his belly?"

He couldn't help but ask Hyo Ryong. Hyo Ryong, feeling a bit embarrassed,

"Ahem, please don't ask questions that are difficult to answer,"

was all he could reply. Rak Bio, who claimed to be upright, wasn't attacking through his subordinates, but it was still impossible to relax in the middle of enemy territory. Hyo Ryong, being from the Black Path, knew this well. There were few things less trustworthy than the promises of the Black Path. And even if Rak Bio stayed put, there could be those who were eager to gain merit. Someone who wanted to put their name on the list in place of an incompetent leader. That's why Hyo Ryong had to be a shield, protecting Bi Ryun without losing his tension.

'Please wake up quickly, my friend. Before I die of dryness.'

Hyo Ryong muttered to himself, trying to hide the cold sweat running down his back. However, his carefree friend offered no response.

In reality, though Bi Ryun appeared to be fine on the outside, he was engaged in a fierce battle within. Three swirling energies within him!

The first was the energy Bi Ryun originally possessed. The power he gained through training the Flying Thunder Sword. The second was the power awakened when the Dark Dragon Pill was released. This was also power Bi Ryun gained, but he couldn’t control it properly yet. And the third was, surprisingly, the energy from the elixir given by Rak Bio. As Rak Bio had boasted, it wasn’t poison. But it wasn't entirely good news either, as its surprisingly potent effect added new energy to the already volatile energy that was about to go berserk. While the most immense of these energies was the left-hand dragon's energy released from the Dark Dragon Pill, in the end, three different energies were colliding, repelling, intertwining, and swirling wildly within his body.

It was like a reservoir during the monsoon season, threatening to break through the dam and erupt at any moment. Bi Ryun had to control this immense energy. Otherwise, his life wouldn't be guaranteed. To be overwhelmed by his own internal energy… If his master found out, he would have surely teased him for ten years as an immature fellow.

'This situation… it feels like it happened before… when was it?'

He felt a strange sense of déjà vu. It seemed to be from the time of the Hua Shan branch. Then he remembered how he had resolved the situation back then. It was something he had resolved almost unconsciously, so his memory was hazy.

'That’s right. Why did I forget about that? About that time?'

Wasn't it the way of learning from the past, developing the present, and moving towards the future? In an instant, his mind cleared as if clouds had passed.

'Empty Low Object!'

To achieve effortless change by emptying oneself. That is the essence of shapeless power that transforms endlessly. Because it is shapeless, it is not bound by form, the essence of nothingness.

Breaking fixed molds and establishing myself at the center of the world.

That is the path to becoming the Thunder God.

'Ah, damn Master! That was your intention.'

Only then did Bi Ryun grasp his master's intention in releasing the dragons.

The immense Qi accumulated within his body through long training. The flow of that immense Qi, like a dragon ascending, was fierce, rough, and powerful. A colossal force that could tear apart the owner's body if handled incorrectly. The Dark Dragon Pill was also a safety device to suppress the eruption of that immense power.

The safety device had already been removed by the damn Master.

The liberation of the dragons.

Once released, there was no way to tie the dragons back. Unless he tamed those dragons, death awaited him.

Yet, the Master smiled and pushed his disciple into a death trap.

Taming those dragons was the path to complete self-control. Unless he controlled these rampaging dragons, there was no way for Bi Ryun to attain the Thunder God. The Master had opened the path to the Thunder God for his disciple.

'Ah… Master…'

What a damn touching consideration!

Then, as a disciple, shouldn't he walk out of this death trap with a smile?

And shouldn't he deliver a blow to his Master's face?

That he had a great time sightseeing on the doorstep of hell. That it was a truly thrilling experience. That Master should definitely try it once. Highly recommended! That he would personally send him there for a filial piety tour!

Therefore, there was no room for hesitation here.

The fight with the left-hand dragon was a fight against himself, a more arduous battle than any other. And in front of him, Yerinn was waiting. To do that, he would tame dragons or whatever else stood in his way, he thought.

Now, countless energies were swirling within Bi Ryun's body.

'Gather those energies and weave them into one.'

That was what Bi Ryun had to achieve now. Just as he had done for a moment at the Hua Shan branch.

'Come on! Left-hand dragon! Let's see who eats whom!'

Do not try to suppress it by force; the more you try to suppress it, the more it will resist. No matter how much you suppress yourself by force, it will always bounce back threefold.

Do not try to suppress it; accept it. A vessel that can nurture a dragon. Make your own body, your own dantian, a nest for dragons to live in.

I am nothing!

I am the emptiness that accepts all!

The Profound Gate that transforms endlessly in response to all things!

There is nothing I cannot change, and nothing I cannot contain.

The entire universe is within me.

I am the universe, and the universe is me.

At this moment, I become the axis of the Great Ultimate that stands tall between heaven and earth.

Flying Thunder Sword’s Secret Art

Ultimate of Thunder Spirit Heart Method

Empty Low Object

Man Standing Between Heaven and Earth

Essence of the Three Talents’ Profoundness

Great Ultimate’s Axis Establishment

It is not empty even though it is empty, and it is not nonexistent even though it is nonexistent.

One is the whole, and the whole is one.

All phenomena return to one.

All things came from one, and will return to one!

That place of return is the center of the world and the universe, it is 'I.'

The three energies swirling within his body melted into one, forming the shape of a colossal dragon. That dragon soared upwards into the sky as if mad. And that dragon pierced the clouds and ascended to the heavens, finally reaching the universe.

This is where I was born, this is where I will return.

Finally, the dragon coiled itself and fell asleep within that vast universe.

The name of that universe was called 'Bi Ryun.'

Embracing the Dragon, Returning to the Origin

Embracing the dragon within his dantian, Bi Ryun awakened.

"Is this possible!"

Hyo Ryong, who was standing guard with dual swords drawn within the circle he had drawn, was surprised. At that moment, Bi Ryun's body began to glow with golden light.

Fluttering, Bi Ryun's black martial arts uniform and hair fluttered as if in the wind, even though there was no breeze.

And from his fluttering hair, Bi Ryun's eyes slowly opened. The pupils of his two hawk-eye stones glowed with brilliant golden light.

*Rustle!*

The wind that had once been expelled began to blow towards Bi Ryun. At first, it was a gentle breeze, but the current soon turned into a strong gale.

Had the wind changed direction? No, this phenomenon couldn't be explained by that. It felt as if all the world's energy was being sucked into an abyss. Then, as if nothing had happened, the fluttering of his clothes and the rhythm of his hair subsided, and everything became quiet.

As if the wind, sound, and people were all being sucked into Bi Ryun, a stillness like a clear mirror filled the area.

"Haaah!"

As if to break the silence that felt like both a moment and eternity, Bi Ryun yawned broadly and stood up from his seat. As if waking from a long sleep. After looking around, Bi Ryun let out a casual remark.

"Huh? Why are you all gathered here looking at me? Haven't you ever seen a supremely handsome young man?"

It was the usual Bi Ryun. Only then did Hyo Ryong sigh with relief, his heart sinking.

"Are you okay now, Ryun?"

"Of course, Ryong Ryong. I'm at my best. In the best possible state. So much so that I could take on all these onlookers. If you don't believe me, I can show you."

Bi Ryun smiled faintly. No one reacted to his provocation. Bi Ryun's aura now dominated everyone in the area. If there was such a thing as quiet coercion, this would be it. He was truly an absurd friend, no matter how often he saw him. Was he lucky to have such a friend, or the unluckiest person in the world? Putting aside such thoughts, Hyo Ryong shook his head and said,

"No, I don't think that's necessary."

"Well, since I've rested enough, shall I go find my friends?"

"That's a great idea. I was getting bored of standing here in this position anyway."

Hyo Ryong knew. Even if they left here, no one would be able to stop them.

However, the proverb that ignorance leads to bravery had been passed down since ancient times. Nothing works on those who cannot see. Not seeing means not recognizing, and not recognizing is the same as not existing. That is the direct path to reckless bravery.

Bi Ryun's back was full of vulnerabilities. If there were fewer people watching, they could have let him walk out, but he was so defenseless that it was as if he was asking to be attacked.

"Don't think that our Tenth Brigade can just barge in and out as they please!"

One of the Tenth Brigade members swung his sword at Bi Ryun. As if he had a high rank, his strike was not ordinary.

"Stop it, Battalion Commander!"

Rak Bio tried to stop him, but it was already too late.

However, the strike was easily caught between Bi Ryun's two fingers.

"H-how can this be!"

The member's face showed disbelief, as his life's work was suppressed by just two fingers.

*Flash.*

Golden threads danced around Bi Ryun's right forearm.

*Swish!*

And in the next moment, his sword, his clothes, and his hair were all cut into pieces. It was astonishing that his skin was unharmed. The man, now naked in mid-air, fell to the ground.

"Hmm, it seems to be under control. Down to the thickness of a strand of hair."

He meant he had intentionally missed by the thickness of a strand of hair, without harming the skin. However, thanks to that, Bi Ryun saw something he really didn't want to see.

"Ugh, I cut off something unnecessary. My eyes are going to rot."

He didn't want to see a hairy man's naked body.

"Since you cut it thoughtlessly, who can you blame?"

Hyo Ryong had to agree that it wasn't a pleasant sight.

"Anyone else want to try?"

Bi Ryun looked around at the Tenth Brigade members with a gentle smile.

Hesitantly, they took a step back without realizing it. To them, Bi Ryun's gentle smile looked like the smile of a devil filled with malice.

"Then, Ryong Ryong, let's get out of here quickly. I need to go meet Yerinn."

Now, no one stood in the way of the two leaving. Rak Bio finally realized that if he had fought Bi Ryun head-on, he would have had no chance of winning.

"Where did such a monstrous guy pop out from?"

Rak Bio's mouth tasted bitter, like seeing a mountain that could never be crossed.

* * *

He had no name. He was abandoned in the mountains as a child and survived on wolf’s milk. He slept with wolves and ran with them. He grew up drinking the milk of the same mother wolf as his brother, Chang Lang Ah. Then, one day, the wolf that raised him was killed by a martial artist from the White Path. The excuse was to eliminate a dangerous beast that threatened people, but in reality, it was hunted because the fur of the blue wolf was valuable.

The young him, whose teeth hadn't fully grown, and Chang Lang Ah had no choice but to flee. It was Master 'Blood Wolf Guest' who took him in as he fled with the young Chang Lang Ah. Blood Wolf Guest was a man who carried a red wolf with him. He showed great interest in him, who had grown up drinking wolf’s milk. Since he had run in the mountains with wolves from a young age, he possessed physical abilities far superior to ordinary people. Chang Lang, who was fierce from rolling with wolves, was no match for Blood Wolf Guest. It was Blood Wolf Guest who first tamed him, taught him to speak human language, and taught him martial arts.

Under his master, he trained diligently and finally avenged the martial artists who had killed his pack. The place where those martial artists were was Henan. However, the wish of Blood Wolf Guest was to target the Shaolin Temple. His goal was to leave a stain on the history of the Shaolin Temple.

Due to the Hundred and Eight Arhat Formation, Blood Wolf Guest's wish was not fully realized, but Chang Lang was able to somewhat quench his anger. In the process of avenging the martial artists who had made his mother into fur, he was able to retrieve his mother's body. After that, he wore the fur of the blue wolf like clothing and never took it off. Wearing the skin of his mother wolf, with a wolf emblem on his chest, and with blue glints like those of a wolf in his eyes, he could already be considered a wolf.

"As long as I wear this mother’s skin, I cannot lose. Come at me! I’ll make you food for the Magic Wolf Blood Wind Claw!"

From Chang Lang's hand, the Six-Island Claw flew again.

Mo Yong Hwi quickly unfurled the Silver River Meteor Sword Technique’s Silver River Qi to block the Six-Island Claw.

He had no choice but to counter Qi with Qi. If he dodged, Hyun Yun, who was carrying the injured Shan Shan, and the still inexperienced Gong Son Jeol Hwi would be exposed. Therefore, despite his nearly depleted internal energy, Mo Yong Hwi squeezed out his Qi.

Chang Lang was right. The probability of them winning, having already excessively consumed their vital energy, was very low.

There was only one way for them to win.

'Swift victory!'

That was all.

Time was their enemy now. No, it had been their enemy since before. Shan Shan’s condition would only worsen with time.

He had no intention of stalling.

"I will tie down that person's hands first. In that gap, you attack, senior. Jeol Hwi, you too."

"Understood."

"Understood."

"If the two of you attack simultaneously, even the Maraing Guest will not be able to do anything. We must end it with this strike. We have no time."

"I know that all too well."

Hyun Yun felt the life draining from Shan Shan’s body on his back like sand. He was going crazy with frustration at being held back here because of that beastly fellow.

"Here I go!"

Chang Lang unfolded the Six-Island Claw without closing the distance.

At that moment, Mo Yong Hwi unleashed the movement technique Meteor Shower piercing the Heavens and leaped into the enemy's embrace. Judging by how his figure stretched long like a meteor's tail, one could guess how fast he was moving.

It was truly instantaneous speed!

*Clang!*

Swords and claws clashed, creating sparks.

The Six-Island Claw was not unleashed.

"H-how can this be!"

Chang Lang let out a roar of surprise.

"If the speed of the blade does not reach its peak, a vacuum fist cannot be generated!"

Furthermore, it was impossible to project Qi at long range. Therefore, Mo Yong Hwi deliberately threw himself forward.

"Now's the chance!"

Seizing the moment when the claw was blocked, Hyun Yun and Gong Son Jeol Hwi attacked simultaneously. However, even with the six islands blocked, Chang Lang did not look troubled at all. Instead, he smiled triumphantly,

"This much won't do!"

*Click!*

Three metal claws extended from Chang Lang's right foot.

*Whoosh!*

As Chang Lang kicked his right foot, a vacuum blade swept towards Mo Yong Hwi.

"Huk!"

Mo Yong Hwi, who had been focusing only on Chang Lang's hands, became careless.

*Clang!*

Mo Yong Hwi quickly pulled his sword back to block the vacuum fist. However, the vacuum fist, which lacked the speed to be canceled out, struck Mo Yong Hwi. A short scream erupted.

"Senior Mo Yong Hwi, are you alright?"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi, who was running over, shouted with a pale face.

"I’m fine. It just grazed me."

Blood spurted from the wound, but fortunately, it was not a fatal injury.

With his right kick, Chang Lang unleashed the 'Three-Island Kick.' His body floated into the air, and he twisted his waist, launching a kick towards Gong Son Jeol Hwi. It wasn't just a simple kick, but a kick filled with lethal killing intent.

"Huk!"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi quickly deployed a defensive stance.

*Ka-ga-ga-ga-ga-gang!*

Three vacuum blades raged like a storm, shaking Gong Son Jeol Hwi's body.

Although he deflected the direct hit, the residual energy of the vacuum blade, not yet extinguished, tore through his clothes and flesh.

Chang Lang crossed his now-free arms and unleashed the Six-Island Claw towards Hyun Yun.

It happened so quickly that there was no time to unfold the Wind and Rain Flowing Curve. Hyun Yun hastily drew a circle with his sword’s tip and deployed his Hua Jing. However, distracted by the attack, he couldn't deploy a perfect Hua Jing and ended up receiving half of the attack.

Chang Lang landed lightly on the ground, flipping his body with ease. There were no injuries on his body, but among the three people—Mo Yong Hwi, Hyun Yun, and Gong Son Jeol Hwi—there wasn't a single person who was unharmed.

"Hmm, didn't I tell you? Wolves have four legs?"

His face was filled with a triumphant smile. In contrast, the faces of Mo Yong Hwi and the other two were filled with dismay. They had tried to end it quickly, but they almost got finished off quickly themselves.

'Is this the true strength of the Mara Sky Thirteen Great Generals…'

It seemed Chang Lang's capabilities were beyond their imagination.

"Huff, huff, huff!"

The three people, barely maintaining their stances, breathed heavily. Their bodies felt as if they could crumble like sandcastles at any moment.

Only their 'will' was keeping them standing now.

* * *

"What are these puppies? Puppies wearing armor?"

Bi Ryun muttered as he landed a blow on a wolf that suddenly attacked him. The wolf wore a layer of iron hide over its skin, a formidable object studded with iron spikes.

"Ryun, no matter how I look at it, these aren't puppies, they look like wolves?"

"Wolves in the middle of an island? Are wolves swimming for leisure these days?"

"They're probably the ones raised by the Chang Lang Brigade. I’ve heard rumors about the iron-clad wolves they secretly raise."

It seemed these were indeed those wolves.

"What, they're still puppies, aren't they? Once they're raised like livestock by humans, they can no longer be called wolves."

"But you shouldn't underestimate them. They’ve received systematic training, so they’re much scarier than wild wolves."

"Surely this spiky armor isn’t the latest fashion for wolves? It looks quite expensive for pet clothes."

Although they were made of metal and must be quite heavy, their movements were still fast, without any noticeable sluggishness. However, that was only to an ordinary person; to Bi Ryun’s eyes, they seemed infinitely slow.

*Yelp!*

Another wolf, struck by Bi Ryun's hand, was sent flying.

Judging by the ferocity with which they charged at them, there was still a wild spirit remaining. A wild ferocity, yet strangely well-coordinated. For animals.

"They say they raise them without suppressing their wildness as much as possible. And the armor worn by those iron-clad wolves is said to be impenetrable by ordinary blades."

"Tsk, this is bothersome. How many of these guys are there?"

Although he had been using his lightness skill to dodge and knocking some of them out with his fist, the number of pursuing wolves seemed to be increasing rather than decreasing.

"Rumor has it that each member is responsible for raising one wolf…"

"How many people are there in that Blue Wolf Brigade?"

"There are many more members than in other brigades. Around ninety, I’d say."

"What? So, there are ninety of them?"

"Yes," Hyo Ryong nodded.

"This is going to be bothersome…"

Bi Ryun sighed without slowing his lightness skill. Dealing with wild wolves was quite dangerous. And nearly a hundred wolves… This was a situation that couldn't be easily encountered even in the deepest mountains and valleys.

Bi Ryun slightly furrowed his brow. It wasn’t impossible to deal with them. Even though the formidable pet armor was tough, he could penetrate it if he set his mind to it. He could defeat them. However, to deal with such a number, a significant amount of vital energy would be consumed. Judging by their considerable coordination shown by the so-called "pets" earlier, these were well-trained individuals.

'Are those guys okay?'

The other three squads heading for Sa Ha Do must have fought at least once, so they were clearly depleted of vital energy.

If they got caught in a protracted battle in that state, it would be very dangerous.

'Four, no, at least four would be needed…'

He had to deal with their opponents again.

"Oh dear. I'm not the type to engage in losing business…"

It didn’t seem easy.

* * *

"Now, wolves don't play with their prey. I'll finish this."

From the interlocked Chang Lang claws, blue Qi erupted. At the same time, Chang Lang's hair and leather clothing fluttered violently. An abundance of internal energy, far beyond what the exhausted three had, began to emanate. He was about to unleash his full power.

"I will devour you with my strongest teeth!"

In the next moment, something astonishing happened. Chang Lang's figure momentarily split into six.

"Hahaha, have you washed your necks?!"

From the twelve pairs of eyes staring from all directions, blue glints shone. A cruel smile spread across the wolf’s lips. It was the gaze of a predator about to bite the nape of a hunted prey.

Magic Wolf Blood Wind Claw Final Kill Technique

Secret Art

Swift Wind Six Wolf Flash - Remnant

As soon as he appeared from the left, he appeared from the right, and as soon as he appeared from the right, he appeared from behind, and as soon as he appeared from behind, he appeared from the front, and as soon as he appeared from the front, he appeared from above. His speed was such that the eyes could not follow.

Mo Yong Hwi, Hyun Yun, and Gong Son Jeol Hwi tried to follow Chang Lang's movements, but by the time their swords passed, his figure was no longer there. Finally, as if to completely extinguish the fighting spirit of the three, he appeared from all directions simultaneously. The Six-Island attack unfolded simultaneously.

"Focus on defense!"

Mo Yong Hwi quickly deployed his sword barrier, and Hyun Yun unleashed the extreme of his Tai Chi Hye Sword's Hua Jing. Gong Son Jeol Hwi also quickly raised his sword Qi to respond.

"Kuaaaaaaaak!"

The bodies of the three men were sent flying backward as if hit by cannons. Among them, Gong Son Jeol Hwi flew the farthest, rolling about five times on the ground. The first to regain his senses was Mo Yong Hwi. Hyun Yun, trying to protect Namgung Shan Shan’s body, had endured and didn't fall. He had chosen the path of taking more damage and letting his body be mangled. He couldn't let Shan Shan get hurt any further.

"He's as fast as lightning, and he uses six clones…"

The simultaneous 'Six-Island' attack by six clones. The three men narrowly avoided fatal injuries from Chang Lang's storm-like attacks that raged from all directions. Their sword-holding hands throbbed, and their entire bodies were covered in wounds. It was puzzling why such a strong person would want to form a group.

"Haha, I can't believe it. You actually managed to block this technique. You guys were more formidable prey than I thought."

Fortunately, as this technique consumed a lot of internal energy, Chang Lang couldn't immediately follow up with another attack. After all, it was an attack where each of the six clones would shoot six streams of claw Qi. In fact, he hadn't expected Mo Yong Hwi and his companions, who were exhausted, to block such a fatal technique. He had only missed his final fang once before. However, the three were not unharmed either.

"Dangerous, so dangerous. The next one will be the limit."

Hyun Yun groaned, staggering. Carrying Shan Shan, he had taken more damage and fatigue than anyone else. It was impossible to block another ferocious attack like the one just now.

'One more time…'

That was the limit.

Yet, that blue wolf still looked brimming with energy. The situation was dire.

"Does that mean you can block one more time, Senior Hyun Yun?"

Mo Yong Hwi asked with a serious face.

"One time… it's possible. Just once."

Emphasizing "one time," Hyun Yun said.

"I also have enough strength for one attack."

At those words, Hyun Yun’s face naturally creased.

"That's not good news."

However, Mo Yong Hwi’s face showed not despair, but a determined expression.

"I have a way to defeat him."

"How?"

Hyun Yun asked with a desperate voice.

"For that, Jeol Hwi, I need your strength."

Instead of answering Hyun Yun’s question, Mo Yong Hwi looked at Gong Son Jeol Hwi and said.

"Yes, me?"

Pointing at himself with his index finger, Gong Son Jeol Hwi’s eyes widened like a sparrow hit by a slingshot.

"Yes, you!"

As if he hadn’t misheard or was hearing an auditory hallucination, Mo Yong Hwi nodded cruelly.

"I… I can't."

Gong Son Jeol Hwi shook his head vigorously with a pale face. Compared to when he first set foot in the martial arts world, he had become a hundred times more disheartened due to several failures. Moreover, after the incident in Donghae, he had acknowledged Mo Yong Hwi in his heart, so the distorted 'goal' that had fueled his animosity had completely vanished. The arrogant youth who vowed to defeat Mo Yong Hwi and elevate the Gong Son family to the foremost family in the martial arts world was nowhere to be found.

"No, you can do it!"

"But…"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi still spoke uncertainly.

"I heard from my grandfather that the true power of the Gong Son family's supreme sword technique comes from the peerless movement technique, ‘Supreme Lord’s Stride’."

"Th-that is…"

He trailed off but didn't deny it.

"What do you think? If your Supreme Lord’s Stride has reached the tenth-star level, you might be able to block Chang Lang's movement technique."

"……"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi couldn't readily say he could do it. Now that he had lost his confidence, he feared failure. The blue Qi gathered in Chang Lang’s claws was shining brighter and brighter. It meant his vital energy was rapidly recovering.

"Young Master Jeol Hwi, as you can see, I only have strength for one more attack. If Senior Hyun Yun can block the first attack, I will need the power to hold back his subsequent movements. Only your ‘Supreme Lord’s Stride’ can do that. I know you have worked hard. Since the day we first met, you have been improving. So, believe in yourself more. Prove that your accumulated training and your ‘Supreme Lord’s Stride’ are real! I entrust the lives of both of us to you!"

"Senior Mo Yong…"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi looked at Mo Yong Hwi with tears in his eyes. He had felt utterly ignored until now, and he had given up, thinking he could never bridge the gap. But he had been leading him as a junior, even though he had been hostile to him.

"This unworthy junior is always indebted to senior."

What a wonderful senior! Such a person could be called a true magnanimous figure. Now, Gong Son Jeol Hwi’s feelings were transforming from hatred to love… no, to respect.

"It's not a debt, but if you think so, the time to clear it is now."

At that moment, Hyun Yun, who couldn't stand it any longer, intervened.

"Um… you two, I apologize for interrupting your touching moment, but could you focus on that wolf a bit? It looks like it could attack at any moment. Please decide quickly."

Only then did Gong Son Jeol Hwi snap back to his senses and nod hastily.

"I will try. No, I will do it. Please let me do it."

"Can you really do it?"

Hyun Yun was still skeptical of Gong Son Jeol Hwi. All he had learned from his senior disciple, Bi Ryun, was that background didn't put food on the table. Hyun Yun, who hadn't seen any of his skills yet, had no choice but to be suspicious.

"Senior Mo Yong Hwi, I vouch for him. He can definitely do it!"

"If four are difficult, but if you reduce it to four, I think I can succeed somehow."

"Four…"

That role was Hyun Yun's.

"Alright, Master Hui. This is a do-or-die situation. I'm betting on your judgment."

Shan Shan's condition was critical. Moreover, they only had one chance left, and they had to pour everything they had into this single exchange.

The next clash would be the one where one side would break.

"Is the tactical meeting over? Honestly, I'm tired of waiting."

As Chang Lang taunted, the blue Qi surrounding his crossed claws suddenly shone with intense light and surged upwards. The blue glint in his wolf-like eyes flashed, and a terrifying aura reminiscent of a beast erupted from his entire body.

*Tingle, tingle.*

The hairs on his body stood on end from the sheer power. It was evident that he was pouring all his might into this strike.

"I will devour you with my strongest teeth this time!"

*Grrr,* his cry resembled a wolf's howl.

"I will defeat you and save Shan Shan!"

Hyun Yun shouted with determination. Gong Son Jeol Hwi echoed him.

"We're quite tough. Be careful not to lose your teeth!"

Finally, Mo Yong Hwi spoke quietly.

"You'll soon find out who the hunted is."

At last, Chang Lang’s body moved. In an instant, it split into six…

"No! My God!"

Hyun Yun, Gong Son Jeol Hwi, and Mo Yong Hwi were startled. This time, Chang Lang's body split into eight.

"Eight clones?!"

Chang Lang laughed maniacally as he saw the three people’s shocked faces.

"Now, can you really block this attack? This is my ultimate fang, Chang Lang’s!"

Magic Wolf Blood Wind Claw

Ultimate Secret Art

Eight Shadow Remaining Thunder - Blood Wind Style

Chang Lang's body, split into eight, rushed towards the three people like a swift wind.

Hyun Yun unleashed the Eight-Star Secret Art, Wind and Rain Flowing Curve, of his Tai Chi Hye Sword. The movement of the air surrounding them disrupted the Six-Island attack unleashed by Chang Lang. Simultaneously, Chang Lang’s figures began to disappear one by one.

One, two, three…

But that was the limit.

Five figures remained.

"Kuhk!"

Hyun Yun’s knees buckled as he consumed all his vital energy while unfolding the Wind and Rain Flowing Curve. The Hua Jing aura surrounding him was about to dissipate.

"Jeol Hwi, go!"

Mo Yong Hwi shouted. They had to finish it before the restraint of the rotation weakened.

Supreme Lord’s Stride - Secret Technique

Supreme Lord’s Ubiquity

Gong Son Jeol Hwi’s figure, multiplied into four, flew towards Chang Lang.

Five versus four.

The outcome was clear.

Chang Lang’s remaining figure focused its attack on Mo Yong Hwi, who was defenseless as he amassed his strength for the final blow. He was confident that he could deal with a weakling like Gong Son Jeol Hwi anytime.

"This is truly the end!"

*Clang!*

As Chang Lang’s silver claw, meant to sever Mo Yong Hwi’s life, flew towards him, it was blocked by a sword. The owner of that sword was none other than Gong Son Jeol Hwi.

"Hey, brat. Didn't you only have four clones?"

Chang Lang was surprised by the unexpected turn of events. With the remaining clones from Gong Son Jeol Hwi's Supreme Sword Technique gone, this figure blocking him was his true self. Gong Son Jeol Hwi, sweating profusely, blocked Chang Lang’s strike with his gleaming white sword, a faint smile on his lips.

"I can't wield it perfectly, but I can stand. One more is possible."

He couldn’t wield it perfectly freely, but he could manage one more. Gong Son Jeol Hwi knew that Hyun Yun had exhausted all his internal energy, and Chang Lang’s target was Mo Yong Hwi, who was gathering strength for his final blow. That’s why he could block it. Because he had waited.

At this moment, Chang Lang’s movements completely stopped.

"Now's the time, Senior!"

*Whirr,* with a clear sword song, Mo Yong Hwi's sword extended towards Chang Lang.

Silver River - Genesis Sword

Secret Art

Silver River Annihilation - Flash

A shower of sword Qi like a meteor shower flowing in the night sky and a terrifying shockwave struck Chang Lang’s body. His 'Chang Lang Silver Claw,' his proud wolf's claw and fang, was shattered and broke in two. Chang Lang spat blood and flew more than five steps away. Then, he could not stand up again.

"Defeated."

*Thump!*

The three men simultaneously knelt on one knee. Their swords were their crutches. Having poured everything into this exchange, they couldn't even move a finger.

"Cough, cough! I lost."

A moment later, a groan mixed with blood escaped from the fallen Chang Lang’s mouth. It seemed he was not dead. His resilience was extraordinary.

"Cough, cough! But… 'we' haven't lost yet."

'We?'

At that moment, a blood-soaked cry escaped Chang Lang’s mouth.

"Chang Lang Ahhhhhhhh!"

*Awooooooouuuuuuuu!*

At that moment, Mo Yong Hwi’s face turned pale.

'Ah, why did I forget!'

The giant wolf that Chang Lang had ridden on.

*Growl!*

When had it gotten there? On the roof of the building where Chang Lang had fallen, the wolf 'Chang Lang Ah,' with its huge blue mane, was growling, holding a massive double-edged sword in its mouth instead of sharp fangs. Fury for the enemy who had defeated its brother filled its eyes.

*Leap!*

As if wasting no more time to roar, Chang Lang Ah leaped towards Mo Yong Hwi and his companions. With that giant double-edged sword, a single swing could have cleaved the three defenseless men in two.

'Am I going to die like this?'

To die after winning, it was incredibly frustrating. It was then.

"Get out of the way, you mongrel!"

A black shadow appeared, blocking the space between the leaping Chang Lang Ah and the three of them.

*Thwack!*

In the next moment, a loud sound like a drum skin tearing echoed.

*Yelp!*

Chang Lang Ah, who was flying directly at them, was spun ninety degrees and sent flying sideways. With a single blow, the power was immense.

"Tsk tsk, what did I tell you? Don't let your guard down until the very end. I always told you to save some for last. Burning yourself out completely isn't always good. You might get stabbed in the back like this."

The black figure that had made the giant wolf yelp in a single blow muttered, shaking its head.

Mo Yong Hwi and Hyun Yun were startled by the one who had appeared out of nowhere and saved them, exclaiming simultaneously,

"Great Senior…!"

"Ryun!"

The appearing black figure turned around and smiled slyly. It was Bi Ryun, a young man wearing a loose-sleeved black martial arts uniform with his long bangs falling forward.

"Everyone's still alive?"

The three men stared blankly at Bi Ryun and the wolf Chang Lang Ah, who was lying on the ground foaming at the mouth, alternating their gaze. The wolf, which had been emitting a terrifying killing intent towards them moments ago, was now in a pathetic state, unrecognizable from its former self.

Bi Ryun, who had been sparring with the white wolf, Ha Yang, who could even use Qi despite being an animal, on Ami Mountain. Compared to Ha Yang, who had been trained by his master, a mere wolf this size was like a docile puppy.

"Oh, and you guys should refrain from moving."

"Kyaaaaaaak!"

At that moment, a long scream echoed. It was the scream of a Chang Lang Brigade member, his arm severed, in agony. He had raised his sword to launch a surprise attack on the unexpected enemy but suffered this fate.

"Ah, I forgot to mention, but if you even twitch a finger, one of your limbs will be gone. So, don't move. You have to take care of your own lives."

The Chang Lang members were dumbfounded by his casual remark and shouted inwardly.

'You should have said something like that earlier!'

With a clear example right before their eyes, they could not dismiss it as mere boasting. Only then did they realize that their lives were in the hands of this mysterious young man who had appeared out of nowhere.

The wolves’ will to resist rapidly subsided. No matter how fierce wolves were, they couldn’t defeat a tiger. And the human standing before them was capable of defeating even a tiger.

"These guys are also unlucky."

Mo Yong Hwi couldn’t suppress a surge of pity as he saw dozens of human-wolves frozen in place, unable to move a finger.

"Haa, you’re right."

Hyun Yun also wholeheartedly agreed that these human-wolves had a very unlucky day today and sighed with sympathy.

"Eh? Eh?"

Gong Son Jeol Hwi, who had no idea why the two of them were suddenly sharing a common ground, could only stare blankly, looking back and forth between the two.

"Shan Shan is hurt?"

Bi Ryun asked, furrowing his brow. However, his furrowed brow was not visible due to his long bangs.

"Yes, to protect me…"

Bi Ryun looked impassively at Shan Shan, who was slung over Hyun Yun’s back. He didn’t know what expression to wear. He carefully brushed aside the hair falling over Shan Shan’s face. Her pale face, devoid of any color, was revealed.

"Heh, in a way, it’s all because of that 'bad guy'."

He was smiling, but it wasn’t a smile.

"So, we need to find the Fourth Brigade Captain Bul Rak Gu Cheok?"

"Yes, his alias is Saeng Sa Mu Heo Ga."

"How do we find him? Did you get his exact location?"

"I heard that we need to pass through the outer wall called the Mara Sky First Wall and then go inside."

"So, you didn't hear the rest?"

"Shan Shan was in critical condition, so I was in a hurry…"

He didn’t listen further and just ran out with Shan Shan on his back.

"So, how do we get to the Fourth Brigade…"

Hyun Yun was startled by Bi Ryun’s muttering.

"Are you alright with that, Senior Disciple Brother?"

"Yeah, what about it?"

"Well, you have to go to save Senior Disciple Sister. If you go to treat Shan Shan…"

It would be a detour.

*Thwack!*

Bi Ryun’s fist hit Hyun Yun’s head.

"You idiot, are you telling me to abandon Shan Shan? Should I just let you guys die and not care? Would that really be enjoyable?"

Rubbing his bruised head, Hyun Yun shook his head.

"Since it’s come to this, I’ll deal with you guys first and then take down the leaders one by one again. We also need to find clues again."

The four coffins were merely invitations to their afterlife. They couldn’t find any further clues. So after saving Shan Shan, there was only one most brute-force method left.

"And I absolutely hate owing debts. The most uncomfortable of those is a debt of the heart. Would you feel relieved if I became a debtor?"

"Th-that is certainly not the case."

Having spent so much time together, Hyun Yun knew well that Bi Ryun hated owing debts as much as death.

"Then stop talking and let’s go. Understood?"

"Yes, Senior Disciple Brother. Thank you."

Hyun Yun bowed deeply, clasping his hands in gratitude. Hyun Yun, deeply moved, held back tears. Bi Ryun’s face showed a hint of confusion at his appearance.

"Did you two get married while I wasn't looking? In such a short time?"

"What? Four? No… that's impossible…"

"You're quite red-faced for someone who hasn't."

He might have lied with his mouth, but he couldn’t hide his face.

"No… that is to say…"

Hyun Yun, whose inner thoughts had been revealed, was flustered and didn’t know what to do. This was the first time something like this had happened, and he was aspiring to be a Taoist priest. He should have been far from romance.

"Well, something must have happened. You're reacting so sensitively."

"…Were you just probing?"

He blamed himself for his foolishness, but it was too late.

"Yes, I saw that your feelings for Shan Shan were different from before, so I probed. You still bite the bait easily. But how do we get to the Fourth Brigade?"

"I will guide you there."

Bi Ryun’s head turned towards the direction of the voice.

"Oh, Uncle Jang! You're still alive?"

"What’s with that regretful tone? Isn’t it too harsh on someone who almost died?"

"Almost died? From whom?"

"Ah, that…"

He was about to reflexively answer, 'From my wife,' not from the enemy, but Jang Hong quickly shut his mouth. Ok Yu Gyeong's cold gaze, as if asking, 'What were you about to say? Try it,' swept over the back of his head.

"By the way, there’s someone familiar with you. They definitely weren't here earlier?"

Bi Ryun's gaze fell on a woman following Ok Yu Gyeong. She was the one Ye Rin had been certain was the envoy Dokgo Ryong, namely Yeong Ryeong.

"Ah, I assumed you'd recognize her, but this is Miss Yeong Ryeong. I found her alone in Hokkaido. She’s agreed to travel with us for now."

"What's the reason?"

"She says she wants to help rescue Miss Na."

At those words, a smile formed on Bi Ryun's lips.

"Yerinn will be delighted."

Then Yeong Ryeong blushed and snorted.

"D-don't misunderstand. I just have something I want to confirm. That's why I’m rescuing her. So, if you think I believed that young lady’s absurd story, that would be a big problem."

Bi Ryun nodded.

"For now, let's leave it at that. Everyone has something they're ashamed of."

"Speaking of which, Uncle Jang, you know the way to the Fourth Brigade?"

Bi Ryun asked Jang Hong, preemptively blocking Yeong Ryeong’s objection.

"It's not me, but this person who will guide us to the Fourth Brigade."

Saying so, he pointed to Ok Yu Gyeong standing beside him. She nodded and took a step forward.

"A girl is hurt, and I can’t just stand by. Follow me, I will guide you to the Fourth Brigade. However, I will give you one piece of advice."

"What is it?"

"Don't expect to be easily treated by Saeng Sa Mu Heo Ga."