Chapter 110 to 112

 Chapter 110 – The Final Gate (1)

She couldn’t even perceive it, yet the tip of his finger was touching her.

“You’re slow.”

Drip!

At Mok Gyeong-un’s words, a drop of cold sweat trickled down Mo Ha-rang’s fair cheek.

It felt like her neck would be pierced with the slightest movement.

Inwardly, she was perplexed.

Although she acknowledged that Mok Gyeong-un possessed a strange power that differed from others, she hadn’t considered it as superiority in martial arts.

But what was this?

‘…He has changed.’

What on earth had happened overnight?

Even if she excluded judging Mok Gyeong-un’s martial arts through energy perception since it was impossible in the first place, what was going on?

The sharp energy transmitted from the tip of his blade finger was almost akin to the feeling one would get from masters who had reached the realm of Ascension.

‘This feeling, it’s similar to Father’s, no…’

It was similar to what she had felt from the Clan Leader of the Demon Fire Hall.

The only supreme master of the Transcendent Realm she could contend with, the Clan Leader of the Demon Fire Hall.

That feeling emanated from Mok Gyeong-un.

‘No. It can’t be.’

Mo Ha-rang instantly denied it.

No matter how talented one was, reaching the initial-stage Transcendent Realm at a mere seventeen or eighteen years old wasn’t a simple feat.

Even if he had gained enlightenment, how could he become so strong overnight…

‘Ah!’

Could it be because he ate that?

The Heavenly Earth Pill.

It was an elixir made from the secret recipe of the Heaven and Earth Society, and just eating one pill could grant 10 to 15 years’ worth of internal energy.

The gap between 10 and 15 years was absolutely insurmountable.

‘…But can such a difference occur just from this?’

Mo Ha-rang continued to be confused.

Seeing her like that, Mok Gyeong-un was inwardly satisfied.

Due to the overlapping fateful encounters in the treasure vault, he had entered the Transcendent Realm, but he still couldn’t accurately judge his level.

So he had initiated a sparring match with Mo Ha-rang, whom he had previously fought, to confirm how much he had improved.

‘Not bad.’

The gap had definitely widened, as Cheong-ryeong had said.

The saying that Transcendent Realm supreme masters and Peak Realm masters were incomparable realms now made sense to him.

Her every movement was too clearly visible, unlike last time.

“You’re still far, mortal.”

At that moment, Cheong-ryeong’s voice rang in his ears.

“You may have shed your novice shell, but even within the Transcendent Realm, the difference between the early, proficient, and pinnacle stages is distinct. You still have a long way to go.”

‘…It should be that way.’

Of course, he had no intention of letting his guard down.

The target of his revenge might be a peerless master at the peak of the supreme transcendent realm, close to Enlightenment, so his current level was not yet satisfactory.

However, apart from that, a different emotion arose.

Mok Gyeong-un had considered martial arts and sword techniques as mere tools for revenge.

But upon reaching a higher realm, he developed an interest in this thing called martial arts.

How much stronger could he become through martial arts?

‘More… I want to taste more.’

It was a pure emotion he hadn’t felt in a long time.

While he was doing so, Mo Ha-rang spoke to Mok Gyeong-un,

“…Did you perhaps consume the Heavenly Earth Pill?”

“Ah. That.”

Mok Gyeong-un took out a small pouch from his bosom and showed it to her.

The Heavenly Earth Pill was inside it.

Cheong-ryeong disliked calling it the Heavenly Earth Pill.

So in front of her, he called it the Moonlight Pill.

“I haven’t eaten it yet.”

“Whattt?”

At Mok Gyeong-un’s words, Mo Ha-rang frowned as if surprised and stared at the pouch.

She had naturally assumed that Mok Gyeong-un had consumed it.

But he had become so strong in a short period without even eating it?

‘…Is he a monster?’

She had thought she would never be inferior in martial arts, but for some reason, she felt conflicted.

Could she really escape from the clutches of this devil?

***

Around noon the next day.

In the plaza behind the dormitory of Corpse Blood Valley, several chairs were placed around the stage, and guests from the inner city were arriving one by one.

Interest flickered in the eyes of Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom, who was standing on the stage.

It was because an unexpected person had appeared.

‘The Shadow Clan Master?’

A middle-aged man with a small stature and a sharp impression.

He had been puzzled by the unfamiliar face, but upon hearing his identity, he couldn’t help but be surprised.

That was because the Shadow Clan Master had never participated in the final ceremony before.

Considering his position and his extremely secretive nature, as well as the peculiar rumors surrounding him, Lee Ji-yeom had been curious about him.

However,

‘…He exceeds expectations.’

He had tried to gauge his level to some extent through energy perception, but it was difficult to accurately discern.

That meant the Shadow Clan Master’s martial arts were either almost on par with his own or perhaps even higher.

If this was true, it was quite unexpected.

Lee Ji-yeom had gained enlightenment from the secret technique Mok Gyeong-un had given him in the past few days, further advancing his martial arts.

But if even he couldn’t gauge the Shadow Clan Master’s level…

Ting!

At that moment, a sound that pierced the eardrums.

At this sound, the gazes of those who had arrived earlier turned towards the entrance of the plaza.

There, a beautiful woman was lying in a seductive pose on a four-person sedan chair.

At first glance, she appeared to be in her late twenties or early thirties, but the aura she exuded was extraordinary.

Ting!

As the string sound rang out once more, an executive sitting on a chair shook his head.

That executive was none other than the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, one of the Five Kings.

‘It’s starting again.’

She was a truly unpredictable woman.

If it weren’t for that self-centered personality of hers, she would have risen to the position of the Fourth Clan Leader, but due to her uncontrollable nature, she couldn’t enter the inner city despite receiving the title of Valley Master.

In terms of skill alone, she could have become a Clan Leader or even higher.

Ting!

As the string sound rang out once more, a few of the red-belted warriors nearby frowned.

It was due to the true energy infused into the sound each time she plucked the string.

She, who could infuse internal energy into sound, was the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang.

Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom clicked his tongue inwardly.

‘Even that woman has come.’

Unlike the Shadow Clan Master, Lee Ji-yeom knew her well.

In the orthodox sects and even in the martial arts world, there were those with unique martial arts lineages, and one of them was sound techniques.

In reality, there were only a handful of people in the Central Plains martial arts world who could properly utilize sound techniques, and the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang was one of them.

Ting!

The Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang, lying in a seductive pose on the four-person sedan chair, plucked the string of the lute with her finger.

Then, the ripple that had spread through the sound earlier grew larger.

As a result,

“Ugh.”

Some of the red-belted warriors with relatively weaker internal energy couldn’t endure it and covered their ears.

‘She hasn’t changed.’

It was truly a bad habit.

She would often unexpectedly infuse sound techniques into the lute strings, making those around her uncomfortable.

Even the good-natured Vice Clan Leader had strongly warned her about it.

Of course, she must have ignored that warning, as she continued this bad habit.

‘Huu.’

Anyway, feeling that he couldn’t just leave her be, Lee Ji-yeom cupped his hands and spoke loudly,

“It’s been a while, Summoning Sound Valley Master.”

“Valley Master~ Valley Master~ Valley Master~”

His voice echoed throughout the entire plaza like a reverberation.

The majestic true energy contained in his voice caused interest to flicker in the eyes of the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang, who had been lying seductively.

No, the executives who had arrived earlier were the same.

With just this greeting, they could infer that Lee Ji-yeom’s internal energy had deepened compared to before.

Of course, it was the same for Hang Yeo-ryang.

She spoke as if surprised,

“Corpse Blood Valley Leader’s internal energy has deepened since the last time we met.”

“How could that be?”

“Your modesty is excessive.”

“It’s not modesty. Rather, upon hearing the beautiful sound of the lute strings, I feel that the Summoning Sound Valley Master’s cultivation is deepening day by day. The power infused in the sound makes even my insides churn.”

“Hohoho. Is that so?”

Although he spoke indirectly, his true intention was simple.

The people around could suffer internal injuries, so stop infusing power into the strings and cease it.

That was the meaning.

She also instantly understood this, but…

Ting!

“Then, as an apology to the Valley Master, I should play a proper tune for you.”

‘This woman, really…’

It was truly a troublesome situation.

As per custom, he had sent an invitation letter asking for her attendance, but naturally, he had assumed she wouldn’t come given her personality.

But she suddenly appeared and acted as she pleased according to her unique temperament, making it extremely difficult for him.

At this, Lee Ji-yeom looked at the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, one of the Five Kings, seeking his help.

He was asking for a higher-ranking executive to intervene.

However,

‘!?’

He saw Won Byeong-hak sitting still, turning his head away and feigning ignorance.

No matter how self-centered she was, if he, a superior executive and one of the Five Kings, stepped forward and warned her, it would be difficult for her to ignore it.

But he couldn’t understand why he was acting like this.

‘I’m sorry, Corpse Blood Valley Leader.’

In fact, Won Byeong-hak had met her beforehand and received a confirmation that she wouldn’t touch the child from an Esoteric Realm Gate.

They had things to give and take, so he couldn’t bring himself to intervene.

If she, with her self-centered nature, became displeased and targeted the child from the Esoteric Realm Gate that he had his eyes on, it would become troublesome.

Seeing that the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak wasn’t intervening, Lee Ji-yeom reluctantly looked at the Shadow Clan Master, one of the Three Chief Masters, a level above him.

But the Shadow Clan Master merely covered his mouth with his hand and laughed like a woman.

He didn’t seem to have any intention of intervening.

‘No other choice.’

Lee Ji-yeom clicked his tongue inwardly.

Since it had come to this, even if he became uncomfortable with her, it seemed he had no choice but to take a strong stance.

Towards her, who was plucking the lute strings…

“Summoning Sound Valley Master. That’s enough.”

At that moment, someone’s voice was heard.

At this, she, who had been plucking the lute, frowned and turned her head.

The one standing there was none other than…

‘The Bright Blade King?’

The Bright Blade King Son Yun, one of the Five Kings, was standing there with a large sword on his shoulder, glaring at her with a grim expression.

His imposing presence, with a larger build than the average person and covered in scars, was unmatched among anyone present.

“The Bright Blade King… has also come.”

The Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang stopped plucking the lute and bowed with her hands together.

Lee Ji-yeom inwardly welcomed Son Yun’s appearance.

Son Yun was renowned for his resolve even among the Five Kings.

He disliked crossing the line and had a clear sense of likes and dislikes. He had clashed with the self-centered Hang Yeo-ryang several times before.

There were even rumors that she had nearly lost her head to the Bright Blade King Son Yun’s sword.

In a way, he could be considered her natural enemy.

“Did I come to a place I shouldn’t have?”

“No, how could that be?”

“Then, do it in moderation and sit in your seat. Isn’t the Corpse Blood Valley Leader unable to proceed with the final gate because of you?”

At his sharp tone, Hang Yeo-ryang’s eyes sharpened.

It seemed the rumors about their poor relationship weren’t false.

The atmosphere had become quite cold.

It was almost a touch-and-go situation.

At that moment, Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom stepped between the two and spoke with his hands cupped,

“It’s an honor to have the Bright Blade King also observe.”

The heavy atmosphere was temporarily alleviated.

The Bright Blade King Son Yun, who had been intensely staring at Hang Yeo-ryang, turned his head, relaxed his expression, and said,

“Corpse Blood Valley Leader. It’s been a while.”

“It has been a while. I didn’t expect the Bright Blade King to come to the final ceremony.”

The reason Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom said this was simple.

The Bright Blade King Son Yun already had outstanding disciples.

Especially in the case of his chief disciple Woo Ho-rang, his talent was so exceptional that he was considered one of the top five promising successors within the Heaven and Earth Society.

But for him to participate in the final ceremony was puzzling.

“There’s a reason for that.”

“A reason?”

At Lee Ji-yeom’s words, the Bright Blade King Son Yun turned his head and looked at someone among the six boys standing in the plaza.

That someone was none other than Mok Gyeong-un.

[What? He lost to whom?]

Until just the day before, he had no intention of coming here.

However, upon hearing that his youngest disciple Yeop Wi-seon had not only caused a major incident but had also been defeated by someone, his mind changed.

‘Haa…’

Not long ago, Mok Gyeong-un was just a Peak Realm master.

Yet he had defeated Yeop Wi-seon, who had reached the Transcendent Realm and had received martial arts instruction from him?

He couldn’t help but come here.Chapter 111 – The Final Gate (2)

The Bright Blade King Son Yun remembered Mok Gyeong-un as clearly being at a mere third-rate level.

Of course, that didn’t mean he considered him insignificant.

Mok Gyeong-un had learned the sword techniques of the Moon Vein, which had been lost a hundred years ago, and also possessed innate talent in sorcery.

Therefore, although Mok Gyeong-un was from the orthodox Yeon Mok Sword Manor, Son Yun had brought him to the Heaven and Earth Society.

It was not only important to draw out the Moon Sword Technique within his mind, but Mok Gyeong-un, who had been chosen by the secret manuals, could possibly become a talent of the Heaven and Earth Society.

However, he thought all of that had been ruined due to the whim of the Heaven and Earth Society’s Leader.

[Send him to Corpse Blood Valley?]

[It’s the Society Leader’s order. Do you intend to disobey?]

[But…]

[Tsk-tsk.]

He couldn’t understand the reason.

Why did the Society Leader order the two hostages from Yeon Mok Sword Manor to be sent to Corpse Blood Valley?

He didn’t even meet them face-to-face.

The Bright Blade King Son Yun abandoned any lingering attachment to Mok Gyeong-un because of that.

Even if he had learned the Moon Sword Technique, the place he was being sent to was Corpse Blood Valley.

A place where more than 80% of those who enter come out as corpses.

How could a mere third-rate novice survive in that place teeming with trainees possessing first-rate qualifications or higher?

‘It’s over.’

Would the Moon Sword Technique be completely lost like this?

While he was feeling disappointed, yesterday, he couldn’t hide his shock due to his disciple’s honest report.

[What? Say it again.]

[Uh, it’s not that I completely lost. I let my guard down, and…]

[No! The fellow’s name.]

[M…Mok Gyeong-un.]

‘!!!!!!’

Mok Gyeong-un.

That boy was alive?

A mere third-rate fellow was sent to Corpse Blood Valley?

If it had been the youngest of the Yeon Mok Sword Manor hostages, Mok Yu-cheon, he would have understood.

He had acknowledged Mok Yu-cheon’s innate qualifications to that extent.

But Mok Gyeong-un had survived until now…

[Haa… How could this happen…]

[Master?]

[Shut your mouth.]

The day before yesterday, he had received a message requesting his attendance at the final gate and final ceremony.

But the fellow had not only reached the final gate but had also obtained the top disciple placard by winning against Yeop Wi-seon in the hidden treasure vault?

Even for him, who didn’t bat an eye at most things, he couldn’t help but be surprised by this.

At this, the Bright Blade King Son Yun fell into deep contemplation last night.

What on earth had happened in Corpse Blood Valley?

How could Mok Gyeong-un, who was merely a third-rate, become so strong in such a short time that he could defeat his youngest disciple Yeop Wi-seon, who had reached the Transcendent Realm?

Various questions overlapped.

However, without seeing it directly, there was no way to resolve these questions satisfactorily.

Therefore, Son Yun made a decision.

‘Let’s confirm it myself.’

He already had five outstanding disciples known as the Five Tigers, the top talents within the Heaven and Earth Society, including his chief disciple Woo Ho-rang.

Thus, he had no desire to accept any more disciples.

However, he decided to step forward to verify Mok Gyeong-un’s unusually rapid progress.

‘If…’

If Mok Gyeong-un demonstrates extraordinary qualifications surpassing his expectations upon seeing him, he had thoughts of accepting him as a disciple even if it meant being scolded by other executives.

He was a successor who had learned the Moon Sword Technique and survived despite being sent to Corpse Blood Valley by the Society Leader’s whim.

He couldn’t miss this opportunity.

Having finished his momentary recollection, the Bright Blade King Son Yun looked at Mok Gyeong-un, one of the six standing side by side in the plaza.

‘!?’

Son Yun slightly furrowed his brows.

It was difficult to give a definite answer due to the distance, but based on his energy perception, Mok Gyeong-un’s level seemed to have reached the end of the first-rate.

‘What is this?’

Of course, even this could be considered remarkable.

In a short time, he had progressed from the third-rate to the end of the first-rate.

However, at that level, it would be difficult to defeat his youngest disciple Yeop Wi-seon.

‘The gap between the Peak Realm and Transcendent Realm is distinct.’

Even if there were ten Peak Realm masters, it would be difficult to defeat a Transcendent Realm supreme master.

But by what means did Mok Gyeong-un defeat Yeop Wi-seon?

It was incomprehensible.

‘What technique did he use?’

As he was intently staring at Mok Gyeong-un, his eyes flickered with interest.

It was because he had discovered not only Mok Gyeong-un but also Mok Yu-cheon.

‘That child also survived?’

It was truly surprising.

As a result, both of the Yeon Mok Sword Manor’s hostage children had survived.

Of course, he had thought that Mok Yu-cheon, who possessed innate martial talent unfitting for his age, might survive if he was lucky.

But to think he had really survived…

And even entered the top six while overcoming the numerous talents belonging to the Heaven and Earth Society.

‘Yeon Mok Sword Manor… It wasn’t a place to be underestimated.’

It was really unexpected.

On the other hand, seeing the changed gaze in Mok Yu-cheon’s eyes, he was pleased.

When he saw Mok Gyeong-un, he was surprised by the advancement in his martial arts, but his expression and gaze were no different from before. In contrast, Mok Yu-cheon seemed to have become quite sturdy, and a murderous intent was even visible.

It was as if he had shed the shell of a gentle orthodox sect person after surviving Corpse Blood Valley.

‘Coming here was the right choice.’

It had become interesting.

One fellow surprised him with his tremendous progress, and the other fellow surprised him with his transformation from back then.

To think the fellows from an orthodox sect, not those from the Heaven and Earth Society, would capture his interest…

It was truly a sight to behold after living a long life.

***

‘It’s regrettable.’

Mok Gyeong-un clicked his tongue as he looked towards the front of the stage.

That woman called the Summoning Sound Valley Master had appeared, and it seemed like something interesting was about to unfold, but it was thwarted midway.

By the appearance of the Bright Blade King Son Yun.

-Tsk-tsk.

Cheong-ryeong clicked her tongue at Mok Gyeong-un.

-There’s no opponent as troublesome as a master of sound techniques. Unlike other martial arts, sound techniques take a completely different path, so there are no allies or enemies.

What did that mean?

While he was puzzled, she spoke as if reading Mok Gyeong-un’s thoughts.

-It means it’s impossible to target a specific person with sound techniques.

‘A specific person? Ah…’

Indeed, the concept of sound techniques itself was to infuse true energy into sound and create shock waves.

However, sound isn’t something that only certain people can hear or not hear.

Unless one is deaf, they have no choice but to hear it in some way.

He seemed to understand why Cheong-ryeong said those words.

‘If that woman unleashes her sound techniques with determination, it will damage the entire surroundings.’

In that case, there would be an incident even before the final gate could be held.

However, this made Mok Gyeong-un curious.

Why would someone learn a martial art that indiscriminately harms both allies and enemies with such a risk?

‘If sound techniques are the only focus, it’s inefficient.’

It might be effective against a large number of opponents, but if there are many people around, the risk is too great.

But he didn’t think that was all there was to it.

Even he, who had only been exposed to martial arts for a short time, could think of these shortcomings, so there was no way a specialist in sound techniques would be unaware of them.

Anyway, the interesting spectacle had disappeared, and an unexpected person had appeared.

The Bright Blade King Son Yun.

The very person responsible for bringing him to the Heaven and Earth Society.

He could see Son Yun staring intently at him.

Judging from his gaze, which didn’t particularly show emotions of anger or joy, it seemed closer to trying to confirm something.

‘Could it be that he came to see me?’

If that was the case, it was quite unexpected… Ah!

Mok Gyeong-un suddenly recalled the incident in the Corpse Blood Valley treasure vault.

Yeop Wi-seon, the disciple of the Bright Blade King Son Yun.

‘It’s that fellow.’

He only found out his identity after fighting him.

It seemed that Yeop Wi-seon had reported to his master about Mok Gyeong-un.

Otherwise, there was no way he would appear and stare at him out of nowhere.

The puzzling point here was,

‘Is he not angry?’

If he had come out of anger after his disciple was harmed, his gaze should have shown rage or something similar, but it didn’t.

In that case, it seemed there was no need for great concern.

Rather,

‘Is it not time yet?’

Mok Gyeong-un was waiting for someone.

The one he was waiting for was none other than Annihilating Poison King Baek Sa-ha, one of the Five Kings.

According to Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom, Annihilating Poison King Baek Sa-ha participated in the final ceremony almost every time, so there would be an opportunity.

But there was no sign of him appearing yet.

‘Hmm.’

What if a variable arises? That would be quite troublesome.

The most ideal situation right now was to pass the final gate as the top disciple and gain the right to choose.

The top disciple of the final gate is granted the right to choose an executive at the final ceremony.

Of course, whether they would be accepted as a disciple or subordinate depended on the executive’s choice, but at least it would provide an opportunity to be close to them.

However, for some reason, he had a bad feeling.

‘If a situation arises where he doesn’t come…’

Mok Gyeong-un’s gaze turned towards the executives sitting on chairs next to the stage.

According to Lee Ji-yeom, the middle-aged man wearing iron rings would be the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, the one next to him would be the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang, and the one next to her…

‘Was he called the Shadow Clan Master?’

It was quite unexpected.

According to Lee Ji-yeom’s words, the Shadow Clan Master and the Summoning Sound Valley Master had rarely attended the final ceremony, and given their dispositions, the probability of them not coming this time was high.

But the ones who were said to be unlikely to attend had come to the final ceremony.

Among the expected individuals, the only one who matched was the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak.

‘Hmm.’

Mok Gyeong-un stroked his chin.

The final gate was about to begin soon, but at this rate, there seemed to be no way to become the disciple of Annihilating Poison King Baek Sa-ha.

‘Should I go with the alternative?’

Mok Gyeong-un had the benefit of obtaining three top disciple placards.

[Apart from the final gate, you can request teachings from one of the twelve elders, including the Five Kings, Three Chief Masters, and Four Valley Masters, who can be considered the top masters of this sect.]

Originally, he had intended to use this benefit to learn from one of the Five Kings who had received the title of Eight Stars, known as the top masters in the Central Plains, as suggested by Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom.

Cheong-ryeong had also agreed with this.

[An opportunity to receive teachings from a Transformation Realm true grandmaster won’t come easily.]

Mok Gyeong-un also thought there was truth to those words.

Cheong-ryeong always told Mok Gyeong-un.

There was no need to be fixated on one thing, and one should have a broad scope of thinking.

Martial arts could also provide an opportunity to broaden one’s thinking by listening to the views of various masters.

‘But I might not be able to do that.’

If Annihilating Poison King Baek Sa-ha doesn’t show up at the final ceremony, he would have to use this benefit.

Only then could he inquire about the Ghost Blade from him.

***

About two hours passed.

The only ones who appeared before the start of the final gate were Bo Hyuk-so, the Grand Elder of the Flame Demon Clan, which was ranked fifth among the hundred martial clans of the Heaven and Earth Society, and Dae So-man, the Elder of the Scarlet Blood Clan, which was ranked seventh.

Among the hundred clans, the elders of the clans ranked within the top ten were given the title of Grand Elder.

Their treatment could be considered equivalent to that of a quasi-executive.

‘No choice.’

Mok Gyeong-un clicked his tongue as if he was disappointed.

In the end, he had to choose among the Bright Blade King Son Yun, Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, Shadow Clan Master, Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang, Flame Demon Clan’s Grand Elder Bo Hyuk-so, and Scarlet Blood Clan’s Elder Dae So-man.

Of course, this was under the assumption that he would pass the final gate as the top disciple.

Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom stepped onto the stage and opened his mouth.

“Now that all the observers have gathered, we will commence the final gate.”

Lee Ji-yeom lightly flicked his finger.

Then, warriors in red belts brought a large wooden board and placed it right next to the stage.

It had several lines drawn horizontally and vertically, with blanks left in various places.

Seeing this, the trainees’ eyes narrowed.

‘A tournament bracket?’

It seemed to be a tournament bracket.

If names were filled in the blank spaces, it would form a perfect tournament bracket.

In other words,

“To clarify, this is a tournament bracket for sparring.”

‘Ah…’

The final gate was revealed.

It was none other than sparring.

Unlike the previous ones, it was the most primitive method of testing.

“The trainees have tested their own limits through various gates until now, and as a result, they stand here. And the final gate is now an opportunity to showcase your potential to the observers.”

Martial arts competition.

Through this, they would have the chance to display their respective martial arts.

How much they showed here would determine the range of choices available to them.

‘Sparring…’

The trainees’ eyes became serious.

Unlike before, they had to prove their skills in front of the executives.

It was only natural for them to feel nervous and have exceptional motivation.

However, there was one problem here.

‘The number doesn’t match.’

The number of trainees was six.

If they were to have matches, eight would be the most ideal number.

That way, eight would compete, then four, and then two, allowing them to determine the final winner.

But since there were six, inevitably…

‘Advancement without a match.’

Advancement without a match.

In other words, two people could reach the final match with just one bout.

At that moment, the senior warrior Gwak Mun-gi went to the tournament bracket and began writing numbers.

一, 二, 三, 四, 五, 六.

Among them, the ones who drew 五 (five) and 六 (six) could reach the final match with just one bout.

Then, Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom pointed to a table placed in front of the stage.

On it was a wooden box with circular holes on top.

“As you can see, since the number doesn’t match, we will draw lots to determine the tournament bracket…”

Suk!

Then, someone raised their hand.

It was Yeon Mu-ung from the Esoteric Realm Gate.

Unlike the previous gates, this was the final gate, and the executives were watching, so he stepped forward without hesitation.

“May I ask one question?”

“Speak.”

“Those who advance without a match and those who advance after two bouts will be at a disadvantage in terms of stamina and everything else. Will it be valid?”

Everyone nodded in agreement with these words.

Then, Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom smirked and soon spoke.

“Naturally, it will be difficult for those who have to fight two bouts to manage their stamina, so they will certainly be given sufficient time to circulate energy and recover. And the final match to determine the winner will only be a contest of techniques without internal energy.”

Yeon Mu-ung from the Esoteric Realm Gate lowered his hand, seemingly somewhat convinced by his words.

If they were to suffer injuries, the story would be different, but it seemed like an attempt to eliminate the disadvantageous conditions to some extent.

At this time, Mok Gyeong-un muttered softly.

“Couldn’t we all just fight at once?”

“Tsk-tsk.”

At these words, Mok Yu-cheon, who was right next to him, openly clicked his tongue.

If that were to happen, who would everyone here consider as the first target to deal with?

It would be none other than Mok Gyeong-un.

In a group match, they would try to eliminate the most dangerous opponent first, so it wouldn’t be a fair match.

Of course, Mok Yu-cheon still didn’t know.

The fact that two out of the six were Mok Gyeong-un’s subordinates.

Then, Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom continued speaking.

“Now, the trainees will come forward in order and draw the metal balls inside the wooden box.”

The time for the drawing had come.

The first opportunity to choose was given to those who had the lowest scores in the previous gate.

They were Mok Yu-cheon and Yeon Mu-ung from the Esoteric Realm Gate.

Perhaps because he was afraid of being told he had the lowest score if he went first, Yeon Mu-ung didn’t step forward right away.

So Mok Yu-cheon was the first to draw a metal ball from inside the wooden box.

Mok Yu-cheon’s number was,

“Six (六).”

At these words, Yeon Mu-ung from the Esoteric Realm Gate showed a slightly disappointed expression.

No matter how fair they tried to make it, the advantage of being able to fight for the championship with just one match as 五 (five) and 六 (six) was inevitable.

‘Haa…’

Mok Yu-cheon looked at the six he had drawn and scoffed.

Should this be considered good luck?

While he was doing that, Yeon Mu-ung drew a number tag.

It was,

“…Four (四).”

Unfortunately, the advancement without a match had flown away.

It was disappointing, but there was no other choice.

Next, Mo Ha-rang from the Demon Fire Hall came forward and drew a metal ball.

“Three (三).”

‘!?’

At those words, the corners of Yeon Mu-ung’s mouth twitched.

She was an opponent he had wanted to face at least once, as they had always been compared in this Corpse Blood Valley gate.

Next, Mu Jang-yak walked forward.

Mu Jang-yak didn’t mind either way.

After all, while winning was important in this gate, it was also an opportunity to showcase one’s talent to the observers.

Tak!

“One (一).”

The number Mu Jang-yak drew was one.

Next, Yeom Ga from the Vermillion Slaughter Cave walked forward.

The Demonic Monk possessing Yeom Ga had no particular thoughts about this drawing, so he expressionlessly put his hand in and drew a metal ball.

The number was,

“Five (五).”

At those words, the expressions of two people changed.

Mok Yu-cheon, who already thought he owed a debt to Yeom Ga from the Vermillion Slaughter Cave, showed a delighted expression as Yeom Ga became his opponent in the bracket.

And the other person was none other than Mu Jang-yak.

Naturally, without even drawing lots, he sighed as he looked at Mok Gyeong-un, who had become his opponent.

‘It ended up like this.’

He had thought the day would come when he would directly face Mok Gyeong-un.

But it had already arrived.

‘The first match against the most difficult opponent…’

Mu Jang-yak shook his head back and forth.

The person he had considered as someone who would be troublesome if he became an enemy among his peers was none other than Mok Gyeong-un.

But to think they would face each other like this.

Kwak!

His fists naturally clenched.

It wasn’t particularly out of fear.

He didn’t think he would lose right away.

He had a secret technique that no one could defeat, after all.

This elevated sensation was simply overconfidence.

Mu Jang-yak approached Mok Gyeong-un and spoke while extending his hand.

“We ended up facing each other like this. Regardless of who wins, let’s do our best.”

At these words, Mok Gyeong-un grabbed his hand and spoke as if it was troublesome.

“Uh. That seems difficult.”

“What?”

“If I do my best, the match will become too boring, so I’ll go easy on you. So you do your best.”

‘!?’

What nonsense was this guy spouting?

Was he provoking him now?Chapter 112 – The Final Gate (3)

As Yeom Ga from the Vermillion Slaughter Cave drew 五 (five), Mok Gyeong-un naturally became 二 (two).

Mu Jang-yak, who was confident in winning despite drawing the most troublesome opponent, extended his hand to Mok Gyeong-un and said,

“We ended up facing each other like this. Regardless of who wins, let’s do our best.”

At these words, Mok Gyeong-un grabbed his hand and spoke as if it was troublesome.

“Uh. That seems difficult.”

“What?”

“If I do my best, the match will become too boring, so I’ll go easy on you. So you do your best.”

‘!?’

Mu Jang-yak always had a relaxed demeanor, but at this moment, one of his eyebrows twitched, revealing his emotions.

Was Mok Gyeong-un provoking him now?

Mu Jang-yak looked straight into Mok Gyeong-un’s eyes.

Unlike his own heightened state, Mok Gyeong-un’s eyes showed no particular emotion.

Seeing this, Mu Jang-yak calmed his briefly surging emotions and regained his composure.

‘…Has it already started?’

It was undoubtedly a clear provocation.

The fellow was as good at strategy as he was, if not better.

Perhaps he was trying to unsettle him before the match to gain an advantageous position.

At this, Mu Jang-yak spoke with a smile.

“I’m grateful that you’re going easy on me. I was already at an advantage, but if that’s the case, I’ll have an overwhelming advantage. Are you not interested in the top disciple position in the final gate?”

This was an eye for an eye.

Mu Jang-yak also deliberately provoked Mok Gyeong-un.

However, Mok Gyeong-un showed no particular reaction to Mu Jang-yak’s provocation.

Rather, he smirked and turned his head away.

‘……’

Seeing this, Mu Jang-yak clicked his tongue inwardly.

Since childhood, he had often been told that he was as cunning as he was talented in martial arts.

So he was confident that he wouldn’t lose to anyone in a battle of wits or arguments, but strangely, whenever he had a conversation with this fellow, he felt like he was being swayed.

‘No need to fall for the provocation.’

The outcome would be decided in the match anyway.

He also intended to ignore it and move on.

However,

“…Hey. Mok Gyeong-un.”

Mu Jang-yak called out to Mok Gyeong-un while looking ahead.

After calling out, Mu Jang-yak inwardly regretted his actions, but since he had already called out, he thought it couldn’t be helped.

“Why are you doing this?”

At Mok Gyeong-un’s question, Mu Jang-yak said,

“Since we’re having a match, how about we make a bet?”

“A bet?”

“Yeah.”

“Why should I do that?”

Mok Gyeong-un spoke in a tone as if he didn’t understand.

At this, Mu Jang-yak smirked and replied,

“You don’t have to do it if you’re not confident.”

“Confidence?”

“Yeah. I thought it would be more interesting to have a bet rather than just a match, but if you’re not confident, there’s no need to do it.”

It was a clear provocation.

He could have just let it slide, but Mu Jang-yak, who thought he should clarify this relationship in this match, tried to draw Mok Gyeong-un into a bet.

“Hmm.”

Mok Gyeong-un stroked his chin and then smirked, saying,

“What kind of bet do you want to make?”

At these words, Mu Jang-yak inwardly cheered, although he didn’t show it, thinking that Mok Gyeong-un had fallen for his provocation.

Since the opponent had fallen for his provocation, all that was left was to set the stakes.

Mu Jang-yak used his brain in an instant.

Although he had suggested a bet to provoke him, he didn’t want to create a situation where the opponent would resent or be angry even if they lost.

So the idea he came up with was,

“How about the loser of the match calling the winner ‘big brother’?”

“Big brother?”

“Yeah. Isn’t it about clearly establishing a hierarchy between us?”

“Hierarchy…”

“It’s not a bad bet, right? No matter how much of a competition it is, we’re not mortal enemies or enemies that need to be killed, so there’s no need to raise the stakes of the bet.”

It was enough to create a sense of urgency that he had to win.

At his words, Mok Gyeong-un let out a soft groan and said,

“Hmm. That’s a rather boring bet.”

“It’s boring?”

“Yes. Is there even a need to make a bet with such a thing?”

Did he fall for it or not?

Mu Jang-yak asked in puzzlement,

“…Then what do you think is an interesting bet?”

“Well. How about the loser of the match becoming the faithful dog of the winner?”

“What?”

At Mok Gyeong-un’s words, Mu Jang-yak’s expression stiffened.

He had mentioned the bet at a level where both of them wouldn’t feel too offended in case of any eventuality, but the fellow went a step further.

Becoming a faithful dog basically meant crawling under him.

‘He’s not just good at provocation but excessive.’

He was someone who usually laughed off and let go of most things, but this time, it was difficult to laugh.

He was the one who first proposed the bet.

But if he were to avoid it now that the stakes of the bet had been raised, he would look ridiculous.

Mu Jang-yak slightly turned his head and looked at Mok Gyeong-un.

‘Is he that confident? Or is he going to provoke me until the end?’

It didn’t matter either way.

The latter was definitely effective.

From the moment he suggested making a bet to determine who would be the elder or younger brother, he had already been caught in the fellow’s provocation.

Mu Jang-yak clenched his fist as if he had made up his mind and said,

“Are you sure you won’t regret it?”

“That’s what I want to ask you.”

“…You’re really something. I’ve never been caught by anyone in an argument or something like this. Fine. Let’s do it. The bet about becoming a faithful dog if you lose.”

It would be fine as long as he won.

Although Mok Gyeong-un had a special power, this was a match where martial arts would be compared.

He was confident that no one could match him if it was solely based on martial arts.

Because he had ‘that’.

***

And so, the two trainees belonging to the first bracket of the final gate walked to the center of the plaza, faced each other, and stretched their bodies.

They were Mok Gyeong-un and Mu Jang-yak.

The observers sitting next to the stage in the plaza had various expressions on their faces.

Among them, the Bright Blade King Son Yun, who had come to confirm Mok Gyeong-un’s martial arts skills, was surprised by something unexpected.

Son Yun gestured for one of the red-belted warriors to come and asked,

“What was that child’s name again?”

“It’s Mu Jang-yak.”

“Mu Jang-yak? Do you know which martial clan he’s from?”

“He seems to be from a small to medium-sized faction under our sect, but I don’t know much else.”

At the warrior’s words, Son Yun’s eyes narrowed.

Such a child was from a small to medium-sized faction that wasn’t well-known?

At that moment, the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, who was sitting right next to the Bright Blade King Son Yun, also spoke in a surprised tone,

“This is surprising. Was there such a child?”

“You noticed it too, my lord?”

The energy emanating from Mu Jang-yak as he was stretching his body.

They sensed it through their energy perception.

‘That child… has reached the pinnacle-stage of Peak realm.’

For a trainee who was only seventeen or eighteen years old to have reached the pinnacle-stage of Peak Realm…

If their energy perception wasn’t wrong, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that he was the most outstanding among those six.

It was truly unexpected.

For such an outstanding martial talent to emerge from a small to medium-sized faction…

‘The opponent is unfavorable.’

After looking at Mu Jang-yak like this, the Bright Blade King Son Yun, who turned his gaze to Mok Gyeong-un, clicked his tongue inwardly.

He had wanted to confirm the extent of Mok Gyeong-un’s skills, who had defeated his disciple Yeop Wi-seon, but the opponent was too bad.

Of all people, he had to face such a monstrous fellow.

‘If he hasn’t prepared anything, it might end uneventfully.’

It was difficult to judge everything based solely on energy perception, but there was too much of a difference in the energy emanating from them.

No matter how much Mok Gyeong-un had honed his energy, it seemed difficult for him to be a match.

On the other hand, the Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, who had no particular interest in Mok Gyeong-un from the beginning, clicked his tongue while looking at Mu Jang-yak.

‘…Was I too hasty?’

He had come with the sole purpose of bringing the child from the Esoteric Realm Gate.

So he had already reached an agreement with a few of the observers beforehand.

But to think there was such a talent…

Although he tried not to show it, he felt regretful.

‘I can’t back out now.’

Won Byeong-hak glanced at the other executives.

The Shadow Clan Master and the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang were sitting side by side, separated from them on the left side.

The two of them also seemed to be having a conversation while looking at Mu Jang-yak.

Hang Yeo-ryang spoke to the Shadow Clan Master in an interested tone,

“I came to take a girl, but there’s a not-so-bad boy among the boys.”

“A girl? Could it be that you’ve set your eyes on the child from the Demon Fire Hall?”

“Hohoho. I heard she’s a promising talent.”

“Hmm. This is quite troubling. I also came to Corpse Blood Valley after a long time because I was attracted to the child from the Demon Fire Hall.”

“Oh my. Is that so? We have overlapping interests.”

“It turned out that way unintentionally. Ohoho.”

The Shadow Clan Master laughed like a woman, covering his mouth.

Following the Shadow Clan Master, the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang also laughed, giggling.

They were both laughing, but for some reason, it sounded like they were having a battle of wits.

Then, Hang Yeo-ryang pointed at Mu Jang-yak and said,

“Clan Leader, why don’t you take that child instead? In terms of talent, he seems to be the best among this class.”

“Well.”

The Shadow Clan Master showed a contemplative expression while stroking his chin.

At this, the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang spoke in a tone as if she couldn’t understand,

“Is there a reason to hesitate? Could it be that you’re worried about the Thunderbolt Fist King and the Bright Blade King snatching him away?”

“Ohoho. That’s one reason, but my eyes are drawn to that child.”

“That child?”

At the Shadow Clan Master’s words, the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang looked at Mok Gyeong-un, who was lightly stretching his body on the opposite side of Mu Jang-yak.

Although they were far apart, she was quite surprised by his handsome face.

However, that was all.

Based on energy perception, he seemed to be only at the first-rate level.

At that age, being first-rate wasn’t weak, but it was definitely not a level worth coveting as a disciple.

At this, she said,

“His appearance is quite pleasing, but that’s all. Surely you’re not interested in him because of his appearance, are you?”

“Ohohoho. As they say, beauty is the icing on the cake, so it’s good if the appearance is outstanding as well.”

“If that’s all, it’s meaningless.”

“Since he has come this far, wouldn’t he have a hidden technique or two?”

“Well, that could be possible.”

In the martial world, secret techniques and hidden skills existed.

However, the opponent was too strong.

Based on energy perception alone, that child named Mu Jang-yak had the potential to reach the initial-stage Transcendent Realm at any time as long as he was supported by enlightenment.

Although she had originally set her sights on Mo Ha-rang, he was desirable to the point of coveting.

Then, Hang Yeo-ryang spoke as if it was for amusement,

“Then, Shadow Clan Master. Shall we have a light bet?”

“A bet?”

“Yes. From what I hear, it seems you see potential in that child as well, so let’s bet that the match will be decided within three moves. Of course, the winner will be that child named Mu Jang-yak.”

“Hmm. What are the conditions of the bet?”

“How about betting the ownership of that girl?”

“So that was your objective, Valley Master.”

“Hohoho. You caught me.”

Hang Yeo-ryang preferred girls over boys.

Since they both wanted the same thing, she proposed a bet to resolve it amicably.

At this, the Shadow Clan Master smiled and said,

“Not a bad idea. But since anyone can see the clear gap between those two children if we bet on the outcome, let’s do it this way.”

“What do you mean by ‘this way’?”

“I will bet that the match won’t be decided within three moves.”

At the Shadow Clan Master’s words, the Summoning Sound Valley Master Hang Yeo-ryang twitched her lips and then nodded.

“You won’t go back on your word, right?”

“Ohoho. A man’s word is as good as a thousand gold pieces.”

“……”

It seemed like a phrase that didn’t suit him, but it didn’t matter.

Hang Yeo-ryang was confident that the match could be decided in just one move, let alone three.

The gap between the pinnacle-stage of Peak Realm and a First-Rate Realm was too large.

It might not even take one move, but if done well, the outcome could be determined in just one move.

***

Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom, who was on the stage, raised his hand and shouted,

“Now, exchange greetings with each other.”

At this, Mok Gyeong-un and Mu Jang-yak, who had been stretching their bodies, looked at each other and cupped their hands together in a salute.

As it was a match, they were told to exchange greetings as a sign of mutual respect.

While saluting, Mu Jang-yak glanced at someone next to the stage.

‘The Thunderbolt Fist King.’

He was the one Mu Jang-yak wanted to have as his master.

The Thunderbolt Fist King was one of the top three masters in the Heaven and Earth Society when it came to bare-handed techniques.

His family was skilled in leg techniques and fist techniques, so Mu Jang-yak wanted to become his disciple and reach an even higher level.

To make that happen as he wished, he had to become the top disciple in the final gate.

Mu Jang-yak turned his gaze and looked at Mok Gyeong-un.

Although he seemed to be only at the first-rate level based on appearance, after observing him several times, Mok Gyeong-un was estimated to be at Peak Realm.

He didn’t know how he had concealed his martial arts, but he definitely wasn’t first-rate.

Mu Jang-yak steeled his resolve while looking at Mok Gyeong-un.

‘Establish a clear superiority.’

For the sake of the bet, he absolutely couldn’t lose.

Mu Jang-yak began to rapidly circulate the internal energy from his danjeon throughout his body.

It was to decide the match early on, along with the signal from the Corpse Blood Valley Leader.

‘Absolutely no carelessness.’

From the start, he would use his full strength to break the fellow’s will and achieve victory.

While they were doing so, Corpse Blood Valley Leader Lee Ji-yeom lowered his raised hand and shouted loudly,

“Begin!”

As soon as Lee Ji-yeom’s signal fell,

Pat!

Mu Jang-yak, who had been preparing by circulating energy throughout his body, kicked off the ground and launched himself towards Mok Gyeong-un.

‘Fast.’

Mok Yoo-cheon, who was watching this, exclaimed in admiration.

He had guessed that Mu Jang-yak would be strong, but his current movement exceeded expectations.

Indeed, he seemed to have reached the pinnacle-stage of Peak Realm.

‘Flowing Water Stirs Chaos[1]!’

Papapapapak!

Mu Jang-yak, who had charged in front of Mok Gyeong-un in an instant, unleashed a palm technique.

The elegant palm strikes, like gentle ripples, beautifully weaved a pattern, targeting the vital points on Mok Gyeong-un’s upper body.

‘How will you respond?’

Mu Jang-yak thought as he glared at Mok Gyeong-un.

Even if they had reached the same Peak Realm, those who had reached the peak were completely different in terms of strength and speed.

Tak!

At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un moved back about half a step.

Then,

Swish! Swish! Swish! Swish!

‘!?’

Mu Jang-yak’s eyes narrowed.

Mok Gyeong-un secured a distance of half a step and flexibly moved his upper body, dodging all the palm strikes.

To easily evade the Flowing Water Swaying Disorder, where it was difficult to distinguish between false and true strikes?

It was an unexpected response.

“Oh my.”

The Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak, who was watching their confrontation from beside the stage, couldn’t hide his astonishment.

Mok Gyeong-un’s movement was not at all that of a first-rate martial artist.

To dodge techniques in such a manner, one had to be at a somewhat equal level.

‘Did he conceal his martial arts?’

He had thought the match would end blandly.

However, with the movement Mok Gyeong-un had shown now, it became difficult to predict the outcome.

‘…As expected.’

The Bright Blade King Son Yun was also intently watching Mok Gyeong-un’s movement.

He had thought there would be a hidden technique, and indeed, Mok Gyeong-un was showing movements that surpassed the first-rate level.

If it was to that extent, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that he had reached the proficient-stage of the Peak Realm or was close to the pinnacle-stage of Peak Realm.

‘Can he conceal his energy?’

Even he, who had reached the Transcendent Realm, couldn’t accurately assess Mok Gyeong-un’s martial arts.

It meant one of two things.

Either Mok Gyeong-un was a peerless master far superior to himself, or he had a special technique to conceal his energy.

However, the former was impossible based on common sense, so the latter was more likely.

‘No wonder that child was pushed back.’

Mok Gyeong-un’s current movement was a step above Yeop Wi-seon.

It could be confirmed just by seeing how he dodged the techniques.

With this, it became difficult to predict who would win between the two of them.

Papapapak!

“An opening.”

Mok Gyeong-un, who had dodged all the palm techniques, stepped forward and threw a punch, aiming for Mu Jang-yak’s face.

In response, Mu Jang-yak leaped back to avoid the punch, and at the same time, he kicked off the ground and raised his foot towards Mok Gyeong-un’s chin.

Pak!

Mok Gyeong-un blocked Mu Jang-yak’s instep and simultaneously tried to grab it.

However,

Swish!

Mu Jang-yak twisted his body and kicked Mok Gyeong-un’s shoulder with his foot.

Bam!

Shuaaa!

Mok Gyeong-un’s body was pushed back about five steps.

Landing on the ground and seeing this, the corners of Mu Jang-yak’s mouth slightly rose.

He was now certain about this.

Mok Gyeong-un’s internal energy was weaker than his own.

In that case,

‘Let’s decide the match.’

Pat!

Mu Jang-yak kicked off the ground and unleashed a fist technique with his right hand towards the pushed-back Mok Gyeong-un.

‘Accumulating Fists, Dancing to Completion[2]!’

As the fists overlapped, they flew in with several false strikes, swaying like a butterfly.

Seeing this, Mok Gyeong-un tried to increase the distance by using footwork.

However, Mu Jang-yak’s fist technique, like the Hundred Steps Divine Fist of Shaolin, imbued with energy, pierced through the air as much as the distance widened and charged forward.

‘I have no choice but to block.’

There was no other way; he had to use his hands.

Mok Gyeong-un raised his energy and extended his palm to block the fist technique.

But at that moment,

Bam!

From an angle he had never imagined, Mu Jang-yak’s palm strike pierced Mok Gyeong-un’s right rib cage.

‘Huh?’

Mok Gyeong-un’s body bent sideways to the right.

Along with that, Mu Jang-yak’s Accumulating Fists, Dancing to Completion’s fist technique struck his chest.

Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!

Consecutive strikes were delivered, and Mok Gyeong-un’s body was pushed back more than ten steps.

Shuaaa!

“Ha!”

Exclamations of admiration flowed from various parts of the spectator seats.

That was because the technique Mu Jang-yak had shown just now was something no one had expected.

Even the Bright Blade King Son Yun muttered in amazement,

“…Right Fist, Left Palm[3].”

With his right hand, he unleashed a fist technique, and with his left hand, he unleashed a palm technique.

It was unbelievable.

It wasn’t that he was using the same technique with both hands, but he was using different techniques with each hand.

“Oh my…”

The Thunderbolt Fist King Won Byeong-hak also couldn’t hide his astonishment at Mu Jang-yak’s bizarre technique.

At a glance, it seemed like a simple principle, but those who had learned martial arts knew that this was nearly impossible.

Using different techniques with each hand meant having to think two things simultaneously, and if not careful, the energy circulation system could get tangled.

‘To have mastered such a bizarre technique.’

He was truly an amazing child.

Using two different techniques with one body.

It was no different from facing two masters who had reached the pinnacle-stage of Peak Realm.

‘The match has tilted.’

Regardless of how he did it, if it had come to this, it was no exaggeration to say that the situation had already tilted in Mu Jang-yak’s favor.

Even without this, Mok Gyeong-un’s cultivation seemed to be a step below Mu Jang-yak’s, so by what means could he defeat such a monster?

‘…That will be difficult.’

The Bright Blade King Son Yun also shared the same opinion.

It was surprising that Mok Gyeong-un had concealed his skills, but the opponent was too bad.

However,

‘What?’

Mu Jang-yak, who had landed two techniques that were practically fatal blows to Mok Gyeong-un, didn’t have a good expression.

He had accurately hit two techniques with his hidden skill, Right Fist, Left Palm.

The rib cage and the center of the chest.

It was no exaggeration to say that these were fatal blows.

However, at the same time he landed the techniques, he felt a strange sensation of his cultivation dispersing for a moment.

‘…Is it my imagination?’

At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un, who had been pushed back about ten steps, straightened his body and cracked his neck.

Crack! Crack!

Then, he muttered as if talking to himself,

“Ahh. I was going to finish it by dealing with you moderately, but this was unexpected.”

‘What?’

Mu Jang-yak furrowed his brows.

After being hit by unexpected killing techniques consecutively, he was still putting on such a pretentious act, which was really something.

It seemed he needed to finish it decisively.

‘I’ll put an end to that pretentiousness.’

Pat!

Mu Jang-yak launched himself towards Mok Gyeong-un.

Having revealed his hidden skill, he now intended to unleash it openly.

‘Right Fist, Left Palm[3]. Fists Vast as the World[4]! Flowing Water, Moving Clouds[5]!’

Simultaneously unleashing fist and palm techniques.

It created a situation as if two masters were attacking together.

‘It’s over!’

Just as he was certain of that,

“Is this roughly how it’s done?”

Papapapapak!

At that moment, Mu Jang-yak couldn’t hide his shock.

Mok Gyeong-un, who had been staring intently at him as he charged forward, nodded his head and then, like Mu Jang-yak, started using different techniques with each hand.

‘!!!!!!!!!’