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Dropped into Murim with an Instant Kill Skill
Iron Lotus · AzureScanlations
4.8
264 chapters
358 views
An ordinary gamer awakens in the cutthroat, bloodstained world of the Jianghu, where the weak are trampled and martial masters rule supreme. With no internal energy, zero martial training, and enemies closing in from all sides, survival seems impossible—until a system window appears, granting him an absolute 'Instant Kill' cheat skill. In a Murim governed by centuries of cultivation, one strike is now all it takes.
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Audio chapters (132) · 31–60
31
Chapter 31
Chapter 31 opens with martial artists anticipating a river-crossing trial limited to those twenty-five and younger. Yeon Sowol realizes the opposing military officers possess first-rate strength, causing him initial anxiety. Kang Muhyeok and Seon Jehun reassure him that first-rate cultivation has stages, noting that while the officers may reach the 'Brave Flame Soars' or 'Fierce Flame Pierces the Heavens' stages, they remain inferior to Master Yi Yu-baek. The Windflow disciples formulate a plan to utilize stealth and qi sense, relying on Eun-yeong’s demonstration of silent, skipping wooden trays to create a path. Seonggwang attempts to rush the river with brute speed but is struck by military arrows and forced to use a fellow disciple as a springboard, causing his companion to fall into the water. The Windflow disciples then use the stepping stones to infiltrate quietly. Yeon Sowol reflects on the distinction between essence (power) and qi (harmony). Seon Jehun draws fire and is knocked into the river by spears. Kang Muhyeok follows, revealing he has kindled True Flame and ascended to first-rate, using qi to deflect arrows with harmony rather than brute force. Yeon Sowol, using his advanced qi sense to perceive hearts and wind, slips through gaps in awareness. Roving General Seol Cheong throws a spear imbued with true qi, accelerating it to lethal speed. Yeon Sowol uses the Heaven-Killing Star technique to snap the spear shaft and lands on the Governor-General's boat. Seonggwang fails to complete his approach and falls into the river, lamenting that Yeon Sowol arrived first, while Kang Muhyeok salutes him from the water.
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18:49
Chapter 31
Chapter 31 opens with martial artists anticipating a river-crossing trial limited to those twenty-five and younger. Yeon Sowol realizes the opposing military officers possess first-rate strength, causing him initial anxiety. Kang Muhyeok and Seon Jehun reassure him that first-rate cultivation has stages, noting that while the officers may reach the 'Brave Flame Soars' or 'Fierce Flame Pierces the Heavens' stages, they remain inferior to Master Yi Yu-baek. The Windflow disciples formulate a plan to utilize stealth and qi sense, relying on Eun-yeong’s demonstration of silent, skipping wooden trays to create a path. Seonggwang attempts to rush the river with brute speed but is struck by military arrows and forced to use a fellow disciple as a springboard, causing his companion to fall into the water. The Windflow disciples then use the stepping stones to infiltrate quietly. Yeon Sowol reflects on the distinction between essence (power) and qi (harmony). Seon Jehun draws fire and is knocked into the river by spears. Kang Muhyeok follows, revealing he has kindled True Flame and ascended to first-rate, using qi to deflect arrows with harmony rather than brute force. Yeon Sowol, using his advanced qi sense to perceive hearts and wind, slips through gaps in awareness. Roving General Seol Cheong throws a spear imbued with true qi, accelerating it to lethal speed. Yeon Sowol uses the Heaven-Killing Star technique to snap the spear shaft and lands on the Governor-General's boat. Seonggwang fails to complete his approach and falls into the river, lamenting that Yeon Sowol arrived first, while Kang Muhyeok salutes him from the water.
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18:49
32
Chapter 32
On the riverboat, Yeon So-wol hides his use of Heaven-Killing Star by feigning humility, accepting Roving General Seol Cheong’s praise as martial prowess. Seol Cheong, distressed by his defeat, warns that their failure will have consequences for the military officers. Yeon So-wol proceeds to a two-story pavilion, where he detects a vast, structured disturbance in natural qi. He realizes this is not a ghost, but the mind of Governor-General Seo Myeong-eum, who effortlessly reads the crowd and predicts Yeon So-wol’s arrival. Seol Myeong-eum praises Yeon So-wol’s propriety and seating arrangements. A young, poor scholar uses Secret Voice Transmission to warn Yeon So-wol that Nature Learning scholars view Jianghu practitioners as ‘petty people’ (saibii). Yeon So-wol, confused by the disdain for Buddhist and Daoist traditions in this world, realizes that he, Yi Yu-baek, and the scholar are the only ones labeled as such.
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15:19
Chapter 32
On the riverboat, Yeon So-wol hides his use of Heaven-Killing Star by feigning humility, accepting Roving General Seol Cheong’s praise as martial prowess. Seol Cheong, distressed by his defeat, warns that their failure will have consequences for the military officers. Yeon So-wol proceeds to a two-story pavilion, where he detects a vast, structured disturbance in natural qi. He realizes this is not a ghost, but the mind of Governor-General Seo Myeong-eum, who effortlessly reads the crowd and predicts Yeon So-wol’s arrival. Seol Myeong-eum praises Yeon So-wol’s propriety and seating arrangements. A young, poor scholar uses Secret Voice Transmission to warn Yeon So-wol that Nature Learning scholars view Jianghu practitioners as ‘petty people’ (saibii). Yeon So-wol, confused by the disdain for Buddhist and Daoist traditions in this world, realizes that he, Yi Yu-baek, and the scholar are the only ones labeled as such.
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15:19
33
Chapter 33
Jin Geol introduces himself to Yeon Sowol, praising a quote from Adam Smith as comparable to Confucian teachings. Jin Geol provides Yeon Sowol with a poem by the Governor-General of Liangguang, Seo Myeongeum, offering advice on how to navigate the upcoming assessment. Seo Myeongeum then begins a rigid evaluation of scholars, testing their poetic understanding and character. When Jin Geol answers a question about Du Fu’s poem with a clever, loyal devotion interpretation, Seo Myeongeum rewards him with a gold yuanbao. Yeon Sowol steps forward next. Recognizing the exam-like atmosphere, he applies his test-taking skills rather than attempting complex riddles. He responds to Seo Myeongeum’s line with a counter-poem that completely inverts the original meaning of loneliness into a celebration of the Jianghu, shocking the scholars but intriguing Seo Myeongeum. Seizing the moment, Yeon Sowol addresses the moral dilemma of Yi Yubaek’s vigilante justice. Instead of offering a philosophical answer, he feigns ignorance, asking Seo Myeongeum to explain the detailed studies on ‘the people’ and their suffering. This rhetorical trap highlights the officials’ lack of practical welfare research, leaving Seo Myeongeum speechless and ashamed. Convinced by Yeon Sowol’s insight into the gap between doctrine and reality, Seo Myeongeum acknowledges Yi Yubaek as a true man of the Jianghu. He provides Yi Yubaek with a chest of gold yuanbao and a temporary military commander tally to legitimize his campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain. Finally, Yeon Sowol is presented with Seo Myeongeum’s finest sword, the Demon-Severing Sword, to aid him in future battles against true demons. Yeon Sowol accepts the gifts, feeling a strange pride as he departs, having turned a political audit into an opportunity for aid.
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17:33
Chapter 33
Jin Geol introduces himself to Yeon Sowol, praising a quote from Adam Smith as comparable to Confucian teachings. Jin Geol provides Yeon Sowol with a poem by the Governor-General of Liangguang, Seo Myeongeum, offering advice on how to navigate the upcoming assessment. Seo Myeongeum then begins a rigid evaluation of scholars, testing their poetic understanding and character. When Jin Geol answers a question about Du Fu’s poem with a clever, loyal devotion interpretation, Seo Myeongeum rewards him with a gold yuanbao. Yeon Sowol steps forward next. Recognizing the exam-like atmosphere, he applies his test-taking skills rather than attempting complex riddles. He responds to Seo Myeongeum’s line with a counter-poem that completely inverts the original meaning of loneliness into a celebration of the Jianghu, shocking the scholars but intriguing Seo Myeongeum. Seizing the moment, Yeon Sowol addresses the moral dilemma of Yi Yubaek’s vigilante justice. Instead of offering a philosophical answer, he feigns ignorance, asking Seo Myeongeum to explain the detailed studies on ‘the people’ and their suffering. This rhetorical trap highlights the officials’ lack of practical welfare research, leaving Seo Myeongeum speechless and ashamed. Convinced by Yeon Sowol’s insight into the gap between doctrine and reality, Seo Myeongeum acknowledges Yi Yubaek as a true man of the Jianghu. He provides Yi Yubaek with a chest of gold yuanbao and a temporary military commander tally to legitimize his campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain. Finally, Yeon Sowol is presented with Seo Myeongeum’s finest sword, the Demon-Severing Sword, to aid him in future battles against true demons. Yeon Sowol accepts the gifts, feeling a strange pride as he departs, having turned a political audit into an opportunity for aid.
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17:33
34
Chapter 34
Following the nighttime festivities on the Jipseong River, martial artists hail Yeon Sowol as the 'Sole Crimson,' an epithet that surpasses his previous 'Elegant Young Lord' title. His peers from the Hall of Refined Arts react with mixed envy and pride: Seon Jehun and Mo Cheong lament their own lack of genuine epithets, while Kang Muhyeok boasts of earning 'One-Smiling Sword' by deflecting arrows. Yi Yu-baek humorously aligns himself with the younger disciples, claiming jealousy over their titles despite his own reputation as the 'Windflow Sword.' Hang Inwoo arrives, acknowledging Sowol’s role in disciplining Jeon Tae-gwang, while Shin Jae-eon praises Sowol for upholding Shinheung County’s dignity. Yi Yu-baek reveals he received a temporary military commander tally from Governor-General Seo Myeongeum, granting him authority and lifting morale, though Hang Inwoo criticizes Yi Yu-baek for drinking with unhealed internal injuries. As the event concludes, Sowol stands guard with a lantern by the river. An unknown figure in a black robe approaches, revealing superior qi sense by reading Sowol’s killing intent and flicking a finger that strikes past Sowol’s ear with bullet-like force. The man identifies himself as Seo Mu-ryang, the foremost Black Path figure, and hints at collusion with Heavenly Road Mountain. Sowol, sensing immediate danger, confronts Seo Mu-ryang, who smiles chillingly before the chapter ends on a note of suspended threat.
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13:36
Chapter 34
Following the nighttime festivities on the Jipseong River, martial artists hail Yeon Sowol as the 'Sole Crimson,' an epithet that surpasses his previous 'Elegant Young Lord' title. His peers from the Hall of Refined Arts react with mixed envy and pride: Seon Jehun and Mo Cheong lament their own lack of genuine epithets, while Kang Muhyeok boasts of earning 'One-Smiling Sword' by deflecting arrows. Yi Yu-baek humorously aligns himself with the younger disciples, claiming jealousy over their titles despite his own reputation as the 'Windflow Sword.' Hang Inwoo arrives, acknowledging Sowol’s role in disciplining Jeon Tae-gwang, while Shin Jae-eon praises Sowol for upholding Shinheung County’s dignity. Yi Yu-baek reveals he received a temporary military commander tally from Governor-General Seo Myeongeum, granting him authority and lifting morale, though Hang Inwoo criticizes Yi Yu-baek for drinking with unhealed internal injuries. As the event concludes, Sowol stands guard with a lantern by the river. An unknown figure in a black robe approaches, revealing superior qi sense by reading Sowol’s killing intent and flicking a finger that strikes past Sowol’s ear with bullet-like force. The man identifies himself as Seo Mu-ryang, the foremost Black Path figure, and hints at collusion with Heavenly Road Mountain. Sowol, sensing immediate danger, confronts Seo Mu-ryang, who smiles chillingly before the chapter ends on a note of suspended threat.
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13:36
35
Chapter 35
In a dark setting smelling of oil and blood, Seo Mu-ryang confronts Yeon Sowol, expressing a desire to kill him despite knowing he shouldn't. Seo Mu-ryang uses the 'Finger Flicking Art,' firing bursts of qi force from a distance that Yeon Sowol struggles to evade. Yeon Sowol attempts to close the gap, enduring severe hand injuries and pain as his scabbard deflects attacks, but Seo Mu-ryang maintains distance. Yeon Sowol waits for an opening, hoping Seo Mu-ryang will approach. Suddenly, Chu Jin-hyeok interrupts, throwing a paper bundle containing wet dog feces at Seo Mu-ryang, causing him to recoil in disgust. Yeon Sowol realizes Chu Jin-hyeok is his ally. Seo Mu-ryang flees, acknowledging his defeat and speed advantage wasn't enough to overcome the interference. Chu Jin-hyeok confirms he threw the bundle, revealing he carries dog feces to humiliate foes. Yi Yu-baek, Shin Jae-eon, and Hang In-u arrive. Hang In-u defends Seo Mu-ryang, calling him a friend and claiming misunderstandings, while Yi Yu-baek criticizes Hang In-u for his poor judgment in associating with such individuals. Hang In-u storms off in anger. Yi Yu-baek explains his life-saving bond with Hang In-u to Yeon Sowol, who remains suspicious of the connection. On the journey back, Yi Yu-baek explains that the Finger Flicking Art requires first-rate mastery of qi arts. Recognizing Yeon Sowol's need for defensive capabilities and ranged attacks, Yi Yu-baek offers to find him a master for qi arts. Yeon Sowol reflects on the utility of such arts for his 'Heaven-Killing Star' power and accepts the need for training. Yi Yu-baek clarifies the distinction between killing for survival and killing for principle. Shin Jae-eon warns Yeon Sowol against letting affection cloud judgment, a hypocritical note given his own past. Finally, Yi Yu-baek proposes starting swordsmanship training. Chu Jin-hyeok bandages Yeon Sowol's bleeding hands with Golden Wound Medicine, concluding the chapter as Yeon Sowol accepts the rigorous path ahead.
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17:13
Chapter 35
In a dark setting smelling of oil and blood, Seo Mu-ryang confronts Yeon Sowol, expressing a desire to kill him despite knowing he shouldn't. Seo Mu-ryang uses the 'Finger Flicking Art,' firing bursts of qi force from a distance that Yeon Sowol struggles to evade. Yeon Sowol attempts to close the gap, enduring severe hand injuries and pain as his scabbard deflects attacks, but Seo Mu-ryang maintains distance. Yeon Sowol waits for an opening, hoping Seo Mu-ryang will approach. Suddenly, Chu Jin-hyeok interrupts, throwing a paper bundle containing wet dog feces at Seo Mu-ryang, causing him to recoil in disgust. Yeon Sowol realizes Chu Jin-hyeok is his ally. Seo Mu-ryang flees, acknowledging his defeat and speed advantage wasn't enough to overcome the interference. Chu Jin-hyeok confirms he threw the bundle, revealing he carries dog feces to humiliate foes. Yi Yu-baek, Shin Jae-eon, and Hang In-u arrive. Hang In-u defends Seo Mu-ryang, calling him a friend and claiming misunderstandings, while Yi Yu-baek criticizes Hang In-u for his poor judgment in associating with such individuals. Hang In-u storms off in anger. Yi Yu-baek explains his life-saving bond with Hang In-u to Yeon Sowol, who remains suspicious of the connection. On the journey back, Yi Yu-baek explains that the Finger Flicking Art requires first-rate mastery of qi arts. Recognizing Yeon Sowol's need for defensive capabilities and ranged attacks, Yi Yu-baek offers to find him a master for qi arts. Yeon Sowol reflects on the utility of such arts for his 'Heaven-Killing Star' power and accepts the need for training. Yi Yu-baek clarifies the distinction between killing for survival and killing for principle. Shin Jae-eon warns Yeon Sowol against letting affection cloud judgment, a hypocritical note given his own past. Finally, Yi Yu-baek proposes starting swordsmanship training. Chu Jin-hyeok bandages Yeon Sowol's bleeding hands with Golden Wound Medicine, concluding the chapter as Yeon Sowol accepts the rigorous path ahead.
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17:13
36
Chapter 36
At dawn in April, Yeon Sowol inspects his fully healed hand, attributing the rapid recovery to Qi-infused Golden Wound Medicine. He resolves to report to Yi Yubaek, recognizing that Seo Mu-ryang’s appearance is linked to Heavenly Road Mountain and that Hang In-woo poses a strategic risk if deceived by Seo Mu-ryang. Yeon Sowol urges his father to exercise caution, though Yi Yubaek internally reflects on the impending 'first wall' of martial arts training, worrying about Yeon Sowol’s potential impatience. Yi Yubaek then formally introduces the concept of 'martial force' as transcendent power requiring body and soul alignment. Yeon Sowol analyzes his previous encounter with Seo Mu-ryang’s Finger Flicking Art versus a military spear, deducing three activation conditions for his Heaven-Killing Star power: physical contact, precise will, and clear target recognition. He realizes that his slow recognition against formless Qi makes the Heaven-Killing Star ineffective in rapid combat, necessitating fundamental martial arts training. Yi Yubaek outlines five strict precautions for swordsmanship: knowing bodily limits, reading martial force waves, regulating tempering stages, full-body sensory examination, and avoiding intoxication by power. He illustrates the dangers of 'heart demons' and over-tempering with tragic examples of disciples who exploded or crushed themselves, emphasizing the lethal stakes of neglecting self-awareness. Despite the terrifying nature of the training, Yeon Sowol accepts the burden with grave resolve, understanding that any slip-up results in death. Yi Yubaek commends Yeon Sowol’s fearful but steady attitude as the correct mindset for mastering martial force.
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15:29
Chapter 36
At dawn in April, Yeon Sowol inspects his fully healed hand, attributing the rapid recovery to Qi-infused Golden Wound Medicine. He resolves to report to Yi Yubaek, recognizing that Seo Mu-ryang’s appearance is linked to Heavenly Road Mountain and that Hang In-woo poses a strategic risk if deceived by Seo Mu-ryang. Yeon Sowol urges his father to exercise caution, though Yi Yubaek internally reflects on the impending 'first wall' of martial arts training, worrying about Yeon Sowol’s potential impatience. Yi Yubaek then formally introduces the concept of 'martial force' as transcendent power requiring body and soul alignment. Yeon Sowol analyzes his previous encounter with Seo Mu-ryang’s Finger Flicking Art versus a military spear, deducing three activation conditions for his Heaven-Killing Star power: physical contact, precise will, and clear target recognition. He realizes that his slow recognition against formless Qi makes the Heaven-Killing Star ineffective in rapid combat, necessitating fundamental martial arts training. Yi Yubaek outlines five strict precautions for swordsmanship: knowing bodily limits, reading martial force waves, regulating tempering stages, full-body sensory examination, and avoiding intoxication by power. He illustrates the dangers of 'heart demons' and over-tempering with tragic examples of disciples who exploded or crushed themselves, emphasizing the lethal stakes of neglecting self-awareness. Despite the terrifying nature of the training, Yeon Sowol accepts the burden with grave resolve, understanding that any slip-up results in death. Yi Yubaek commends Yeon Sowol’s fearful but steady attitude as the correct mindset for mastering martial force.
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15:29
37
Chapter 37
Yi Yu-baek instructs Yeon Sowol in the 'Sword Fingers' technique, explaining that while the right hand wields the sword, the left must 'hold oneself' to maintain mental clarity and bodily control. Yeon Sowol intuitively grasps the Daoist principle of balancing force with stability, likening it to a cat correcting its fall. They proceed to combat training on a training ground. Yi Yu-baek strikes Yeon Sowol with a practice sword; the first blow numbs Yeon Sowol's palm, causing him to drop his weapon and suffer bone-twisting impact because he failed to 'hold himself.' Yi Yu-baek questions why he didn't stabilize himself, noting that true martial force requires calculating received force. On the third attempt, Yeon Sowol maintains his stance despite severe pain and bleeding palms, successfully generating rudimentary martial force at an unprecedented speed. Yi Yu-baek, impressed by the disciple's rapid awakening but concerned by his reckless endurance, tests Yeon Sowol's restraint by offering to continue training. Yeon Sowol wisely chooses to rest, averting a harsh lesson on overexertion. They shift topics to their mission; Yi Yu-baek confirms the plan to kill Seo Mu-ryang and implies Hang In-u's safety will follow, alleviating Yeon Sowol’s earlier anxiety. Yeon Sowol expresses gratitude, feeling a sense of relief as his pain eases. Finally, Yeon Sowol asks how to judge right and wrong in ambiguous situations. Yi Yu-baek advises that repaying both kindness and grudges is a reliable moral compass. The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek bandaging Yeon Sowol's injured hand, marking a moment of quiet care in the April setting.
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16:26
Chapter 37
Yi Yu-baek instructs Yeon Sowol in the 'Sword Fingers' technique, explaining that while the right hand wields the sword, the left must 'hold oneself' to maintain mental clarity and bodily control. Yeon Sowol intuitively grasps the Daoist principle of balancing force with stability, likening it to a cat correcting its fall. They proceed to combat training on a training ground. Yi Yu-baek strikes Yeon Sowol with a practice sword; the first blow numbs Yeon Sowol's palm, causing him to drop his weapon and suffer bone-twisting impact because he failed to 'hold himself.' Yi Yu-baek questions why he didn't stabilize himself, noting that true martial force requires calculating received force. On the third attempt, Yeon Sowol maintains his stance despite severe pain and bleeding palms, successfully generating rudimentary martial force at an unprecedented speed. Yi Yu-baek, impressed by the disciple's rapid awakening but concerned by his reckless endurance, tests Yeon Sowol's restraint by offering to continue training. Yeon Sowol wisely chooses to rest, averting a harsh lesson on overexertion. They shift topics to their mission; Yi Yu-baek confirms the plan to kill Seo Mu-ryang and implies Hang In-u's safety will follow, alleviating Yeon Sowol’s earlier anxiety. Yeon Sowol expresses gratitude, feeling a sense of relief as his pain eases. Finally, Yeon Sowol asks how to judge right and wrong in ambiguous situations. Yi Yu-baek advises that repaying both kindness and grudges is a reliable moral compass. The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek bandaging Yeon Sowol's injured hand, marking a moment of quiet care in the April setting.
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16:26
38
Chapter 38
Chapter 38 opens with Seo Mu-ryang, leader of the Golden Powder Gang, obsessively spitting to remove the taste of dog feces he was forced to ingest. Reflecting on his obsession with cleanliness and blood-bathing, he recalls Yi Yu-baek’s recent political rise and resolves to trap and kill him, leveraging connections with Heavenly Road Mountain. Despite his rage, he must maintain his operations in Shinheung County. He visits Cheongun Pavilion, demanding to see Choran. Despite the pavilion master’s hesitation, Seo Mu-ryang coerces her into presence and violently beats her abdomen, causing internal bleeding. Choran endures the assault, pleading to keep her face unblemished. Meanwhile, Eun-yeong observes a different prisoner being terrified, noting her evolving moral compass: she now chooses to frighten rather than kill, driven by her love for Choran and her complex feelings toward Yi Yu-baek. Eun-yeong discovers the blood smell on Choran, confirming Seo Mu-ryang’s presence and injury. Choran begs Eun-yeong not to seek vengeance, fearing death. Eun-yeong, realizing her duty to protect her sister overrides Choran’s plea for safety, slips away to confront Seo Mu-ryang alone. A distraught courtesan runs to Yeon Sowol, begging him to save Eun-yeong. Yeon Sowol weighs the risks: fighting a first-rate expert in enemy territory could lead to his death or trigger a Black Path uprising that undermines Yi Yu-baek’s plans. However, driven by debt and a score to settle with Seo Mu-ryang, Yeon Sowol commits to the mission, instructing the courtesan to inform his father that he has killed Seo Mu-ryang before sprinting toward the Golden Powder Gang. Cho-ran: Choran; Choran; courtesan; sworn younger sister of Eun-yeong; victim of Seo Mu-ryang
Eun_yeong: Eun-yeong; Young Lady Eun-yeong; Eun-yeong of the Azure Cloud Pavilion; sworn younger sister of Cho-ran
Seo_Myeong_eum: Seo Myeong-eum; Seo Myeongeum; Great Lord Seo Myeong-eum; Governor-General Seo; Governor-General of Liangguang
Yi_Yu_Baek: Yi Yu-baek; Yi Yubaek; Great Hero Yi Yu-baek; Master Yi; Hall Master Yi; master of the Hall of Refined Arts; Yeon So-wol's master; Yeon So-wol's adoptive father
Yeon_So_wol: Yeon So-wol; Yeon Sowol; Young Hero Yeon; Young Lord Yeon; Young Master Yeon; Arang; Solitary Crimson; Xinxing's Solitary Crimson; Yeon the Crimson; Hidden Sun Sword; Featherless Arrow; adopted son of Yi Yu-baek; instant-kill user
Jo_Man_Seok: Jo Man-seok; Jo Manseok; Old Man Jo; incense-shop owner
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19:49
Chapter 38
Chapter 38 opens with Seo Mu-ryang, leader of the Golden Powder Gang, obsessively spitting to remove the taste of dog feces he was forced to ingest. Reflecting on his obsession with cleanliness and blood-bathing, he recalls Yi Yu-baek’s recent political rise and resolves to trap and kill him, leveraging connections with Heavenly Road Mountain. Despite his rage, he must maintain his operations in Shinheung County. He visits Cheongun Pavilion, demanding to see Choran. Despite the pavilion master’s hesitation, Seo Mu-ryang coerces her into presence and violently beats her abdomen, causing internal bleeding. Choran endures the assault, pleading to keep her face unblemished. Meanwhile, Eun-yeong observes a different prisoner being terrified, noting her evolving moral compass: she now chooses to frighten rather than kill, driven by her love for Choran and her complex feelings toward Yi Yu-baek. Eun-yeong discovers the blood smell on Choran, confirming Seo Mu-ryang’s presence and injury. Choran begs Eun-yeong not to seek vengeance, fearing death. Eun-yeong, realizing her duty to protect her sister overrides Choran’s plea for safety, slips away to confront Seo Mu-ryang alone. A distraught courtesan runs to Yeon Sowol, begging him to save Eun-yeong. Yeon Sowol weighs the risks: fighting a first-rate expert in enemy territory could lead to his death or trigger a Black Path uprising that undermines Yi Yu-baek’s plans. However, driven by debt and a score to settle with Seo Mu-ryang, Yeon Sowol commits to the mission, instructing the courtesan to inform his father that he has killed Seo Mu-ryang before sprinting toward the Golden Powder Gang. Cho-ran: Choran; Choran; courtesan; sworn younger sister of Eun-yeong; victim of Seo Mu-ryang
Eun_yeong: Eun-yeong; Young Lady Eun-yeong; Eun-yeong of the Azure Cloud Pavilion; sworn younger sister of Cho-ran
Seo_Myeong_eum: Seo Myeong-eum; Seo Myeongeum; Great Lord Seo Myeong-eum; Governor-General Seo; Governor-General of Liangguang
Yi_Yu_Baek: Yi Yu-baek; Yi Yubaek; Great Hero Yi Yu-baek; Master Yi; Hall Master Yi; master of the Hall of Refined Arts; Yeon So-wol's master; Yeon So-wol's adoptive father
Yeon_So_wol: Yeon So-wol; Yeon Sowol; Young Hero Yeon; Young Lord Yeon; Young Master Yeon; Arang; Solitary Crimson; Xinxing's Solitary Crimson; Yeon the Crimson; Hidden Sun Sword; Featherless Arrow; adopted son of Yi Yu-baek; instant-kill user
Jo_Man_Seok: Jo Man-seok; Jo Manseok; Old Man Jo; incense-shop owner
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19:49
39
Chapter 39
Chapter 39 opens with Seo Muryang reveling in the aftermath of a massacre, using victims' blood for his bath. However, his relaxation is shattered by an ambush from Eun-yeong, who strikes with a poisoned needle and multiple daggers. Seo Muryang counters with his Finger Flicking Art and a blast of True Qi, temporarily incapacitating Eun-yeong. Recognizing her survival depends on over-tempering her injured organs—a desperate, self-sacrificial measure—Seo Muryang hesitates, amused by her lethal intent. Eun-yeong charges through a wall of surrounding Golden Powder Gang members, sustaining severe flesh wounds to break through their encirclement and reach Seo Muryang. Seo Muryang defends himself with successive Finger Flicking Art strikes, shattering Eun-yeong's collarbone and leaving her incapacitated on the ground. Suddenly, Yeon So-wol emerges from the shadows, revealing he has mastered swordsmanship and martial force release. Yeon So-wol swiftly deflects Seo Muryang's attacks and pierces his neck with his sword, killing him decisively. While Yeon So-wol shields the wounded Eun-yeong, confirming she is alive but likely fatal injured, the Golden Powder Gang members surround them, enraged by their leader's death and threatening violence. Yeon So-wol, gripping his Demon-Severing Sword, resolves to end the conflict immediately as the gang members charge.
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17:21
Chapter 39
Chapter 39 opens with Seo Muryang reveling in the aftermath of a massacre, using victims' blood for his bath. However, his relaxation is shattered by an ambush from Eun-yeong, who strikes with a poisoned needle and multiple daggers. Seo Muryang counters with his Finger Flicking Art and a blast of True Qi, temporarily incapacitating Eun-yeong. Recognizing her survival depends on over-tempering her injured organs—a desperate, self-sacrificial measure—Seo Muryang hesitates, amused by her lethal intent. Eun-yeong charges through a wall of surrounding Golden Powder Gang members, sustaining severe flesh wounds to break through their encirclement and reach Seo Muryang. Seo Muryang defends himself with successive Finger Flicking Art strikes, shattering Eun-yeong's collarbone and leaving her incapacitated on the ground. Suddenly, Yeon So-wol emerges from the shadows, revealing he has mastered swordsmanship and martial force release. Yeon So-wol swiftly deflects Seo Muryang's attacks and pierces his neck with his sword, killing him decisively. While Yeon So-wol shields the wounded Eun-yeong, confirming she is alive but likely fatal injured, the Golden Powder Gang members surround them, enraged by their leader's death and threatening violence. Yeon So-wol, gripping his Demon-Severing Sword, resolves to end the conflict immediately as the gang members charge.
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17:21
40
Chapter 40
A panicked Windflow Academy disciple informs Young Master Yeon So-wol that he has killed Golden Powder Gang Leader Seo Mu-ryang. The academy erupts in emergency mobilization, while the streets of Shinheung County buzz with rage. The Black Path, motivated by grief for Seo Mu-ryang, gathers at the Golden Powder Gang headquarters to ambush Yeon So-wol. Inside, Yeon So-wol engages dozens of fighters, deliberately displaying overwhelming strength to intimidate them. He slices through multiple opponents, sending heads flying and bodies splitting, yet the attackers do not retreat; instead, their killing intent intensifies, believing Yeon So-wol to be exhausted. The fighters adopt hit-and-run tactics, wearing him down with coordinated strikes. As fatigue sets in, Yeon So-wol considers fleeing to preserve his strength, realizing his stamina is failing under the relentless assault. Just as he resolves to retreat, he finds he cannot move, his body locked in protective resolve before Eun-yeong. She appears, using precise, wind-like footwork to sever arteries with deadly accuracy, collapsing the attackers with minimal effort. She advises Yeon So-wol to standardize his martial force usage to reduce strain, a method taught by unorthodox schools. Yeon So-wol, however, recognizes the flaw in this approach for the Windflow School, which requires variable application of power. Combining his earlier insight with Eun-yeong’s lessons, he shifts his martial force to his feet, varying the intensity with each step. This innovation grants him enhanced agility and precision, allowing him to glide through the enemy lines and deliver fatal strikes. He decapitates a fighter, concluding the summary of this breakthrough moment.
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15:55
Chapter 40
A panicked Windflow Academy disciple informs Young Master Yeon So-wol that he has killed Golden Powder Gang Leader Seo Mu-ryang. The academy erupts in emergency mobilization, while the streets of Shinheung County buzz with rage. The Black Path, motivated by grief for Seo Mu-ryang, gathers at the Golden Powder Gang headquarters to ambush Yeon So-wol. Inside, Yeon So-wol engages dozens of fighters, deliberately displaying overwhelming strength to intimidate them. He slices through multiple opponents, sending heads flying and bodies splitting, yet the attackers do not retreat; instead, their killing intent intensifies, believing Yeon So-wol to be exhausted. The fighters adopt hit-and-run tactics, wearing him down with coordinated strikes. As fatigue sets in, Yeon So-wol considers fleeing to preserve his strength, realizing his stamina is failing under the relentless assault. Just as he resolves to retreat, he finds he cannot move, his body locked in protective resolve before Eun-yeong. She appears, using precise, wind-like footwork to sever arteries with deadly accuracy, collapsing the attackers with minimal effort. She advises Yeon So-wol to standardize his martial force usage to reduce strain, a method taught by unorthodox schools. Yeon So-wol, however, recognizes the flaw in this approach for the Windflow School, which requires variable application of power. Combining his earlier insight with Eun-yeong’s lessons, he shifts his martial force to his feet, varying the intensity with each step. This innovation grants him enhanced agility and precision, allowing him to glide through the enemy lines and deliver fatal strikes. He decapitates a fighter, concluding the summary of this breakthrough moment.
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15:55
41
Chapter 41
Chapter 41 begins with Yeon Sowol engaging Black Path fighters in a brutal, one-sided combat sequence, demonstrating mastery over the Demon-Severing Sword and Sword Fingers. He feels a dangerous intoxication from the flow of martial force, prompting Eun-yeong to strike his head to snap him back to reality, citing Yi Yu-baek's doctrine: 'Do Not Become Intoxicated'. Guided by this correction, Yeon Sowol refines his Willow Leaf Steps, achieving stealth and precision that overwhelms the Golden Powder Gang members and subsequent waves of Shinheung County fighters, killing over forty enemies including awakened experts. Despite his skill, Yeon Sowol cannot break the encirclement as more rebels arrive. Yi Yu-baek finally arrives, apologizing for being late, and effortlessly slaughters the remaining Black Path fighters with pale-green sword light, treating it as a simple execution rather than a fight. Simultaneously, government troops led by County Inspector Jang Wisan and military officer Yang Ikseon ambush fleeing enemies from rooftops, while Severing Sword Sect disciple Shin Jae-eon and Windflow Martial Academy disciples seal off escape routes. The coordinated assault results in the complete annihilation of the Black Path forces. Following the battle, Yi Yu-baek thanks Yeon Sowol and Eun-yeong for their assistance in eliminating the threat. However, Eun-yeong collapses, revealing black, dead blood and succumbing to death at age twenty-two. Her final whisper, 'Complicated,' leaves Yeon Sowol stunned by the sudden loss.
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13:22
Chapter 41
Chapter 41 begins with Yeon Sowol engaging Black Path fighters in a brutal, one-sided combat sequence, demonstrating mastery over the Demon-Severing Sword and Sword Fingers. He feels a dangerous intoxication from the flow of martial force, prompting Eun-yeong to strike his head to snap him back to reality, citing Yi Yu-baek's doctrine: 'Do Not Become Intoxicated'. Guided by this correction, Yeon Sowol refines his Willow Leaf Steps, achieving stealth and precision that overwhelms the Golden Powder Gang members and subsequent waves of Shinheung County fighters, killing over forty enemies including awakened experts. Despite his skill, Yeon Sowol cannot break the encirclement as more rebels arrive. Yi Yu-baek finally arrives, apologizing for being late, and effortlessly slaughters the remaining Black Path fighters with pale-green sword light, treating it as a simple execution rather than a fight. Simultaneously, government troops led by County Inspector Jang Wisan and military officer Yang Ikseon ambush fleeing enemies from rooftops, while Severing Sword Sect disciple Shin Jae-eon and Windflow Martial Academy disciples seal off escape routes. The coordinated assault results in the complete annihilation of the Black Path forces. Following the battle, Yi Yu-baek thanks Yeon Sowol and Eun-yeong for their assistance in eliminating the threat. However, Eun-yeong collapses, revealing black, dead blood and succumbing to death at age twenty-two. Her final whisper, 'Complicated,' leaves Yeon Sowol stunned by the sudden loss.
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13:22
42
Chapter 42
Following the battle, Yi Yubaek explains to Yeon So-wol that Eun-yeong ruptured her Eight Extraordinary Vessels using an assassin's art to release innate true qi, granting her immense power at the cost of certain death. Yeon So-wol observes Eun-yeong’s lifeless, flushed form. Mo Cheong covers her with his robe to protect her from the heat and places a dried flower petal on her chest, admitting he was just beginning to develop feelings for her. Yi Yubaek then covers Eun-yeong with his own robe, wipes her face, and prepares to transport her to Cheongun Pavilion. Yeon So-wol, Mo Cheong, Kang Mu-hyeok, and Seon Je-hun follow Yi Yubaek as he requests transport. Along the way, they encounter Hang In-woo and the White Dragon Gang. Yi Yubaek confirms he killed all Black Path fighters, including Seo Mu-ryang. Hang In-woo expresses concern for Yi Yubaek’s internal injuries, offering medicine, but Yi Yubaek dismisses him after confirming the Elder Brother is safe. Hang In-woo departs to visit his friend, while Yi Yubaek leads the group toward Cheongun Pavilion. Upon arrival, public opinion in Shinheung County is celebratory due to the eradication of the Black Path, which has improved safety and commerce. Rumors spread that Yi Yubaek’s actions pave the way for the subjugation of Heavenly Road Mountain. Meanwhile, Yeon So-wol’s martial skills improve rapidly under Yi Yubaek’s supervision, and his memories of killing and death begin to fade into emptiness. While returning from errands, Yeon So-wol encounters gossipers discussing Cho-ran’s impending marriage as a concubine to a wealthy man named Wang. They reveal she can no longer bear children and that Wang promised memorial rites for her deceased sister in exchange for her agreement. Yeon So-wol confronts the gossipers, intimidating them into fleeing. He proceeds into the quiet Cheongun Pavilion, where Cho-ran sits alone in white and red, wearing a red sachet. He asks if she needs help, but she claims she is fine, asserting that such arrangements are normal. As Yeon So-wol withdraws, he overhears her faint murmur and reflects on a poem, feeling a profound sense of sorrow and confusion as he walks away alone.
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14:30
Chapter 42
Following the battle, Yi Yubaek explains to Yeon So-wol that Eun-yeong ruptured her Eight Extraordinary Vessels using an assassin's art to release innate true qi, granting her immense power at the cost of certain death. Yeon So-wol observes Eun-yeong’s lifeless, flushed form. Mo Cheong covers her with his robe to protect her from the heat and places a dried flower petal on her chest, admitting he was just beginning to develop feelings for her. Yi Yubaek then covers Eun-yeong with his own robe, wipes her face, and prepares to transport her to Cheongun Pavilion. Yeon So-wol, Mo Cheong, Kang Mu-hyeok, and Seon Je-hun follow Yi Yubaek as he requests transport. Along the way, they encounter Hang In-woo and the White Dragon Gang. Yi Yubaek confirms he killed all Black Path fighters, including Seo Mu-ryang. Hang In-woo expresses concern for Yi Yubaek’s internal injuries, offering medicine, but Yi Yubaek dismisses him after confirming the Elder Brother is safe. Hang In-woo departs to visit his friend, while Yi Yubaek leads the group toward Cheongun Pavilion. Upon arrival, public opinion in Shinheung County is celebratory due to the eradication of the Black Path, which has improved safety and commerce. Rumors spread that Yi Yubaek’s actions pave the way for the subjugation of Heavenly Road Mountain. Meanwhile, Yeon So-wol’s martial skills improve rapidly under Yi Yubaek’s supervision, and his memories of killing and death begin to fade into emptiness. While returning from errands, Yeon So-wol encounters gossipers discussing Cho-ran’s impending marriage as a concubine to a wealthy man named Wang. They reveal she can no longer bear children and that Wang promised memorial rites for her deceased sister in exchange for her agreement. Yeon So-wol confronts the gossipers, intimidating them into fleeing. He proceeds into the quiet Cheongun Pavilion, where Cho-ran sits alone in white and red, wearing a red sachet. He asks if she needs help, but she claims she is fine, asserting that such arrangements are normal. As Yeon So-wol withdraws, he overhears her faint murmur and reflects on a poem, feeling a profound sense of sorrow and confusion as he walks away alone.
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14:30
43
Chapter 43
Ten days after arriving at Master Wang’s estate, Choran receives news that Windflow Martial Academy is hosting a seven-day victory feast. Remembering Yeon Sowol’s sacrifice, she asks servants for permission to attend, intending to dress well and avoid looking sad. Meanwhile, at the academy, Yi Yu-baek burns expensive agarwood incense to attract martial heroes, planning to use the gathering for recruitment for the Heavenly Road Mountain Expedition. His eldest disciple, Kang Mu-hyeok, questions the cost, but Yi Yu-baek explains the strategic importance. The feast draws a diverse crowd, lifting moods with wine and food. Yeon Sowol, initially enjoying the atmosphere, is reminded of Eun-yeong and Choran by flashbacks of bloodshed. Jin Geol, a poor scholar in patched clothes, strikes his bowl to gain attention and prompts Yeon Sowol to reveal the truth of the battle. Despite initial hesitation, Yeon Sowol reveals that Lady Eun-yeong killed Seo Mu-ryang, not him. He details Eun-yeong’s heroism, Choran’s injury, and their bond over the Jipseong River. The crowd reacts with emotional outbursts, praising the loyalty and sacrifice depicted in the story. Entertainment spreads as people recount, paint, and sing of the events. Choran arrives with her husband, Master Wang, visibly emotional. In a touching gesture, she raises three cups of wine for Lady Eun-yeong, Lady Choran, and Young Master Yeon. Meanwhile, patrons eagerly purchase art depicting the duo’s dynamic, causing Choran to look on in wide-eyed astonishment.
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14:59
Chapter 43
Ten days after arriving at Master Wang’s estate, Choran receives news that Windflow Martial Academy is hosting a seven-day victory feast. Remembering Yeon Sowol’s sacrifice, she asks servants for permission to attend, intending to dress well and avoid looking sad. Meanwhile, at the academy, Yi Yu-baek burns expensive agarwood incense to attract martial heroes, planning to use the gathering for recruitment for the Heavenly Road Mountain Expedition. His eldest disciple, Kang Mu-hyeok, questions the cost, but Yi Yu-baek explains the strategic importance. The feast draws a diverse crowd, lifting moods with wine and food. Yeon Sowol, initially enjoying the atmosphere, is reminded of Eun-yeong and Choran by flashbacks of bloodshed. Jin Geol, a poor scholar in patched clothes, strikes his bowl to gain attention and prompts Yeon Sowol to reveal the truth of the battle. Despite initial hesitation, Yeon Sowol reveals that Lady Eun-yeong killed Seo Mu-ryang, not him. He details Eun-yeong’s heroism, Choran’s injury, and their bond over the Jipseong River. The crowd reacts with emotional outbursts, praising the loyalty and sacrifice depicted in the story. Entertainment spreads as people recount, paint, and sing of the events. Choran arrives with her husband, Master Wang, visibly emotional. In a touching gesture, she raises three cups of wine for Lady Eun-yeong, Lady Choran, and Young Master Yeon. Meanwhile, patrons eagerly purchase art depicting the duo’s dynamic, causing Choran to look on in wide-eyed astonishment.
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14:59
44
Chapter 44
Chapter 44 details the emotional conclusion of the Shinheung County feast through the eyes of Choran and Yeon Sowol. Choran purchases remaining drawings of her sworn sister, Eun-yeong, while her husband, Master Wang, silently pays, hiding his reddened eyes to preserve their dignity. Choran observes the vibrant social atmosphere, noting the mutual respect developing between her husband and local notables. The narrative shifts to the legends being told at the feast: tales of Great Hero Yi Yubaek’s miraculous healing and mentoring of sworn brother Gang Leader Hang Inwoo, highlighting the Jianghu’s culture of loyalty and retribution. Choran approaches Yeon Sowol to express her gratitude and affection for the world he represents, bowing deeply before leaving him with a blessing to remain 'vividly red.' Subsequently, Yeon Sowol confronts his companion, Jin Geol, about his sudden poverty. Jin Geol admits to spending his payment on alcohol and bribes, then reveals he secretly stole a gold ingot from the unsuspecting Governor-General of Liangguang, boasting of his martial precision. Yeon Sowol is horrified by Jin Geol’s cavalier attitude toward theft and deception, fearing the 'insanity' of other martial artists. As the feast ends, rumors spread across Guangdong regarding Yi Yubaek and Yeon Sowol, drawing widespread attention to the upcoming Heavenly Road Mountain Expedition. The chapter concludes with news that Hang Inwoo has secured a powerful spiritual elixir to heal Yi Yubaek, prompting plans for a celebratory gathering, marking the transition from the local feast to the broader Jianghu narrative.
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13:24
Chapter 44
Chapter 44 details the emotional conclusion of the Shinheung County feast through the eyes of Choran and Yeon Sowol. Choran purchases remaining drawings of her sworn sister, Eun-yeong, while her husband, Master Wang, silently pays, hiding his reddened eyes to preserve their dignity. Choran observes the vibrant social atmosphere, noting the mutual respect developing between her husband and local notables. The narrative shifts to the legends being told at the feast: tales of Great Hero Yi Yubaek’s miraculous healing and mentoring of sworn brother Gang Leader Hang Inwoo, highlighting the Jianghu’s culture of loyalty and retribution. Choran approaches Yeon Sowol to express her gratitude and affection for the world he represents, bowing deeply before leaving him with a blessing to remain 'vividly red.' Subsequently, Yeon Sowol confronts his companion, Jin Geol, about his sudden poverty. Jin Geol admits to spending his payment on alcohol and bribes, then reveals he secretly stole a gold ingot from the unsuspecting Governor-General of Liangguang, boasting of his martial precision. Yeon Sowol is horrified by Jin Geol’s cavalier attitude toward theft and deception, fearing the 'insanity' of other martial artists. As the feast ends, rumors spread across Guangdong regarding Yi Yubaek and Yeon Sowol, drawing widespread attention to the upcoming Heavenly Road Mountain Expedition. The chapter concludes with news that Hang Inwoo has secured a powerful spiritual elixir to heal Yi Yubaek, prompting plans for a celebratory gathering, marking the transition from the local feast to the broader Jianghu narrative.
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13:24
45
Chapter 45
Yi Yu-baek calls Yeon So-wol aside, assigning him to distribute gold, silk, rice, and alcohol to the families of the injured and killed inner disciples who had charged to save So-wol during the previous battle. Yi Yu-baek emphasizes the moral obligation to care for those left behind, countering rumors that Hang Inwoo is merely preparing a grand party. Meanwhile, Yeon So-wol feels uneasy about the secluded valley meeting and questions Kang Mu-hyeok about security. Mu-hyeok reveals that Master Yi Yu-baek has already taken half a Wound-Mending Pellet for his internal injuries and keeps the other half in reserve, alleviating So-wol's immediate concerns though not his suspicion. So-wol departs with porters, noting the quiet streets of Shinheung County as military personnel and conscripts are deployed for drills ahead of the campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain. As the group travels, Mo Cheong mentions Hang Inwoo’s discovery of several hundred-year-old Human-Shaped Ginseng roots, prompting Yi Yu-baek to scold him for his greed, reminding him of Hang Inwoo’s stinginess. Upon reaching the valley, the group is followed by a crowd of approximately forty spectators, including scholars, musicians, and idlers, who mistakenly believe Yi Yu-baek will receive the elixir. Yi Yu-baek attempts to dismiss them, citing the valley’s poisonous oleander plants, which successfully halts the crowd at a distance. The valley itself features a large pond surrounded by blooming oleanders, mistaken by some for peach blossoms. Hang Inwoo confronts the lingering spectators, ordering his gang members to drive them off. After the crowd is dispersed, Yi Yu-baek and Hang Inwoo sit together, with the White Dragon Gang leaders and Windflow disciples arranged around them. Following pleasant drinking, Hang Inwoo asks about Yi Yu-baek’s health. Upon hearing Yi Yu-baek claim he is dying and asking for the elixir, Hang Inwoo feigns offense at Yi Yu-baek’s presumptuous tone and the presence of the spectators, smiling enigmatically as the chapter ends.
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13:43
Chapter 45
Yi Yu-baek calls Yeon So-wol aside, assigning him to distribute gold, silk, rice, and alcohol to the families of the injured and killed inner disciples who had charged to save So-wol during the previous battle. Yi Yu-baek emphasizes the moral obligation to care for those left behind, countering rumors that Hang Inwoo is merely preparing a grand party. Meanwhile, Yeon So-wol feels uneasy about the secluded valley meeting and questions Kang Mu-hyeok about security. Mu-hyeok reveals that Master Yi Yu-baek has already taken half a Wound-Mending Pellet for his internal injuries and keeps the other half in reserve, alleviating So-wol's immediate concerns though not his suspicion. So-wol departs with porters, noting the quiet streets of Shinheung County as military personnel and conscripts are deployed for drills ahead of the campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain. As the group travels, Mo Cheong mentions Hang Inwoo’s discovery of several hundred-year-old Human-Shaped Ginseng roots, prompting Yi Yu-baek to scold him for his greed, reminding him of Hang Inwoo’s stinginess. Upon reaching the valley, the group is followed by a crowd of approximately forty spectators, including scholars, musicians, and idlers, who mistakenly believe Yi Yu-baek will receive the elixir. Yi Yu-baek attempts to dismiss them, citing the valley’s poisonous oleander plants, which successfully halts the crowd at a distance. The valley itself features a large pond surrounded by blooming oleanders, mistaken by some for peach blossoms. Hang Inwoo confronts the lingering spectators, ordering his gang members to drive them off. After the crowd is dispersed, Yi Yu-baek and Hang Inwoo sit together, with the White Dragon Gang leaders and Windflow disciples arranged around them. Following pleasant drinking, Hang Inwoo asks about Yi Yu-baek’s health. Upon hearing Yi Yu-baek claim he is dying and asking for the elixir, Hang Inwoo feigns offense at Yi Yu-baek’s presumptuous tone and the presence of the spectators, smiling enigmatically as the chapter ends.
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13:43
46
Chapter 46
Chapter 46 opens with Yi Yu-baek apologizing to his sworn younger brother, Hang In-woo, for a prior misunderstanding regarding spiritual elixirs and unwelcome followers. Hang In-woo, though smiling, delivers thorny accusations, revealing deep resentment over being treated lightly and ignored when insults were directed at him at a previous feast. He highlights Yi Yu-baek's failure to defend his reputation publicly. The conversation shifts to a strategic request: Hang In-woo implores Yi Yu-baek to cease the campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain, citing the danger of new peak experts among the enemies and expressing indifference to the suffering of strangers compared to the potential losses for his own men. Yi Yu-baek coldly rebuffs this, asserting a moral duty to defeat those who deserve death. The tension escalates as Hang In-woo drops the facade, revealing he is in league with Heavenly Road Mountain and handled Dream-Soul Powder distribution. He declares that past debts are settled and that he will no longer risk his life for Yi Yu-baek's causes. Suddenly, over sixty White Dragon Gang members surround the group, having drawn weapons. Yi Yu-baek is outnumbered, having only his three disciples with him. Kang Mu-hyeok then arrives with reinforcements from the Windflow Martial Academy, forcing both sides to draw blades. Hang In-woo mocks Yi Yu-baek's eldest disciple, but the chapter ends abruptly as Yi Yu-baek's sword flashes upward the moment Hang In-woo draws his saber.
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12:36
Chapter 46
Chapter 46 opens with Yi Yu-baek apologizing to his sworn younger brother, Hang In-woo, for a prior misunderstanding regarding spiritual elixirs and unwelcome followers. Hang In-woo, though smiling, delivers thorny accusations, revealing deep resentment over being treated lightly and ignored when insults were directed at him at a previous feast. He highlights Yi Yu-baek's failure to defend his reputation publicly. The conversation shifts to a strategic request: Hang In-woo implores Yi Yu-baek to cease the campaign against Heavenly Road Mountain, citing the danger of new peak experts among the enemies and expressing indifference to the suffering of strangers compared to the potential losses for his own men. Yi Yu-baek coldly rebuffs this, asserting a moral duty to defeat those who deserve death. The tension escalates as Hang In-woo drops the facade, revealing he is in league with Heavenly Road Mountain and handled Dream-Soul Powder distribution. He declares that past debts are settled and that he will no longer risk his life for Yi Yu-baek's causes. Suddenly, over sixty White Dragon Gang members surround the group, having drawn weapons. Yi Yu-baek is outnumbered, having only his three disciples with him. Kang Mu-hyeok then arrives with reinforcements from the Windflow Martial Academy, forcing both sides to draw blades. Hang In-woo mocks Yi Yu-baek's eldest disciple, but the chapter ends abruptly as Yi Yu-baek's sword flashes upward the moment Hang In-woo draws his saber.
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12:36
47
Chapter 47
Chapter 47 begins with Sect Master Shin Jae-eon of the Severing Sword Sect reporting to his disciples. He reveals that the White Dragon Gang is empty, having stripped its wealth and fled, and notes that inner disciples of the Windflow Martial Academy also left secretly. He orders his sect members to mobilize and investigate a suspicious drinking party in a remote valley to assess a potential threat. Meanwhile, in the past, inner disciples of Windflow Martial Academy, betrayed by their trust in Hang Inwoo, draw their swords in rage to confront him. Kang Muhyeok leads the charge against the outnumbered White Dragon Gang members. Yi Yubaek engages Hang Inwoo, who utilizes unorthodox martial arts that cause physical strain but enhance strength, manifesting as heat haze and muscle deformation. Hang Inwoo attacks with the 'Ghost-Weeping Saber' technique, but Yi Yubaek evades using 'Willow Leaf Steps' and counterattacks with precise Windflow Sword techniques. Yi Yubaek questions Hang Inwoo's betrayal regarding Heavenly Road Mountain, pointing out that Hang Inwoo is wavering in heart. As Yi Yubaek prepares a finishing move, a hooded man intervenes, knocking Yi Yubaek's sword away. This man, identified as the Third Chief of Heavenly Road Mountain, reveals he came to save Hang Inwoo because the First and Second Chiefs anticipated this conflict. He confirms Seo Muryang sought alliances with Heavenly Road Mountain. The arrival of Heavenly Road Mountain bandits, including three first-rate martial artists, surrounds the Windflow disciples, turning the tide. Just as morale breaks among Yi Yubaek's men, arrows pierce the foreheads of the encircling bandits, killing them instantly. Yi Yubaek catches a glimpse of a dented official's hat and patches among the archers. He accelerates toward Hang Inwoo and the hooded Third Chief, intending to subdue the leaders first.
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15:32
Chapter 47
Chapter 47 begins with Sect Master Shin Jae-eon of the Severing Sword Sect reporting to his disciples. He reveals that the White Dragon Gang is empty, having stripped its wealth and fled, and notes that inner disciples of the Windflow Martial Academy also left secretly. He orders his sect members to mobilize and investigate a suspicious drinking party in a remote valley to assess a potential threat. Meanwhile, in the past, inner disciples of Windflow Martial Academy, betrayed by their trust in Hang Inwoo, draw their swords in rage to confront him. Kang Muhyeok leads the charge against the outnumbered White Dragon Gang members. Yi Yubaek engages Hang Inwoo, who utilizes unorthodox martial arts that cause physical strain but enhance strength, manifesting as heat haze and muscle deformation. Hang Inwoo attacks with the 'Ghost-Weeping Saber' technique, but Yi Yubaek evades using 'Willow Leaf Steps' and counterattacks with precise Windflow Sword techniques. Yi Yubaek questions Hang Inwoo's betrayal regarding Heavenly Road Mountain, pointing out that Hang Inwoo is wavering in heart. As Yi Yubaek prepares a finishing move, a hooded man intervenes, knocking Yi Yubaek's sword away. This man, identified as the Third Chief of Heavenly Road Mountain, reveals he came to save Hang Inwoo because the First and Second Chiefs anticipated this conflict. He confirms Seo Muryang sought alliances with Heavenly Road Mountain. The arrival of Heavenly Road Mountain bandits, including three first-rate martial artists, surrounds the Windflow disciples, turning the tide. Just as morale breaks among Yi Yubaek's men, arrows pierce the foreheads of the encircling bandits, killing them instantly. Yi Yubaek catches a glimpse of a dented official's hat and patches among the archers. He accelerates toward Hang Inwoo and the hooded Third Chief, intending to subdue the leaders first.
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15:32
48
Chapter 48
Yi Yu-baek executes a bandit expert with a flash of his sword, then confronts Hang Inwoo while utilizing Willow Leaf Steps and True Flame to accelerate his movement. He is surrounded by three saber wielders, including Hang Inwoo, and takes a severe internal injury after clashing with their sabers, causing his meridians to burst and his stage of maturity to falter. An arrow from Jin Geol strikes toward Hang Inwoo, distracting him and allowing Yi Yu-baek to evade further attacks. Yi Yu-baek identifies the archer as a young man in patched clothes and realizes it may be Yeon So-wol, fearing for his safety. Meanwhile, Jin Geol, initially intending to watch the spectacle, hires a filthy laborer to deliver a warning message to Yeon So-wol. Jin Geol then takes a defensive position in a tree, firing arrows to support Yi Yu-baek. His position is compromised when bandits discover him; he fires his remaining arrows but lacks the lightness art to escape, forcing him to draw his saber and shout provocations to cover his retreat. A middle-aged man with graying hair, identified as Shin Jae-eon, appears and severs the waists of three bandits with mere sword qi. Shin Jae-eon refuses Hang Inwoo’s offer to ally with him or Heavenly Road Mountain, citing Hang Inwoo’s betrayal of Yi Yu-baek as a sign of untrustworthiness. Hang Inwoo retorts that he was tired of living under Yi Yu-baek's shadow, causing the sect leader to sneer in disgust as the battle pauses.
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15:29
Chapter 48
Yi Yu-baek executes a bandit expert with a flash of his sword, then confronts Hang Inwoo while utilizing Willow Leaf Steps and True Flame to accelerate his movement. He is surrounded by three saber wielders, including Hang Inwoo, and takes a severe internal injury after clashing with their sabers, causing his meridians to burst and his stage of maturity to falter. An arrow from Jin Geol strikes toward Hang Inwoo, distracting him and allowing Yi Yu-baek to evade further attacks. Yi Yu-baek identifies the archer as a young man in patched clothes and realizes it may be Yeon So-wol, fearing for his safety. Meanwhile, Jin Geol, initially intending to watch the spectacle, hires a filthy laborer to deliver a warning message to Yeon So-wol. Jin Geol then takes a defensive position in a tree, firing arrows to support Yi Yu-baek. His position is compromised when bandits discover him; he fires his remaining arrows but lacks the lightness art to escape, forcing him to draw his saber and shout provocations to cover his retreat. A middle-aged man with graying hair, identified as Shin Jae-eon, appears and severs the waists of three bandits with mere sword qi. Shin Jae-eon refuses Hang Inwoo’s offer to ally with him or Heavenly Road Mountain, citing Hang Inwoo’s betrayal of Yi Yu-baek as a sign of untrustworthiness. Hang Inwoo retorts that he was tired of living under Yi Yu-baek's shadow, causing the sect leader to sneer in disgust as the battle pauses.
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15:29
49
Chapter 49
Yeon So-wol, exhausted from collecting gifts at numerous households, encounters a frantic messenger. The man, sent by Jin Geol, delivers a desperate warning: Hang In-woo has betrayed Yi Yu-baek, and Heavenly Road Mountain bandits, bolstered by reinforcements from the Eighteen Strongholds, have surrounded Windflow Martial Academy. The messenger urges So-wol to flee, citing the overwhelming strength of the enemy and Jin Geol’s assessment that resistance is futile. Although So-wol is initially angered by the suggestion of retreat, he recognizes the messenger's exhaustion and sincere effort, embracing him in gratitude before departing toward the valley. Simultaneously, the battle rages with the Severing Sword Sect and Windflow Martial Academy facing severe depletion. The bandits possess superior stamina and combat experience, causing the defenders to falter. Yi Yu-baek struggles with internal injuries and contemplates a risky gamble: using a Wound-Mending Pellet to force open his Eight Extraordinary Vessels and unleash innate true qi, a move that could kill him but might take down Hang In-woo. Meanwhile, Shin Jae-eon prepares his disciples for potential death, acknowledging their limited chances but hoping for survival. The tension peaks when Jeon Taegwang, the
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12:01
Chapter 49
Yeon So-wol, exhausted from collecting gifts at numerous households, encounters a frantic messenger. The man, sent by Jin Geol, delivers a desperate warning: Hang In-woo has betrayed Yi Yu-baek, and Heavenly Road Mountain bandits, bolstered by reinforcements from the Eighteen Strongholds, have surrounded Windflow Martial Academy. The messenger urges So-wol to flee, citing the overwhelming strength of the enemy and Jin Geol’s assessment that resistance is futile. Although So-wol is initially angered by the suggestion of retreat, he recognizes the messenger's exhaustion and sincere effort, embracing him in gratitude before departing toward the valley. Simultaneously, the battle rages with the Severing Sword Sect and Windflow Martial Academy facing severe depletion. The bandits possess superior stamina and combat experience, causing the defenders to falter. Yi Yu-baek struggles with internal injuries and contemplates a risky gamble: using a Wound-Mending Pellet to force open his Eight Extraordinary Vessels and unleash innate true qi, a move that could kill him but might take down Hang In-woo. Meanwhile, Shin Jae-eon prepares his disciples for potential death, acknowledging their limited chances but hoping for survival. The tension peaks when Jeon Taegwang, the
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12:01
50
Chapter 50
Jeon Taegwang, driven by resentment over lifelong mockery as the 'Resentful Dog,' charges between the White Dragon Gang and the Severing Sword Sect to surrender. He begs Hang Inwoo to spare him, admitting he betrayed his master, Shin Jae-eon, because he could not endure dying without accomplishing anything. Hang Inwoo mocks Jeon Taegwang’s desperation, laughing loudly at his betrayal and calling him a 'dog bastard.' As the crowd joins in the laughter, Jeon Taegwang snaps, asking why everyone is laughing. He draws his sword and slays a bandit attempting to kick him, then confronts Hang Inwoo, questioning why Hang Inwoo, a betrayer himself, is laughing. Hang Inwoo attacks, but Shin Jae-eon intervenes alone, deflecting strikes before being fatally impaled. As Shin Jae-eon lies dying, he apologizes to Jeon Taegwang, who stares blankly as his master’s head is severed. Overcome by conflicting emotions—guilt, resentment, and betrayal—Jeon Taegwang’s blocked Eight Extraordinary Vessels rupture, releasing blue flames of innate true qi. This aura creates chaos, allowing the Windflow Martial Academy and Severing Sword Sect to counterattack the disordered enemy forces. The blue flames eventually fade, and Jeon Taegwang collapses, dying at age twenty-one. His final words are a command to 'stop laughing.' As the battle resumes over his corpse, Yeon Sowol arrives.
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13:48
Chapter 50
Jeon Taegwang, driven by resentment over lifelong mockery as the 'Resentful Dog,' charges between the White Dragon Gang and the Severing Sword Sect to surrender. He begs Hang Inwoo to spare him, admitting he betrayed his master, Shin Jae-eon, because he could not endure dying without accomplishing anything. Hang Inwoo mocks Jeon Taegwang’s desperation, laughing loudly at his betrayal and calling him a 'dog bastard.' As the crowd joins in the laughter, Jeon Taegwang snaps, asking why everyone is laughing. He draws his sword and slays a bandit attempting to kick him, then confronts Hang Inwoo, questioning why Hang Inwoo, a betrayer himself, is laughing. Hang Inwoo attacks, but Shin Jae-eon intervenes alone, deflecting strikes before being fatally impaled. As Shin Jae-eon lies dying, he apologizes to Jeon Taegwang, who stares blankly as his master’s head is severed. Overcome by conflicting emotions—guilt, resentment, and betrayal—Jeon Taegwang’s blocked Eight Extraordinary Vessels rupture, releasing blue flames of innate true qi. This aura creates chaos, allowing the Windflow Martial Academy and Severing Sword Sect to counterattack the disordered enemy forces. The blue flames eventually fade, and Jeon Taegwang collapses, dying at age twenty-one. His final words are a command to 'stop laughing.' As the battle resumes over his corpse, Yeon Sowol arrives.
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13:48
51
Chapter 51
Chapter 51 begins with a chaotic melee between the White Dragon Gang and Heavenly Road Mountain bandits against the Windflow Martial Academy and Severing Sword Sect. Yi Yubaek spots Yeon Sowol, his adopted son, and fears for his safety despite needing assistance. Yeon Sowol discards his white robe, revealing close-fitting travel clothes, and vanishes using refined movement techniques learned from Eun-yeong, adjusting his body weight and qi sense to move silently. He navigates the battlefield by exploiting the rhythm of enemy movements, slipping between their strikes to assassinate isolated targets discreetly. His actions cause panic among the enemies, who realize their lines are collapsing without understanding the cause. Hang Inwoo, leader of the White Dragon Gang, notices the carnage and charges Yeon Sowol with a powerful palm strike. Yeon Sowol blocks the saber blow with his bare hand and shatters the weapon, then throws his sword into Hang Inwoo’s brow. Although Yeon Sowol is thrown back by the force of the palm, Hang Inwoo dies instantly from the Heaven-Killing Star’s power. The remaining enemies flee in terror, allowing the allies to secure victory. After the battle, Yeon Sowol discovers Jeon Taegwang’s dead body beside him, reflecting on their rivalry and shared moments before closing the fallen man’s eyes. He laments the betrayal of Hang Inwoo and the loss of Eun-yeong, questioning the nature of the Jianghu. Hearing Yi Yubaek’s cries for Kang Muhyeok, Yeon Soo-l applies Golden Wound Medicine and transports the unconscious disciple away. Yi Yubaek, witnessing Yeon Sowol’s advanced mastery of qi, wonders at the boy’s presence, while Seon Jehun and Mo Cheong approach to begin cleanup. The chapter concludes with Yi Yubaek lamenting the heavy casualties among the sects as blood-soaked petals fall on the battlefield.
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17:32
Chapter 51
Chapter 51 begins with a chaotic melee between the White Dragon Gang and Heavenly Road Mountain bandits against the Windflow Martial Academy and Severing Sword Sect. Yi Yubaek spots Yeon Sowol, his adopted son, and fears for his safety despite needing assistance. Yeon Sowol discards his white robe, revealing close-fitting travel clothes, and vanishes using refined movement techniques learned from Eun-yeong, adjusting his body weight and qi sense to move silently. He navigates the battlefield by exploiting the rhythm of enemy movements, slipping between their strikes to assassinate isolated targets discreetly. His actions cause panic among the enemies, who realize their lines are collapsing without understanding the cause. Hang Inwoo, leader of the White Dragon Gang, notices the carnage and charges Yeon Sowol with a powerful palm strike. Yeon Sowol blocks the saber blow with his bare hand and shatters the weapon, then throws his sword into Hang Inwoo’s brow. Although Yeon Sowol is thrown back by the force of the palm, Hang Inwoo dies instantly from the Heaven-Killing Star’s power. The remaining enemies flee in terror, allowing the allies to secure victory. After the battle, Yeon Sowol discovers Jeon Taegwang’s dead body beside him, reflecting on their rivalry and shared moments before closing the fallen man’s eyes. He laments the betrayal of Hang Inwoo and the loss of Eun-yeong, questioning the nature of the Jianghu. Hearing Yi Yubaek’s cries for Kang Muhyeok, Yeon Soo-l applies Golden Wound Medicine and transports the unconscious disciple away. Yi Yubaek, witnessing Yeon Sowol’s advanced mastery of qi, wonders at the boy’s presence, while Seon Jehun and Mo Cheong approach to begin cleanup. The chapter concludes with Yi Yubaek lamenting the heavy casualties among the sects as blood-soaked petals fall on the battlefield.
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17:32
52
Chapter 52
The chapter opens with the aftermath of the Heavenly Road Mountain expedition. In Shinheung County, where all spring flowers have fallen, locals discuss the tragedy with heavy hearts. Rumors circulate that Great Hero Yi Yubaek founded the White Dragon Gang for Hang Inwoo, supporting his rise. Conversations reveal despair over the loss of righteous warriors and the failure of the expedition, though spirits lift slightly when discussing Yeon So-wol’s reputed prowess, with some claiming he killed Hang Inwoo with a mere touch. Kang Mu-hyeok awakens in an infirmary to find Yi Yubaek, who confirms that burial preparations are complete and gold distributed to families. Kang Mu-hyeok expresses shame at surviving while sect leaders died, prompting a stern rebuke from his master. The scene shifts to Gukeun Temple, a holy site in the mountains where peach blossoms bloom, contrasting with the withered flowers of the county. Yeon So-wol, burdened by grief, assists in organizing the ten-day funeral rites alongside Mo Cheong and Jin Geol, who volunteers to help wash and press mourning garments. As days pass, unexpected numbers of martial artists from across Guangdong arrive, moved by rumors of Yi Yubaek’s integrity and Hang Inwoo’s betrayal. The funeral transforms into a rallying point; the crowd, stirred by outrage, demands vengeance against Heavenly Road Mountain. On the final day, Yi Yubaek steps onto a terrace and publicly requests the crowd to provide the blood of the bandits for forty-day rites, eliciting deafening cheers and transforming the mournful occasion into a campaign launch. Jin Geol comforts Yeon So-wol with a Tang dynasty poem by Bai Juyi, illustrating that while flowers fade elsewhere, new beauty blooms in the mountain temple, symbolizing renewed hope and purpose.
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18:27
Chapter 52
The chapter opens with the aftermath of the Heavenly Road Mountain expedition. In Shinheung County, where all spring flowers have fallen, locals discuss the tragedy with heavy hearts. Rumors circulate that Great Hero Yi Yubaek founded the White Dragon Gang for Hang Inwoo, supporting his rise. Conversations reveal despair over the loss of righteous warriors and the failure of the expedition, though spirits lift slightly when discussing Yeon So-wol’s reputed prowess, with some claiming he killed Hang Inwoo with a mere touch. Kang Mu-hyeok awakens in an infirmary to find Yi Yubaek, who confirms that burial preparations are complete and gold distributed to families. Kang Mu-hyeok expresses shame at surviving while sect leaders died, prompting a stern rebuke from his master. The scene shifts to Gukeun Temple, a holy site in the mountains where peach blossoms bloom, contrasting with the withered flowers of the county. Yeon So-wol, burdened by grief, assists in organizing the ten-day funeral rites alongside Mo Cheong and Jin Geol, who volunteers to help wash and press mourning garments. As days pass, unexpected numbers of martial artists from across Guangdong arrive, moved by rumors of Yi Yubaek’s integrity and Hang Inwoo’s betrayal. The funeral transforms into a rallying point; the crowd, stirred by outrage, demands vengeance against Heavenly Road Mountain. On the final day, Yi Yubaek steps onto a terrace and publicly requests the crowd to provide the blood of the bandits for forty-day rites, eliciting deafening cheers and transforming the mournful occasion into a campaign launch. Jin Geol comforts Yeon So-wol with a Tang dynasty poem by Bai Juyi, illustrating that while flowers fade elsewhere, new beauty blooms in the mountain temple, symbolizing renewed hope and purpose.
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18:27
53
Chapter 53
On Heavenly Road Mountain, under a cloud of black smoke, Yeon So-wol investigates the skeletal remains of the Heavenly Demon Cult's Fourth Elder, Gu Ma-un, and the Shaolin monk Beop-yeon. He deduces they fought over a Greater Rejuvenation Pill and notes the faint, muddled scent of tracking incense, prompting him to descend toward Shinheung County. In the county, martial artists circulate exaggerated rumors that Yeon So-wol has reached the 'first-rate' realm, a belief Yeon So-wol finds troubling but cannot immediately refute. Yeon So-wol returns to Yi Yu-baek’s residence, bearing a wooden box containing the Greater Rejuvenation Pill, which he obtained from a dead monk. He presents it to Yi Yu-baek, intending for his master to use it to heal his internal injuries. However, Yi Yu-baek reveals he already knew the box’s contents, having spotted the pill’s unique divine energy while tending to Yeon So-wol after his battle with the Golden Powder Gang. Yi Yu-baek refuses the pill, instead opening a chest to reveal five human-shaped ginseng roots harvested from the battlefield. He proposes a joint consumption plan: he and Yeon So-wol will each take one root to advance toward first-rate status, while the remaining three go to the Severing Sword Sect disciples, Kang Mu-hyeok, Seon Je-hun, and Mo Cheong, as compensation for their losses in the recent conflict. Yi Yu-baek insists Yeon So-wol must take the ginseng now to meet the expectations of the Jianghu, arguing that if Yeon So-wol does not actively change the world, the world will crush him. Convinced by this necessity for strength and survival, Yeon So-wol accepts the ginseng. The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek asking if Yeon So-wol is ready for closed-door seclusion, leaving the young hero trembling with apprehension and newfound determination.
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15:31
Chapter 53
On Heavenly Road Mountain, under a cloud of black smoke, Yeon So-wol investigates the skeletal remains of the Heavenly Demon Cult's Fourth Elder, Gu Ma-un, and the Shaolin monk Beop-yeon. He deduces they fought over a Greater Rejuvenation Pill and notes the faint, muddled scent of tracking incense, prompting him to descend toward Shinheung County. In the county, martial artists circulate exaggerated rumors that Yeon So-wol has reached the 'first-rate' realm, a belief Yeon So-wol finds troubling but cannot immediately refute. Yeon So-wol returns to Yi Yu-baek’s residence, bearing a wooden box containing the Greater Rejuvenation Pill, which he obtained from a dead monk. He presents it to Yi Yu-baek, intending for his master to use it to heal his internal injuries. However, Yi Yu-baek reveals he already knew the box’s contents, having spotted the pill’s unique divine energy while tending to Yeon So-wol after his battle with the Golden Powder Gang. Yi Yu-baek refuses the pill, instead opening a chest to reveal five human-shaped ginseng roots harvested from the battlefield. He proposes a joint consumption plan: he and Yeon So-wol will each take one root to advance toward first-rate status, while the remaining three go to the Severing Sword Sect disciples, Kang Mu-hyeok, Seon Je-hun, and Mo Cheong, as compensation for their losses in the recent conflict. Yi Yu-baek insists Yeon So-wol must take the ginseng now to meet the expectations of the Jianghu, arguing that if Yeon So-wol does not actively change the world, the world will crush him. Convinced by this necessity for strength and survival, Yeon So-wol accepts the ginseng. The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek asking if Yeon So-wol is ready for closed-door seclusion, leaving the young hero trembling with apprehension and newfound determination.
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15:31
54
Chapter 54
Yeon Sowol is sealed inside a dark cave by Yi Yu-baek for closed-door seclusion to absorb a Human-Shaped Ginseng. Yi Yu-baek had previously instructed Yeon Sowol that he only needs to digest the medicine and that the process should be enjoyable, warning him to remain aware of the total darkness as a defense against heart demons. Yeon Sowol, depressed by the immediate sensory deprivation, prepares by lighting incense to track time. He consumes the ginseng, apologizing to it, and begins the Willow Serenity Art. He experiences sudden, intense heat and a loss of consciousness, believing four hours have passed based on the burned incense, though he feels no memory of practicing. Confused and sweating profusely, he realizes his qi has become dangerously hot. He relights the incense and resumes cultivation, carefully monitoring his breathing to maintain consciousness. He successfully kindles a True Flame within his meridians, despite experiencing altered sensory perceptions where his five senses melt into a soft state. His unconscious cultivation continues, perfectly executing the circulation of qi and gathering the flame in the dantian network (One Origin, Three Qi). Eventually, Yeon Sowol regains partial awareness, witnessing flashes of colored light and hearing faint voices, confirming Yi Yu-baek's predictions about the harmony of senses. He then perceives an endless expanse of space, galaxies, and stars, realizing this vision represents transcendence. The chapter concludes with Yeon Sowol officially entering the first-rate realm after one year of martial arts cultivation.
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13:35
Chapter 54
Yeon Sowol is sealed inside a dark cave by Yi Yu-baek for closed-door seclusion to absorb a Human-Shaped Ginseng. Yi Yu-baek had previously instructed Yeon Sowol that he only needs to digest the medicine and that the process should be enjoyable, warning him to remain aware of the total darkness as a defense against heart demons. Yeon Sowol, depressed by the immediate sensory deprivation, prepares by lighting incense to track time. He consumes the ginseng, apologizing to it, and begins the Willow Serenity Art. He experiences sudden, intense heat and a loss of consciousness, believing four hours have passed based on the burned incense, though he feels no memory of practicing. Confused and sweating profusely, he realizes his qi has become dangerously hot. He relights the incense and resumes cultivation, carefully monitoring his breathing to maintain consciousness. He successfully kindles a True Flame within his meridians, despite experiencing altered sensory perceptions where his five senses melt into a soft state. His unconscious cultivation continues, perfectly executing the circulation of qi and gathering the flame in the dantian network (One Origin, Three Qi). Eventually, Yeon Sowol regains partial awareness, witnessing flashes of colored light and hearing faint voices, confirming Yi Yu-baek's predictions about the harmony of senses. He then perceives an endless expanse of space, galaxies, and stars, realizing this vision represents transcendence. The chapter concludes with Yeon Sowol officially entering the first-rate realm after one year of martial arts cultivation.
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13:35
55
Chapter 55
Yeon Sowol cleans himself in a cave spring, noting the cessation of smoke emissions as proof that he has entered the 'Brave Flame Soars' first-rate realm. He experiences the sensation of innate true qi, describing it as a fundamental harmony beyond defined laws. Despite his new power, his progress in melting essence into qi is slow, and he finds his meridians insufficient. Deciding against further training, he consumes a Greater Rejuvenation Pill to accelerate refinement. The pill generates intense heat, which stabilizes into flames that strengthen his dantian and Eight Extraordinary Vessels. His meridians transform from 'Chosen Green Bamboo' to 'Flourishing Selection Stone' and Bamboo. The process lasts what feels like days or months, causing time distortion and beard growth. Yeon Sowol suffers from a shaken spirit and 'drunken' sensation, ignoring knocks from Mo Cheong, Yi Yubaek, Hang Inwoo, and Eun-yeong. Finally, he hears voices from his deceased parents discussing a bus accident on his college entrance exam day. Realizing these are manifestations of his 'heart demon,' Yeon Sowol trembles in the dark.
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14:14
Chapter 55
Yeon Sowol cleans himself in a cave spring, noting the cessation of smoke emissions as proof that he has entered the 'Brave Flame Soars' first-rate realm. He experiences the sensation of innate true qi, describing it as a fundamental harmony beyond defined laws. Despite his new power, his progress in melting essence into qi is slow, and he finds his meridians insufficient. Deciding against further training, he consumes a Greater Rejuvenation Pill to accelerate refinement. The pill generates intense heat, which stabilizes into flames that strengthen his dantian and Eight Extraordinary Vessels. His meridians transform from 'Chosen Green Bamboo' to 'Flourishing Selection Stone' and Bamboo. The process lasts what feels like days or months, causing time distortion and beard growth. Yeon Sowol suffers from a shaken spirit and 'drunken' sensation, ignoring knocks from Mo Cheong, Yi Yubaek, Hang Inwoo, and Eun-yeong. Finally, he hears voices from his deceased parents discussing a bus accident on his college entrance exam day. Realizing these are manifestations of his 'heart demon,' Yeon Sowol trembles in the dark.
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14:14
56
Chapter 56
In a brief exchange, Mo Cheong questions Yi Yu-baek about handling heart demons at the first-rate realm. Yi Yu-baek explains that true delusions must be distinguished from reality using a clear heart, akin to identifying a flower from its mirror reflection, though he omits the deeper lesson Yeon Sowol grasps. Mo Cheong, worried about Sowol's impending trial, learns that Sowol's heart demon may be immense due to his usage of the Greater Rejuvenation Pill. Meanwhile, Yeon Sowol, undergoing closed-door seclusion, begins cultivating the Willow Serenity Art. His internal heat triggers auditory hallucinations of a hospital setting—voices of a nurse, panicked relatives, and doctors discussing his vitals. He perceives these as a heart demon but finds his conviction shaken by the realism of the sensations. He reasons logically that if this were a coma dream, the martial world would be a figment of his imagination; however, he recalls the genuine novelty of his pain, joy, and the character Yeon Seonhong. Concluding that such profound experiences cannot stem from his own mind, he realizes the Jianghu is real and the hospital voices are the illusion. His heart becomes clear, allowing him to see through the darkness of the cave. He attains the Faint Fragrance Unfading realm, marking the late first-rate stage with perfect clarity.
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15:25
Chapter 56
In a brief exchange, Mo Cheong questions Yi Yu-baek about handling heart demons at the first-rate realm. Yi Yu-baek explains that true delusions must be distinguished from reality using a clear heart, akin to identifying a flower from its mirror reflection, though he omits the deeper lesson Yeon Sowol grasps. Mo Cheong, worried about Sowol's impending trial, learns that Sowol's heart demon may be immense due to his usage of the Greater Rejuvenation Pill. Meanwhile, Yeon Sowol, undergoing closed-door seclusion, begins cultivating the Willow Serenity Art. His internal heat triggers auditory hallucinations of a hospital setting—voices of a nurse, panicked relatives, and doctors discussing his vitals. He perceives these as a heart demon but finds his conviction shaken by the realism of the sensations. He reasons logically that if this were a coma dream, the martial world would be a figment of his imagination; however, he recalls the genuine novelty of his pain, joy, and the character Yeon Seonhong. Concluding that such profound experiences cannot stem from his own mind, he realizes the Jianghu is real and the hospital voices are the illusion. His heart becomes clear, allowing him to see through the darkness of the cave. He attains the Faint Fragrance Unfading realm, marking the late first-rate stage with perfect clarity.
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15:25
57
Chapter 57
The chapter opens in Shinheung County, where a wandering man, identified as the Lord of the Divine Cult’s Dark Shadow Pavilion, struggles with his Ten-Thousand-Li Tracking Incense, which has become muddled by other fragrances. Despite initial frustration, he deduces that the target likely resides in a place with heavy incense use, such as a temple, and resolves to investigate Gukeun Temple. He dismisses local martial conflicts as trivial before moving on. Simultaneously, Yeon So-wol emerges from his cave, having successfully refined his body using true qi. He demonstrates newfound control over transformative workings by splitting a massive boulder with a palm strike that behaves like a chisel. Awed by the result, he flies into the night sky, perceiving the universe through enhanced qi sense, noting the cosmic hierarchy of qi and matter. He then returns to Windflow Martial Academy, where he finds Yi Yu-baek waiting in the garden, which is thick with the scent of incense and charcoal. Yi Yu-baek expresses relief that Yeon So-wol has survived his heart demon, noting that only fifteen days have passed despite Yeon So-wol’s perception of having lived longer. Yeon So-wol recounts a fabricated version of his experience, describing vivid, malicious illusions that nearly killed him. Yi Yu-baek, examining Yeon So-wol’s pulse, reveals that Yeon So-wol’s body has become an 'Elixir Furnace' with incomparably strong flames. He predicts that Yeon So-wol will reach the peak realm within three years without additional effort, far surpassing normal cultivation limits. Impressed by Yeon So-wol’s rapid ascension to the late first-rate stage, Yi Yu-baek toasts him as an 'immortal.' The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek mentioning the upcoming forty-nine-day rites. Remembering the horrific truth behind the Shinheung Danger-Avoidance Manual, Yeon So-wol drinks deeply and vows to take up a sword again, signaling his resolve to fight against the evils he now understands fully.
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16:25
Chapter 57
The chapter opens in Shinheung County, where a wandering man, identified as the Lord of the Divine Cult’s Dark Shadow Pavilion, struggles with his Ten-Thousand-Li Tracking Incense, which has become muddled by other fragrances. Despite initial frustration, he deduces that the target likely resides in a place with heavy incense use, such as a temple, and resolves to investigate Gukeun Temple. He dismisses local martial conflicts as trivial before moving on. Simultaneously, Yeon So-wol emerges from his cave, having successfully refined his body using true qi. He demonstrates newfound control over transformative workings by splitting a massive boulder with a palm strike that behaves like a chisel. Awed by the result, he flies into the night sky, perceiving the universe through enhanced qi sense, noting the cosmic hierarchy of qi and matter. He then returns to Windflow Martial Academy, where he finds Yi Yu-baek waiting in the garden, which is thick with the scent of incense and charcoal. Yi Yu-baek expresses relief that Yeon So-wol has survived his heart demon, noting that only fifteen days have passed despite Yeon So-wol’s perception of having lived longer. Yeon So-wol recounts a fabricated version of his experience, describing vivid, malicious illusions that nearly killed him. Yi Yu-baek, examining Yeon So-wol’s pulse, reveals that Yeon So-wol’s body has become an 'Elixir Furnace' with incomparably strong flames. He predicts that Yeon So-wol will reach the peak realm within three years without additional effort, far surpassing normal cultivation limits. Impressed by Yeon So-wol’s rapid ascension to the late first-rate stage, Yi Yu-baek toasts him as an 'immortal.' The chapter concludes with Yi Yu-baek mentioning the upcoming forty-nine-day rites. Remembering the horrific truth behind the Shinheung Danger-Avoidance Manual, Yeon So-wol drinks deeply and vows to take up a sword again, signaling his resolve to fight against the evils he now understands fully.
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16:25
58
Chapter 58
In Shinheung County, public sentiment towards Yeon Sowol is divided; many doubt his claimed first-rate status, attributing it to rumors or spiritual elixirs rather than genuine skill. Yi Yu-baek reveals to Yeon Sowol that he has reached the late first-rate stage of inner cultivation but lacks control over his physical martial arts. He proposes a ten-day training period to master the 'Small Circulation' of qi, enabling Yeon Sowol to function as an early or mid first-rate master and dispel rumors of unnatural enhancement. After training, Yeon Sowol visits Jo Manseok’s shop, where he is given benzoin to create a scented sachet, momentarily improving his mood amidst the county's foul odors. He receives a urgent summons from an inner disciple of Windflow Martial Academy, who reports a potential brawl at an inn involving his friend Jin Geol. Upon arrival, Yeon Sowol finds Jin Geol arguing with a rival, Hero Seong, over whether the 'Soaring Wing Sword' technique can be dodged by the 'Straight-Line Step.' The dispute escalates rapidly as both sides draw swords, threatening a full-scale melee. Yeon Sowol intervenes, calming the crowd by reminding them of their common enemy, the bandits. Hero Seong, respecting Yeon Sowol’s presence, withdraws his weapon but demands a demonstration of the Soaring Wing Sword in the future. Yeon Sowol realizes he has incurred a social debt. He questions Jin Geol, who confesses he does not actually know how to perform the technique he was bragging about. The chapter ends with Yeon Sowol lamenting that Jo Manseok’s warning about trusting Jianghu people was prescient.
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16:46
Chapter 58
In Shinheung County, public sentiment towards Yeon Sowol is divided; many doubt his claimed first-rate status, attributing it to rumors or spiritual elixirs rather than genuine skill. Yi Yu-baek reveals to Yeon Sowol that he has reached the late first-rate stage of inner cultivation but lacks control over his physical martial arts. He proposes a ten-day training period to master the 'Small Circulation' of qi, enabling Yeon Sowol to function as an early or mid first-rate master and dispel rumors of unnatural enhancement. After training, Yeon Sowol visits Jo Manseok’s shop, where he is given benzoin to create a scented sachet, momentarily improving his mood amidst the county's foul odors. He receives a urgent summons from an inner disciple of Windflow Martial Academy, who reports a potential brawl at an inn involving his friend Jin Geol. Upon arrival, Yeon Sowol finds Jin Geol arguing with a rival, Hero Seong, over whether the 'Soaring Wing Sword' technique can be dodged by the 'Straight-Line Step.' The dispute escalates rapidly as both sides draw swords, threatening a full-scale melee. Yeon Sowol intervenes, calming the crowd by reminding them of their common enemy, the bandits. Hero Seong, respecting Yeon Sowol’s presence, withdraws his weapon but demands a demonstration of the Soaring Wing Sword in the future. Yeon Sowol realizes he has incurred a social debt. He questions Jin Geol, who confesses he does not actually know how to perform the technique he was bragging about. The chapter ends with Yeon Sowol lamenting that Jo Manseok’s warning about trusting Jianghu people was prescient.
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16:46
59
Chapter 59
In Jin Geol's cramped inn room, Yeon So-wol questions Jin Geol about the origins of his poverty and the Soaring Wing Sword manual. Jin Geol admits he spent his gold tael to pay for the delivery of news regarding Hang In-woo's betrayal, rather than using it for living expenses, revealing his deep loyalty. He explains that his low martial skill stems from prioritizing civil service exams over martial training, despite having strong inner cultivation. To resolve the conflict with Hero Seong, Jin Geol produces a flawed copy of the Soaring Wing Sword manual obtained through a wager, hoping Yeon So-wol can help correct the errors. Yeon So-wol reluctantly agrees, and they spend the night analyzing the text. Exhausted and realizing they cannot complete the correction in time, Yeon So-wol convinces Jin Geol to apologize and borrow silver from him instead of fleeing. The two leave the inn in the pre-dawn hours, only to be halted by thick fog and the overpowering scent of alcohol. Recognizing these signs as a danger signal from the Shinheung Danger-Avoidance Manual, Yeon So-wol orders silence and expands his qi sense to assess the threat.
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13:00
Chapter 59
In Jin Geol's cramped inn room, Yeon So-wol questions Jin Geol about the origins of his poverty and the Soaring Wing Sword manual. Jin Geol admits he spent his gold tael to pay for the delivery of news regarding Hang In-woo's betrayal, rather than using it for living expenses, revealing his deep loyalty. He explains that his low martial skill stems from prioritizing civil service exams over martial training, despite having strong inner cultivation. To resolve the conflict with Hero Seong, Jin Geol produces a flawed copy of the Soaring Wing Sword manual obtained through a wager, hoping Yeon So-wol can help correct the errors. Yeon So-wol reluctantly agrees, and they spend the night analyzing the text. Exhausted and realizing they cannot complete the correction in time, Yeon So-wol convinces Jin Geol to apologize and borrow silver from him instead of fleeing. The two leave the inn in the pre-dawn hours, only to be halted by thick fog and the overpowering scent of alcohol. Recognizing these signs as a danger signal from the Shinheung Danger-Avoidance Manual, Yeon So-wol orders silence and expands his qi sense to assess the threat.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
13:00
60
Chapter 60
Yeon Sowol, adopting a sense of duty toward the Jianghu, investigates strange fog in Shinheung County, sensing three peak-realm martial artists. He encounters Jin Geol, and together they face three elders concealed in the mist: a white-haired beggar, a Daoist, and a ruddy-faced elder in splendid clothes. The elders test their character before offering them cups of 'Seon-a' wine, which induces a temporal distortion where external time stops and internal qi stabilizes. Yeon Sowol drinks one cup, entering a trance-like state where he practices swordplay with stabilizing qi, eventually awakening refreshed. While Jin Geol remains unconscious from the wine, Yeon Sowol requests and consumes a second cup, becoming entranced by the swirling milky wine as he departs, while the elders observe his progress.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:43
Chapter 60
Yeon Sowol, adopting a sense of duty toward the Jianghu, investigates strange fog in Shinheung County, sensing three peak-realm martial artists. He encounters Jin Geol, and together they face three elders concealed in the mist: a white-haired beggar, a Daoist, and a ruddy-faced elder in splendid clothes. The elders test their character before offering them cups of 'Seon-a' wine, which induces a temporal distortion where external time stops and internal qi stabilizes. Yeon Sowol drinks one cup, entering a trance-like state where he practices swordplay with stabilizing qi, eventually awakening refreshed. While Jin Geol remains unconscious from the wine, Yeon Sowol requests and consumes a second cup, becoming entranced by the swirling milky wine as he departs, while the elders observe his progress.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:43
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