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Dropped into Murim with an Instant Kill Skill
Iron Lotus · AzureScanlations
4.8
264 chapters
360 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) · 91–120
91
Chapter 91
Yeon So-wol contemplates the risks of advancing to the peak realm, fearing heart demons despite a desire for stronger insight. So Hye provides critical guidance, explaining that insights gained at the peak realm determine future progress, prompting Yeon So-wol to pause his rush toward advancement. He trusts So Hye to create an elixir that connects the spirit with the world, accepting the danger. Over four hours, alchemists diagnose the constitutions of Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung. Jin Geol and Won Huiseung interrupt the process with stubborn arguments, delaying the formula. Once resolved, alchemists establish a framework based on Yeon So-wol's vision of the 'world' during his ascent. Yeon So-wol attempts to clarify that he saw the universe, stars, and Milky Way, but the alchemists cannot comprehend this, interpreting it as lakes or the heavens. They dismiss his testimony as confusion to avoid creating a lethal poison. Yeon So-wol insists he saw the vast, immeasurable universe beyond the sky, arguing that proper medicine must match this insight. The alchemists react with shock and disbelief at his arrogance, warning of the immense difficulty and risk. Despite their hesitation and arguments about safety, Yeon So-wol firmly demands they proceed with the strongest possible effects, taking full responsibility. He asserts he saw the heavens clearly and orders them to follow his instructions, leaving the stunned alchemists speechless as he maintains his certain demeanor.
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14:05
Chapter 91
Yeon So-wol contemplates the risks of advancing to the peak realm, fearing heart demons despite a desire for stronger insight. So Hye provides critical guidance, explaining that insights gained at the peak realm determine future progress, prompting Yeon So-wol to pause his rush toward advancement. He trusts So Hye to create an elixir that connects the spirit with the world, accepting the danger. Over four hours, alchemists diagnose the constitutions of Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung. Jin Geol and Won Huiseung interrupt the process with stubborn arguments, delaying the formula. Once resolved, alchemists establish a framework based on Yeon So-wol's vision of the 'world' during his ascent. Yeon So-wol attempts to clarify that he saw the universe, stars, and Milky Way, but the alchemists cannot comprehend this, interpreting it as lakes or the heavens. They dismiss his testimony as confusion to avoid creating a lethal poison. Yeon So-wol insists he saw the vast, immeasurable universe beyond the sky, arguing that proper medicine must match this insight. The alchemists react with shock and disbelief at his arrogance, warning of the immense difficulty and risk. Despite their hesitation and arguments about safety, Yeon So-wol firmly demands they proceed with the strongest possible effects, taking full responsibility. He asserts he saw the heavens clearly and orders them to follow his instructions, leaving the stunned alchemists speechless as he maintains his certain demeanor.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:05
92
Chapter 92
In a valley shrine on Mount Heng, alchemists deliberate on how to handle Yeon So-wol's request for a high-grade elixir. Master Yang, the senior alchemist with white eyebrows and beard, reprimands younger members for considering deceit or simplification, emphasizing that alchemy requires precision and moral integrity. He orders them to follow Yeon So-wol's instructions exactly. Master Yang then explains to Yeon So-wol that refining supreme elixirs is as dangerous as closed-door seclusion, involving turbulent energies and strange beings. He instructs Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung to stand guard outside the sealed refinement chamber. While the alchemists prepare the nine cauldrons, the three guards settle in a corridor room. Jin Geol calmly drinks alcohol, arguing it helps detect ghosts, while Won Huiseung remains skeptical, doubting the existence of supernatural entities. Yeon So-wol, who has previously encountered Ghost Kings, remains vigilant. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts; Jin Geol and Won Huiseung freeze, staring at the talisman-covered sliding door. Jin Geol claims to hear a scream and draws his bow, while Won Huiseung leaps up, sword drawn. Yeon So-wol, feeling no sound but sensing a dangerous shift, places himself between his friends and the door as his spine chills.
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12:56
Chapter 92
In a valley shrine on Mount Heng, alchemists deliberate on how to handle Yeon So-wol's request for a high-grade elixir. Master Yang, the senior alchemist with white eyebrows and beard, reprimands younger members for considering deceit or simplification, emphasizing that alchemy requires precision and moral integrity. He orders them to follow Yeon So-wol's instructions exactly. Master Yang then explains to Yeon So-wol that refining supreme elixirs is as dangerous as closed-door seclusion, involving turbulent energies and strange beings. He instructs Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung to stand guard outside the sealed refinement chamber. While the alchemists prepare the nine cauldrons, the three guards settle in a corridor room. Jin Geol calmly drinks alcohol, arguing it helps detect ghosts, while Won Huiseung remains skeptical, doubting the existence of supernatural entities. Yeon So-wol, who has previously encountered Ghost Kings, remains vigilant. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts; Jin Geol and Won Huiseung freeze, staring at the talisman-covered sliding door. Jin Geol claims to hear a scream and draws his bow, while Won Huiseung leaps up, sword drawn. Yeon So-wol, feeling no sound but sensing a dangerous shift, places himself between his friends and the door as his spine chills.
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12:56
93
Chapter 93
Yeon Sowol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung guard a shrine room covered in talismans. Jin Geol and Won Huiseung drink liquor to awaken their spirit senses, revealing bloody handprints on the door that Yeon Sowol cannot perceive. A martial official, Cheong Bul, arrives in the courtyard, demanding they leave their posts. Jin Geol refuses, citing their guard duty, and lies to the official that they cannot leave. The official, noting the blood on his hands and smelling it, threatens to return with soldiers but leaves after Jin Geol’s deflection. Jin Geol explains that the official was likely a ghost or strange being, as he and Won Huiseung perceived the supernatural elements while Yeon Sowol, remaining sober, saw only a standard military officer. Believing the elixir refinement is provoking the entity, they drink heavily to maintain spiritual awareness, keeping Yeon Sowol sober. The following day, a steady stream of inn attendants and workers delivers meals, each claiming to be sent by the Hengshan Sect. The visitors grow increasingly confused and vanish after delivering food, leaving the guards with a pile of unexplained provisions. Jin Geol warns against eating the uncertain food, fearing poison or supernatural trickery. After two days of ignored deliveries and no return from the official, the third day arrives with yet another wave of meal carriers. The guards observe the rotting food, realizing the refinement process will take ten days to a month, confirming they are trapped in a prolonged confrontation with entities that cannot be resolved through conventional martial means.
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11:08
Chapter 93
Yeon Sowol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung guard a shrine room covered in talismans. Jin Geol and Won Huiseung drink liquor to awaken their spirit senses, revealing bloody handprints on the door that Yeon Sowol cannot perceive. A martial official, Cheong Bul, arrives in the courtyard, demanding they leave their posts. Jin Geol refuses, citing their guard duty, and lies to the official that they cannot leave. The official, noting the blood on his hands and smelling it, threatens to return with soldiers but leaves after Jin Geol’s deflection. Jin Geol explains that the official was likely a ghost or strange being, as he and Won Huiseung perceived the supernatural elements while Yeon Sowol, remaining sober, saw only a standard military officer. Believing the elixir refinement is provoking the entity, they drink heavily to maintain spiritual awareness, keeping Yeon Sowol sober. The following day, a steady stream of inn attendants and workers delivers meals, each claiming to be sent by the Hengshan Sect. The visitors grow increasingly confused and vanish after delivering food, leaving the guards with a pile of unexplained provisions. Jin Geol warns against eating the uncertain food, fearing poison or supernatural trickery. After two days of ignored deliveries and no return from the official, the third day arrives with yet another wave of meal carriers. The guards observe the rotting food, realizing the refinement process will take ten days to a month, confirming they are trapped in a prolonged confrontation with entities that cannot be resolved through conventional martial means.
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11:08
94
Chapter 94
Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung are confined to a shrine, taking turns guarding a room behind a talisman-covered sliding door where a refinement process is underway. The guards use an hourglass to track shifts, but Yeon So-wol discovers that time is distorted; four shifts have passed, yet it remains night. Realizing they are trapped in a dream manipulated by Strange Ghosts, Yeon So-wol tests the reality by slapping his companions, causing them to collapse as if dead before he wakes to true daylight. They learn from a mysterious voice that their potent medicine is attracting wicked spirits. As days pass, visitors arrive with food, but Yeon So-wol identifies them all as fakes using sensory clues like shadows, temperature, and blinking. Exhaustion sets in as they go without water for over twenty days. Gong So-un arrives, claiming to be a Hengshan ally, but Yeon So-wol detects the Daoist sword grip and exposes him as an impostor, causing the entity to vanish. After more suffering, Master Yang opens the door, revealing the alchemists have completed the refinement. Master Yang presents the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, a black liquid in a porcelain box, which marks the end of their ordeal.
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20:41
Chapter 94
Yeon So-wol, Jin Geol, and Won Huiseung are confined to a shrine, taking turns guarding a room behind a talisman-covered sliding door where a refinement process is underway. The guards use an hourglass to track shifts, but Yeon So-wol discovers that time is distorted; four shifts have passed, yet it remains night. Realizing they are trapped in a dream manipulated by Strange Ghosts, Yeon So-wol tests the reality by slapping his companions, causing them to collapse as if dead before he wakes to true daylight. They learn from a mysterious voice that their potent medicine is attracting wicked spirits. As days pass, visitors arrive with food, but Yeon So-wol identifies them all as fakes using sensory clues like shadows, temperature, and blinking. Exhaustion sets in as they go without water for over twenty days. Gong So-un arrives, claiming to be a Hengshan ally, but Yeon So-wol detects the Daoist sword grip and exposes him as an impostor, causing the entity to vanish. After more suffering, Master Yang opens the door, revealing the alchemists have completed the refinement. Master Yang presents the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, a black liquid in a porcelain box, which marks the end of their ordeal.
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20:41
95
Chapter 95
After returning from a shrine, Jin Geol and Won Huiseung discover a pile of rotting food at a zelkova tree, leading to a confrontation with a servant who insists he delivered fresh meals. The servant, terrified by the truth that the food was never touched, flees. Jin Geol, now in Hengyang, explains the Zhuangzi parable of the Madman of Chu to Yeon So-wol, discussing the vastness of the Jianghu experience. Jin Geol then takes a Spirit Elixir, refusing alchemist advice to use a cold waterfall by drinking alcohol to suppress the heat, while Won Huiseung takes a yellow pill, climbs a roof, and strips to commune with heaven. Yeon So-wol, remaining cautious, takes his Profound Enlightenment Elixir in private. The pill allows him to perceive the elemental energies (wood, wind, water, fire) within mundane objects and people, causing nosebleeds and overwhelming sensory input. Despite the pain and warnings of losing himself, Yeon So-wol endures the influx to perceive the cosmic cycle of yin, yang, and the Five Elements. He concludes that orthodox martial arts represent endless connection and natural flow, while demonic arts represent confinement and artificial limits. He laughs in joy, recognizing the universe as a single, connected whole, echoing the poem of Li Bai.
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17:19
Chapter 95
After returning from a shrine, Jin Geol and Won Huiseung discover a pile of rotting food at a zelkova tree, leading to a confrontation with a servant who insists he delivered fresh meals. The servant, terrified by the truth that the food was never touched, flees. Jin Geol, now in Hengyang, explains the Zhuangzi parable of the Madman of Chu to Yeon So-wol, discussing the vastness of the Jianghu experience. Jin Geol then takes a Spirit Elixir, refusing alchemist advice to use a cold waterfall by drinking alcohol to suppress the heat, while Won Huiseung takes a yellow pill, climbs a roof, and strips to commune with heaven. Yeon So-wol, remaining cautious, takes his Profound Enlightenment Elixir in private. The pill allows him to perceive the elemental energies (wood, wind, water, fire) within mundane objects and people, causing nosebleeds and overwhelming sensory input. Despite the pain and warnings of losing himself, Yeon So-wol endures the influx to perceive the cosmic cycle of yin, yang, and the Five Elements. He concludes that orthodox martial arts represent endless connection and natural flow, while demonic arts represent confinement and artificial limits. He laughs in joy, recognizing the universe as a single, connected whole, echoing the poem of Li Bai.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
17:19
96
Chapter 96
A week after consuming the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, Yeon Sowol awakens floating in the Xiang River. Reflecting on his sudden enlightenment, he contemplates the paradox of Daoist 'Reverse Cultivation': returning to the source grants limitless potential but sacrifices specialized, targeted power, making control difficult in combat. He struggles with the weight of this new understanding before climbing out, embarrassed by his past drunken antics in Hengyang’s streets. He returns to an inn where Jin Geol, Won Huiseung, So Hye, and Yu Hyeon are waiting. Jin Geol’s condition improved visibly, while Won Huiseung cannot verify his progress due to lack of lightning storms. Yeon Sowol confirms his qi subtlety has tripled and explains his core insight: that all things are connected. The group reacts with awe, particularly Won Huiseung, who marvels at Yeon Sowol’s direct experience of concepts only found in scriptures. When Yeon Sowol asks how to manage the increasing control required by this harmony, the male disciples admit their limits, but So Hye offers a solution: comparing the state to infancy, where purity of potential coexists with retained capability. Yeon Sowol accepts this clue, deeply grateful. In return, he grants So Hye’s request to join his journey to Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake, accompanied by Yu Hyeon. The group visits the Hengshan Sect leader for final farewells and gold gifts. Departing north, Yeon Sowol feels the stiff manual of Wudang’s Cotton Palm Art in his chest, eager to reach Yuezhou to build a reputation and access Wudang’s teachings, driven by his heart’s newfound rhythm.
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12:28
Chapter 96
A week after consuming the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, Yeon Sowol awakens floating in the Xiang River. Reflecting on his sudden enlightenment, he contemplates the paradox of Daoist 'Reverse Cultivation': returning to the source grants limitless potential but sacrifices specialized, targeted power, making control difficult in combat. He struggles with the weight of this new understanding before climbing out, embarrassed by his past drunken antics in Hengyang’s streets. He returns to an inn where Jin Geol, Won Huiseung, So Hye, and Yu Hyeon are waiting. Jin Geol’s condition improved visibly, while Won Huiseung cannot verify his progress due to lack of lightning storms. Yeon Sowol confirms his qi subtlety has tripled and explains his core insight: that all things are connected. The group reacts with awe, particularly Won Huiseung, who marvels at Yeon Sowol’s direct experience of concepts only found in scriptures. When Yeon Sowol asks how to manage the increasing control required by this harmony, the male disciples admit their limits, but So Hye offers a solution: comparing the state to infancy, where purity of potential coexists with retained capability. Yeon Sowol accepts this clue, deeply grateful. In return, he grants So Hye’s request to join his journey to Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake, accompanied by Yu Hyeon. The group visits the Hengshan Sect leader for final farewells and gold gifts. Departing north, Yeon Sowol feels the stiff manual of Wudang’s Cotton Palm Art in his chest, eager to reach Yuezhou to build a reputation and access Wudang’s teachings, driven by his heart’s newfound rhythm.
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12:28
97
Chapter 97
Rumors of Yeon Sowol’s prowess spread north to Yuezhou, where locals debate his reputation against rivals like Won Huiseung and the Soaring Xiang Sword Wolf. Young Masters Namgung and Hwangbo engage in a drunken brawl, highlighting the local martial community's gossip. Elsewhere, a timid martial artist in plum-blossom robes apologizes profusely after being stepped on, contrasting with the noise. Yeon Sowol and Jin Geol travel by boat along the Xiang River. Jin Geol teaches Yeon Sowol about the poetic concept of implication, using Xin Qiji’s verse to demonstrate how to convey sorrow indirectly. They discuss the unfairness of a young poet claiming ignorance of sorrow. Upon arriving at the vast Dongting Lake, Jin Geol advises Yeon Sowol to enter Yuezhou’s Jianghu scene alone, accompanied by the attractive So Hye, to maximize his reputation. Yeon Sowol ascends Yueyang Tower, where they are recognized and greeted by locals. On the top floor, Young Master Namgung discusses civil service hardships while a flashy companion mocks him for lacking experience in love. The crowd teases Yeon Sowol about his romantic experiences. Triggered by the question, Yeon Sowol thinks of Eun-yeong and, recalling Jin Geol’s lesson on implication, responds with the line, “The weather’s cool. What a lovely autumn,” echoing the poem’s technique of hiding deep emotion behind mundane observations. So Hye notices his distraction as the group absorbs the meaning.
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17:01
Chapter 97
Rumors of Yeon Sowol’s prowess spread north to Yuezhou, where locals debate his reputation against rivals like Won Huiseung and the Soaring Xiang Sword Wolf. Young Masters Namgung and Hwangbo engage in a drunken brawl, highlighting the local martial community's gossip. Elsewhere, a timid martial artist in plum-blossom robes apologizes profusely after being stepped on, contrasting with the noise. Yeon Sowol and Jin Geol travel by boat along the Xiang River. Jin Geol teaches Yeon Sowol about the poetic concept of implication, using Xin Qiji’s verse to demonstrate how to convey sorrow indirectly. They discuss the unfairness of a young poet claiming ignorance of sorrow. Upon arriving at the vast Dongting Lake, Jin Geol advises Yeon Sowol to enter Yuezhou’s Jianghu scene alone, accompanied by the attractive So Hye, to maximize his reputation. Yeon Sowol ascends Yueyang Tower, where they are recognized and greeted by locals. On the top floor, Young Master Namgung discusses civil service hardships while a flashy companion mocks him for lacking experience in love. The crowd teases Yeon Sowol about his romantic experiences. Triggered by the question, Yeon Sowol thinks of Eun-yeong and, recalling Jin Geol’s lesson on implication, responds with the line, “The weather’s cool. What a lovely autumn,” echoing the poem’s technique of hiding deep emotion behind mundane observations. So Hye notices his distraction as the group absorbs the meaning.
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17:01
98
Chapter 98
Namgung Ujin, a six-and-a-half-cheok tall scholar preparing for the civil service examination, mistakenly interprets Yeon Sowol’s reference to a poem as an insult regarding his understanding of sorrow. Yeon Sowol, distracted by thoughts of Eun-yeong, apologizes to defuse the tension. Moyong Ha, a renowned beauty from the Moyong Family of Liaoning, descends from the tower railing, drawing attention with her faint presence. She reveals she inspected a cart entering Yuezhou, discovering twenty gagged and tied individuals, and proposes an investigation into kidnapping rings potentially linked to the Demonic Path. Namgung Ujin and the crowd eagerly join her cause. Yeon Sowol, motivated by the similar Hengyang kidnapping incident, agrees to help. Later, outside the tower, So Hye excitedly recounts Moyong Ha’s plan to Jin Geol and Won Huiseung, revealing her newfound respect for the beauty and blushing when reminded of a past insult. Yeon Sowol seeks solitude by Dongting Lake at sunset, where he encounters Moyong Ha again. She offers condolences regarding Eun-yeong, deducing his grief from the earlier poem reference. Yeon Sowol accepts her sympathy, deepening their unspoken bond as the sun sets over the lake.
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13:26
Chapter 98
Namgung Ujin, a six-and-a-half-cheok tall scholar preparing for the civil service examination, mistakenly interprets Yeon Sowol’s reference to a poem as an insult regarding his understanding of sorrow. Yeon Sowol, distracted by thoughts of Eun-yeong, apologizes to defuse the tension. Moyong Ha, a renowned beauty from the Moyong Family of Liaoning, descends from the tower railing, drawing attention with her faint presence. She reveals she inspected a cart entering Yuezhou, discovering twenty gagged and tied individuals, and proposes an investigation into kidnapping rings potentially linked to the Demonic Path. Namgung Ujin and the crowd eagerly join her cause. Yeon Sowol, motivated by the similar Hengyang kidnapping incident, agrees to help. Later, outside the tower, So Hye excitedly recounts Moyong Ha’s plan to Jin Geol and Won Huiseung, revealing her newfound respect for the beauty and blushing when reminded of a past insult. Yeon Sowol seeks solitude by Dongting Lake at sunset, where he encounters Moyong Ha again. She offers condolences regarding Eun-yeong, deducing his grief from the earlier poem reference. Yeon Sowol accepts her sympathy, deepening their unspoken bond as the sun sets over the lake.
Guest access includes first 14 of 132 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
13:26
99
Chapter 99
Yeon Sowol and Moyong Ha stroll alongside Dongting Lake as the sun sets, engaging in a mutual assessment of one another’s intelligence. Moyong Ha, initially attempting to recruit the skilled Yeon Sowol, realizes her strategy has inadvertently earned his trust. They discuss poetry, with Moyong Ha reciting verses by Li Shangyin. While Yeon Sowol initially interprets the sorrowful lines as romantic longing, he correctly deduces that the poems reflect Moyong Ha’s grief over the deaths of her companions in Liaoning around her fifteenth year. This moment of empathy dissolves the tension between them, establishing a genuine friendship rather than a transactional alliance. To prove her legitimacy, Moyong Ha overturns a seemingly useless boulder to reveal a diary she has carved into the stone, documenting her investigation into the Demonic Path and noting Yeon Sowol as her first friend. She demonstrates her refined martial control by carving new text into the rock with a mere flick of her sword qi. As darkness falls, they prepare to return to Yuezhou. Moyong Ha produces a booklet titled <Yuezhou Guide to Avoiding Danger>, warning Yeon Sowol of specific supernatural hazards in the city, such as ignoring cries for help at night and avoiding government soldiers who patrol the lake shores outside the city walls.
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11:48
Chapter 99
Yeon Sowol and Moyong Ha stroll alongside Dongting Lake as the sun sets, engaging in a mutual assessment of one another’s intelligence. Moyong Ha, initially attempting to recruit the skilled Yeon Sowol, realizes her strategy has inadvertently earned his trust. They discuss poetry, with Moyong Ha reciting verses by Li Shangyin. While Yeon Sowol initially interprets the sorrowful lines as romantic longing, he correctly deduces that the poems reflect Moyong Ha’s grief over the deaths of her companions in Liaoning around her fifteenth year. This moment of empathy dissolves the tension between them, establishing a genuine friendship rather than a transactional alliance. To prove her legitimacy, Moyong Ha overturns a seemingly useless boulder to reveal a diary she has carved into the stone, documenting her investigation into the Demonic Path and noting Yeon Sowol as her first friend. She demonstrates her refined martial control by carving new text into the rock with a mere flick of her sword qi. As darkness falls, they prepare to return to Yuezhou. Moyong Ha produces a booklet titled <Yuezhou Guide to Avoiding Danger>, warning Yeon Sowol of specific supernatural hazards in the city, such as ignoring cries for help at night and avoiding government soldiers who patrol the lake shores outside the city walls.
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11:48
100
Chapter 100
On the journey back to Yuezhou, Moyong Ha reveals to Yeon Sowol that Liaoning's issues remain unresolved and seeks information on the Demonic Path. Trusting him, Yeon Sowol shares his secrets and aliases. They arrive at an inn where Jin Geol, Won Huiseung, and So Hye are dining. Jin Geol compliments Moyong Ha's beauty and jokingly asks Yeon Sowol to secure a portrait of her, but So Hye subtly intervenes to reject the request, causing Jin Geol to receive a flying cup to the nose thrown by Won Huiseung. So Hye serves Moyong Ha Dongpo pork, and the group laughs together as Moyong Ha relaxes. The conversation shifts to the investigation. Won Huiseung agrees that common guides can hold vital martial world clues. Jin Geol connects the guide’s rules to criminal activities: Rule Four (selling chili pork in dot-marked bowls) is a code for human flesh trade, and Rule Five (absurd pricing) indicates stolen goods deals. Rule One (crying for help) suggests kidnapping bait, and Rule Two (soldiers entering water) hints at smuggling. Rule Three (naked person on an island) remains unexplained but noted. They assign Jin Geol to investigate Rule Four alone while mobilizing local allies for Rules One and Five outside the city. Moyong Ha watches the organized effort with approval, feeling a sense of belonging as Yeon Sowol reflects on his transition from Guangdong to Hunan.
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11:55
Chapter 100
On the journey back to Yuezhou, Moyong Ha reveals to Yeon Sowol that Liaoning's issues remain unresolved and seeks information on the Demonic Path. Trusting him, Yeon Sowol shares his secrets and aliases. They arrive at an inn where Jin Geol, Won Huiseung, and So Hye are dining. Jin Geol compliments Moyong Ha's beauty and jokingly asks Yeon Sowol to secure a portrait of her, but So Hye subtly intervenes to reject the request, causing Jin Geol to receive a flying cup to the nose thrown by Won Huiseung. So Hye serves Moyong Ha Dongpo pork, and the group laughs together as Moyong Ha relaxes. The conversation shifts to the investigation. Won Huiseung agrees that common guides can hold vital martial world clues. Jin Geol connects the guide’s rules to criminal activities: Rule Four (selling chili pork in dot-marked bowls) is a code for human flesh trade, and Rule Five (absurd pricing) indicates stolen goods deals. Rule One (crying for help) suggests kidnapping bait, and Rule Two (soldiers entering water) hints at smuggling. Rule Three (naked person on an island) remains unexplained but noted. They assign Jin Geol to investigate Rule Four alone while mobilizing local allies for Rules One and Five outside the city. Moyong Ha watches the organized effort with approval, feeling a sense of belonging as Yeon Sowol reflects on his transition from Guangdong to Hunan.
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11:55
101
Chapter 101
Yuezhou’s rising young talents gather at Yueyang Tower following Moyong Ha’s call. While many decline citing busyness or indifference, Namgung Ujin, who is preparing for civil service exams, initially resists but eventually attends. Moyong Ha notes that nearly half the original agreees arrived. She outlines a search plan: some will patrol Yuezhou’s back alleys for cries of help, while others, including Won Huiseung and So Hye, will investigate Dongting Lake. Jin Geol begins early morning searches for chili pork stalls. As the teams spread out, most talents grow bored and sloppy; Namgng Ujin, leveraging his study of Nature Learning, attempts to rationalize a reported child’s cry as merely a pickpocket’s trick, urging his peers to abandon the search for leisure. Yeon Sowol, observing their laziness, notes the contrast between their apathy and the necessity of vigilance. Later, Yeon Sowol encounters the same alley where a talent reported a child’s distress. Finding no child, he uses Willow Leaf Steps to swiftly disable three men passing through. He demands one mimic a child’s voice; when the man succeeds, Yeon Sowol knocks him unconscious, confirming they were imitating cries to lure martial artists. He binds the three and drags them to the inn where Namgung Ujin and the others are drinking. The bound man repeats the child’s cry, exposing the deception. Yeon Sowol explains the simple logic: an adult imitating a child is suspicious, whereas a real child could not outrun qi sense. The group is left ashamed and awestruck, particularly Namgung Ujin, whose earlier dismissal of the search now seems foolish. Yeon Sowol departs with his captives, leaving the others to reflect on their own inadequacy.
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15:40
Chapter 101
Yuezhou’s rising young talents gather at Yueyang Tower following Moyong Ha’s call. While many decline citing busyness or indifference, Namgung Ujin, who is preparing for civil service exams, initially resists but eventually attends. Moyong Ha notes that nearly half the original agreees arrived. She outlines a search plan: some will patrol Yuezhou’s back alleys for cries of help, while others, including Won Huiseung and So Hye, will investigate Dongting Lake. Jin Geol begins early morning searches for chili pork stalls. As the teams spread out, most talents grow bored and sloppy; Namgng Ujin, leveraging his study of Nature Learning, attempts to rationalize a reported child’s cry as merely a pickpocket’s trick, urging his peers to abandon the search for leisure. Yeon Sowol, observing their laziness, notes the contrast between their apathy and the necessity of vigilance. Later, Yeon Sowol encounters the same alley where a talent reported a child’s distress. Finding no child, he uses Willow Leaf Steps to swiftly disable three men passing through. He demands one mimic a child’s voice; when the man succeeds, Yeon Sowol knocks him unconscious, confirming they were imitating cries to lure martial artists. He binds the three and drags them to the inn where Namgung Ujin and the others are drinking. The bound man repeats the child’s cry, exposing the deception. Yeon Sowol explains the simple logic: an adult imitating a child is suspicious, whereas a real child could not outrun qi sense. The group is left ashamed and awestruck, particularly Namgung Ujin, whose earlier dismissal of the search now seems foolish. Yeon Sowol departs with his captives, leaving the others to reflect on their own inadequacy.
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15:40
102
Chapter 102
Namgung Ujin confronts Yeon Sowol, demanding an explanation for his previous dismissal. Despite Moyong Ha's mediation attempts to de-escalate the situation by appealing to family dignity, Namgung Ujin insists on a duel to settle the insult. The two prepare their weapons outside the inn, drawing a crowd of onlookers including Hwangbo Hwi, who eagerly anticipates the clash. Yeon Sowol attacks using Willow Leaf Steps and qi sense, but Namgung Ujin parries every strike without moving from his spot, utilizing the vast, all-encompassing Great Expansion Sword Technique. He explains that his style embraces all qi types, allowing him to dominate through breadth rather than specific purity. Yeon Sowol, initially at a disadvantage, suddenly shifts tactics, abandoning his specialized swordsmanship for a makeshift stance. He declares that while Namgung’s art resembles the heavens, his own new approach is the universe. Yeon Sowol then meets the Namgung sword force head-on, resulting in a violent exchange of force that sends Namgung Ujin flying backward. Yeon Sowol remains unmoved, having proven that his newly understood insight neutralizes the Namgung style. Confused and shaken, Namgung Ujin asks what technique was used, while Yeon Sowol cryptically identifies it as the universe, prompting the enemy to blink repeatedly in disbelief.
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15:51
Chapter 102
Namgung Ujin confronts Yeon Sowol, demanding an explanation for his previous dismissal. Despite Moyong Ha's mediation attempts to de-escalate the situation by appealing to family dignity, Namgung Ujin insists on a duel to settle the insult. The two prepare their weapons outside the inn, drawing a crowd of onlookers including Hwangbo Hwi, who eagerly anticipates the clash. Yeon Sowol attacks using Willow Leaf Steps and qi sense, but Namgung Ujin parries every strike without moving from his spot, utilizing the vast, all-encompassing Great Expansion Sword Technique. He explains that his style embraces all qi types, allowing him to dominate through breadth rather than specific purity. Yeon Sowol, initially at a disadvantage, suddenly shifts tactics, abandoning his specialized swordsmanship for a makeshift stance. He declares that while Namgung’s art resembles the heavens, his own new approach is the universe. Yeon Sowol then meets the Namgung sword force head-on, resulting in a violent exchange of force that sends Namgung Ujin flying backward. Yeon Sowol remains unmoved, having proven that his newly understood insight neutralizes the Namgung style. Confused and shaken, Namgung Ujin asks what technique was used, while Yeon Sowol cryptically identifies it as the universe, prompting the enemy to blink repeatedly in disbelief.
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15:51
103
Chapter 103
Chapter 103 begins with Yeon So-wol, having consumed the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, analyzing Namgung Ujin’s sword qi as simplistic and static, comparing it to water trapped behind a dam rather than the flowing, interconnected energy of the universe. When their energies collide, Yeon So-wol’s dynamic force shatters Ujin’s rigid qi, sending a backlash that severely injures Ujin’s meridians and the Eight Extraordinary Vessels, causing him to vomit blood. Despite sustaining this internal damage, Ujin attempts to rise, driven by fear of public defeat and a desire to preserve the dignity of the Namgung Family. He charges repeatedly, but Yeon So-wol effortlessly blocks his attacks with precise physical strikes—kicking his lower abdomen, striking his shin, and hitting his nose—until Ujin collapses. The crowd watches in stunned silence as Ujin, battered and bloodied, eventually admits defeat publicly, insisting that while he lost, the Namgung Sword did not. Yeon So-wol steps forward, pushes Ujin’s forehead, and knocks him unconscious, remarking that a loser should act like one. He orders Ujin’s friends to carry him away. The scene shifts to Ujin waking the next day, visited by Moyong Ha. Ujin confirms his injuries are healing and promises quiet assistance if needed, seeking validation from Ha on whether his loss was acceptable for a Great Family member. Ha assures him his performance was worthy of the Namgung name. Ujin smiles bitterly at his swollen face, concluding the chapter in pain.
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13:26
Chapter 103
Chapter 103 begins with Yeon So-wol, having consumed the Profound Enlightenment Elixir, analyzing Namgung Ujin’s sword qi as simplistic and static, comparing it to water trapped behind a dam rather than the flowing, interconnected energy of the universe. When their energies collide, Yeon So-wol’s dynamic force shatters Ujin’s rigid qi, sending a backlash that severely injures Ujin’s meridians and the Eight Extraordinary Vessels, causing him to vomit blood. Despite sustaining this internal damage, Ujin attempts to rise, driven by fear of public defeat and a desire to preserve the dignity of the Namgung Family. He charges repeatedly, but Yeon So-wol effortlessly blocks his attacks with precise physical strikes—kicking his lower abdomen, striking his shin, and hitting his nose—until Ujin collapses. The crowd watches in stunned silence as Ujin, battered and bloodied, eventually admits defeat publicly, insisting that while he lost, the Namgung Sword did not. Yeon So-wol steps forward, pushes Ujin’s forehead, and knocks him unconscious, remarking that a loser should act like one. He orders Ujin’s friends to carry him away. The scene shifts to Ujin waking the next day, visited by Moyong Ha. Ujin confirms his injuries are healing and promises quiet assistance if needed, seeking validation from Ha on whether his loss was acceptable for a Great Family member. Ha assures him his performance was worthy of the Namgung name. Ujin smiles bitterly at his swollen face, concluding the chapter in pain.
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13:26
104
Chapter 104
In Yuezhou, rumors spread that Yeon Sowol had defeated Namgung Ujin, the fourth young master of the prestigious Namgung family. Initial disbelief gave way to acceptance as witnesses described Ujin’s swollen face and the crowd’s disbelief turned to stunned admiration for Yeon’s overwhelming victory. The narrative shifts to the cause of the conflict: an argument between Yeon Sowol and Namgung Ujin regarding the latter’s handling of a kidnapping investigation. While citizens praised the provincial governor Lord Yang for a supposed 'age of peace and prosperity,' Yeon Sowol and Moyong Ha questioned the authorities, suspecting insider corruption and believing the kidnappers targeted Yuezhou itself rather than just passing through. Yeon decided to withhold information from the authorities and instead manipulated the local 'rising young talents' by framing the investigation as an exciting, chivalrous venture. He gathered the group at Yueyang Tower, presenting the bound kidnappers and tearful victims’ families to provoke outrage. He revealed that influential local notables protected by corrupt officials were behind the crimes. To unify the group, Yeon distributed white robes, creating a sense of shared identity and excitement. The young martial artists, intoxicated by the prospect of justice and adventure, eagerly accepted their role as the 'White-Robed League.' Under Yeon’s leadership, the group, accompanied by the victims’ families, marched through Yuezhou, ignoring street onlookers’ confusion. The chapter ends with the group ready to storm estates, driven by fervent emotion, while Yeon Sowol remains outwardly calm despite his flushed ears.
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15:11
Chapter 104
In Yuezhou, rumors spread that Yeon Sowol had defeated Namgung Ujin, the fourth young master of the prestigious Namgung family. Initial disbelief gave way to acceptance as witnesses described Ujin’s swollen face and the crowd’s disbelief turned to stunned admiration for Yeon’s overwhelming victory. The narrative shifts to the cause of the conflict: an argument between Yeon Sowol and Namgung Ujin regarding the latter’s handling of a kidnapping investigation. While citizens praised the provincial governor Lord Yang for a supposed 'age of peace and prosperity,' Yeon Sowol and Moyong Ha questioned the authorities, suspecting insider corruption and believing the kidnappers targeted Yuezhou itself rather than just passing through. Yeon decided to withhold information from the authorities and instead manipulated the local 'rising young talents' by framing the investigation as an exciting, chivalrous venture. He gathered the group at Yueyang Tower, presenting the bound kidnappers and tearful victims’ families to provoke outrage. He revealed that influential local notables protected by corrupt officials were behind the crimes. To unify the group, Yeon distributed white robes, creating a sense of shared identity and excitement. The young martial artists, intoxicated by the prospect of justice and adventure, eagerly accepted their role as the 'White-Robed League.' Under Yeon’s leadership, the group, accompanied by the victims’ families, marched through Yuezhou, ignoring street onlookers’ confusion. The chapter ends with the group ready to storm estates, driven by fervent emotion, while Yeon Sowol remains outwardly calm despite his flushed ears.
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15:11
105
Chapter 105
At a pavilion overlooking Dongting Lake, various Jianghu figures discuss the rising reputation of Yeon Sowol, noting his recent victory over the Namgung Family but remaining wary of inviting him due to potential political repercussions. Their conversation is interrupted by the appearance of the White-Robed League, a group of white-robed martial artists led by Yeon Sowol. The onlookers are impressed by the league's discipline, which Yeon Sowol had carefully organized using respected unit commanders like Kwon and Yang. The group marches to a wooden palisade guarding Lord Jeon’s manor, a site where kidnapped victims are being held as forced labor. Confronting the guards atop the palisade, Yeon Sowol slices the structure’s base with Clear Mirror, causing it to collapse and pin the guards. Unit Commander Kwon’s men swiftly incapacitate and bind the fallen guards. Beyond the palisade, workers harvest leech-infested reeds under brutal whipping. Yeon Sowol orders his team to subdue the whipper men, allowing the distraught families of the missing to reunite with their loved ones in emotional scenes. An elderly man, Lord Jeon, arrives in a palanquin and threatens the intruders, but Moyong Ha silently disables the remaining guards with precise strikes. Yeon Sowol forces the kneeling Lord Jeon to comply, reassuring the grieving families before directing the league to search the area systematically, promising to bring everyone back to Yuezhou together.
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15:17
Chapter 105
At a pavilion overlooking Dongting Lake, various Jianghu figures discuss the rising reputation of Yeon Sowol, noting his recent victory over the Namgung Family but remaining wary of inviting him due to potential political repercussions. Their conversation is interrupted by the appearance of the White-Robed League, a group of white-robed martial artists led by Yeon Sowol. The onlookers are impressed by the league's discipline, which Yeon Sowol had carefully organized using respected unit commanders like Kwon and Yang. The group marches to a wooden palisade guarding Lord Jeon’s manor, a site where kidnapped victims are being held as forced labor. Confronting the guards atop the palisade, Yeon Sowol slices the structure’s base with Clear Mirror, causing it to collapse and pin the guards. Unit Commander Kwon’s men swiftly incapacitate and bind the fallen guards. Beyond the palisade, workers harvest leech-infested reeds under brutal whipping. Yeon Sowol orders his team to subdue the whipper men, allowing the distraught families of the missing to reunite with their loved ones in emotional scenes. An elderly man, Lord Jeon, arrives in a palanquin and threatens the intruders, but Moyong Ha silently disables the remaining guards with precise strikes. Yeon Sowol forces the kneeling Lord Jeon to comply, reassuring the grieving families before directing the league to search the area systematically, promising to bring everyone back to Yuezhou together.
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15:17
106
Chapter 106
The White-Robed League leads a procession of rescued, emaciated slaves through the gates of Yuezhou, escorted by their grieving families. The crowd, initially celebratory, falls silent upon witnessing the victims' horrific condition—sun-blackened, skeletal, and tattered. Whispers confirm that kidnapping and enslavement had been occurring locally, a fact the public had willfully ignored due to guilt. The procession swells as onlookers join in shame and solidarity. At the city center, they are stopped by soldiers under the command of Prefectural Inspector Commander Ha Taeseok. A captured slave recognizes the Patrol Military Inspector, accusing him of involvement. The Inspector, sweating and panicking, denies knowing the slave. Ha Taeseok identifies the slave as Lord Jeon and exposes the Inspector's prior knowledge of Jeon's illicit re-drying business. Infuriated by the revelation that local officials were complicit, the crowd boils with rage. Ha Taeseok orders the arrest of both the Inspector and Lord Jeon, prompting public relief and praise for the authorities' decisive action. Ha Taeseok commends Yeon So-wol's contributions, anticipating official rewards for the League. Yeon So-wol presses Ha Taeseok, asking if the provincial governor truly knew nothing, leaving the Commander staring silently. Meanwhile, Won Huiseung and So Hye investigate Dongting Lake. They spot a naked man on an island whose movements and bluish, decaying skin indicate he is a jiangshi (reanimated corpse). So Hye confirms the identity of the creature, linking it to Demonic Path forces. Won Huiseung notices the jiangshi wears a military cap, leading them to realize a legitimate martial official has been turned into a corpse. Realizing the corruption extends to the highest military ranks, the two sit in silent chill, realizing their target remains hidden amidst this rot.
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13:10
Chapter 106
The White-Robed League leads a procession of rescued, emaciated slaves through the gates of Yuezhou, escorted by their grieving families. The crowd, initially celebratory, falls silent upon witnessing the victims' horrific condition—sun-blackened, skeletal, and tattered. Whispers confirm that kidnapping and enslavement had been occurring locally, a fact the public had willfully ignored due to guilt. The procession swells as onlookers join in shame and solidarity. At the city center, they are stopped by soldiers under the command of Prefectural Inspector Commander Ha Taeseok. A captured slave recognizes the Patrol Military Inspector, accusing him of involvement. The Inspector, sweating and panicking, denies knowing the slave. Ha Taeseok identifies the slave as Lord Jeon and exposes the Inspector's prior knowledge of Jeon's illicit re-drying business. Infuriated by the revelation that local officials were complicit, the crowd boils with rage. Ha Taeseok orders the arrest of both the Inspector and Lord Jeon, prompting public relief and praise for the authorities' decisive action. Ha Taeseok commends Yeon So-wol's contributions, anticipating official rewards for the League. Yeon So-wol presses Ha Taeseok, asking if the provincial governor truly knew nothing, leaving the Commander staring silently. Meanwhile, Won Huiseung and So Hye investigate Dongting Lake. They spot a naked man on an island whose movements and bluish, decaying skin indicate he is a jiangshi (reanimated corpse). So Hye confirms the identity of the creature, linking it to Demonic Path forces. Won Huiseung notices the jiangshi wears a military cap, leading them to realize a legitimate martial official has been turned into a corpse. Realizing the corruption extends to the highest military ranks, the two sit in silent chill, realizing their target remains hidden amidst this rot.
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13:10
107
Chapter 107
In Yuezhou, news of Yeon Sowol’s successful bandit-punishing venture has sparked widespread excitement. Merchants and influential figures eagerly prepare lavish gifts—such as Green Spiral Wine and rare Qinan Agarwood—to secure invitations and forge ties with the White-Robed League. Amidst this celebratory chaos, a martial artist observes the scene with shame, realizing his own inaction while Yeon Sowol protected the unjustly abducted. He confesses to Moyong Ha that he knew of the bandits but did not join them, accepting a formal dismissal from the Prefectural Inspector Commander with a respectful salute. After a celebratory drink with the league, Moyong Ha becomes visibly upset. She initiates a private conversation in a tavern, apologizing for her lack of capability and allowing Yeon Sowol to take the lead, fearing that his provocation of the Inspector Commander could endanger him if higher authorities were complicit. Yeon Sowol reassures her, noting that corrupt officials ruin the “taste” of life. Their mood lifts as Moyong Ha recites a Li Shangyin poem, testing their friendship. Suddenly, Ha Jeop, a frail and timid second-generation disciple of the Huashan Sect, approaches. Despite his sickly appearance, Yeon Sowol detects a formidable aura that surpasses even known experts. Ha Jeop stammers an apology for his past failure to help, causing a tense reaction. Moyong Ha gently welcomes him, noting the poetic significance of his name, while Yeon Sowol internally dismisses him as pathetic.
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13:36
Chapter 107
In Yuezhou, news of Yeon Sowol’s successful bandit-punishing venture has sparked widespread excitement. Merchants and influential figures eagerly prepare lavish gifts—such as Green Spiral Wine and rare Qinan Agarwood—to secure invitations and forge ties with the White-Robed League. Amidst this celebratory chaos, a martial artist observes the scene with shame, realizing his own inaction while Yeon Sowol protected the unjustly abducted. He confesses to Moyong Ha that he knew of the bandits but did not join them, accepting a formal dismissal from the Prefectural Inspector Commander with a respectful salute. After a celebratory drink with the league, Moyong Ha becomes visibly upset. She initiates a private conversation in a tavern, apologizing for her lack of capability and allowing Yeon Sowol to take the lead, fearing that his provocation of the Inspector Commander could endanger him if higher authorities were complicit. Yeon Sowol reassures her, noting that corrupt officials ruin the “taste” of life. Their mood lifts as Moyong Ha recites a Li Shangyin poem, testing their friendship. Suddenly, Ha Jeop, a frail and timid second-generation disciple of the Huashan Sect, approaches. Despite his sickly appearance, Yeon Sowol detects a formidable aura that surpasses even known experts. Ha Jeop stammers an apology for his past failure to help, causing a tense reaction. Moyong Ha gently welcomes him, noting the poetic significance of his name, while Yeon Sowol internally dismisses him as pathetic.
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13:36
108
Chapter 108
On a small island in Dongting Lake, Won Huiseung and So Hye observe a jiangshi (corpse soldier) standing motionless. So Hye notes the suspicious nature of a military official turning into a jiangshi, suggesting the Demonic Path may be involved, but Warns that jiangshi carry corpse poison and are immune to standard sword strikes. Won Huiseung, unwilling to leave the restless spirit undisturbed, ignores So Hye’s retreat orders and attacks. He utilizes the Heavenly Swiftness Star for evasion and the Heavenly Courage Star for aggression, yet his blade bounces harmlessly off the corpse’s hardened flesh. As he holds his breath, his face turns dark, and So Hye fears he will die from suffocation. However, Won Huiseung finds enlightenment, recalling Yeon Sowol’s previous advice and realizing the importance of 'flow' rather than forcing a specific outcome. He transitions to the Heavenly Spirit Star, concentrating exactly the right amount of power to slice through the jiangshi’s waist cleanly. He formally salutes the corpse, putting it to rest, while So Hye bows in mourning. Meanwhile, at Yeon Sowol’s location, Moyong Ha discourages him from returning gifts, explaining that refusal implies permanent enmity. Yeon Sowol suggests using his growing fame to investigate the authorities directly, but Moyong Ha advises caution, stating that solid evidence is required before challenging imperial power. The chapter concludes with Won Huiseung and So Hye bursting into Yeon Sowol’s room. They place a large, wriggling sack on the table, revealing it as a crucial clue derived from their encounter.
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13:01
Chapter 108
On a small island in Dongting Lake, Won Huiseung and So Hye observe a jiangshi (corpse soldier) standing motionless. So Hye notes the suspicious nature of a military official turning into a jiangshi, suggesting the Demonic Path may be involved, but Warns that jiangshi carry corpse poison and are immune to standard sword strikes. Won Huiseung, unwilling to leave the restless spirit undisturbed, ignores So Hye’s retreat orders and attacks. He utilizes the Heavenly Swiftness Star for evasion and the Heavenly Courage Star for aggression, yet his blade bounces harmlessly off the corpse’s hardened flesh. As he holds his breath, his face turns dark, and So Hye fears he will die from suffocation. However, Won Huiseung finds enlightenment, recalling Yeon Sowol’s previous advice and realizing the importance of 'flow' rather than forcing a specific outcome. He transitions to the Heavenly Spirit Star, concentrating exactly the right amount of power to slice through the jiangshi’s waist cleanly. He formally salutes the corpse, putting it to rest, while So Hye bows in mourning. Meanwhile, at Yeon Sowol’s location, Moyong Ha discourages him from returning gifts, explaining that refusal implies permanent enmity. Yeon Sowol suggests using his growing fame to investigate the authorities directly, but Moyong Ha advises caution, stating that solid evidence is required before challenging imperial power. The chapter concludes with Won Huiseung and So Hye bursting into Yeon Sowol’s room. They place a large, wriggling sack on the table, revealing it as a crucial clue derived from their encounter.
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13:01
109
Chapter 109
Yeon Sowol and his companions examine a severed jiangshi corpse discovered by Won Huiseung, identifying it as evidence of Demonic Path experimentation. So Hye notes the creature contains baleful qi, while Moyong Ha analyzes the potential to track the creator. Ha Jeop is summoned to assess the corpse, confirming it was an experimental creation with weakened qi due to the waist injury, making detection difficult without innate qi sense. Yeon Sowol volunteers his senses, and after Ha Jeop performs a Water-Fire Refining Rite to soothe the spirit, they wrap the corpse for transport. Arriving at the Yuezhou government office, Moyong Ha gains entry by leveraging her reputation with the White-Robed League. Yeon Sowol then deceives the officials by proposing a martial arts tournament funded by gifts to support victims, a plausible cover to access deeper administrative areas. As they proceed inward, the wrapped jiangshi reacts violently to a specific direction, confirming the authorities are linked to the Demonic Path.
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16:19
Chapter 109
Yeon Sowol and his companions examine a severed jiangshi corpse discovered by Won Huiseung, identifying it as evidence of Demonic Path experimentation. So Hye notes the creature contains baleful qi, while Moyong Ha analyzes the potential to track the creator. Ha Jeop is summoned to assess the corpse, confirming it was an experimental creation with weakened qi due to the waist injury, making detection difficult without innate qi sense. Yeon Sowol volunteers his senses, and after Ha Jeop performs a Water-Fire Refining Rite to soothe the spirit, they wrap the corpse for transport. Arriving at the Yuezhou government office, Moyong Ha gains entry by leveraging her reputation with the White-Robed League. Yeon Sowol then deceives the officials by proposing a martial arts tournament funded by gifts to support victims, a plausible cover to access deeper administrative areas. As they proceed inward, the wrapped jiangshi reacts violently to a specific direction, confirming the authorities are linked to the Demonic Path.
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16:19
110
Chapter 110
Yeon So-wol and Moyong Ha meet Yuezhou's provincial governor, Yang Hoeam, a Rank Four official with snow-white hair. Despite his apparent respect, Yang Hoeam initially threatens a travel ban but ultimately permits the martial arts tournament on the condition that it remain quiet and boost his reputation. After the meeting, Won Huiseung and So Hye voice suspicions that Yang Hoeam’s bitterness over not achieving Violet Robe status might link him to the Demonic Path, though Moyong Ha argues it is unlikely due to hierarchy constraints. During their retreat, Yeon So-wol’s bound jiangshi suddenly twitches violently, indicating nearby demonic energy. The group locates the source: a house where a wife prays faithfully for her husband’s safe return, unaware he has become a jiangshi. Recognizing the husband’s face on portraits matches the jiangshi’s features, they realize a government official has been turned into a zombie while his wife believes he is still on assignment. Ha Jeop leads a solemn Water-Fire Refining Rite to cleanse the jiangshi’s resentment. Analyzing the corpse, Yeon So-wol deduces the Demonic Path is preparing to abandon Yuezhou, as creating jiangshi offers minimal reward but high risk. Moyong Ha proposes a risky diversion: she will infiltrate the government office alone to find evidence of high-ranking conspirators, while Yeon So-wol is tasked with causing maximum noise and chaos during the tournament to distract guards. Despite Yang Hoeam’s earlier warning against disturbances, Yeon So-wol agrees to rebel and spark the chaos, prompting Ha Jeop to question if such defiance is safe.
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14:48
Chapter 110
Yeon So-wol and Moyong Ha meet Yuezhou's provincial governor, Yang Hoeam, a Rank Four official with snow-white hair. Despite his apparent respect, Yang Hoeam initially threatens a travel ban but ultimately permits the martial arts tournament on the condition that it remain quiet and boost his reputation. After the meeting, Won Huiseung and So Hye voice suspicions that Yang Hoeam’s bitterness over not achieving Violet Robe status might link him to the Demonic Path, though Moyong Ha argues it is unlikely due to hierarchy constraints. During their retreat, Yeon So-wol’s bound jiangshi suddenly twitches violently, indicating nearby demonic energy. The group locates the source: a house where a wife prays faithfully for her husband’s safe return, unaware he has become a jiangshi. Recognizing the husband’s face on portraits matches the jiangshi’s features, they realize a government official has been turned into a zombie while his wife believes he is still on assignment. Ha Jeop leads a solemn Water-Fire Refining Rite to cleanse the jiangshi’s resentment. Analyzing the corpse, Yeon So-wol deduces the Demonic Path is preparing to abandon Yuezhou, as creating jiangshi offers minimal reward but high risk. Moyong Ha proposes a risky diversion: she will infiltrate the government office alone to find evidence of high-ranking conspirators, while Yeon So-wol is tasked with causing maximum noise and chaos during the tournament to distract guards. Despite Yang Hoeam’s earlier warning against disturbances, Yeon So-wol agrees to rebel and spark the chaos, prompting Ha Jeop to question if such defiance is safe.
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14:48
111
Chapter 111
The chapter opens with Moyong Ha departing early to survey Yuezhou government guard movements, leaving Yeon So-wol, Won Huiseung, So Hye, and Ha Jeop at the inn. Jin Geol arrives late with no findings regarding the chili pork clue, offering only a drinking bet prize: the <Register of Jianghu Figures, Hunan Edition>. While Jin Geol laments his wasted effort, Yeon So-wol examines the register. He briefly notes Na Seok, the Stopless Sword, whose lifelong pursuit of martial arts until age fifty impressed him but did not spark an idea. However, the entry for Wi Sihon, known as Bubulbu, a genius who reached the peak realm at twenty-four through gambling debt disputes, triggers a realization for Yeon So-wol. He proposes provoking the pride of regional masters by pitting renowned figures against each other, arguing that even with only gold prizes, martial artists would compete fiercely out of ego. So Hye and Won Huiseung are skeptical, doubting that pride alone generates sufficient chaos to paralyze Yuezhou's security. To demonstrate the efficacy of his plan, Yeon So-wol specifically compares the Stopless Sword and Bubulbu, implying Bubulbu’s victory due to his shorter but more intense cultivation path versus the Stopless Sword’s lengthy but steady progress. This triggers a heated, visceral argument between Jin Geol and Won Huiseung, who leap to defend their respective regional heroes with genuine anger. Watching them escalate from calm tea-drinkers to enraged rivals, Yeon So-wol confirms that manipulating pride successfully incites the desired uproar, comparing the method to viral online fandom conflicts. Satisfied that the plan will work, he cools the tempers of the combatants, ready to execute the strategy.
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14:41
Chapter 111
The chapter opens with Moyong Ha departing early to survey Yuezhou government guard movements, leaving Yeon So-wol, Won Huiseung, So Hye, and Ha Jeop at the inn. Jin Geol arrives late with no findings regarding the chili pork clue, offering only a drinking bet prize: the <Register of Jianghu Figures, Hunan Edition>. While Jin Geol laments his wasted effort, Yeon So-wol examines the register. He briefly notes Na Seok, the Stopless Sword, whose lifelong pursuit of martial arts until age fifty impressed him but did not spark an idea. However, the entry for Wi Sihon, known as Bubulbu, a genius who reached the peak realm at twenty-four through gambling debt disputes, triggers a realization for Yeon So-wol. He proposes provoking the pride of regional masters by pitting renowned figures against each other, arguing that even with only gold prizes, martial artists would compete fiercely out of ego. So Hye and Won Huiseung are skeptical, doubting that pride alone generates sufficient chaos to paralyze Yuezhou's security. To demonstrate the efficacy of his plan, Yeon So-wol specifically compares the Stopless Sword and Bubulbu, implying Bubulbu’s victory due to his shorter but more intense cultivation path versus the Stopless Sword’s lengthy but steady progress. This triggers a heated, visceral argument between Jin Geol and Won Huiseung, who leap to defend their respective regional heroes with genuine anger. Watching them escalate from calm tea-drinkers to enraged rivals, Yeon So-wol confirms that manipulating pride successfully incites the desired uproar, comparing the method to viral online fandom conflicts. Satisfied that the plan will work, he cools the tempers of the combatants, ready to execute the strategy.
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14:41
112
Chapter 112
Yeon Sowol gathers Namgung Ujin, Hwangbo Hwi, and Jin Geol at a rented inn to orchestrate a rumor campaign for an upcoming martial arts tournament. Moyong Ha initially requests a portrait from Jin Geol before Yeon Sowol explains the plan: to stimulate participation through provocative provocation. Yeon Sowol, drawing on his past experience with online trolls, provides specific examples of inflammatory statements designed to anger various factions. He instructs them to spread falsehoods such as claiming that a 'rising young talent' will inevitably defeat an 'experienced senior' due to the latter's lack of achievement. He further instructs them to pit martial officials like Lord Ha Taeseok against young talents, arguing that real martial artists vastly outclass those seeking office. When the men request concrete examples, Yeon Sowol painstakingly demonstrates how to insult Orthodox Schools by comparing them to unorthodox traditions, and how to demean Daoist sword techniques as cowardly. The group examines a long list of comparative topics, including gender-based strength assumptions and sect-specific hierarchies. Yeon Sowol is exhausted by the deception but succeeds in providing enough examples for the men to spread the narrative. The scheme begins to take effect as identical letters reach various locations, prompting seniors to tentatively consider entering the tournament. However, the atmosphere shifts when street rumors begin circulating specific sexist claims, such as the assertion that a female peak-realm master is equivalent only to a male mid-first-rate master. Shin Si-ye, the foremost female master, initially dismisses the noise as ignorant nonsense and prepares to ignore the tournament. Yet, as subsequent rumors suggest that even a female peak master could lose to a late first-rate male master due to 'characteristic timidity,' Shin Si-ye’s composure fractures. The male masters around her, who previously defended her, remain silent, implicitly validating the slurs. Radiating a cold chill, Shin Si-ye abruptly leaves the street and rushes toward the tournament application center.
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13:04
Chapter 112
Yeon Sowol gathers Namgung Ujin, Hwangbo Hwi, and Jin Geol at a rented inn to orchestrate a rumor campaign for an upcoming martial arts tournament. Moyong Ha initially requests a portrait from Jin Geol before Yeon Sowol explains the plan: to stimulate participation through provocative provocation. Yeon Sowol, drawing on his past experience with online trolls, provides specific examples of inflammatory statements designed to anger various factions. He instructs them to spread falsehoods such as claiming that a 'rising young talent' will inevitably defeat an 'experienced senior' due to the latter's lack of achievement. He further instructs them to pit martial officials like Lord Ha Taeseok against young talents, arguing that real martial artists vastly outclass those seeking office. When the men request concrete examples, Yeon Sowol painstakingly demonstrates how to insult Orthodox Schools by comparing them to unorthodox traditions, and how to demean Daoist sword techniques as cowardly. The group examines a long list of comparative topics, including gender-based strength assumptions and sect-specific hierarchies. Yeon Sowol is exhausted by the deception but succeeds in providing enough examples for the men to spread the narrative. The scheme begins to take effect as identical letters reach various locations, prompting seniors to tentatively consider entering the tournament. However, the atmosphere shifts when street rumors begin circulating specific sexist claims, such as the assertion that a female peak-realm master is equivalent only to a male mid-first-rate master. Shin Si-ye, the foremost female master, initially dismisses the noise as ignorant nonsense and prepares to ignore the tournament. Yet, as subsequent rumors suggest that even a female peak master could lose to a late first-rate male master due to 'characteristic timidity,' Shin Si-ye’s composure fractures. The male masters around her, who previously defended her, remain silent, implicitly validating the slurs. Radiating a cold chill, Shin Si-ye abruptly leaves the street and rushes toward the tournament application center.
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13:04
113
Chapter 113
Chapter 113 details the strategic orchestration of the Yuezhou martial arts tournament, initiated by Yeon Sowol to gather martial artists and address rumors affecting their reputation. The chapter opens in a teahouse where Kang In-su, a master of Iron Sand Palm, furiously denounces a Yuezhou tournament as beneath martial artists’ dignity, smashing a table in rage. Jin Geol, initially accompanying Kang, subtly exploits this anger by spreading a rumor that martial officials are avoiding the tournament due to dull combat instincts. This provocation triggers a massive influx of participants, swelling the registry to 389 name plaques, astonishing Yeon Sowol and his allies, including Moyong Ha, Namgung Ujin, and Hwangbo Hwi. Moyong Ha reveals a lucrative business plan to sell operating rights for betting, stalls, and merchandise, securing martial arts manuals as prizes, which excites the group. Hwangbo Hwi raises concerns about maintaining enthusiasm and preventing factional conflict, prompting Yeon Sowol to outline a fairness-based management strategy. The scene shifts to the tournament grounds at dusk, where martial artists gather with mixed emotions of fury and anticipation. Yeon Sowol appears on a high platform and announces that only 108 elite fighters will advance. He explains a selection method where newcomers challenge each other, while thirty-six senior masters—the 'Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits'—are pre-selected based on renown. The sudden illumination of bronze braziers highlights these thirty-six figures, including Jin Hyeogo and Iron Fist Kang In-su, shocking the remaining participants. While some feel prestige, others boil with anger at being excluded from the elite group. The crowd erupts into wild excitement, marking the tournament's peak popularity.
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18:38
Chapter 113
Chapter 113 details the strategic orchestration of the Yuezhou martial arts tournament, initiated by Yeon Sowol to gather martial artists and address rumors affecting their reputation. The chapter opens in a teahouse where Kang In-su, a master of Iron Sand Palm, furiously denounces a Yuezhou tournament as beneath martial artists’ dignity, smashing a table in rage. Jin Geol, initially accompanying Kang, subtly exploits this anger by spreading a rumor that martial officials are avoiding the tournament due to dull combat instincts. This provocation triggers a massive influx of participants, swelling the registry to 389 name plaques, astonishing Yeon Sowol and his allies, including Moyong Ha, Namgung Ujin, and Hwangbo Hwi. Moyong Ha reveals a lucrative business plan to sell operating rights for betting, stalls, and merchandise, securing martial arts manuals as prizes, which excites the group. Hwangbo Hwi raises concerns about maintaining enthusiasm and preventing factional conflict, prompting Yeon Sowol to outline a fairness-based management strategy. The scene shifts to the tournament grounds at dusk, where martial artists gather with mixed emotions of fury and anticipation. Yeon Sowol appears on a high platform and announces that only 108 elite fighters will advance. He explains a selection method where newcomers challenge each other, while thirty-six senior masters—the 'Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits'—are pre-selected based on renown. The sudden illumination of bronze braziers highlights these thirty-six figures, including Jin Hyeogo and Iron Fist Kang In-su, shocking the remaining participants. While some feel prestige, others boil with anger at being excluded from the elite group. The crowd erupts into wild excitement, marking the tournament's peak popularity.
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18:38
114
Chapter 114
Chapter 114 begins with Yeon Sowol standing on a martial arts platform, overseeing a tournament for martial artists aiming to enter the Yuezhou martial arts scene. He is currently at the 'Faint Fragrance Unfading' realm, just below the peak 'Hundred Flowers in Wild Profusion,' but deliberately holds back advancement until he can seek instruction at Mount Wudang. He views the thirty-six selected 'Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits' and the excluded martial artists as opportunities to deepen his realization of the cosmos through their distinct paths. Dissatisfaction erupts among the rejected artists, particularly from Lake Sword Ho Gwangil, a senior master who feels slighted by his omission. Yeon Sowol invites Ho Gwangil to challenge him, initiating a duel that serves as both a test and a demonstration. Ho Gwangil, wielding the 'Lake-Eye Sword' style inspired by the ripples of Dongting Lake, engages Yeon Sowol. Initially, Ho Gwangil's relentless, rippling sword qi overwhelms Yeon Sowol's willow-like movements. However, Yeon Sowol adapts, shifting from his inherited Yi Yubaek style to a restrained, cosmic vibration that disrupts Ho Gwangil's harmony. The clash generates intense martial force waves, causing spectators to pale and bleed. Ultimately, Yeon Sowol defeats Ho Gwangil, dislocating his shoulder and injuring his Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian. Ho Gwangil accepts defeat with dignity, acknowledging his sword remains incomplete. Yeon Sowol respects Ho Gwangil's pursuit, while the crowd, witnessing the awe-inspiring display, shifts from chaotic noise to reverent silence, marking the beginning of the tournament's serious phase.
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17:14
Chapter 114
Chapter 114 begins with Yeon Sowol standing on a martial arts platform, overseeing a tournament for martial artists aiming to enter the Yuezhou martial arts scene. He is currently at the 'Faint Fragrance Unfading' realm, just below the peak 'Hundred Flowers in Wild Profusion,' but deliberately holds back advancement until he can seek instruction at Mount Wudang. He views the thirty-six selected 'Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits' and the excluded martial artists as opportunities to deepen his realization of the cosmos through their distinct paths. Dissatisfaction erupts among the rejected artists, particularly from Lake Sword Ho Gwangil, a senior master who feels slighted by his omission. Yeon Sowol invites Ho Gwangil to challenge him, initiating a duel that serves as both a test and a demonstration. Ho Gwangil, wielding the 'Lake-Eye Sword' style inspired by the ripples of Dongting Lake, engages Yeon Sowol. Initially, Ho Gwangil's relentless, rippling sword qi overwhelms Yeon Sowol's willow-like movements. However, Yeon Sowol adapts, shifting from his inherited Yi Yubaek style to a restrained, cosmic vibration that disrupts Ho Gwangil's harmony. The clash generates intense martial force waves, causing spectators to pale and bleed. Ultimately, Yeon Sowol defeats Ho Gwangil, dislocating his shoulder and injuring his Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian. Ho Gwangil accepts defeat with dignity, acknowledging his sword remains incomplete. Yeon Sowol respects Ho Gwangil's pursuit, while the crowd, witnessing the awe-inspiring display, shifts from chaotic noise to reverent silence, marking the beginning of the tournament's serious phase.
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17:14
115
Chapter 115
Yeon Sowol calmed the gathering crowd and outlined the tournament rules, declaring that refusing a challenge ends one's turn. A young man in his mid-twenties, Ryu Cheon, ascended the platform armed with a long spear, introducing himself as the rising genius from Yuezhou known as Storm Thrust Ryu Cheon. He expressed a desire to test his own martial certainty against Yeon Sowol, aiming his spear and noting that peak realm status grants the right to create new arts. After a brief, fierce exchange of five blows, Yeon Sowol swiftly defeated Ryu Cheon, criticizing the attacker's wind-based spearwork as shallow and lacking subtlety. Yeon Sowol then defeated three additional challengers with consistent internal energy, shocking the crowd who were unaware he had absorbed the Greater Rejuvenation Pill. With no one remaining confident enough to challenge him after four victories, Yeon Sowol counted down from three, officially being crowned the First Earthly Fiend among the Seventy-Two Earthly Fiends. Moyong Ha then ascended to claim the Second Earthly Fiend position, demonstrating the Flying Swallow Art which she described as contemplating freedom rather than mere flight. After defeating four opponents, Moyong Ha faced no further challengers, noting the tacit cowardice of the remaining three. As Hwangbo Hwi teased Namgung Ujin about his blush toward Moyong Ha, the tournament paused for the night. The event turned into a lively festival along the Dongting Lake shore, with martial artists drinking and sharing observations. Yeon Sowol navigated the festive crowd, accepting salutations and focusing on influential masters rather than casual celebrants. Recognizing the value of networking with masters of all ranks and factions, he approached a table of senior martial artists, marking the start of his diplomatic efforts.
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15:24
Chapter 115
Yeon Sowol calmed the gathering crowd and outlined the tournament rules, declaring that refusing a challenge ends one's turn. A young man in his mid-twenties, Ryu Cheon, ascended the platform armed with a long spear, introducing himself as the rising genius from Yuezhou known as Storm Thrust Ryu Cheon. He expressed a desire to test his own martial certainty against Yeon Sowol, aiming his spear and noting that peak realm status grants the right to create new arts. After a brief, fierce exchange of five blows, Yeon Sowol swiftly defeated Ryu Cheon, criticizing the attacker's wind-based spearwork as shallow and lacking subtlety. Yeon Sowol then defeated three additional challengers with consistent internal energy, shocking the crowd who were unaware he had absorbed the Greater Rejuvenation Pill. With no one remaining confident enough to challenge him after four victories, Yeon Sowol counted down from three, officially being crowned the First Earthly Fiend among the Seventy-Two Earthly Fiends. Moyong Ha then ascended to claim the Second Earthly Fiend position, demonstrating the Flying Swallow Art which she described as contemplating freedom rather than mere flight. After defeating four opponents, Moyong Ha faced no further challengers, noting the tacit cowardice of the remaining three. As Hwangbo Hwi teased Namgung Ujin about his blush toward Moyong Ha, the tournament paused for the night. The event turned into a lively festival along the Dongting Lake shore, with martial artists drinking and sharing observations. Yeon Sowol navigated the festive crowd, accepting salutations and focusing on influential masters rather than casual celebrants. Recognizing the value of networking with masters of all ranks and factions, he approached a table of senior martial artists, marking the start of his diplomatic efforts.
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15:24
116
Chapter 116
In Yuezhou, gossipmonger Gaseopmyeong presides over a gathering of fellow storytellers, seeking to validate his insights into the recent martial arts tournament. He is quickly validated by a goateed companion whose initial cynicism has been overturned by the event's spectacle. Gaseopmyeong emphasizes that the tournament's true genius lay not merely in the martial arts displays, but in Yeon Seonhong’s psychological scheming: by prompting opponents like Lake Sword Ho Gwangil and Storm Thrust Ryu Cheon to share their personal histories before combat, Seonhong transformed matches into emotionally resonant narratives that captivated the audience. The group, thoroughly engrossed, agrees that the tournament’s structure and storytelling were unprecedented. After the gathering, Gaseopmyeong retreats to his study to write his book, the <Register of Jianghu Figures: Hunan Edition>. He begins drafting entries for Yeon Sowol, compiling known facts about his origins, achievements in Hengyang and Yuezhou, and the tournament. However, he critically rejects the unconfirmed rumor of the “Featherless Arrow,” reasoning that Sowol’s demeanor—neat, pleasant-smelling, courteous, and sociable—is entirely inconsistent with the violent stone-throwing attributed to him in Guangdong rumors. Dismissing the rumor as malicious gossip, he removes the entry. He also determines that Sowol’s associates (Won Huiseung, Jin Geol, So Hye, Ha Jeop) are not yet significant enough for separate records. Concluding his drafting, he identifies lingering mysteries in Yuezhou, such as Elder Jeon’s civilian kidnapping and the sudden, strict travel bans enforced by the provincial governor on Junshan Island and Dongting Lake. Driven by these unanswered questions, Gaseopmyeong continues working deep into the night, resolving to investigate the hidden shadows within the region's enforced peace.
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11:39
Chapter 116
In Yuezhou, gossipmonger Gaseopmyeong presides over a gathering of fellow storytellers, seeking to validate his insights into the recent martial arts tournament. He is quickly validated by a goateed companion whose initial cynicism has been overturned by the event's spectacle. Gaseopmyeong emphasizes that the tournament's true genius lay not merely in the martial arts displays, but in Yeon Seonhong’s psychological scheming: by prompting opponents like Lake Sword Ho Gwangil and Storm Thrust Ryu Cheon to share their personal histories before combat, Seonhong transformed matches into emotionally resonant narratives that captivated the audience. The group, thoroughly engrossed, agrees that the tournament’s structure and storytelling were unprecedented. After the gathering, Gaseopmyeong retreats to his study to write his book, the <Register of Jianghu Figures: Hunan Edition>. He begins drafting entries for Yeon Sowol, compiling known facts about his origins, achievements in Hengyang and Yuezhou, and the tournament. However, he critically rejects the unconfirmed rumor of the “Featherless Arrow,” reasoning that Sowol’s demeanor—neat, pleasant-smelling, courteous, and sociable—is entirely inconsistent with the violent stone-throwing attributed to him in Guangdong rumors. Dismissing the rumor as malicious gossip, he removes the entry. He also determines that Sowol’s associates (Won Huiseung, Jin Geol, So Hye, Ha Jeop) are not yet significant enough for separate records. Concluding his drafting, he identifies lingering mysteries in Yuezhou, such as Elder Jeon’s civilian kidnapping and the sudden, strict travel bans enforced by the provincial governor on Junshan Island and Dongting Lake. Driven by these unanswered questions, Gaseopmyeong continues working deep into the night, resolving to investigate the hidden shadows within the region's enforced peace.
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11:39
117
Chapter 117
At dawn, Yeon So-wol completes a cultivation cycle of the Willow Serenity Art, successfully intertwining the Five Elements to generate harmonizing light and heat. He reflects on his incomplete understanding of the universe's harmony and his desire to fight peak-realm masters, though he decides against early injuries. Moyong Ha appears, discussing the philosophical nature of jiangshi (reanimated corpses) with Yeon So-wol while burying a dead cat. She announces her intent to investigate the Yuezhou government office, leveraging the tournament's distraction, and departs using a superior lightness skill that leaves Yeon So-wol in awe. The scene shifts to the conclusion of the tournament, where the Seventy-Two Earthly Fiends are selected through fierce competition. The atmosphere is festive but chaotic, with martial officials and citizens eagerly participating in or debating the fights. Yeon So-wol hangs the final plaque, completing the roster. The Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits stand above the Earthly Fiends. Shin Si-ye arrogantly dismisses the new challengers, while Stopless Sword Na Seok praises Yeon So-wol’s efforts despite his barren origins. Yeon So-wol announces the new rules: Earthly Fiends must challenge Heavenly Spirits, with winners taking their spots and winners-of-wins securing their positions. The Earthly Fiends surge forward, targeting the strongest opponents; nine challenge Kang In-su, and three challenge the peak-realm Shin Si-ye. Finally, Yeon So-wol walks past late first-rate masters to approach Na Seok, a peak-realm master, surprising the crowd and declaring that Guangdong is not a barren land.
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17:50
Chapter 117
At dawn, Yeon So-wol completes a cultivation cycle of the Willow Serenity Art, successfully intertwining the Five Elements to generate harmonizing light and heat. He reflects on his incomplete understanding of the universe's harmony and his desire to fight peak-realm masters, though he decides against early injuries. Moyong Ha appears, discussing the philosophical nature of jiangshi (reanimated corpses) with Yeon So-wol while burying a dead cat. She announces her intent to investigate the Yuezhou government office, leveraging the tournament's distraction, and departs using a superior lightness skill that leaves Yeon So-wol in awe. The scene shifts to the conclusion of the tournament, where the Seventy-Two Earthly Fiends are selected through fierce competition. The atmosphere is festive but chaotic, with martial officials and citizens eagerly participating in or debating the fights. Yeon So-wol hangs the final plaque, completing the roster. The Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits stand above the Earthly Fiends. Shin Si-ye arrogantly dismisses the new challengers, while Stopless Sword Na Seok praises Yeon So-wol’s efforts despite his barren origins. Yeon So-wol announces the new rules: Earthly Fiends must challenge Heavenly Spirits, with winners taking their spots and winners-of-wins securing their positions. The Earthly Fiends surge forward, targeting the strongest opponents; nine challenge Kang In-su, and three challenge the peak-realm Shin Si-ye. Finally, Yeon So-wol walks past late first-rate masters to approach Na Seok, a peak-realm master, surprising the crowd and declaring that Guangdong is not a barren land.
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17:50
118
Chapter 118
Moyong Ha infiltrates the tournament grounds at Yuezhou, seeking to escalate the event's intensity after observing that public excitement might wane. Arriving late, she witnesses Yeon So-wol challenging the peak-realm master Stopless Sword Na Seok. Na Seok, initially hostile due to Yeon So-wol's earlier remarks about Guangdong, engages in combat. Yeon So-wol employs Willow Leaf Steps modified with Five Elements qi theory to counter Na Seok's Earth-based swordsmanship. Despite being a late first-rate martial artist against a peak-realm opponent, Yeon So-wol forces Na Seok into a moment of profound martial insight, realizing the superiority of intent over form. Na Seok suddenly sheathes his blade and concedes, acknowledging Yeon So-wol's teaching and praising the Windflow Sword Yi Yu-baek. He departs for closed-door seclusion, leaving Yeon So-wol victorious against the crowd's astonishment. Moyong Ha observes the resultant hype with satisfaction, suspecting her stratagems are succeeding.
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14:33
Chapter 118
Moyong Ha infiltrates the tournament grounds at Yuezhou, seeking to escalate the event's intensity after observing that public excitement might wane. Arriving late, she witnesses Yeon So-wol challenging the peak-realm master Stopless Sword Na Seok. Na Seok, initially hostile due to Yeon So-wol's earlier remarks about Guangdong, engages in combat. Yeon So-wol employs Willow Leaf Steps modified with Five Elements qi theory to counter Na Seok's Earth-based swordsmanship. Despite being a late first-rate martial artist against a peak-realm opponent, Yeon So-wol forces Na Seok into a moment of profound martial insight, realizing the superiority of intent over form. Na Seok suddenly sheathes his blade and concedes, acknowledging Yeon So-wol's teaching and praising the Windflow Sword Yi Yu-baek. He departs for closed-door seclusion, leaving Yeon So-wol victorious against the crowd's astonishment. Moyong Ha observes the resultant hype with satisfaction, suspecting her stratagems are succeeding.
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14:33
119
Chapter 119
Chapter 119 details the progression of the martial arts tournament and the resulting societal fervor. Won Huiseung, moved by Yeon Sowol's prior enlightenment, decides to share his own realization of 'Learning Through Teaching.' He confronts a renowned Yuezhou swordsman known as the 'Mist-Flash Guest.' Won Huiseung interprets the concept of mist through the lens of the Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits, demonstrating a superior understanding that shatters the opponent's lifelong paradigm. The defeated master, devastated by his inferior comprehension, flees the platform in disgrace, leaving spectators in awe of the Zhongnan Sect disciple's growth. Kang In-su and Shin Si-ye also secure their spots; Kang In-su effortlessly shatters a heavy saber wielder's blade and defeats three challengers, while Shin Si-ye disables two attackers with precise, non-lethal sword strikes that leave lasting marks but no permanent damage. Ha Jeop claims his place by defeating an existing Heavenly Spirit and two subsequent challengers after exactly one hundred moves each. Namgung Ujin, seeking revenge for past mockery, calls out all who had ridiculed him after his loss to Yeon Sowol, defeating them in rapid succession and igniting crowd excitement. Hwangbo Hwi also claims a position by defeating multiple challengers who accuse him of dishonoring various women, asserting his interactions were consensual or legally settled. Following the matches, the atmosphere erupts into street brawls and drunken scenes, fueled by the intense competition. Moyong Ha, having secured her position, internally expresses gratitude to Yeon Sowol, noting that his influence will soon grant her access to deep levels of the government office. Yeon Sowol watches silently, bewildered by the destructive potential of the Jianghu's passion.
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14:31
Chapter 119
Chapter 119 details the progression of the martial arts tournament and the resulting societal fervor. Won Huiseung, moved by Yeon Sowol's prior enlightenment, decides to share his own realization of 'Learning Through Teaching.' He confronts a renowned Yuezhou swordsman known as the 'Mist-Flash Guest.' Won Huiseung interprets the concept of mist through the lens of the Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits, demonstrating a superior understanding that shatters the opponent's lifelong paradigm. The defeated master, devastated by his inferior comprehension, flees the platform in disgrace, leaving spectators in awe of the Zhongnan Sect disciple's growth. Kang In-su and Shin Si-ye also secure their spots; Kang In-su effortlessly shatters a heavy saber wielder's blade and defeats three challengers, while Shin Si-ye disables two attackers with precise, non-lethal sword strikes that leave lasting marks but no permanent damage. Ha Jeop claims his place by defeating an existing Heavenly Spirit and two subsequent challengers after exactly one hundred moves each. Namgung Ujin, seeking revenge for past mockery, calls out all who had ridiculed him after his loss to Yeon Sowol, defeating them in rapid succession and igniting crowd excitement. Hwangbo Hwi also claims a position by defeating multiple challengers who accuse him of dishonoring various women, asserting his interactions were consensual or legally settled. Following the matches, the atmosphere erupts into street brawls and drunken scenes, fueled by the intense competition. Moyong Ha, having secured her position, internally expresses gratitude to Yeon Sowol, noting that his influence will soon grant her access to deep levels of the government office. Yeon Sowol watches silently, bewildered by the destructive potential of the Jianghu's passion.
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14:31
120
Chapter 120
In Yuezhou, gossipmonger Gaseopmyeong finalizes his <Register of Jianghu Figures - Hunan Edition>, specifically adding the entry for Yeon Sowol, who is praised for subduing the Stopless Sword Na Seok. He commissions woodblocks for printing and distributes copies to bookstores. The book, priced at two silver ingots, sells out instantly due to its inclusion of the 'Hunan’s 108 Hands' (Malefic Stars) and 'Hunan’s 36 Heroes' (Heavenly Spirits) lists. The public enthusiasm is immense; residents sing songs of the martial artists, debate tier rankings, and engage in heavy gambling on the ongoing tournament, with merchants selling themed cakes and betting odds. Meanwhile, Yeon Sowol observes the financial influx from book sales, food, and gambling, noting that his platforms and copyright strategies have successfully funneled wealth to him without active effort. He uses these profits to commission merchant guilds to procure secret manuals, elixirs, and weapons, prioritizing security for Ha over mere profit. The scene shifts to the tournament platform where Yeon Sowol addresses the crowd. He presents a Cold Iron ingot as a prize for the Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits, igniting anticipation. He then announces a new format: the twelve strongest and twelve weakest martial artists are selected via anonymous voter lists. The strongest must defeat one weak contender and one neutral contender. The first matchup features the peak-realm expert Bubulbu Wi Sihon against the late first-rate Ha Jeop. Yeon Sowol privately urges Ha Jeop to win, emphasizing that chaos is necessary to protect Ha. Ha Jeop, initially doubting his ability against a superior opponent, accepts the challenge and steps onto the platform.
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18:26
Chapter 120
In Yuezhou, gossipmonger Gaseopmyeong finalizes his <Register of Jianghu Figures - Hunan Edition>, specifically adding the entry for Yeon Sowol, who is praised for subduing the Stopless Sword Na Seok. He commissions woodblocks for printing and distributes copies to bookstores. The book, priced at two silver ingots, sells out instantly due to its inclusion of the 'Hunan’s 108 Hands' (Malefic Stars) and 'Hunan’s 36 Heroes' (Heavenly Spirits) lists. The public enthusiasm is immense; residents sing songs of the martial artists, debate tier rankings, and engage in heavy gambling on the ongoing tournament, with merchants selling themed cakes and betting odds. Meanwhile, Yeon Sowol observes the financial influx from book sales, food, and gambling, noting that his platforms and copyright strategies have successfully funneled wealth to him without active effort. He uses these profits to commission merchant guilds to procure secret manuals, elixirs, and weapons, prioritizing security for Ha over mere profit. The scene shifts to the tournament platform where Yeon Sowol addresses the crowd. He presents a Cold Iron ingot as a prize for the Thirty-Six Heavenly Spirits, igniting anticipation. He then announces a new format: the twelve strongest and twelve weakest martial artists are selected via anonymous voter lists. The strongest must defeat one weak contender and one neutral contender. The first matchup features the peak-realm expert Bubulbu Wi Sihon against the late first-rate Ha Jeop. Yeon Sowol privately urges Ha Jeop to win, emphasizing that chaos is necessary to protect Ha. Ha Jeop, initially doubting his ability against a superior opponent, accepts the challenge and steps onto the platform.
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18:26
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