Ongoing
210
views
0
likes
Back
The Tale of Cultivation and Demon Extermination
Yeon Woo-sol
0.0
318 chapters
0 views
After a demon murders his parents, the young Yise is shunned by his village. He finds a new purpose when Mongryeon, a demon-hunting dokkaebi, takes him in. His pursuit of demon extermination leads him to Daemudo, a notorious cultivation sect feared throughout the cultivation world.
Keep listening
More like this
Ongoing
Ongoing
199
views
0
likes
I Picked Up a Grimoire and Became a Wizard
Ongoing
28
views
0
likes
I'm an Infinite Regressor, But I've Got Stories to Tell
Audio chapters (159) · 1–30
1
Chapter 1
At a roadside inn, the storyteller Jangsam tells a drinking companion that villagers are exaggerating about a ten-year-old boy who killed a Bachelor Ghost and displayed its head on a gatepost. A mysterious woman with large ears and ash-gray skin—Mongryeon, a dokkaebi chief—interrupts, asking for directions to Subu Village. She pays Jangsam and departs, following the rumor on a whim. Arriving at the quiet farming village, she finds the Snail-Headed Scholar's head hanging as a tomb. Three looting villagers confront her, plundering the dead's belongings, but Mongryeon kills them with a snap of her fingers. She then heals the starving boy Ise at the grave, offers him a home, and learns he killed the demon using bamboo salt and a spear after studying its habits. Moved by his tragedy and talent, she promises him a peaceful life until he comes of age, asking him to grow strong and become a hunter. Ise calls her 'Chief,' and she reveals she is a dokkaebi, the day a human boy joined the land of the dokkaebi.
9:49
Chapter 1
At a roadside inn, the storyteller Jangsam tells a drinking companion that villagers are exaggerating about a ten-year-old boy who killed a Bachelor Ghost and displayed its head on a gatepost. A mysterious woman with large ears and ash-gray skin—Mongryeon, a dokkaebi chief—interrupts, asking for directions to Subu Village. She pays Jangsam and departs, following the rumor on a whim. Arriving at the quiet farming village, she finds the Snail-Headed Scholar's head hanging as a tomb. Three looting villagers confront her, plundering the dead's belongings, but Mongryeon kills them with a snap of her fingers. She then heals the starving boy Ise at the grave, offers him a home, and learns he killed the demon using bamboo salt and a spear after studying its habits. Moved by his tragedy and talent, she promises him a peaceful life until he comes of age, asking him to grow strong and become a hunter. Ise calls her 'Chief,' and she reveals she is a dokkaebi, the day a human boy joined the land of the dokkaebi.
9:49
2
Chapter 2
Ise and Mongryeon arrive at Gwisu Temple, a dokkaebi sacred ground marked by a warning sign. Crossing the sacred cord transforms the lush spring mountains into a blood-red, demonic landscape. Mongryeon explains that dokkaebi are not ordinary demons but humanity's allies, and Ise accepts her guidance. Inside the temple gate, horned dokkaebi initially glare with red eyes until Mongryeon declares Ise a new family member, calming the crowd. Mongryeon entrusts Ise to Gonga, a lively young female dokkaebi who tours him around the temple, introduces him to the kitchen matron Chanmo, and ensures he is fed. Later, three young dokkaebi boys confront Ise, jealous of Gonga's attention, but Ise defuses them with a fabricated tragic backstory. Gonga arrives to scold the boys and apologizes, telling Ise the Chief is looking for him.
11:46
Chapter 2
Ise and Mongryeon arrive at Gwisu Temple, a dokkaebi sacred ground marked by a warning sign. Crossing the sacred cord transforms the lush spring mountains into a blood-red, demonic landscape. Mongryeon explains that dokkaebi are not ordinary demons but humanity's allies, and Ise accepts her guidance. Inside the temple gate, horned dokkaebi initially glare with red eyes until Mongryeon declares Ise a new family member, calming the crowd. Mongryeon entrusts Ise to Gonga, a lively young female dokkaebi who tours him around the temple, introduces him to the kitchen matron Chanmo, and ensures he is fed. Later, three young dokkaebi boys confront Ise, jealous of Gonga's attention, but Ise defuses them with a fabricated tragic backstory. Gonga arrives to scold the boys and apologizes, telling Ise the Chief is looking for him.
11:46
3
Chapter 3
Mongryeon gives Ise a temple identity token and explains his training regimen at Gwisu Temple, emphasizing the Great Exorcist Order's four pillars: Learning, Martial Prowess, Courage, and Principle. She assigns him library study and daily physical exercise. Over the following month, Ise devours books, sleeps only four hours on the library floor, and barely eats. Mongryeon, checking via carrier pigeon, returns to find him unchanged and scolds him about eating slowly and sleeping more. After a month of intensified training, Ise reveals he has memorized every library book. Mongryeon tests him on the Human-Faced Ape Demon and is impressed by his recall. She then explains the nature of demons, demonic qi, spiritual roots, and cultivators, revealing she is over 340 years old. She tells him he can take the entrance exam between ages 16 and 19, then leads him to the armory to choose weapons—a hand axe and shield—and begins teaching him basic body techniques.
13:26
Chapter 3
Mongryeon gives Ise a temple identity token and explains his training regimen at Gwisu Temple, emphasizing the Great Exorcist Order's four pillars: Learning, Martial Prowess, Courage, and Principle. She assigns him library study and daily physical exercise. Over the following month, Ise devours books, sleeps only four hours on the library floor, and barely eats. Mongryeon, checking via carrier pigeon, returns to find him unchanged and scolds him about eating slowly and sleeping more. After a month of intensified training, Ise reveals he has memorized every library book. Mongryeon tests him on the Human-Faced Ape Demon and is impressed by his recall. She then explains the nature of demons, demonic qi, spiritual roots, and cultivators, revealing she is over 340 years old. She tells him he can take the entrance exam between ages 16 and 19, then leads him to the armory to choose weapons—a hand axe and shield—and begins teaching him basic body techniques.
13:26
4
Chapter 4
Six years after his first encounter, Ise lives at Gwisu Temple as a tall teenager. Gonga and the three young dokkaebi boys — Gong Ilchwi, Gong Woljang, and Goegeol — play and spar with him. The boys learn that Goecheon returned from the village reporting a low-ranking demon, and they persuade Ise to join a hunt. Ise refuses, but suspects the youngsters have secretly overheard Goecheon's demon report and gone off on their own. He confronts Goecheon, who confirms the boys know about the Child Ghost. Ise arms himself with signal flares and sacred relics from the Relic Vault and heads for the Red Marsh. Meanwhile, the three dokkaebi track the baby's cries into a clearing, only to be ambushed by the demon in a violent surprise attack.
13:22
Chapter 4
Six years after his first encounter, Ise lives at Gwisu Temple as a tall teenager. Gonga and the three young dokkaebi boys — Gong Ilchwi, Gong Woljang, and Goegeol — play and spar with him. The boys learn that Goecheon returned from the village reporting a low-ranking demon, and they persuade Ise to join a hunt. Ise refuses, but suspects the youngsters have secretly overheard Goecheon's demon report and gone off on their own. He confronts Goecheon, who confirms the boys know about the Child Ghost. Ise arms himself with signal flares and sacred relics from the Relic Vault and heads for the Red Marsh. Meanwhile, the three dokkaebi track the baby's cries into a clearing, only to be ambushed by the demon in a violent surprise attack.
13:22
5
Chapter 5
A demon ambushes three young dokkaebi — Goegeol, Gong Ilchwi, and Gong Woljang — inside a demonic-qi barrier. Goegeol loses an arm and is later eaten by the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse. Ise, having tracked the demon with a Boundary-Seeking Talisman, arrives, tears open the barrier with his Realm-Rending Sword, and evacuates the two surviving twins, taking the dragon horse's attacks on his shield to buy them time. He escapes outside the barrier, badly injured. Goecheon and two other dokkaebi guards arrive responding to the signal flare; Ise reports that Goegeol is dead and the twins are safe. Goecheon carries the unconscious Ise away while the enraged dragon horse gives chase, clamping the two dokkaebi in its mouth as it pursues them through the night.
11:08
Chapter 5
A demon ambushes three young dokkaebi — Goegeol, Gong Ilchwi, and Gong Woljang — inside a demonic-qi barrier. Goegeol loses an arm and is later eaten by the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse. Ise, having tracked the demon with a Boundary-Seeking Talisman, arrives, tears open the barrier with his Realm-Rending Sword, and evacuates the two surviving twins, taking the dragon horse's attacks on his shield to buy them time. He escapes outside the barrier, badly injured. Goecheon and two other dokkaebi guards arrive responding to the signal flare; Ise reports that Goegeol is dead and the twins are safe. Goecheon carries the unconscious Ise away while the enraged dragon horse gives chase, clamping the two dokkaebi in its mouth as it pursues them through the night.
11:08
6
Chapter 6
Goecheon sets Ise down and confronts the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse alone, deploying the Dokkaebi Shadow-Hunting Demonic Art's Shadow Net Formation and Four-Directions Strike. The demon's horns shred his shadows, and in a desperate exchange Goecheon impales himself on the dragon horse's horns to bring down his broken Gold Chain Staff, delivering repeated blows. A hidden snake demon then bites his shoulder, poisoning him. Ise, who had hidden, leaps onto the dragon horse's back and drives a Vein-Severing Blade into its spine, severing its demonic qi. The demon dies, but Ise is mortally wounded. Mongryeon arrives on a blue light, revives Ise with a Restoration Pellet, and destroys the dragon horse's corpse and Golden Core traces with her Red Ten-Thousand-Pound Staff, ending the threat.
14:58
Chapter 6
Goecheon sets Ise down and confronts the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse alone, deploying the Dokkaebi Shadow-Hunting Demonic Art's Shadow Net Formation and Four-Directions Strike. The demon's horns shred his shadows, and in a desperate exchange Goecheon impales himself on the dragon horse's horns to bring down his broken Gold Chain Staff, delivering repeated blows. A hidden snake demon then bites his shoulder, poisoning him. Ise, who had hidden, leaps onto the dragon horse's back and drives a Vein-Severing Blade into its spine, severing its demonic qi. The demon dies, but Ise is mortally wounded. Mongryeon arrives on a blue light, revives Ise with a Restoration Pellet, and destroys the dragon horse's corpse and Golden Core traces with her Red Ten-Thousand-Pound Staff, ending the threat.
14:58
7
Chapter 7
After recovering from the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse ambush, Ise is taught by Mongryeon how to use spirit artifacts to release the slain demon's lingering resentment and conduct a memorial rite for the fallen dokkaebi children. Moved by the ritual and the temple's kindness, Ise departs for the Great Exorcist Order entrance exam, receiving farewell gifts including the Vein-Severing Blade and a Spiritual Stone from the temple's dokkaebi residents. Upon returning to Subu Village, he discovers his family's graves have been moved and finds Wiseong's note. Wiseong explains he sold Ise's leftover belongings and returned the proceeds along with a Burial Map, revealing that the village's fear once drove ruffians to oppose helping the orphan. Ise bows in gratitude and continues on his journey.
12:59
Chapter 7
After recovering from the Infant-Cry Dragon Horse ambush, Ise is taught by Mongryeon how to use spirit artifacts to release the slain demon's lingering resentment and conduct a memorial rite for the fallen dokkaebi children. Moved by the ritual and the temple's kindness, Ise departs for the Great Exorcist Order entrance exam, receiving farewell gifts including the Vein-Severing Blade and a Spiritual Stone from the temple's dokkaebi residents. Upon returning to Subu Village, he discovers his family's graves have been moved and finds Wiseong's note. Wiseong explains he sold Ise's leftover belongings and returned the proceeds along with a Burial Map, revealing that the village's fear once drove ruffians to oppose helping the orphan. Ise bows in gratitude and continues on his journey.
12:59
8
Chapter 8
Ise arrives at the bustling city of Cheongsan, marveling at its treasure shops and crowded streets. He visits a talisman shop where the owner tries to sell him overpriced, fake goods before recommending a 'Great Success on the Exam' talisman. After registering at the Great Exorcist Order registration office—copying an oath and receiving his token—he checks into a clean inn. There he encounters Hae Unchan, a boisterous bronzed boy who also orders massive amounts of food. The two become reluctant meal buddies, with Ise devouring dish after dish while the innkeeper and other diners stare in horror. The next day, refreshed and well-fed, Ise climbs Cheongsan's peak to the entrance exam waiting hall, where over a thousand applicants have gathered. The chief examiner Kang I-tae arrives to great awe, announcing the seven-day trial begins with simply passing through the training academy's main gate.
11:22
Chapter 8
Ise arrives at the bustling city of Cheongsan, marveling at its treasure shops and crowded streets. He visits a talisman shop where the owner tries to sell him overpriced, fake goods before recommending a 'Great Success on the Exam' talisman. After registering at the Great Exorcist Order registration office—copying an oath and receiving his token—he checks into a clean inn. There he encounters Hae Unchan, a boisterous bronzed boy who also orders massive amounts of food. The two become reluctant meal buddies, with Ise devouring dish after dish while the innkeeper and other diners stare in horror. The next day, refreshed and well-fed, Ise climbs Cheongsan's peak to the entrance exam waiting hall, where over a thousand applicants have gathered. The chief examiner Kang I-tae arrives to great awe, announcing the seven-day trial begins with simply passing through the training academy's main gate.
11:22
9
Chapter 9
Chapter 9 opens with applicants gathered at the main gate, expecting a simple test. Instead they find an unrestrained ash-gray demon blocking the passage, revealing the true purpose: a test of courage. One by one, applicants approach; most collapse after three to five steps under the demon's pressure, and Chief Examiner Kang I-tae declares them failed. Hae Unchan, called as the eldest legitimate son of the Hae Clan, pushes through trembling and passes. Ise follows, recognizing the demon as unrecorded and feeling overwhelming killing intent, but steadies himself and walks through. Kang I-tae announces 169 survivors and explains the seven-day exam structure covering Learning, Martial Prowess, Courage, and Principle. He warns applicants against joining pill sects or Kunlun, then distributes the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook. Ise asks practical questions about meal times and food portions before the group heads to the waiting hall, where Hae Unchan explains the continent's cultivation sects and why the Three Peninsula Kingdoms remain free of them.
12:45
Chapter 9
Chapter 9 opens with applicants gathered at the main gate, expecting a simple test. Instead they find an unrestrained ash-gray demon blocking the passage, revealing the true purpose: a test of courage. One by one, applicants approach; most collapse after three to five steps under the demon's pressure, and Chief Examiner Kang I-tae declares them failed. Hae Unchan, called as the eldest legitimate son of the Hae Clan, pushes through trembling and passes. Ise follows, recognizing the demon as unrecorded and feeling overwhelming killing intent, but steadies himself and walks through. Kang I-tae announces 169 survivors and explains the seven-day exam structure covering Learning, Martial Prowess, Courage, and Principle. He warns applicants against joining pill sects or Kunlun, then distributes the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook. Ise asks practical questions about meal times and food portions before the group heads to the waiting hall, where Hae Unchan explains the continent's cultivation sects and why the Three Peninsula Kingdoms remain free of them.
12:45
10
Chapter 10
In a quiet moment before the second test, Ise and Hae Unchan sit together at the training academy. Hae Unchan draws a crude map on the stone floor, explaining the Eastern Continent, the Three Peninsula Kingdoms, and the vast Zheng Empire, along with the Great Exorcist Order's role in preventing conquest wars. He shares his dream of traveling every continent. The conversation shifts to cultivation sects and demonic sects like Cheoryang Thunder Gate, and the two exchange friendly banter about friendship and meal buddies. The scene then transitions to the second test, where Chief Examiner Kang I-tae announces the creation of spiritual roots. He explains the Mandate of Heaven and the Crane Bird's role, calls forward those with spiritual roots, and examines the preselected candidates. When it is Ise's turn, the Crane Bird pierces his heart, but instead of a spiritual root, demonic qi erupts. Kang I-tae strikes lightning-fast, pressing his sword to Ise's throat and accusing him of being a demonic sect spy.
11:51
Chapter 10
In a quiet moment before the second test, Ise and Hae Unchan sit together at the training academy. Hae Unchan draws a crude map on the stone floor, explaining the Eastern Continent, the Three Peninsula Kingdoms, and the vast Zheng Empire, along with the Great Exorcist Order's role in preventing conquest wars. He shares his dream of traveling every continent. The conversation shifts to cultivation sects and demonic sects like Cheoryang Thunder Gate, and the two exchange friendly banter about friendship and meal buddies. The scene then transitions to the second test, where Chief Examiner Kang I-tae announces the creation of spiritual roots. He explains the Mandate of Heaven and the Crane Bird's role, calls forward those with spiritual roots, and examines the preselected candidates. When it is Ise's turn, the Crane Bird pierces his heart, but instead of a spiritual root, demonic qi erupts. Kang I-tae strikes lightning-fast, pressing his sword to Ise's throat and accusing him of being a demonic sect spy.
11:51
11
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 opens with Ise entering a trance after the Crane Bird's beak pierces his heart, circulating qi as spiritual energy awakens hidden powers within him. The examiners, including Chief Examiner Kang I-tae, initially suspect him of being a demonic spy, but an unnamed examiner intervenes, arguing that protecting someone attaining enlightenment takes priority over immediate execution. Kang I-tae orders the examination moved and summons nearby Hall Masters. As Ise's body undergoes a painful transformation, two opposing energies—spiritual energy and demonic qi—coexist within him, granting him spirit sight that reveals the world in colored energy flows. When Ise finally opens his eyes, he finds himself surrounded by four senior figures: Kang I-tae, red-haired Hong Mi-hee, a muscular man in tiger-patterned clothes named Banho, and a familiar-looking female dokkaebi named Gong Wol-a. After Ise explains his situation and reveals his identity as Mongryeon's adopted disciple, Hong Mi-hee diagnoses his rare Heaven-Demon Dual-Meridian Physique, drawing greedy interest from the assembled Hall Masters. Banho attempts to entice Ise with promises of support if he joins Gujin Hall, prompting playful scolding from Kang I-tae. Ise timidly raises his hand to ask questions about his new abilities and his desire to meet the Great Exorcist Order Lord, leaving the assembled elders amused by his innocent yet profound inquiry.
12:11
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 opens with Ise entering a trance after the Crane Bird's beak pierces his heart, circulating qi as spiritual energy awakens hidden powers within him. The examiners, including Chief Examiner Kang I-tae, initially suspect him of being a demonic spy, but an unnamed examiner intervenes, arguing that protecting someone attaining enlightenment takes priority over immediate execution. Kang I-tae orders the examination moved and summons nearby Hall Masters. As Ise's body undergoes a painful transformation, two opposing energies—spiritual energy and demonic qi—coexist within him, granting him spirit sight that reveals the world in colored energy flows. When Ise finally opens his eyes, he finds himself surrounded by four senior figures: Kang I-tae, red-haired Hong Mi-hee, a muscular man in tiger-patterned clothes named Banho, and a familiar-looking female dokkaebi named Gong Wol-a. After Ise explains his situation and reveals his identity as Mongryeon's adopted disciple, Hong Mi-hee diagnoses his rare Heaven-Demon Dual-Meridian Physique, drawing greedy interest from the assembled Hall Masters. Banho attempts to entice Ise with promises of support if he joins Gujin Hall, prompting playful scolding from Kang I-tae. Ise timidly raises his hand to ask questions about his new abilities and his desire to meet the Great Exorcist Order Lord, leaving the assembled elders amused by his innocent yet profound inquiry.
12:11
12
Chapter 12
The chapter opens with Hong Mi-hee explaining to Ise that the Great Exorcist Order Lord position remains vacant because Haeil refuses to claim it until reaching the Lord realm, leaving lower Hall Masters awkward. She suggests contacting Haeil or the absent Chief Master, noting the Order's harsh survival culture. After Ise politely excuses himself to eat and train, the Hall Masters banter—Hong Mi-hee teases Kang I-tae about his low mission acceptance rate, which he deflects by citing his spirit artifact and talisman production. A tiger-like dokkaebi named Banho departs abruptly. The narrative then shifts to Ise's evening routine: he reads the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook in his private lodging, reviewing the Ten Commandments, organizational hierarchy, and rules. The third day's examination is a combat arts free-for-all where candidates fight until one remains; Ise observes that the standards eliminate those who are too passive or below minimum physical standards. The chapter closes with Ise reflecting on the Order's brutal values.
12:46
Chapter 12
The chapter opens with Hong Mi-hee explaining to Ise that the Great Exorcist Order Lord position remains vacant because Haeil refuses to claim it until reaching the Lord realm, leaving lower Hall Masters awkward. She suggests contacting Haeil or the absent Chief Master, noting the Order's harsh survival culture. After Ise politely excuses himself to eat and train, the Hall Masters banter—Hong Mi-hee teases Kang I-tae about his low mission acceptance rate, which he deflects by citing his spirit artifact and talisman production. A tiger-like dokkaebi named Banho departs abruptly. The narrative then shifts to Ise's evening routine: he reads the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook in his private lodging, reviewing the Ten Commandments, organizational hierarchy, and rules. The third day's examination is a combat arts free-for-all where candidates fight until one remains; Ise observes that the standards eliminate those who are too passive or below minimum physical standards. The chapter closes with Ise reflecting on the Order's brutal values.
12:46
13
Chapter 13
Chapter 13 opens with Ise and Hae Unchan waiting for their turn in the examination, discussing past events and Ise's Heavenly Root Physique. The exam continues with applicants commenting on failures and the benefits of placing in the top five, including spirit artifacts from Hall Master Hong Mi-hee and personal instruction from hall masters. Ise becomes determined to secure first place after learning about the rewards. The sparring round begins, and Ise swiftly defeats multiple opponents using the Borrowed Force Technique, leaving only six applicants standing. Kang I-tae declares that all but the winner must retake the exam. A failed applicant challenges the results, arguing that a three-spiritual-root bearer should not fail while a five-root bearer passes. Kang I-tae coldly explains the sect's body-tempering foundation and, after the applicant insults the sect, tears out his tongue as punishment. The chapter ends with Ise inviting Hae Unchan to train together after eating, and Hae Unchan declining while worrying about Ise's reaction.
11:22
Chapter 13
Chapter 13 opens with Ise and Hae Unchan waiting for their turn in the examination, discussing past events and Ise's Heavenly Root Physique. The exam continues with applicants commenting on failures and the benefits of placing in the top five, including spirit artifacts from Hall Master Hong Mi-hee and personal instruction from hall masters. Ise becomes determined to secure first place after learning about the rewards. The sparring round begins, and Ise swiftly defeats multiple opponents using the Borrowed Force Technique, leaving only six applicants standing. Kang I-tae declares that all but the winner must retake the exam. A failed applicant challenges the results, arguing that a three-spiritual-root bearer should not fail while a five-root bearer passes. Kang I-tae coldly explains the sect's body-tempering foundation and, after the applicant insults the sect, tears out his tongue as punishment. The chapter ends with Ise inviting Hae Unchan to train together after eating, and Hae Unchan declining while worrying about Ise's reaction.
11:22
14
Chapter 14
Seolryeong unexpectedly approaches Ise and Hae Unchan during training, introducing herself as a Seol Clan applicant and requesting to join their team. After some teasing about her petite appearance and crude passing method in the third examination, she persuades them by threatening to report Ise's dismissal of the technical arts to Hall Master Hong Mi-hee. The trio formally accepts her, and she immediately takes a seat beside Ise at meals. Later, Seolryeong finds Ise at a secluded training spot near Cheongsan's main gate, where he is meditating and sensing spiritual energy. She informs him of a team assessment exam scheduled for the next day, where four applicants must form groups to hunt demons. Ise, indifferent to team composition, lets Seolryeong choose members. The chapter then transitions to the fourth examination period, where Ise decides to take all three specialization exams despite being a Demon Hunter, beginning with the Healer exam site.
11:09
Chapter 14
Seolryeong unexpectedly approaches Ise and Hae Unchan during training, introducing herself as a Seol Clan applicant and requesting to join their team. After some teasing about her petite appearance and crude passing method in the third examination, she persuades them by threatening to report Ise's dismissal of the technical arts to Hall Master Hong Mi-hee. The trio formally accepts her, and she immediately takes a seat beside Ise at meals. Later, Seolryeong finds Ise at a secluded training spot near Cheongsan's main gate, where he is meditating and sensing spiritual energy. She informs him of a team assessment exam scheduled for the next day, where four applicants must form groups to hunt demons. Ise, indifferent to team composition, lets Seolryeong choose members. The chapter then transitions to the fourth examination period, where Ise decides to take all three specialization exams despite being a Demon Hunter, beginning with the Healer exam site.
11:09
15
Chapter 15
Ise takes the Shaman examination, choosing to draw talismans alongside a combat puppet and straw effigy. He produces a surprisingly clean first talisman and exchanges a brief exchange with Seolryeong, who warns him field conditions differ from exam conditions. After receiving twenty-six points, Seolryeong questions his choice of Demon Hunter specialization over Shaman, urging him to reconsider his talent before it is too late. He then visits the Shadow Agent examination hall, where an examiner notes he is the first to use the hall as a training room and encourages him to consider that path. That evening Seolryeong introduces Pi Garam as a new team member, a formation specialist. The group discusses their specialties, cultivation realms, and battle strategy, with Seolryeong warning the others about injuries in the remaining examinations. On the morning of the fifth day, Ise trains his spiritual energy and demonic qi. The fifth examination begins as a team-based demon hunt announced by Kang I-tae, and Seolryeong identifies the Ghost-Storing Prison relic from which the bound demon is drawn.
12:06
Chapter 15
Ise takes the Shaman examination, choosing to draw talismans alongside a combat puppet and straw effigy. He produces a surprisingly clean first talisman and exchanges a brief exchange with Seolryeong, who warns him field conditions differ from exam conditions. After receiving twenty-six points, Seolryeong questions his choice of Demon Hunter specialization over Shaman, urging him to reconsider his talent before it is too late. He then visits the Shadow Agent examination hall, where an examiner notes he is the first to use the hall as a training room and encourages him to consider that path. That evening Seolryeong introduces Pi Garam as a new team member, a formation specialist. The group discusses their specialties, cultivation realms, and battle strategy, with Seolryeong warning the others about injuries in the remaining examinations. On the morning of the fifth day, Ise trains his spiritual energy and demonic qi. The fifth examination begins as a team-based demon hunt announced by Kang I-tae, and Seolryeong identifies the Ghost-Storing Prison relic from which the bound demon is drawn.
12:06
16
Chapter 16
The first team's examination begins with applicants facing a caged demon inside a spiritual barrier formation. After an injured applicant is slashed and dragged away, the real examination commences with deadly consequences. Ise's team draws an eighth-grade Eye-Light Demon (Lust Demon), which targets Seolryeong. Ise coordinates the team, assigning Hae Unchan to lead, Pi Garam to set a sealing formation, and himself to cover Seolryeong with fire talismans. The demon proves far more dangerous than previous Grade Nine foes, using lightning and blade-like wind attacks. Through coordinated effort and fire-aspect talismans, Ise closes the distance and decapitates the demon with his hatchet, achieving a swift victory that leaves onlookers horrified. Ise realizes he has crossed into the Second Star of the Qi Condensation Realm through his own growth.
12:39
Chapter 16
The first team's examination begins with applicants facing a caged demon inside a spiritual barrier formation. After an injured applicant is slashed and dragged away, the real examination commences with deadly consequences. Ise's team draws an eighth-grade Eye-Light Demon (Lust Demon), which targets Seolryeong. Ise coordinates the team, assigning Hae Unchan to lead, Pi Garam to set a sealing formation, and himself to cover Seolryeong with fire talismans. The demon proves far more dangerous than previous Grade Nine foes, using lightning and blade-like wind attacks. Through coordinated effort and fire-aspect talismans, Ise closes the distance and decapitates the demon with his hatchet, achieving a swift victory that leaves onlookers horrified. Ise realizes he has crossed into the Second Star of the Qi Condensation Realm through his own growth.
12:39
17
Chapter 17
The entrance examination concludes with Kang I-tae dismissing the four applicants from the barrier. Seolryeong stares in shock at Ise's brutal methods. The sixth day brings a written exam on the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook, a spiritual-root assessment where an examiner discerns Ise's Second Star realm and special constitution, and a Medicine Hall visit for injuries. That evening, the team gathers around a bonfire for Seolryeong's Burning Garment Rite, a cleansing ritual to remove demonic qi and evil energy from battle clothes. Hae Unchan brings jerky and rice wine, sparking debate over impure foods. Seolryeong explains the rite's purpose, and the group strips to change. Ise reveals he went demon hunting at age ten, prompting Seolryeong's shocked questions until Pi Garam deftly changes the subject. Ise confesses he pushed himself to catch the Hall Masters' attention due to his special constitution, and the group agrees to keep it secret. The final day arrives with all ten Hall Masters present as observers. Kang I-tae announces the seventh examination: reverse-ranked one-on-one matches where applicants fight until surrender or unconsciousness. Seolryeong and Pi Garam prove their strength, while Ise and Hae Unchan, as top scorer and runner-up, await the final match.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
13:52
Chapter 17
The entrance examination concludes with Kang I-tae dismissing the four applicants from the barrier. Seolryeong stares in shock at Ise's brutal methods. The sixth day brings a written exam on the Great Exorcist Order Basic Handbook, a spiritual-root assessment where an examiner discerns Ise's Second Star realm and special constitution, and a Medicine Hall visit for injuries. That evening, the team gathers around a bonfire for Seolryeong's Burning Garment Rite, a cleansing ritual to remove demonic qi and evil energy from battle clothes. Hae Unchan brings jerky and rice wine, sparking debate over impure foods. Seolryeong explains the rite's purpose, and the group strips to change. Ise reveals he went demon hunting at age ten, prompting Seolryeong's shocked questions until Pi Garam deftly changes the subject. Ise confesses he pushed himself to catch the Hall Masters' attention due to his special constitution, and the group agrees to keep it secret. The final day arrives with all ten Hall Masters present as observers. Kang I-tae announces the seventh examination: reverse-ranked one-on-one matches where applicants fight until surrender or unconsciousness. Seolryeong and Pi Garam prove their strength, while Ise and Hae Unchan, as top scorer and runner-up, await the final match.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
13:52
18
Chapter 18
Chapter 18 opens with the sparring exam between Ise and Hae Unchan on the training ground before Hall Masters. The examiner calls the two boys forward and signals the match to begin. Hae Unchan attacks first with swift, textbook sword techniques, while Ise relies on Dokkaebi Steps and his shield to evade and counter. Their exchange grows fierce, with both trading blows and spiritual energy attacks. Ise eventually lands a decisive shield strike to Hae Unchan's head, knocking him down. After a grueling back-and-forth battle of attrition where both run dry on spiritual energy, Ise delivers a final blow enhanced by demonic qi, defeating Hae Unchan. The examiner declares Ise the winner. Following the match, Kang I-tae privately summons Ise and offers him three pieces of advice: avoid Hall Master recruitment until Foundation Establishment, deflect vague promises with non-committal words, and watch his conduct since Gwisu Temple's vouch does not erase the Chief Examiner's suspicions about his demonic qi. Ise accepts the counsel respectfully.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
12:32
Chapter 18
Chapter 18 opens with the sparring exam between Ise and Hae Unchan on the training ground before Hall Masters. The examiner calls the two boys forward and signals the match to begin. Hae Unchan attacks first with swift, textbook sword techniques, while Ise relies on Dokkaebi Steps and his shield to evade and counter. Their exchange grows fierce, with both trading blows and spiritual energy attacks. Ise eventually lands a decisive shield strike to Hae Unchan's head, knocking him down. After a grueling back-and-forth battle of attrition where both run dry on spiritual energy, Ise delivers a final blow enhanced by demonic qi, defeating Hae Unchan. The examiner declares Ise the winner. Following the match, Kang I-tae privately summons Ise and offers him three pieces of advice: avoid Hall Master recruitment until Foundation Establishment, deflect vague promises with non-committal words, and watch his conduct since Gwisu Temple's vouch does not erase the Chief Examiner's suspicions about his demonic qi. Ise accepts the counsel respectfully.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
12:32
19
Chapter 19
The induction ceremony begins with sixty-seven successful applicants gathered in the examination grounds, including fifty-nine inner disciples and eight external affiliates. The top five scorers—Ise, Hae Unchan, Hong Wonseo, Seolryeong, and Pi Garam—stand at the front and exchange teasing remarks about spirit artifacts and rankings. The ceremony proceeds with a soul-binding blood oath administered by Kang I-tae, explaining the two oath clauses regarding betrayal and secret cultivation arts. Ise asks follow-up questions about the consequences of breaking the oath. Next, the five top scorers choose private instruction from great cultivators; Ise selects Haeil, while Hae Unchan chooses Ahsan. Hong Mi-hee then asks each applicant about their motivations, receiving honest answers about revenge, world exploration, clan restoration, truth, and becoming the greatest Shaman. She promises to craft sacred-relic-grade spirit artifacts for them. The ceremony concludes with Kang I-tae's final address and the recitation of the Ten Precepts of Demon Hunting. Afterward, Ise is introduced to his private dormitory by Park Gangseo, his assigned senior guide.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
11:37
Chapter 19
The induction ceremony begins with sixty-seven successful applicants gathered in the examination grounds, including fifty-nine inner disciples and eight external affiliates. The top five scorers—Ise, Hae Unchan, Hong Wonseo, Seolryeong, and Pi Garam—stand at the front and exchange teasing remarks about spirit artifacts and rankings. The ceremony proceeds with a soul-binding blood oath administered by Kang I-tae, explaining the two oath clauses regarding betrayal and secret cultivation arts. Ise asks follow-up questions about the consequences of breaking the oath. Next, the five top scorers choose private instruction from great cultivators; Ise selects Haeil, while Hae Unchan chooses Ahsan. Hong Mi-hee then asks each applicant about their motivations, receiving honest answers about revenge, world exploration, clan restoration, truth, and becoming the greatest Shaman. She promises to craft sacred-relic-grade spirit artifacts for them. The ceremony concludes with Kang I-tae's final address and the recitation of the Ten Precepts of Demon Hunting. Afterward, Ise is introduced to his private dormitory by Park Gangseo, his assigned senior guide.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
11:37
20
Chapter 20
Ise rises before dawn and heads to Cheongsan's upper reaches, where a long line of entry disciples waits outside the Library Pavilion. Seolryeong, already waiting at the front, exchanges early-morning greetings with Ise. Inside, a Library Pavilion administrator enforces rules and explains that only introductory texts are available to newcomers; proper secret manuals require contribution points and missions. Ise peers over Buchun's shoulder at a Demon Hunter Volume manual, politely coaxing the nervous novice to finish so he can read the Qi Condensation Realm cultivation notes. Hae Unchan arrives late, and the two exchange good-natured barbs over the book's immortal cuisine section. After learning advanced texts are unavailable, Ise secures a private cultivation room and begins practicing spiritual energy extraction, discovering his progress is limited by insufficient stored energy and resolving to hunt demons for cultivation resources.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:34
Chapter 20
Ise rises before dawn and heads to Cheongsan's upper reaches, where a long line of entry disciples waits outside the Library Pavilion. Seolryeong, already waiting at the front, exchanges early-morning greetings with Ise. Inside, a Library Pavilion administrator enforces rules and explains that only introductory texts are available to newcomers; proper secret manuals require contribution points and missions. Ise peers over Buchun's shoulder at a Demon Hunter Volume manual, politely coaxing the nervous novice to finish so he can read the Qi Condensation Realm cultivation notes. Hae Unchan arrives late, and the two exchange good-natured barbs over the book's immortal cuisine section. After learning advanced texts are unavailable, Ise secures a private cultivation room and begins practicing spiritual energy extraction, discovering his progress is limited by insufficient stored energy and resolving to hunt demons for cultivation resources.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:34
21
Chapter 21
Ise receives his weekly allocation of spirit artifacts and Spiritual Stones from his assigned senior Park Gangseo, who explains how to use the Purification Staff and Demon-Sealing Talisman Book. He then visits the Training Compound Administration Office, where a Foundation Establishment cultivator at the notice board informs him that few assignments are available early in the year. Ise selects the only remaining assignment—an evil-spirit elimination at Namsangol for Hajin Guesthouse—and seeks a Shaman applicant. He asks Seolryeong, who initially resists but eventually agrees on the condition that he help her with her own cultivation. The pair travel to Cheongsan City's hidden merchant street, where Seolryeong introduces Ise to Hyeon-ong, an old artifact merchant, who offers spirit artifact explanations for a fee.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
11:11
Chapter 21
Ise receives his weekly allocation of spirit artifacts and Spiritual Stones from his assigned senior Park Gangseo, who explains how to use the Purification Staff and Demon-Sealing Talisman Book. He then visits the Training Compound Administration Office, where a Foundation Establishment cultivator at the notice board informs him that few assignments are available early in the year. Ise selects the only remaining assignment—an evil-spirit elimination at Namsangol for Hajin Guesthouse—and seeks a Shaman applicant. He asks Seolryeong, who initially resists but eventually agrees on the condition that he help her with her own cultivation. The pair travel to Cheongsan City's hidden merchant street, where Seolryeong introduces Ise to Hyeon-ong, an old artifact merchant, who offers spirit artifact explanations for a fee.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
11:11
22
Chapter 22
Ise buys a single-use protective spirit artifact and meets Seolryeong outside, where she asks what he purchased. He explains it is a protective talisman, and the conversation turns to dual-cultivation arts, which Ise misunderstands, earning a scolding from Seolryeong. The pair descend Cheongsan toward Namsangol during the Third Day Festival, navigating crowded market streets filled with food stalls. At a dumpling tavern, Ise pays the auntie tavern keeper with a Misfortune-Warding Talisman instead of coins, explaining its karmic benefits to Seolryeong. They then visit the Great Exorcist Order outpost, where external affiliate Hong Sadeuk greets them and dismisses the servants. Hong Sadeuk presents a sick guesthouse broker suffering from demonic qi exposure. Ise and Seolryeong question the old man about the bamboo forest and a black ghost attack, concluding that the oversized bamboo grove is likely an undiscovered demon, which would earn them an additional reward upon capture.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:14
Chapter 22
Ise buys a single-use protective spirit artifact and meets Seolryeong outside, where she asks what he purchased. He explains it is a protective talisman, and the conversation turns to dual-cultivation arts, which Ise misunderstands, earning a scolding from Seolryeong. The pair descend Cheongsan toward Namsangol during the Third Day Festival, navigating crowded market streets filled with food stalls. At a dumpling tavern, Ise pays the auntie tavern keeper with a Misfortune-Warding Talisman instead of coins, explaining its karmic benefits to Seolryeong. They then visit the Great Exorcist Order outpost, where external affiliate Hong Sadeuk greets them and dismisses the servants. Hong Sadeuk presents a sick guesthouse broker suffering from demonic qi exposure. Ise and Seolryeong question the old man about the bamboo forest and a black ghost attack, concluding that the oversized bamboo grove is likely an undiscovered demon, which would earn them an additional reward upon capture.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:14
23
Chapter 23
Hong Sadeuk bids farewell to Ise and Seolryeong at the edge of a bamboo grove thick with demonic qi. The pair advance into the forest, noting the rising cold and the absence of the expected woman's crying. Ise's precise demonic qi sensing confirms they are near the source. Seolryeong begins a binding ritual with a Silver-Iron Blade, but the black wind proves insubstantial. A voice calls out from the formless demon, and Seolryeong's binding fails as the wind takes tiger shape. Ise thrusts toward the bamboo tube at the forest center, halted by a little girl's cry. The mist dissolves to reveal a tiny woman — the Bamboo-Tube Beauty, a corrupted spiritual material. She introduces herself humbly; Seolryeong confirms her spiritual nature despite demonic corruption. Ise questions her about her origin and journey, then learns she cannot leave the grove. They debate capturing her alive for headquarters.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:19
Chapter 23
Hong Sadeuk bids farewell to Ise and Seolryeong at the edge of a bamboo grove thick with demonic qi. The pair advance into the forest, noting the rising cold and the absence of the expected woman's crying. Ise's precise demonic qi sensing confirms they are near the source. Seolryeong begins a binding ritual with a Silver-Iron Blade, but the black wind proves insubstantial. A voice calls out from the formless demon, and Seolryeong's binding fails as the wind takes tiger shape. Ise thrusts toward the bamboo tube at the forest center, halted by a little girl's cry. The mist dissolves to reveal a tiny woman — the Bamboo-Tube Beauty, a corrupted spiritual material. She introduces herself humbly; Seolryeong confirms her spiritual nature despite demonic corruption. Ise questions her about her origin and journey, then learns she cannot leave the grove. They debate capturing her alive for headquarters.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:19
24
Chapter 24
In this chapter, Ise and Seolryeong are investigating the Bamboo-Tube Beauty (Geuma), a guardian spirit who appears before them pleading for help. She recounts her backstory: for three hundred years she lived alone on Immortal Mountain until a wandering scholar named her and spent an hour each day teaching her letters, composing poems, and singing. She fell in love with his kindness and followed him north when he returned home, giving him her spirituality to restore his health. For seven years she knew happiness, but after fifty years of waiting alone, her spirituality ran dry and resentment drove her toward corruption. She now flowers—a sign she will soon become a full demon. Seolryeong argues they should help her rather than simply exorcise her, invoking the Daoist path of righteousness. Ise agrees to a seven-day search for the scholar, then reports to the Order. Geuma reveals her final hope is to hear the name the scholar gave her, which only he can call. Ise promises to save her strength and avoid ordinary people, vowing to perform a spirit-sending rite if she becomes a demon.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:12
Chapter 24
In this chapter, Ise and Seolryeong are investigating the Bamboo-Tube Beauty (Geuma), a guardian spirit who appears before them pleading for help. She recounts her backstory: for three hundred years she lived alone on Immortal Mountain until a wandering scholar named her and spent an hour each day teaching her letters, composing poems, and singing. She fell in love with his kindness and followed him north when he returned home, giving him her spirituality to restore his health. For seven years she knew happiness, but after fifty years of waiting alone, her spirituality ran dry and resentment drove her toward corruption. She now flowers—a sign she will soon become a full demon. Seolryeong argues they should help her rather than simply exorcise her, invoking the Daoist path of righteousness. Ise agrees to a seven-day search for the scholar, then reports to the Order. Geuma reveals her final hope is to hear the name the scholar gave her, which only he can call. Ise promises to save her strength and avoid ordinary people, vowing to perform a spirit-sending rite if she becomes a demon.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:12
25
Chapter 25
Ise and Seolryeong return to the Great Exorcist Order outpost after the Bamboo-Tube Beauty mission. Hong Sadeuk, initially delighted the mission ended safely, listens to their full report about Kim Siwon. Ise asks him to check headquarters records whether a cultivator named Kim Siwon exists, and Soran is instructed to make over a hundred copies of the portrait sketch. After a half-day wait, Hong Sadeuk returns with a talisman reply: permission to pursue the cultivator, but no Order affiliate by that name. Concluding Kim Siwon is an independent cultivator, they plan a one-week village search. Later, Ise and Seolryeong discuss how the cultivator may have moved Bamboo-Tube Beauty's spirituality to a cave abode to protect it, deducing the enemy likely never left a blessed grotto. They worry about the cultivator's realm and the danger of an untalented person defeating a genius.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:59
Chapter 25
Ise and Seolryeong return to the Great Exorcist Order outpost after the Bamboo-Tube Beauty mission. Hong Sadeuk, initially delighted the mission ended safely, listens to their full report about Kim Siwon. Ise asks him to check headquarters records whether a cultivator named Kim Siwon exists, and Soran is instructed to make over a hundred copies of the portrait sketch. After a half-day wait, Hong Sadeuk returns with a talisman reply: permission to pursue the cultivator, but no Order affiliate by that name. Concluding Kim Siwon is an independent cultivator, they plan a one-week village search. Later, Ise and Seolryeong discuss how the cultivator may have moved Bamboo-Tube Beauty's spirituality to a cave abode to protect it, deducing the enemy likely never left a blessed grotto. They worry about the cultivator's realm and the danger of an untalented person defeating a genius.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:59
26
Chapter 26
On the fourth day of their week-long mountain search, Ise and Seolryeong decide to camp in place rather than travel back and forth, noting that spiritual energy is denser there. Over the fire, they discuss life at the Great Exorcist Order and the sect's founding history; Ise compliments Seolryeong's clan knowledge, and she promises to tell him more later. On the sixth day, Hong Sadeuk arrives with useful intelligence: a healer in Cheongrim Village reported seeing a man matching the portrait about half a month ago, appearing to be in his fifties. The trio visits the apothecary, where the elderly healer confirms the target wore white Daoist robes and bought mountain herbs for pill refining, suggesting the man has not abandoned cultivation. After paying the healer and arranging for Cold-Center Herbs to be gathered, they head to a tavern across the street, show the tavern owner the portrait, and learn the target headed northwest.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:43
Chapter 26
On the fourth day of their week-long mountain search, Ise and Seolryeong decide to camp in place rather than travel back and forth, noting that spiritual energy is denser there. Over the fire, they discuss life at the Great Exorcist Order and the sect's founding history; Ise compliments Seolryeong's clan knowledge, and she promises to tell him more later. On the sixth day, Hong Sadeuk arrives with useful intelligence: a healer in Cheongrim Village reported seeing a man matching the portrait about half a month ago, appearing to be in his fifties. The trio visits the apothecary, where the elderly healer confirms the target wore white Daoist robes and bought mountain herbs for pill refining, suggesting the man has not abandoned cultivation. After paying the healer and arranging for Cold-Center Herbs to be gathered, they head to a tavern across the street, show the tavern owner the portrait, and learn the target headed northwest.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:43
27
Chapter 27
Ise refines a general antidote using all ten Spiritual Stones while Seolryeong watches. After completing it, he tells her to buy a gift in case they are invited by a senior cultivator. Seven days later, exactly as Seolryeong predicted, they locate a shabby mountain keeper's hut that conceals a cultivator's cave abode. Ise playfully poses as a fortune-teller, reading Seolryeong's fortune for a coin. Inside, they wait from dawn to dusk. Seolryeong produces a Message Talisman from Hong Sadeuk to signal headquarters if they do not return, and they resolve to confront the occupant directly. Ise knocks; the door opens, a projectile spirit artifact strikes his unprotected hand, and a burst of spiritual energy follows. Through the smoke, they see independent cultivator Kim Siwon, a man in his fifties, who demands they address him as Senior and questions how they found his hidden abode. Ise explains they are Order entry disciples and offer cooperation in exchange for silence about the cave.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:52
Chapter 27
Ise refines a general antidote using all ten Spiritual Stones while Seolryeong watches. After completing it, he tells her to buy a gift in case they are invited by a senior cultivator. Seven days later, exactly as Seolryeong predicted, they locate a shabby mountain keeper's hut that conceals a cultivator's cave abode. Ise playfully poses as a fortune-teller, reading Seolryeong's fortune for a coin. Inside, they wait from dawn to dusk. Seolryeong produces a Message Talisman from Hong Sadeuk to signal headquarters if they do not return, and they resolve to confront the occupant directly. Ise knocks; the door opens, a projectile spirit artifact strikes his unprotected hand, and a burst of spiritual energy follows. Through the smoke, they see independent cultivator Kim Siwon, a man in his fifties, who demands they address him as Senior and questions how they found his hidden abode. Ise explains they are Order entry disciples and offer cooperation in exchange for silence about the cave.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
9:52
28
Chapter 28
Ise and Seolryeong visit the secluded cultivator Kim Siwon at his cave abode, using the phrase 'fortuitous encounter' to earn his trust. Ise explains that Bamboo-Tube Beauty sent them; Kim Siwon, moved, recounts how a fire destroyed his map and he lost his memory, agreeing to accompany them. On the misty mountain path, Seolryeong complains about Ise's smelly snack, and Ise offers her a pill. At the bamboo grove, Ise calls out Bamboo-Tube Beauty. The spirit material recognizes 'Scholar' Kim Siwon and weeps apology. Ise holds Kim Siwon at hatchet-point, warning him of corruption. Kim Siwon's demeanor shifts when he realizes his demonic qi is exposed; he reveals he has become a demonic cultivator and turns hostile, declaring the juniors must die. Ise had anticipated this: he releases poisonous gas from a spirit artifact gourd, neutralizing the Qi Condensation foes. Seolryeong takes the antidote pill, and Ise charges toward the retching Kim Siwon as the battle begins.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:59
Chapter 28
Ise and Seolryeong visit the secluded cultivator Kim Siwon at his cave abode, using the phrase 'fortuitous encounter' to earn his trust. Ise explains that Bamboo-Tube Beauty sent them; Kim Siwon, moved, recounts how a fire destroyed his map and he lost his memory, agreeing to accompany them. On the misty mountain path, Seolryeong complains about Ise's smelly snack, and Ise offers her a pill. At the bamboo grove, Ise calls out Bamboo-Tube Beauty. The spirit material recognizes 'Scholar' Kim Siwon and weeps apology. Ise holds Kim Siwon at hatchet-point, warning him of corruption. Kim Siwon's demeanor shifts when he realizes his demonic qi is exposed; he reveals he has become a demonic cultivator and turns hostile, declaring the juniors must die. Ise had anticipated this: he releases poisonous gas from a spirit artifact gourd, neutralizing the Qi Condensation foes. Seolryeong takes the antidote pill, and Ise charges toward the retching Kim Siwon as the battle begins.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:59
29
Chapter 29
In chapter 29, Ise engages the demonic cultivator Kim Siwon in a fierce battle, hurling a hatchet and advancing with the Vein-Severing Blade while Kim Siwon counters with talismans and a fire-attribute spirit artifact that engulfs Ise in flames. Just as Ise is overwhelmed, Seolryeong regains her senses and douses the blaze with a water-attribute spell, buying crucial time. Ise channels heaven-and-earth spiritual energy into his blade, shocking Kim Siwon, who realizes the boy has broken through to the second star of Qi Condensation Realm mid-combat. Ise wounds Kim Siwon's forearm with the Vein-Severing Blade, which devours demonic qi, then strikes his forehead and solar plexus to subdue him. Bamboo-Tube Beauty (Geuma) reveals her name's meaning as Kim Siwon's life fades, having been betrayed by the master she trusted. After Ise purifies the remaining demonic qi and seals the corpse in the Demon-Sealing Talisman Book, he explains the truth of Kim Siwon's exploitation to a grieving Geuma, who weeps as Seolryeong comforts her and promises a spirit requiem.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:13
Chapter 29
In chapter 29, Ise engages the demonic cultivator Kim Siwon in a fierce battle, hurling a hatchet and advancing with the Vein-Severing Blade while Kim Siwon counters with talismans and a fire-attribute spirit artifact that engulfs Ise in flames. Just as Ise is overwhelmed, Seolryeong regains her senses and douses the blaze with a water-attribute spell, buying crucial time. Ise channels heaven-and-earth spiritual energy into his blade, shocking Kim Siwon, who realizes the boy has broken through to the second star of Qi Condensation Realm mid-combat. Ise wounds Kim Siwon's forearm with the Vein-Severing Blade, which devours demonic qi, then strikes his forehead and solar plexus to subdue him. Bamboo-Tube Beauty (Geuma) reveals her name's meaning as Kim Siwon's life fades, having been betrayed by the master she trusted. After Ise purifies the remaining demonic qi and seals the corpse in the Demon-Sealing Talisman Book, he explains the truth of Kim Siwon's exploitation to a grieving Geuma, who weeps as Seolryeong comforts her and promises a spirit requiem.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:13
30
Chapter 30
Following Geuma's peaceful suicide, Ise and Seolryeong grieve briefly before deciding to strip Kim Siwon's cave abode of its spoils. Ise reveals he already looted the corpse while Seolryeong was crying, then they divide the haul: she takes thirty Spiritual Stones for a shape-shifting saber artifact, and he keeps the rest. Ise confirms he broke through to the third star of Qi Condensation during the battle, deepening Seolryeong's exasperation at his unfair talent. After handing the demonic cultivation manuals to the Great Exorcist Order and receiving treatment and supplies from Hong Sadeuk at Namsangol outpost, the pair travel to Cheongsan City. There they visit spirit-artifact merchant Hyun Woonja, who appraises Ise's sickle-shaped artifact only to reveal it is merely a multipurpose cooking cleaver worth five Spiritual Stones — Ise had effectively been swindled out of thirty. Amused despite himself, Ise accepts the loss as fate.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:31
Chapter 30
Following Geuma's peaceful suicide, Ise and Seolryeong grieve briefly before deciding to strip Kim Siwon's cave abode of its spoils. Ise reveals he already looted the corpse while Seolryeong was crying, then they divide the haul: she takes thirty Spiritual Stones for a shape-shifting saber artifact, and he keeps the rest. Ise confirms he broke through to the third star of Qi Condensation during the battle, deepening Seolryeong's exasperation at his unfair talent. After handing the demonic cultivation manuals to the Great Exorcist Order and receiving treatment and supplies from Hong Sadeuk at Namsangol outpost, the pair travel to Cheongsan City. There they visit spirit-artifact merchant Hyun Woonja, who appraises Ise's sickle-shaped artifact only to reveal it is merely a multipurpose cooking cleaver worth five Spiritual Stones — Ise had effectively been swindled out of thirty. Amused despite himself, Ise accepts the loss as fate.
Guest access includes first 16 of 159 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
10:31
Novel discussion
Comments
Discuss the story without chapter-specific spoilers.
Sign in to join discussion.