Rumble...
Unexpectedly, Song Jin doesnt rush into an attack but observes me instead.
[What are you? I've never heard of a human possessing a Demon Core, nor such bizarre techniques... It seems you know something about me.]
A clear defensive stance!
'It seems he can't fully sense me because I entered quietly without smashing the barrier as I did in my past life.'
Compared to when he had absorbed all the ghostly energy of the Nether Crossing Ship and displayed Core Formation peak level prowess in my previous life, he currently hasn't absorbed the ships ghostly energy, so only a mid Core Formation stage aura is present.
"How could I not have heard of the infamous Black Ghost Valley? Let alone a Heavenly Being cultivator leading it!"
[Heh, you mustve heard the Mad Lord killed me, are you mocking me?]
Rumble!
Song Jin gathers enough ghostly energy.
He launches an attack.
Screaach!
Thousands of white bone skeletons rise like a tidal wave around me and surge towards me.
I extend my Formless Sword.
Severing Mountain Swordsmanship, Layered Mountains, Mountain and Valley Transformation.
The Formless Sword spreads in all directions in the shape of thorny terrain, completely dominating the surrounding space.
Then the sword undergoes another transformation.
Severing Mountain Swordsmanship, Severing Vein Saber Method, Fist Technique, Leg Technique, Foot Technique, Ground Technique, Spear Technique...
A mix of numerous martial art changes.
Every field I researched together with Kim Young-hoon in my past life.
Over 200 years, I had further developed and refined my Formless Sword, using hundreds of transformations per second to push Song Jin back.
His spells break apart, completely overwhelmed by my Formless Sword.
The first clash.
And in this first encounter, Song Jin is overwhelmingly outmatched.
Kuuaaaaaa!
Song Jin's body absorbs the ghostly energy around him, transforming into a huge monster ghost.
The form I had seen last time.
However, this time he seems to maintain his sanity, calmly observing his surroundings.
Severing Mountain Swordsmanship, Dragon Vein, Qi Mountain Heart Heaven, Cliff Edge.
Swoosh!
The Formless Sword moves even faster, grows larger, and reaches a speed that is unmatchable.
The entire body of the monster ghost is slashed in an instant, and Song Jin, reverting from his monster ghost form, casts a new spell.
Rumbling!
Blue ghost fire gathers in his hands.
However.
Severing Vein Saber Method, Mountain Wind!
Whizz!
The ultra-fast thrust hits the weak spot of the ghost fire before he can react, causing it to explode right in his hands.
[Argh...]
Three clashes.
That alone makes the difference in our strengths clear.
The Formless Sword, honed and refined over 200 years, has reached an extreme level of proficiency.
Compared to the Formless Sword when I first faced Song Jin, it has undergone a change as vast as the difference between heaven and earth.
Had he been in his prime, a living Heavenly Being, it would have been entirely different. But at this point, he can't defeat me.
Song Jin grits his teeth, looking at me as he realizes he can't win.
But instead of further pressuring him, I decide to change the topic a bit.
"Hmm... I too have seen the Mad Lord."
I recall the battle between the Mad Lord and Seo Hweol in the clouds unseen.
Seo Hweol, who covered the entire Ascension Path with water with a single gesture.
And the Mad Lord, who consistently overpowered him and the Sea Dragon Tribe.
"Honestly, just surviving a battle with such a monster and leaving behind a remnant soul is nothing to be ashamed of."
[...]
Song Jin falls silent at my words.
His intent is mixed with shame, anger, depression, and lamentation.
[...You're right. In that war, the Mad Lord suddenly decided to attack us, and he rushed in unprepared. He destroyed a third of our main forces just like that. If he had fully prepared for war against us, Black Ghost Valley's 500,000 years of history would have ended that day.]
"..."
Song Jin sighs.
[So why... Why has a strong one like you invaded the Nether Crossing Ship, and why are you after it? This ship is in ruins, and you dont seem to need its ghostly energy for your cultivation...]
"Hmm..."
I think about making up an excuse but decide to tell the truth.
[...You came looking for that half-dragon's belongings?]
At his words, Seo Ran, who is hiding behind me, flinches.
Song Jin's eyes blaze with even more intense blue ghost fire.
[There's nothing of yours in this ship. What belongs to Black Ghost Valley stays in Black Ghost Valley. Abandon your greed and leave..!]
But Seo Ran steps forward after swallowing hard.
"Please, senior, I implore you. What I seek is... an heirloom of my mother."
Crackle!
Intense blue ghost fire surges from Song Jin's eyes.
[Why are you searching for your mother's heirloom in the Nether Crossing Ship of Black Ghost Valley!]
"...That is because my mother was a disciple of Black Ghost Valley."
Kugugugugu!
Song Jin seems to shudder, alternating his gaze between me and my Formless Sword.
Recalling the three clashes just moments before, he is sizing me up.
I don't avoid his gaze.
In my past life, I had hunted him with Kim Young-hoon right after obtaining the Formless Sword, and over 200 years, I had further honed the Formless Sword.
Now, even if he absorbs all the ghostly energy of the Nether Crossing Ship and fights me, I don't think I will be easily outmatched.
Especially now that he was unprepared for my sudden visit.
'Come at me.'
After a moment of eye contact with me, Song Jin lets out a small sigh.
[...Fine. I'll give you half a day. Search the Nether Crossing Ship and find your mother's heirloom. If you can't find it within half a day, as an elder of Black Ghost Valley, I'll find a way to expel you for trespassing...!]
Apparently feeling burdened by the prospect of direct combat, Song Jin ultimately agrees to a compromise.
Woosh...
The raging ghost fire in his eyes subsides.
I also sheathe my Formless Sword.
[Remember, half a day. If you don't find your mother's heirloom within that time, you must leave the Nether Crossing Ship..!]
"Understood."
Seo Ran expresses his gratitude to Song Jin, and I glance at him before moving past.
Then, about half an hour later.
In the lowest level of the Nether Crossing Ship.
I find the room where Seo Rans mother's heirloom was located in my past life and promptly retrieve a jade slip for Seo Ran.
"By any chance, could it be this?"
"Ah...!"
Seo Ran's face turns tearful as he shakily takes the jade slip from me.
"Thank you, thank you so much, senior..."
"Its nothing. But it seems that the ghost is quite angry..."
Outside his mother's room.
There stands Song Jin, fists clenched and trembling with anger.
[You... How do you know about that child's room? You... What is your relationship with her...!?]
Seo Ran also looks at me with a puzzled expression.
'Did I make it seem that way...?'
True, going straight to Seo Ran's mother's room might have given him the impression that I have some relationship with her.
Anticipating a hassle, I concoct a slight lie.
"I once met White Bone Ghost Devil Heo Gwak, the Grand Elder of Black Ghost Valley, in Ascension Path. They were pleased with a certain valuable item they obtained and told me to ask for what I wanted.
It was then that Seo Hweol, the Sea Dragon King who was also there, asked me to fulfill Seo Ran's request. To efficiently complete this task, I asked Heo Gwak about the location of Seo Rans mother's room."
[What...]
After listening to my explanation, Song Jin looks incredulous but reluctantly nods.
[...Alright, let's say that's true..]
"How about stepping aside from the door? Both Seo Ran and I wish to leave. Didn't we find the heirloom within the half-day you proposed?"
[...Wait.]
Song Jin, with his eyes ablaze with ghost fire, looks at us and speaks.
[You, half-dragon boy. Your mother was special to me too. So now, right here, read your mother's will with me.]
"What..."
Seo Ran looks uncomfortable, but under Song Jin's intimidating presence, he reluctantly sits down to read the jade slip.
I have no interest in meddling in Seo Ran's family affairs and step back, while Song Jin moves behind Seo Ran to read together.
After a while...
"...Keugk"
Tears begin to fall from Seo Ran's eyes, and the intensity of ghost fire in Song Jin's eyes weakens.
No, it softens.
[...Foolish child. Didn't you know that aside from the Sea Dragon King, the Sea Dragon Tribe is mostly self-centered and despicable creatures?]
He raises his ghostly arm, trembling, and snatches the jade slip from Seo Ran.
Seo Ran doesn't resist and lets Song Jin take the slip.
[You fool...! What was so good about your husband who died so irresponsibly? You ignorant thing...! Foolish...!]
Crack!
The jade slip starts to break under Song Jin's grip.
Only then does Seo Ran hurriedly snatch it back.
Song Jin glares at Seo Ran.
[I never liked you from the start, but now my dislike has grown even more. The fact that your existence ruined that child's life angers me greatly...]
Crack...
Suddenly, I see the ghostly body forming a new face over Song Jin's skull.
Ghostly energy converges into his skull, creating a face.
Its the face of a middle-aged man I have seen before.
Song Jins face, materialized from the dark ghostly substance, is shedding blue tears.
[Right now, I want to kill you on the spot, but...]
He glances at me and grumbles.
[Be thankful for that unique individual sent by Seo Hweol. I'm terrified of dying meaninglessly, failing to protect the Nether Crossing Ship... So I'll leave you be for now...]
"..."
Seo Ran silently listens to his words, then suddenly bows to Song Jin.
"Please, tell me about my mother."
[What...]
"I have lived my life despised even by the Sea Dragon Tribe, considered a half-breed. Even the Sea Dragon King left me behind, saying I couldn't accompany him in this battle of life and death.
Please, senior. Elder. I want to know what kind of person my mother was. I implore you... tell me about my mother."
[This boy now...]
Kugugugugu!
Dark blue ghostly energy fills the cabin.
But I reveal my Formless Sword and disperse the ghostly energy, causing Song Jin to glare at me.
"What's so difficult about telling a story?"
I look into his heart essence and intent, asking.
"It seems you really want to tell her story, but you're hesitating."
Though he appears as a ghostly figure, his heart image is a clear sea with a red-sailed boat.
He is clearly a good person.
His true feelings exposed, Song Jin clenches his teeth and shiveres for a moment, then drops his arms.
Whoosh...
The ghostly energy subsides again.
[...Seo Hweol sent a fearsome man.]
Thud!
Song Jin staggers and then sits down on a bed in the cabin.
Hes silent for a while, and so is Seo Ran, both looking at each other.
A moment of silence lingers in the cabin.
I read Song Jin's heart and step outside the cabin.
He no longer has any intention of harming Seo Ran.
Shortly after, I hear Song Jin talking to Seo Ran inside the cabin.
Initially, his voice is slow and heavy, reluctant..
But gradually, Song Jin's speech quickens and he becomes more expressive.
Seo Ran responds to him, and they begin to share stories.
'...This is an unexpected sight.'
Seo Ran and Song Jin sitting side by side, engrossed in conversation.
I ponder for a moment, lifting my Formless Sword.
Once you break free from fate, more and new things approach you.
Unspoken words and misunderstood connections.
Meeting anew and shaping a new future.
I glance back at the cabin once more, reading the intent flowing from within, and walk onto the deck of the Nether Crossing Ship.
Black Ghost Valley's formation hidden in the Black Wind Sea.
The center of the cylindrical well-shaped formation.
There, an open sky is visible.
Night has fallen.
Stars twinkle faintly beyond the clouds.
"Let's become stronger."
Stronger and even more stronger.
To grow strong enough to break free from all attractions of fate, to create a new future and new connections.
That is my resolve.
Seo Ran and Song Jin talk through the night and continue their conversation until the sun sets.
And once more, they talk well through the night until dawn.
Days pass like this.
The nature of their conversation and emotional exchange is unknown to me.
However.
[I have decided to take this boy as my disciple.]
Connections beyond fate sometimes give birth to miracles beyond imagination.
Song Jin decided to take Seo Ran as his disciple.
-x-X-x-
"...What wind blew into you?"
[It's none of an outsider's business. If you don't know, keep quiet.]
Although I felt irritated for a moment, seeing Seo Ran and Song Jin both seemingly relying on each other to some extent, I nod.
"Congratulations then."
"I can only thank you again, senior."
"It's alright. Seeing Seo Ran happy, it seems I've done well in carrying out the Sea Dragon King's errand." Seo Ran smiles at me and says, "Someday, if you need my help, please call on me. It's all thanks to you, senior, so I'll be sure to answer your requests three times, no matter what."
"I appreciate your kindness."
Seo Ran bids me farewell, and Song Jin, with a gruff look, tosses a comment at me.
[Since you've helped my disciple, as a master, I want to repay you. Is there anything you desire? I'll grant you three requests.]
"Three requests..."
I first point to my upper dantian and ask him.
"Can you possibly dissolve the mental restraint curse on my upper dantian?"
[Hm?]
Hearing my words, Song Jin looks at me and asks,
[Who placed the mental restraint curse on you? It's not the Sea Dragon King or someone of that sort, is it? I can't dissolve a curse by a Heavenly Being.]
"No, it's a person called Bloodwood Practitioner Yuan Li. Do you know him?"
[Ah...]
Song Jin nods and replies.
[I know of him. He's that Core Formation cultivator living in the Heaven-Treading Desert, correct? The one with an unusual dharma treasure. He couldn't reach the Nascent Soul realm due to lack of potential and was extending his life with elixirs.]
"Unusual dharma treasure?"
[Yes, it's a black castle-shaped dharma treasure. I don't know its exact name, but inside the castle, its owner can possess strength beyond their realm.
A Core Formation peak can have the strength of a Nascent Soul. Early Nascent Soul can have the strength of mid-Nascent Soul. Mid Nascent Soul can have the strength of late Nascent Soul.
It's a powerful dharma treasure that gives its owner strength beyond their realm, quite famous among Core Formation cultivators.]
Shiver!
'If I had directly sought Yuan Li in the Heaven-Treading Desert before...'
In the black castle, the Yuan Li, possessing the strength of the Nascent Soul realm, would have been my opponent.
'I'm glad I didn't go.'
I inwardly sigh in relief and ask.
"Why don't the Heavenly Being seniors covet such an incredible dharma treasure?"
[Ah, that...]
Song Jin clicks his tongue and explains,
[It's useless to anyone above Heavenly Being. Moreover, the dharma treasure has a force of destiny, making the trials of ascension much harder. That's why no one really touches it. Though, I've heard rumors that the Sea Dragon King peculiarly sought that dharma treasure.]
"Hmm..."
'Did Bloodwood Yuan Li desperately attack Serving Command Palace because of the black castle...' "Anyway, this mental restraint curse was placed by that Bloodwood Practitioner Yuan Li. Can you undo it?"
[Let me see, I need to flow my consciousness into your upper dantian to understand the curse.]
"Are you planning to do something with my consciousness as an excuse?"
[You, do you think so little of me, even though I am just a remnant soul now..!]
I look at him for a moment and then ask,
"Can you promise not to harm me, swearing on the Nether Crossing Ship?"
[Yes, I, Song Jin, swear on the Nether Crossing Ship not to harm you. Satisfied!?]
"Hmm, alright."
I nod and cautiously allow him access to my upper dantian.
Song Jin's cold consciousness infiltrates my domain of consciousness.
After a while, his consciousness brushes past the Five Elements Blood Curse Banner in my upper dantian and then leaves.
Opening his mouth, Song Jin says,
[If I were alive, maybe I could have dissolved it in a month.]
"So that means..."
[It's a bit difficult now. The curse was cast by Yuan Li, correct? Since he has the skills of the Nascent Soul realm, it's not easy with my current power.]
"I see..."
[However.]
Song Jin crosses his arms and continues.
His face reverts from the middle-aged face to his skeletal form.
[I can teach you a method to master the curse yourself. It's slower but effective in dissolving the curse, and once fully dissolved, you can transform it into your own unique technique.]
"Interesting, what method is it?"
[It's called the 'One Emotion Method,' a consciousness technique. You focus endlessly on a single emotion, understand it, and infuse your mental restraint with that emotion, making it your own.]
Woosh!
Song Jin tears off a piece of the damaged Nether Crossing Ship and writes down the intricacies of the One Emotion Method, handing it over to me.
[Here, no tricks involved. Take this. And what about the other two requests?]
"Hmm, thank you."
After skimming through the details of the One Emotion Method, I ask him for a cultivation method with the same requirements as last time..
'Between Devil Legion Terracotta Scroll and Silica Earth Great Wall Practice, I wonder which one is better.'
After some thinking, I request Silica Earth Great Wall Practice.
[Silica Earth Great Wall Practice, huh? It's quite a complex one to master, is that alright?]
"It doesn't matter."
[Hmm, if mastered, it's a method that can manipulate dragon veins, making one unmatched. However, it requires understanding the land where you're rooted. It's not only difficult to understand but also drastically loses power once you leave your original location, making it a half-useless method...]
"Does that not mean if I stay in my original place my power will increase significantly?"
I recall my past life.
'It seems better to learn the Silica Earth Great Wall Practice and defend either Shattered Heaven Peak or Serving Command Palace, as I will likely be stationed in one place.'
[If that's what you want.]
Song Jin once again produces the intricacies of the Silica Earth Great Wall Practice.
[And your last request?]
"My last request is..."
I look at Song Jin and point at Seo Ran.
"Please teach Seo Ran well. That will suffice."
[...]
Since Seo Ran has already offered to help me, there is no need to extract everything from Song Jin.
Unexpectedly, Song Jin looks momentarily flustered but then speaks.
[That goes without saying. Since it's something I should do anyway, consider that request void, and I'll
owe you another favor in the future.]
"Thank you."
I bow to Song Jin and then rise from my seat.
With Seo Ran's matter resolved and the One Emotion Method obtained, it seems the issue with the Five
Elements Blood Curse Banner will be resolved in about 30 to 40 years.
'Now, what remains is...'
Extending Kim Young-hoon's lifespan.
I recall the framework of the spell used by Yuan Li.
'I understand the general idea.'
Yet, could I redefine those details into a new spell to ripen the fruit of longevity?
First, I need a powerful energy source.
A source comparable to the boundless life energy Yuan Li absorbed from the Core Formation cultivators.
A powerful energy source.
'What can it be...'
Suddenly, my thoughts turn to the newly received Silica Earth Great Wall Practice.
A method that will ultimately allow control over dragon veins.
'Dragon veins...'
I stare intently at the Silica Earth Great Wall Practice.
'Could I use the immense power of dragon veins, refine it with Yuan Li's spell, and make the Longevity
Fruit ripen?'
The immense natural force flowing through the earth might be comparable to the life energy of tens of
thousands.
'Of course, it's fantastical.'
It's an unrealistic thought.
If it was that easy, why would there be devilish clans and human elixirs in this world?
However.
'Right now, even such a fanciful idea needs consideration.'
I have to invest in seemingly impossible tasks to forge new paths.
And for that, I need,
'Formations and knowledge.'
New knowledge.
And if it's knowledge about formations.
'The three great figures of the Qi Building realm. The alchemy of Makli Yeun-ryo. The magic artifacts of
Gomyo Cheon-saek. And the formations of Cheongmun Ryeong.'
I decide to seek out Cheongmun Ryeong.
After receiving the Silica Earth Great Wall Practice from Song Jin, I left the Black Wind Sea and went to
where Kim Young-hoon was waiting.
"You've grown even more in these few days..."
Kim Young-hoon has already taken another step towards Five Energies Converging to the Origin.
"You're right. Since I couldn't speak the language here, I focused more on reading people's intents, which
advanced my understanding of Three Flowers Gather at the Summit."
I am amazed at his rate of growth.
Despite my easy explanation about Five Energies Converging to the Origin, he's already nearing that
realm.
'He might reach the realm faster than expected.'
After pondering for a moment, I speak to him.
"Kim Hyung, how about we part ways now?" "What? Why are you saying that all of a sudden?" "From what I see, Kim Hyung. You grow faster when you assimilate and apply understanding on your own, rather than just digesting what I've simplified and organized. I've already taught you everything regarding Five Energies Converging to the Origin, including the Ultimate Pinnacle and Beyond the Path to
Heaven."
"Yes, you did."
"Then, from now on, why not try reaching Beyond the Path to Heaven on your own in this world?" Given his nature, it seems he woul progress faster by challenging himself against the world rather than
just following me.
Though he looks flustered at first, my continued persuasion eventually leads him to nod in agreement.
After parting with Kim Young-hoon and asking him to eliminate Makli Jung later on, I leave Yanguo and head towards the Cheongmun Clan in Byeokra.
"'If I directly go to the main house of the Cheongmun Clan, it will certainly surprise them...' Originally, the main houses of cultivating clans are known to those who should know, but officially, it's a
secret.
Cultivators of the Core Formation realm and above, such as clan heads and Core Formation elders, could visit other clan's main houses without being considered rude.
However, for elders who are merely at the Qi Building level, it's basic etiquette to pass through the territory of the cultivating clan before visiting, unless instructed by the clan head.
Of course, my actual strength is at Core Formation, but since my visible skill is at the very beginning of Qi
Building, I decide to act accordingly.
Thud!
I head to the territory of the Cheongmun Clan and use a spell on the formation that envelops the territory
to give it a stimulus.
My Pure Spiritual Force momentarily interacts with the formation, and soon after, a cultivator of the Qi
Refining 12th Star comes out.
""I am Cheongmun Jeon of the Cheongmun Clan. May I know which senior from which clan you are?"
He asks me courteously, and I reply.
"I am a wandering cultivator. I heard that a Qi Building cultivator of your esteemed clan, known as Cheongmun Ryeong, is an expert in formations, and I have come to consult him on a certain matter." "Ah! You've come to see the elder. Please wait a moment; I will contact the elders of the territory."
He takes out a communication device from his pocket, infuses it with spiritual power, and relays the
reason for my visit.
After a while,
A Qi Building cultivator from inside the territory comes out and welcomes me.
"Ha ha, my name is Cheongmun Dan."
Typical of a cultivator from the Cheongmun Clan, he is a muscular giant, and he leads me inside the
territory to his residence.
"Thank you for visiting the Cheongmun Clan. I heard you wish to see Cheongmun Ryeong Hyung. You
want to discuss formations."
"Yes."
"May I ask for your name?"
"My name is Seo Eun-hyun. Please call me Cultivator Seo."
"Understood, Cultivator Seo. Ha ha, it's an honor for our clan that a talent like Cultivator Seo has come to
consult with our hyung on formations.
First, as a distinguished guest like Cultivator Seo has visited, let me inform the main house and get back
to you. For now, let's have some tea while we wait."
Cheongmun Dan treats me, who has reached Qi Building, as an equal guest, and we have tea together, sharing various stories.
Although there isn't much to talk about regarding cultivation methods, the Cheongmun Clan is a martial
clan devoted to the Dao of Combat, so he and I share our battle experiences and have a hearty conversation.
A few days later, I'm invited to the main house of the Cheongmun Clan, and finally, I am able to meet
Cheongmun Ryeong in person. Cheongmun Clan's main house.
In one of the guest rooms.
Slide!
The sliding door opens, and a stern-looking old man with a goat beard enters.
I stand up and greet him respectfully.
"Hello, I have long heard of your reputation."
"Hello. There's no need for such formalities. We are both cultivators of the same ream... I will call you
Cultivator Seo. You can just call me Cultivator Cheongmun."
Facing my past master, who has become Cultivator Cheongmun, I open my mouth reluctantly, with a face
unable to cry or smile.
"Understood... Cultivator... Cheongmun."
My master has appeared before me as Cultivator Cheongmun.
-x-X-x-
"Is there something uncomfortable?"
"No... Thank you for your hospitality, Cultivator Cheongmun."
I face Cheongmun Ryeong while hiding my emotions.
He looks puzzled but does not ask further and takes a seat.
I sit down as well.
"I heard you came to discuss formations with me."
"Yes. I saw a spell a Nascent Soul cultivator used the other day, and I wanted to create a formation based on that framework, so I came to consult with Cultivator Cheongmun, an expert in formations."
"Can I see the kind of formation you are talking about?"
I show him the design of the formation I have planned.
Cheongmun Ryeong looks over the formation for a while and says,
"So, this is a formation that concentrates strong energy to transform into life force, thereby accelerating the growth of heaven and earth spiritual plants, correct?"
"That's correct."
"Thats inefficient. It would be faster to use the filthy methods of the devil path to refine life force and pour it in.
Why do you think such a formation has never been developed? Even if you pour a foolish amount of spiritual energy, its bound to be slow in accelerating the growth of spiritual plants."
"This is a very important matter to me. Is there really no way?"
"Hmm..."
After examining the formation for a while, Cheongmun Ryeong looks at me and asks.
"Cultivator Seo, I don't think you came to me with such a foolish formation structure. You must have some more information to request my help, correct?"
I nod and take out another book from my belongings.
Its a book recording information regarding the Longevity Tree and Longevity Fruits.
"Ive done detailed research on the heaven and earth spiritual plant I want to accelerate in growth. The species of the spiritual plant, its location, the condition of the surrounding dragon veins, the uniqueness of the area.
I even know the current state of the spiritual plant. It's just about to bloom and bear fruit, and it will be fully ripened in a few hundred years.
I want to use the formation to accelerate the ripening period by a few hundred years."
"Hmm."
Cheongmun Ryeong carefully examines the book I gave him, stroking his beard.
"If that's the case, a formation that only applies to that particular spiritual plant and accelerates growth for a few hundred years..."
As he looks at the book, he suddenly shudders.
"Hah, the Longevity Fruit...! Just one fruit can extend life by a hundred years...!"
"That's right."
"...I should mention this to the clan head. A spiritual plant that can extend life by this much is a tremendous treasure, especially for the Core Formation clan head.
Especially now, with the Ascension Gate open and many Heavenly Being cultivators having ascended... maybe I can get support from the clan head."
He asks me questions about the book and the formation and we end up talking through the night.
"Ah, its already dawn."
"Is there an issue?."
"Ha ha, it's been a while since I had so much fun. But I have to report to the clan head, so I must leave.
Daoist Seo, among the Qi Building cultivators I've met, you are the most knowledgeable and have an outstanding understanding of cultivation methods. Honestly, when you first presented that nonsensical formation structure, I thought you were mad...
Thanks to you, Ive learned a lot."
"No, Ive learned more from Daoist Cheongmun."
Daoist.
A nickname among cultivators of equal standing who are close.
He seemed to like me after talking through the night, and at some point, he started calling me Daoist.
-This foolish disciple!
-Cultivator Seo
-Daoist Seo
How my title changes over time.
Someday.
Will the word 'Senior' come out of Cheongmun Ryeong's mouth?
As I see Cheongmun Ryeong off, I feel a lingering bittersweet taste
As I grow more powerful, I can surpass fate and witness new miracles and changes.
But somehow, I feel some things should remain unchanged.
Im afraid of the day 'Senior' might come out of Cheongmun Ryeong's mouth.
"Ha ha, Cultivator Seo. Did you have a good talk with Ryeong Hyung?"
"Ah, Cultivator Cheongmun Dan."
Cheongmun Dan, who had led me to the main house, approaches and asks.
"It's been a long time since Ive seen Ryeong Hyung talk so happily. He always grumbles that there are only muscleheads in the Cheongmun Clan. It seems he really enjoyed himself for the first time in a while."
I only asked Cultivator Cheongmun questions. To say he was happy makes me feel embarrassed.
"Asking proper questions is no small feat. Cultivator Cheongmun Ryeong always complains about the ignorance of other Qi Building elders. Last night, listening to your conversation, it was rare not to see his usual prickliness. I'm truly impressed by Cultivator Seo's knowledge."
"That's kind of you to say. It's just that my master... taught me well."
I swallow the bitter taste in my mouth and force a smile.
"I see. May I ask who your master is?"
"I apologize, but I prefer not to disclose my master's name."
"I understand. It seems you are young, too. I wish even half of our clan's younger members are like Cultivator Seo."
Cheongmun Dan sighs, talking about how the recent generation is chasing after easy success and women, and how he should assemble them all and discipline them to restore order.
After some idle talk, Cheongmun Dan glances at me and asks,
"What about it, Cultivator Seo? If someone with your knowledge can lecture our clan's younger members..."
Hes making an offer for me to join the Cheongmun Clan.
Its a respectful proposition, unlike the ridiculous act of forcibly taking someone of equal status as a son-in-law.
"I'm afraid that being affiliated with a particular place doesn't suit my nature..."
"That's a pity. You have such a firm conviction, I wish my descendants could learn from you."
"You're having a tough time with the young generation of the Cheongmun Clan?"
I recall the siblings from the Cheongmun Clan who had been freely throwing punches at the Spirit Path Conference.
If all the younger members of the Cheongmun Clan are like that, it must be a headache for the elders.
"Well, it's not so much difficult as it is frustrating. No, not frustrating, but it's infuriating that they're bewitched by strange rumors, neglecting their cultivation and chasing after women."
"Chasing after women?"
Cheongmun Dan thumps his chest in exasperation.
"This is all because of the Mad Lord. Damn it. Since everyone saw him roaming around the whole world before the Ascension Gate, they believe anything related to him must be inherently good, leading some to blindly follow him.
Among them, the most troublesome is the top heir of the Byeok Clan, that rascal! Despite reaching Qi Building, he behaves disgracefully, enticing even the innocent children of the Cheongmun Clan to chase after women with him!"
Cheongmun Dan thumps his chest again, clearly angry.
"What exactly happened, if I may ask?"
It seems he was frustrated and desperately wanted someone to listen to his grievances.
"Just listen. Byeok Mun-seong of the Byeok Clan, one day found a cultivator in Byeokra with the same qualities as the Mad Lord, a Heavenly Being cultivator."
"What...!"
Im shocked and look at him in surprise.
"The same qualities as the Mad Lord..."
"Yes, the same kind of qualities as that mad old man. Therefore, not only the Cheongmun, Byeok, and Gongmyo clans but also cultivators from other countries showed interest.
However, it turned out that although this cultivator has the same qualities as the Mad Lord, their qualities are far inferior to the Mad Lord."
"What kind of qualities are they?"
Cheongmun Dan looks at me somewhat incredulously and asks.
"Dont you know about the Mad Lord's qualities? The Mad Lord was born with a talent known as 'Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent.'
Those with Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent show a natural aptitude for creating magic artifacts, formations, puppets, and such. When they concentrate on creating something, strange patterns appear on their skin, and the number of colors in those patterns determines their rank, from Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent of Seven Pattern to One Pattern. The more colors, the more impure and useless the talent; fewer colors indicate a purer and more innate talent."
"Ah, thats quite a unique quality."
He continue.,
"Well, true talent in Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent ranges from One-Pattern to Three-Pattern. Four-Pattern to Five-Pattern is just average, and Six-Pattern to Seven-Pattern is practically useless in creation."
I listen to Cheongmun Dan's explanation.
"But the cultivator found by Byeok Mun-seong is just a Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent.
He discovered a mediocre talent and exaggerated it as if he found someone with the same qualities as the Mad Lord. Claiming that securing this person would be a tremendous contribution to their clan, he lured not only his own clans younger members but also those from the Cheongmun and Gongmyo clans to chase after the woman!"
"That's unfortunate..."
"If it were someone from the Cheongmun Clan, Id have given them a good thrashing, but I cant do that to the heir of the Byeok Clan. It's infuriating."
"You must be deeply troubled."
Just then.
"I just discussed this matter with the clan head."
"Oh?"
Cheongmun Ryeong came out from the main house of the Cheongmun Clan and spoke to us.
"The clan head suggested that, together with Daoist Seo, we should completely eradicate the root of this problem."
"What do you mean, Ryeong Hyung?"
"The information about the Longevity Fruit brought by Daoist Seo. After discussing it with the elders, the clan head decided to support us unconditionally."
It seems the information about the Longevity Fruit and its accelerated growth was told among the clan head and elders.
"But what does that have to do with solving the problem?"
"Well, we need to study formations with Daoist Seo, and we need someone to provide the magic artifacts for the formation."
Cheongmun Ryeong slowly explains to Cheongmun Dan and me.
"So, the clan head plans to formally request that woman whos been causing a stir among the clan's younger generation lately to create the magic artifacts for the formation. By placing an order in the name of the Cheongmun Clan, and having that woman busy in her workshop, we can legally deal with any of the young heirs from our or other clans who cause trouble, considering it an interference with the Cheongmun Clans affairs."
"Indeed... Even though shes only a Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent, shes still a highly talented artifact craftswoman, certainly capable of producing satisfactory results."
"Yes, that's likely. Ha ha, thanks to the formation brought by Daoist Seo, we can also resolve the issues with our troublesome younger generation"
Cheongmun Ryeong grins and pats my shoulder.
Suddenly, I have a question.
"I understand that those with Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent are naturally skilled in creating magic artifacts and such, but what level of this talent does the Mad Lord have?"
"Is that even a question? Obviously, hes a One-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent."
"The Mad Lord's talent is truly demonic. Just imagine, before the Ascension Gate opened, many Heavenly Being cultivators fled whenever the Mad Lord appeared."
Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan, who might have seen the Mad Lord before, both suddenly shiver.
'Not as high as One-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent, but still a Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent...'
I become curious about the cultivator who possesses the same kind of talent as the Mad Lord.
"Well, Ryeong Hyung. We should proceed in the Cheongmun Clan's decisive manner. Should we just kidnap her?"
"Yes, let's go and kidnap her quickly."
"...?"
'What?'
I can't keep up with Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan's conversation and ask them for clarification.
"Aren't we supposed to place an official order?"
"Indeed. However, the magic artifacts for the formation must be continually refined and experimented with as we research the formation.
Wouldn't it be better if the Cheongmun Clan makes them and conducts experiments directly? That's why we plan to kidnap her and have her create the artifacts."
Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan look at me as if wondering what the problem is.
'Right, this clan is known for its excessive boldness...'
After all, this is the clan that tried to kidnap me for a forced marriage when I was weak.
"We will officially pay her and place a proper order after kidnapping her."
"The plan under the clan head's name won't cause her any harm, other than temporarily changing her residence."
"..."
I hesitate, not knowing where to start objecting, and then sigh softly.
"...How about we first meet this Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent cultivator, and then ask for her opinion?"
Anyway, Cheongmun Ryeong, Cheongmun Dan, and I flew eastward to Byeokra on a flying artifact to kidnap the Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent. The creator needed for the formation.
'Wait, this direction is...'
I feel a sense of dj vu.
"Daoist Seo seems a bit unfamiliar with the Cheongmun Clan's way, I assume?"
Ah, yes."
Cheongmun Ryeong strokes his beard and speaks.
"People of our main house don't act thoughtlessly like thieves. We observe the situation and act appropriately.
It's just that, according to our clan's principle, we tend to be a bit more aggressive."
"..."
Cheongmun Dan continues.
"We're not kidnapping the artifact craftswoman just for our sake. Right now, that woman is surrounded and troubled by the heirs of not only the Cheongmun Clan but also the Byeok, Gongmyo, and other clans.
She might even prefer to be under the protection of the Cheongmun Clan."
"Hmm..."
Thinking about what Cheongmun Dan said, it seems that from the craftwoman's perspective, this might not be such a bad option.
"The founder of our clan, Ancestor Cheongmun Chang-ho, once said,
'Always consider the other's perspective when you act, but once you take action, do it boldly, no matter how.'"
"I see..."
Thinking about it, the Cheongmun Clan's attempt to capture me for a forced marriage wasn't entirely bad for me.
A bit aggressive, but always considering the other's perspective that is the Cheongmun Clan.
'But this direction... Could it be that the Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent cultivator is'
In the distance, the skyline of the easternmost part of Byeokra begins to appear.
"Ryeong Hyung. Are we going to use ropes for the kidnapping, or do it stealthily?"
"Let's do it stealthily."
"..."
Whooosh!
Facing the sandstorm of Cheon-saek City attached to the Heaven-Treading Desert, Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan packed a large cloth and scanned the area below.
If my memory serves right, that's where the lady lived..."
Cheongmun Ryeong's gaze turns to an alley.
Inside the alley is the White Magic Lotus Artifact Store that I have seen before.
There it is."
Could it be her?
I sigh softly, pondering what to do.
But Ryeong Hyung, aren't there other clans descendants in the alley?
Hmm, indeed.
As stated, the alley is packed with cultivators possessing consciousness.
Even cultivators appearing to be at the Qi Building stage are present.
These pathetic ones, chasing after a woman. Now that the Cheongmun Clan is involved, lets snatch her away as flamboyantly as possible.
Let's do that.
Then, Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan leap down from the flying magic artifact shaped like a ship, cutting through the sandstorm.
The Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent is required by our main house, we will take her to the Cheongmun Clan!
What..."
What is..."
At the booming shout of Cheongmun Dan, the surrounding cultivators flinch and look up at the sky.
No one dares to stand against the mid Qi Building aura of Cheongmun Dan.
Even a cultivator at the early Qi Building stage grimaces but remains still.
And when Cheongmun Dan unfurls the cloth,
I dont know what business my daughter has with you, but that will be a bit inconvenient."
Rumble!
A surge of white spiritual energy approaches.
Cheongmun Dan flinches, crossing his arms to block the wave of spiritual energy, which writhes and transforms into a huge tiger, blocking Cheongmun Dan and Cheongmun Ryeong.
The two retreat to the top of buildings, looking down at the tiger.
Kugugugu!
This is, Qi Building late stage!?
The tiger made of spiritual energy also leaps into the sky.
And from the dissipating spiritual energy tiger, a middle-aged man in white emerges.
He wears a white robe, a blue ring turned necklace around his neck, and various glass magic artifacts on his wrists.
I am the guest elder of the Gongmyo Clan, Buk Joong-ho. I'm unsure what the Cheongmun Clan wants with my daughter, but I ask for a formal request rather than such rash actions.
Hmm, a guest elder of the Gongmyo Clan."
The individual governing this Cheon-saek City.
Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan step back, and I remember him.
That Qi Building cultivator who tried to recruit me to the Gongmyo Clan...!
He was her father.
Our clan has come for..."
Cheongmun Ryeong slowly explains their purpose to Buk Joong-ho.
After listening for a while, Buk Joong-ho nods.
So, you tried to kidnap my daughter for that reason. I'm a bit angry, but Ill tolerate it for the sake of the Cheongmun Clan. Indeed, my daughter is in trouble because of the clan descendants..."
Buk Joong-ho frowns for a moment and then speaks.
However, even if I wanted to let my daughter go to the Cheongmun Clan, she will refuse to go."
Hmm? What do you mean?
Cheongmun Ryeong asks in surprise.
Buk Joong-ho rubs his temples, looking vexed.
Its due to her mothers last will. She told us to wait for a betrothed who promised to marry my daughter in Cheon-saek City and would come with a token. Hence, she wont leave Cheon-saek City to honor her mothers last will."
Hmm..."
Cheongmun Ryeong frowns and asks.
Is there no way? It's an important matter instructed by our clan head..."
If its for a few days, she might, but she wont leave Cheon-saek City for several months for such a matter. If you try to kidnap her against her will, youll have to fight me.
After pondering for a moment, Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan both sigh lightly.
We understand. We'll just have to study the magic artifacts in Cheon-saek City. What do you think, Daoist Seo?
I have no objections.
Well, then, let's do that..."
Cheongmun Ryeong commands the clan descendants gathered in the alley below.
You brats! The Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent artisan you're surrounding has an artifact commissioned by the formal order using the name of the Cheongmun Clan! It is a multi-year project, so anyone disturbing the artisan will be punished in the name of the Cheongmun Clan. Scram!"
Upon hearing that, most of the late-stage cultivators furrow their brows.
Its then.
Among the late-stage cultivators, one who looks to be of a similar physical age to me, floats into the air and respectfully greets Cheongmun Ryeong.
"It is an honor to meet Cultivator Cheongmun Ryeong, one of the three greats of Qi Building.."
"Yes, I am also honored to meet Cultivator Byeok Mun-seong, the most talented late-stage heir of the Byeok Clan. You just barely missed being selected for the official ascension group of the Righteous Path Alliance, didnt you?"
"Ha, I'm embarrassed."
Byuk Mun-seong, clad in a brown robe, strokes his unique long ponytail as he continues.
"However, I have something to say to Cultivator Cheongmun Ryeong. Regardless of the Cheongmun Clan's affair, right now, several late-stage cultivators from various clans and she are in the middle of a bet. Cheongmun Clan's matter is important, but the bet cannot be delayed. Could you please wait just a little longer?"
"A bet? What kind of bet?"
Cheongmun Ryeong furrows his brow and asks, to which Byuk Mun-seong replies with a sly smile.
"She has made a deal that if any of us late-stage cultivators can properly handle the magic artifact she's making, shell end her long seclusion in Cheon-saek City and go on a trip with the cultivator who handled the magic artifact properly."
"Huh, so you mean to say that right now, when the Cheongmun Clans affair is urgent, you plan to take the artifact artisan on a trip?"
Cheongmun Dan glares at Byeok Mun-seong with fiery eyes.
Byeok Mun-seong, still at early Qi Building, steps back with an awkward smile.
"That's not what I meant. Anyway, I just want to secure a promise. It's fine to go on the trip after the Cheongmun Clan's affair is settled."
"Hmm... Did Cultivator Buk not object to his daughter traveling with a young man?"
At Cheongmun Dan's words, Buk Joong-ho calmly speaks..
"I allowed it. Im sad that my daughter is too confined to Cheon-saek City because of her mother's last words, so I told her to continue with the bet. Of course, I will accompany her."
Cheongmun Dan and Cheongmun Ryeong looks at me.
"Is it okay with you, Daoist Seo?"
I look at Byeok Mun-seong and ask.
"How long will this bet take, approximately?"
"Ah, well..."
That's when it happens.
Paaat!
A bright light bursts from within White Magic Lotus.
"Ah! It seems the magic artifacts have just been completed. If you could wait just half a day, the bet will be over..."
I nod.
"Alright. Thats fine..."
Cheongmun Dan and Cheongmun Ryeong also nod, and we decide to watch how the bet unfolds for half a day.
After a while, I feel spatial fluctuations from the space inside the magic artifact store.
'It feels similar to space compression... Perhaps the inside is larger than the outside.'
I recall when I went to kill the previous emperor of Yanguo.. Even the emperor who was only at the Qi Refining stage had hidden in a pavilion that was larger on the inside.
'Is that magic artifact store itself a kind of space-like artifact?'
After a while, the door of the magic artifact store opens, and the late-stage cultivators from various clans and Byeok Mun-seong enter the store.
Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan also enter the store after getting permission from Buk Joong-ho.
I too enter the store after getting permission.
Whooosh!
Wo-woong!
As the spatial feature on the store itself activates, the appearance of the store completely changes from the last time I entered.
On a large platform are flags, swords, mirrors, bells, scrolls, wheels, and more.
Numerous forms of magic artifacts are displayed, and as expected, she in white stands on the platform, looking down at us.
"Haha, indeed the magic artifacts of Miss Buk are different just from the aura they emit."
Byeok Mun-seong exclaims in admiration as he looks at the artifacts.
"Indeed, as promised. If someone can properly handle these magic artifacts, Cultivator Buk will agree to travel with that cultivator."
"Don't worry, Cultivator Byeok. However, as I mentioned earlier, I will set the standard for 'properly handling.'"
"Understood, I would like to hear the standards."
She lifts a bell-shaped magic artifact and infuses it with spiritual power.
Paaat!
A bright blue light emits from the bell, coloring the surroundings and casting a semi-transparent water curtain around her.
Ten stripes appear on this water curtain.
"The magic artifacts I have created will show one stripe for each tenth of their power unleashed. Thus, if any of you, with any magic artifact I made, can bring forth more than 60% of its power, I will consider the standards met."
"Hahaha, 60%?"
Byeok Mun-seong laughs aloud.
"How amusing. Even if the magic artifacts made by Cultivator Buk are impressive, do you think the distinguished heirs from various clans gathered here cannot draw out even 60% of a magic artifacts power?"
Not just Byeok Mun-seong, but snickers can be heard from around the room.
"This means everyone will likely draw out 60%, so we should determine the winner of the bet by who can enhance the magic artifact's performance the most."
A late-stage cultivator from the Gongmyo Clan chuckles.
However, she looks at him coldly and says,
"Well, I was worried that setting the standard at 60% might be too high and would be criticized. I wonder how many among you here can actually bring out even 20% of my magic artifacts power?"
"What, what...!"
The Gongmyo Clan cultivators face turns beet red upon hearing this.
"Are you mocking me!?"
"No, wasnt it you who started the mockery?"
Suddenly, her demeanor changes.
The soft and gentle look disappears, replaced by a fierce glare that dominates the room.
"How dare you stand before my magic artifacts and say that anyone can draw out 60% of their power? Do you think my magic artifacts are that easy?
If there are those among you who saw the failures displayed in White Magic Lotus and thought my magic artifacts are trivial, please leave now. I do not wish to speak with those who cannot recognize the true value of my magic artifacts."
Under her intense presence, the Gongmyo Clan heir seems to flinch and then, thumping his chest, steps forward.
"Fine, then I'll be the first to test the magic artifacts! After all, a magic artifact is just a magic artifact, how impressive can it be?"
He climbs onto the platform and grabs a flag-shaped magic artifact.
Wooong!
And after a while...
Fisss...
The magic artifact looks to light up but then, just as quickly, the light goes out, and it droops lifelessly.
"Wh-what?"
"Full of confidence, yet you can't even activate the magic artifact."
"No, no... Ugh! I'm just not used to a flag-shaped magic artifact!"
The late-stage cultivator from the Gongmyo Clan goes around, touching other magic artifacts and infusing them with spiritual power.
But, just like the first, none of the magic artifacts light up; they just fizzle out.
The only one that even showed a sparkle was the mirror-shaped magic artifact he bragged he was most familiar with, but even that failed to produce a single stripe indicating 10% power.
"Th-this is a scam! What kind of magic artifacts are these! It's not meant for use!"
He shouts at her, but she just smiles and replies,
"If you lack skill, at least have some manners. Please step down. There is not a single magic artifact here that you can handle."
"Ugh...!"
Spiritual power of the earth attribute escapes from around the Gongmyo Clan heir.
I look at Buk Joong-ho and ask,
"Shouldn't we intervene?"
But Buk Joong-ho clicks his tongue and crosses his arms.
"No need. My daughter's magic artifacts are all difficult to draw power from but..."
Kwaang!
The Gongmyo Clan cultivator, unable to hold back, casts a spell.
Kurururu...
However, his spell is blocked by the water curtain produced by her magic artifact, disappearing without a trace.
Ten stripes are floating on the water curtain.
"If you can properly draw them out, it boasts considerable performance... In fact, even I, her father, can only draw up to 80% of the power from my daughters magic artifacts."
Pride fills Buk Joong-ho's face.
"A person without manners, skill, or character is trash. Please leave."
Wooong!
At her gesture, several magic artifacts floats in the air, displaying ten stripes, and point at the Gongmyo Clan cultivator.
The Gongmyo Clan cultivator's face reddens and then turns pale, but he soon descends from the stage amidst the jeers of other clan descendants.
"Kukkuk, knew that guy would be like this."
"What was he thinking, trying to handle a magic artifact?"
"Even in the Gongmyo Clan, known for their magic artifacts, he's famous for not being able to handle them."
After rearranging the magic artifacts, she looks around the audience and asks,
"Is there anyone else?"
And then, without exception, everyone starts to challenge her magic artifacts.
"An outstanding magic artifact artisan indeed."
Cheongmun Ryeong strokes his goatee and comments.
"Absolutely trustworthy."
"Isn't she somewhat of a magic artifact genius? It seems no one can properly draw out the power of the magic artifacts."
Indeed.
Many late-stage cultivators tried, but the one who managed to draw out the most power from a magic artifact could only reach 20%.
However, Cheongmun Ryeong is unimpressed.
"Outstanding, yes, but such magic artifacts can be crafted by any high-level refiner. Compared to Gongmyo Cheon-saek, who was absolutely wild, its clear she's still far behind. Gongmyo Cheon-saek used to brag to me about the magic artifacts he created, and compared to him, this law pattern artisan still has a long way to go."
Cheongmun Ryeong critically assesses her.
"It seems she deliberately made the circuits of the magic artifacts complex and difficult, whereas Gongmyo Cheon-saek's are simple yet elegant."
Cheongmun Ryeong looks to have some expertise in magic artifacts, evaluating them from a distance.
"Complex spiritual energy circuits allow one to create powerful magic artifacts from ordinary materials, but whether those are truly good magic artifacts is another question."
Buk Joong-ho nods somberly at Cheongmun Ryeong's words.
"You are right. My daughter still falls short compared to Elder Gongmyo Cheon-saek. But there is a reason she makes the circuits complex, please understand that."
"Alright. As long as she handles the clan matters properly."
Cheongmun Ryeong nods.
Soon, a gloomy air falls over the faces of the many cultivators gathered in the magic artifact store.
Among them, even the few outstanding ones couldn't draw out more than 20% of a magic artifact's power, let alone 60%.
As things turn out this way, some give up even before trying.
"This is a scam!"
"What nonsense is this!!!"
The crowd's mood grows hostile, but they are subdued by the presence of Buk Joong-ho, Cheongmun Ryeong, Cheongmun Dan, and myself watching from the back.
Then, breaking through the crowd, one person steps forward.
"Cultivator Byeok has stepped up!"
"That's right. If it's a Qi Building cultivator, maybe..."
Its Byeok Mun-seong, who had gathered the cultivators.
"Truly living up to her reputation. I have seen the magic artifacts of Miss Buk. But, honestly, only drawing out 60% of a magic artifacts power seems too easy, doesnt it?"
He chuckles and climbs onto the stage, examining the magic artifacts.
"If you're at Qi Building, understanding how to handle magic artifacts comes naturally. Even if you had set the condition at 90%, it would have been insufficient..."
Then, Byeok Mun-seong lifts a flying sword magic artifact.
"Let me show you the skill of a Qi Building cultivator!"
Wooong!
His Pure Spiritual Force surges into the flying sword.
The sword begins to shine, revealing stripes.
One stripe, two...
And then three!
"Wow... three stripes!"
"Is this what a Qi Building cultivator can do!"
"No one else could draw out even 30% of the power!"
But the stripes don't stop there.
"Four stripes!"
"Already 40%!"
However, the smile gradually fades from Byeok Mun-seongs face.
'How far will this go...'
Paaat!
As Byeok Mun-seong pours in more Pure Spiritual Force, a fifth stripe appears on the magic artifact.
"50%!"
"Look, Cultivator Byeok might just meet the standard!"
But not only me, Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan, even Buk Joong-ho sneer or click their tongues.
Its evident that Byeok Mun-seong is struggling.
"Tch, tch, pouring in power without understanding. I could draw out 70% myself..."
Cheongmun Ryeong clicks his tongue and mutters, attracting the scornful glances of many.
However, most recognize Cheongmun Ryeong as one of the top three in Qi Building, and many turn their heads back with murmurs.
And then.
Blink, blink...
As Byeok Mun-seong's face reddens, the sixth stripe faintly flickers and appears on the flying sword.
Then,
Fisssh!
The light on the flying sword goes out.
"It's done! Look, Miss Buk. I have drawn out 60% of the flying sword's power!"
However, her face remains cold.
"60%? Are you sure what you've shown is really 60%?"
"The stripes were visible, weren't they?"
"Hmm..."
She seems to ponder for a moment, and the crowd becomes on edge, awaiting her decision.
Frustrated, I blurt out without thinking,
"The sword... why handle it like that?"
Swoosh!
I flinch!
I look around as numerous eyes are now focused on me.
Unlike the looks directed at Cheongmun Ryeong, these stares linger.
Byeok Mun-seong, having heard my comment, looks at me.
No one dares to speak recklessly to me, a Qi Building cultivator, but their faces are filled with dissatisfaction.
Then Byeok Mun-seong, wiping sweat from his forehead, speaks.
"Ha, it seems you're around my age, fellow cultivator. How can you be so presumptuous?"
"I apologize if it sounded unpleasant. I just spoke without thinking, as I usually handle the sword."
"Oh, you're a sword cultivator? But I, Byeok Mun-seong, pride myself on being a sword cultivator too. How can a stranger criticize my way?"
"Sword cultivator?"
It seems hes referring to a cultivator who practices sword methods like flying sword skills.
"So, Cultivator Byuk, you mean to say you've primarily trained in flying sword techniques?"
"Yes, I'm known as the sword genius of the Byeok Clan, having entered the Qi Building stage. Seeing you're likely in early Qi Building, I suppose I have a higher understanding of swords than you, don't I? You shouldn't speak so thoughtlessly."
"..."
I flinch.
I was going to let it go.
However.
'Debating sword understanding in front of me?'
In front of me?
I approach the stage with a stern expression.
"What..."
I pick a sword-shaped magic artifact from among those on the stage and infuse it with Pure Spiritual Force.
"Watch. The sword..."
Wooong!
"Is used like this."
As I infuse the sword with power, it emits light.
Stripes appear one by one.
The stripes reach three, four, and five.
"Ha, haha... if that's all..."
And then the sixth stripe appears.
"..."
Byeok Mun-seong and the late-stage cultivators from various clans widen their eyes.
A clear sixth stripe!
But I continue to infuse the sword with power.
My Pure Spiritual Force is considerably stronger than Byeok Mun-seong's, and my understanding of the sword alone is enough to draw out the sword magic artifact's power.
Koooooom!
The seventh stripe appears.
Byeok Mun-seong stares at the sword I am holding as if his eyes will pop out, and she too looks at me with considerable interest.
The eighth stripe.
Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan are also surprised, and Byeok Mun-seong forces out a deflated laugh.
The ninth stripe.
Buk Joong-ho, watching from behind, is also startled and focuses more intently on my sword.
And then.
Koooom!
The sword magic artifact surges with energy, forming the final, tenth stripe.
I have perfectly drawn out 100% of the magic artifact's power!
"Ha, haha..."
Byeok Mun-seong steps back a few paces with a defeated expression, his face filled with defeat and a mix of anger and humiliation.
Clap, clap, clap, clap...
She smiles brightly and claps her hands.
"Amazing. Until now, no one but the creator myself has been able to fully draw out the power of these magic artifacts..."
Wooong!
I dont pay attention to her words and infuse even more spiritual power into the sword.
'Dare to talk about sword understanding in front of me?'
I'll show them.
What it means to be a sword cultivator!
Forget everything except the sword in front of you!
Koooom!
The sword vibrates wildly, and above the ten stripes, an eleventh stripe appears.
"Wha...!"
Even she, who has been calm until now, changes her expression.
"How...?"
But I focus on the sword, not paying attention to her.
Hundreds of spiritual energy circuits are visible within the sword.
I don't concern myself with the unknown circuits.
The important thing is the essence of the sword.
A weapon for cutting, stabbing, and swinging.
How to maximize the power of that tool to its limit?
That is, to swing the tool until it becomes one with my arm.
Severing Mountain Swordsmanship, First Move, Transcending Peaks!
Paaak!
When I take the stance and swing the sword magic artifact, a total of twelve stripes appear on it.
She completely loses her composure and stares intently at the sword in front of me.
"How, how is this possible? I never set it to produce such output. 120%? What have you done?"
"...I think 13, even 14 might be possible."
Woong...
I withdraw my Pure Spiritual Force and continue.
"But the sword might break. It appears that 120% is the maximum limit for this magic artifact before it breaks. It's a good artifact."
I hand the sword back and step away.
Byeok Mun-seong beside me avoids my gaze with a look of defeat and anger.
Far away, Cheongmun Ryeong and Cheongmun Dan look astonished by my skills, while Buk Joong-ho looks at me with an expression of disbelief.
"...It seems the winner is decided. What is your name, sir?"
She momentarily looks at the sword I have handed her and then speaks to me.
"My name is Seo Eun-hyun, just call me Cultivator Seo. But initially, I was not a participant in this bet."
"Not a participant? From the moment you entered the magic artifact shop, you were a participant. Among the others here, is there anyone who can draw out the power of magic artifacts like Cultivator Seo?"
No one responds.
"It seems there isn't. Then, as Cultivator Byeok previously spoken, I shall give the right to Cultivator Seo."
"Do as you please."
Byeok Mun-seong spits out his words and then leaves the magic artifact shop.
Many late-stage cultivators also follow him, and among them, the descendants of the Cheongmun Clan are caught by Cheongmun Dan and begin receiving discipline in a corner of the magic artifact shop.
"Anyway, you have proven that you can handle my magic artifacts properly, so I will give all these magic artifacts to you."
She points to the artifacts on the stage, and I look at them for a moment before saying,
"I'm sorry, but I don't need them."
"Excuse me?"
"I don't use magic artifacts..."
With an overwhelmingly superior alternative like the Formless Sword, why would I use something like a magic artifact?
"By the way, do you remember me, Cultivator Buk? You once gave me water and clothes..."
"Are you ignoring my magic artifacts now?"
But my words change her mood.
Shes feeling humiliated.
"No, that's not it..."
"Didn't you say you were a sword cultivator? Not using my magic artifacts means you find them unsatisfactory, right?"
'What's this...? Does having a similar talent to Mad Lord also mean shes mad as well?'
I feel perplexed and try to explain, but she speaks with an angry expression.
"Wait a moment, if you're not satisfied with these flying swords, I'll give you something better. I'll show you my successful creations...!"
"No, that's not necessary..."
Whoosh!
She runs into the back of the magic artifact shop, and Buk Joong-ho approaches, clicking his tongue.
"My daughter is usually kind and gentle, but her personality changes a bit when it comes to magic artifacts. She has great pride in the magic artifacts she's created herself, so please understand."
"Isn't this reaction a bit too much?"
"Well, that's because you're the only one who has drawn out 120% of the power of her magic artifacts. Since you're the first person she's seen do this, it seems her pride won't allow her to accept you not using her magic artifacts."
Soon, she comes back from inside the shop, carrying an armful of sword magic artifacts, and lays them out in front of me.
Each one emits a respectable spiritual aura and are so splendid they take one's breath away.
"These are the sword magic artifacts I'm most proud of. Please try holding one and then decide!"
Her face is brimming with confidence.
Unable to bear her expression, I pick up one of the swords.
Woong!
As I infuse power into the sword, a rainbow of spiritual energy covers the inside of the magic artifact shop.
Although stripes do not appear like before, I feel that I am drawing out more power than the magic artifact has.
She too must feel it, as she looks at the sword I am holding with a mesmerized gaze.
"I apologize, but I really don't need magic artifacts."
"Excuse me?"
I flinch!
I sense a chill flash in her eyes.
Her confident smile cracks, and veins throb on her forehead.
"Hahaha, how do you feel crushing the pride of an artifact artisan, Daoist Seo?"
Cheongmun Ryeong flies onto the stage and speaks.
When two Qi Building cultivators stand before her, she conceals her chilling demeanor and changes her expression.
"Daoist Seo and I, would like to entrust the owner of White Magic Lotus and the person endowed with the Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent, with a task.
"What kind of task might that be?"
"Daoist Seo and I intend to develop a certain formation, and for that, we need to create formation magic artifacts. Can you help us?"
She nods in agreement.
"Of course. However, isn't formation development a field that takes quite some time?"
"That's right. Hence, Daoist Seo and I will stay in Cheon-saek City to work on this project with you. It might take several years."
After nodding, she looks at me.
"So, while developing the formation artifacts, Ill also develop something that will satisfy Daoist Seo."
"No, really, I don't need any..."
Cheongmun Ryeong pokes me in the waist to stop me.
His telepathy reached my ears.
[How much do you plan to crush the artisan's pride, Daoist Seo? Having a magic artifact wouldn't be bad, just accept it.]
"Alright then. I appreciate your effort, but I'm not in a position to afford such artifacts."
Since you didnt like the artifacts you won for the bet, Im making you a replacement. My pride is at stake and since Cultivator Seo has shown new potential for my artifacts, I will make it for free.
Speechless, I just stare at a spot in the magic artifact shop.
"Anyway, I look forward to working with you. My name is Buk Hyang-hwa."
"My name is Seo Eun-hyeon. I appreciate your cooperation."
"Stay strong, Cultivator Byeok."
"Our clan elders say that Cultivator Buk's talent corresponds to the Four-Pattern among the Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent. True demonic talent begins to manifest from One-Pattern. Four-Pattern is just considered a level of an outstanding prodigy, so there's no need to be too disheartened, right?"
Byeok Mun-seong is receiving consolation from the other cultivators.
"Haha, thank you for your consolation, friends..."
"Well, it's unfortunate this time, but if there's another fun event, please call me, Cultivator Byeok."
"I'll see you later!"
As Byeok Mun-seong's mood seems to brighten a bit, the cultivators each ride their flying artifacts and return to their clans.
Later.
Byeok Mun-seong's face suddenly contorts in anger.
"Fools... She's not just a simple Four-Pattern... Why did I drag those guys around, bothering and annoying her..."
Kwaang!
He stomps in anger and gnaws his teeth.
"I can't let some unknown guy take her... If I can make her, who possesses demonic talent like that monster, mine, becoming a clan head isn't just a dream...!"
He bites his lips and walks into an alley.
"Let's wait for her to go on a journey. I still have a chance..."
"Serving Command Palace...?"
In the inner meeting room of the magic artifact shop.
Buk Hyang-hwa, who received the formation diagram, is startled.
"The creation of the legendary artisan."
"Yes. We need to create a formation that will stimulate growth for a spiritual tree inside, and you must create the formation artifacts for that."
Cheongmun Ryeong, Buk Hyang-hwa. and I sit at a table, discussing the formation.
After a while, she asks seriously,
"Can we enter Serving Command Palace? If I could see the dragon veins and qualities with my own eyes, it would be easier to create suitable magic artifacts."
"Hmm..."
"Additionally, Serving Command Palace is known as a treasure. If we can borrow its power for the formation artifacts, we can create even more effective ones."
However, Cheongmun Ryeong shakes his head.
"Serving Command Palace only appears once every 400 years. It will be several hundred years before it appears again..."
"Ah, but I know a secret way to enter."
"!"
At my words, Cheongmun Ryeong looks surprised, and Buk Hyang-hwa's face brightens.
"What kind of method is it?"
"Ah, I just need to ask a friend of mine."
I take out a communication device connected to Seo Ran.
The day turns to evening.
I reached out to Seo Ran, and along with Cheongmun Ryeong, we continued to discuss and sketch out the formation diagrams.
Buk Hyang-hwa announced she would create the basic magic artifacts for the formation and entered her workshop.
"Sigh..."
After finishing the discussion with Cheongmun Ryeong, I briefly step out of the meeting room.
'He always has an overwhelming number of questions.'
Cheongmun Ryeong is known for his inquisitiveness, constantly asking, Why do you think that way? This habit persisted even during our discussions on formations.
His sharp questions can be piercing at times, but they also bring a sense of nostalgia, as if revisiting the past.
'The past, once gone, never returns.'
This fact remains true, even for someone who has experienced regression.
Lost in such gloomy thoughts, I hear a noise.
Clang, clang!
From Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop inside the magic artifact shop, the sound of a hammer striking echoes.
'Buk Hyang-hwa is quite remarkable.'
To create magic artifacts, she hammers away beside the intense heat of the flames, her being a woman notwithstanding.
I casually approach her workshop and stealthily observe her working.
Creak, creak...
Shes carefully engraving something on a formation flag artifact, and then she proceeds to hammer and shape something new.
Suddenly, I notice something blossoming on her face.
Fzzzt...
Its a four-colored pattern.
This pattern, resembling tree branches, boar colors of gold, purple, light pink, and black.
The black and purple patterns, interwoven, create a semi-blended appearance.
'That must be Four-Pattern...'
Amidst the sparks, her figure, forging magic artifacts while adorned with four colors, continually captivates my attention.
In the midst of this,
Suddenly, our eyes meet.
"Ah, Cultivator Seo, have you come? I have something to ask of you."
"What would that be?"
"Here."
Whoosh!
She goes deeper into her workshop and returns with a large box, placing it before me.
Creak...
Upon opening the box, it contains numerous unfinished sword magic artifacts.
"These are artifacts I made, inspired by seeing you with the previous swords."
'All these, crafted in just half a day?'
Buk Hyang-hwa, with a confident expression, adds,
"These are specially made for you, Cultivator Seo. They're not finished yet, but I bet they won't easily unleash their full power this time. Why not try infusing them with your spiritual power?"
With a slight smile, I pick up one of the swords.
Once again, I channel Pure Spiritual Force into the sword.
As expected, the sword glows, emitting more than 120% of its intended output.
'I wonder if she will be disappointed... I feel sorry for defying her expectations.'
As Im about to speak to her,
'Hmm?'
Buk Hyang-hwa, in a daze, watches the sword as it releases strength beyond its limits.
Her mouth continuously moves, muttering something about artifacts, and her eyes are fixated on the sword.
'She must have gained some inspiration...'
Just then,
Woong!
The four-colored pattern reappears on her skin.
'Four-Pattern may only be considered equivalent to the level of a prodigy, but it seems to be a talent far surpassing ordinary magic artifact artisans...'
Suddenly, I shudder, observing her in her trance-like state.
The intertwined purple and black patterns look to be merging together.