Dust scatters in the air.
I swing my sword.
Boom, boom, boom!
Three valleys appear in front, and what looked like a mountain range at the end split into three parts.
As Byeok Mun-seong panicks, I close in on him.
I reach out and grab one of the hundreds of flying swords trailing behind him.
Woosh!
Even just in the air, the Formless Sword exudes terrifying power, and when combined with a sword, its concentration increases even more.
As I overlay the Formless Sword onto the artifact, it activates and emitted spiritual energy.
Flash!
It seems like a fire attribute flying sword. As flames burst forth, the Formless Sword catches the flames, creating a massive fiery sword.
Whoosh!
Boom!
Swinging the artifact overlaid with the Formless Sword, a massive fiery slash flies out, turning the desert into a glassy wasteland.
Each swing brings Byeok Mun-seong closer due to his fear affecting his control of spiritual power.
I grab another flying sword and swing again.
A water attribute flying sword.
Swoosh!
The desert in front transforms into a swampy area.
I swing a wood attribute flying sword, corresponding to the Zhen trigram (), containing the attribute of thunder, and lightning strikes all around, melting parts of the desert into glass.
Aaaargh!
Caught in the lightning, Byeok Mun-seong screams and loses control of his flying sword, plummeting downwards.
Plunk!
He falls into a sand dune, and Buk Hyang-hwa, who had managed to escape from his grasp, summons her artifacts nearby and safely land on one.
"Hmm, you are unharmed."
"You could have just waited a bit and caught this guy, but you had to come and complicate things."
"Hmm, no matter how many artifacts you have, you shouldn't underestimate the power of a Qi Building cultivator."
I point at him, crawling out of the sand dune.
Sssss!
"Yin Soul Ghost Incantation."
Swoosh!
Several curse spells fly towards him, embedding directly into his head.
Aaaargh!
Restrain!
Screech!
The curse spell burrows into his upper dantian, creating a mental restraint.
He rolls his eyes back, foaming at the mouth, and collapses.
I approach him, forming hand seals.
Why did you do this?
Hurrk... Ahh, ahh!
Answer, and the pain will lessen. Answer me.
I, I...
He starts babbling while drooling.
I alone... recognize her true worth...
Hmm?
I alone... can help her grow!
So you kidnapped her for that?
Thats... right...!
Buk Hyang-hwa, who has approached, asks coldly.
And what was that about being able to help me grow? What does that mean?
Answer.
Woosh!
I trigger the curse spell slightly, and Byeok Mun-seong, his eyes rolling back, replies.
The, the Byeok Clan... recently, in the desert... found it...
What is it?
The, the ruins of... the Jo Clan...
I ask curiously.
The Jo Clan?
What kind of clan is that?
I see Buk Hyang-hwas face turn serious.
You found the ruins of the Jo Clan?
Is the Jo Clan... a famous clan?
I ask puzzlingly, and Buk Hyang-hwa nods gravely.
Unless youve spent a long time in eastern Byeokra, you might not know. The Jo Clan, gone extinct a thousand years ago, was shrouded in all kinds of mysteries.
A thousand years ago, they were renowned in all areas of creation artifacts, puppets, talismans, elixirs. The most well-known fact to the general public is
Her explanation makes me startled.
The clan of the Mad Lord, Jo Yeon.
The Mad Lords clan...!
I become astonished and look at Byeok Mun-seong.
A thousand years ago, they ruled all of Byeokra, boasting tremendous power, then vanished overnight.
Some say the Mad Lord, in his madness, exterminated his own clan, but that seems implausible.
I recall what the Mad Lord had sobbed.
I exterminated my own clan that killed her.
...
I fall silent, and Buk Hyang-hwa continues interrogating the delirious Byeok Mun-seong.
So, what did you find at the Jo Clan ruins?
"In the ruins of the Jo Clan... of the Mad Lord Jo Yeon, a special... elixir formula... was discovered that enhances the talent of descendants who possess the Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent, growing their abilities."
"A special elixir? What is it?"
With a groan of resistance, he starts to speak under my mental restraint.
"It's an elixir that, besides enhancing spiritual power, significantly amplifies 'emotions' by incorporating the resentful souls of the ingredients used in the Qi Building Pills in its refining process. The Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent has a nature where if 'emotions' fluctuate beyond a certain level or through the accumulation of experience over a long period of effort, 'growth of quality' is possible. From Seven-Patterns to six, from four to three, from two to one. For Buk Hyang-hwa, who is a Four-Pattern Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent, with enough effort accumulated, there's a possibility to reach the level of Three-Patterns!"
I remember the half-mixed patterns of black and purple that had appeared on her.
"I, only I can help her grow, awaken her talent..."
"Is there anything else you wish to ask?"
"No, that's enough."
I form a spell and place my hand on his head.
"What should we do with him?"
"I can turn him into an idiot if you want."
After pondering, she shakes her head.
"Let it be. He has shown me kindness before, so let's call it even."
Buk Hyang-hwa coldly looks down at Byeok Mun-seong.
"But this is it, Cultivator Byeok. There's nothing between you and me anymore, no next time."
"You hear that? Remember her words."
I softly trigger the curse.
Screaming, he passes out, likely retaining only the memory of Buk Hyang-hwa's final words.
"Let's go."
"Okay."
Buk Hyang-hwa gathers her flying sword artifacts and ascends on a flying artifact with me back to Cheon-saeok City.
Feeling the desert wind, I ask her.
"Aren't you curious about the formula for that elixir? It could be beneficial for a cultivator like you."
She gives an awkward smile.
"Most cultivators don't know, but do you know the main ingredient of the Qi Building Pill, Daoist Seo?"
"I'm aware."
"Then, it's easier to explain. My father told me that human life force and essence blood are used in the Qi Building Pill. That formula is based on it, so I'd rather not consume it."
"Most cultivators consume it knowingly. Why don't you?"
"Have you consumed any Qi Building Pills, Daoist Seo?"
I smile wryly.
"I haven't."
"Then you understand... I'd rather not."
"I see."
"And I've been thinking."
Buk Hyang-hwa gently touches the skin where her patterns were visible.
"If talent can grow through experience and effort, I'd prefer to grow that way."
"A wise choice."
We continue to talk about talent and cultivation on our way back to Cheon-saek City.
Upon returning, she embraced Buk Joong-ho, who finally relaxed and hugged her back.
When asked about the kidnapper, Buk Hyang-hwa didn't mention Byeok Mun-seong, only deciding to increase her room's security and protective artifacts.
Thus, the kidnapping incident concluded.
A few days later, we resumed our discussions on the formation method.
The remaining parts included the external and inner array methods conceived in Serving Command Palace and the coordination between the formation artifacts.
We spent months redesigning the formation method, now nearing completion.
"The last part is the most tedious and time-consuming. We need to focus on trial and error to finalize the formation."
What remained was for Buk Hyang-hwa to create the formation artifacts, attract dragon veins to support the Longevity Tree, and finely tune the formation to the Longevity Tree.
This is time-consuming due to gathering the dragon veins.
The formation artifacts were quickly completed.
Buk Hyang-hwa made seventy-two formation flags and thirty-six formation discs, which Cheongmun Ryeong and I adjusted to fit the formation alongside Buk Hyang-hwa.
Now, we just have to wait for the dragon veins to gather after installing the formation!
"We need a place for test trials..."
Cheongmun Ryeong suggests, and Buk Hyang-hwa, adjusting the formation artifacts, replies.
"Should we find a place rich in dragon veins?"
"That would be ideal. Any suggestions?"
She hesitates before responding.
"There is a place near Cheon-saek City..."
"Let's go there."
"To install the formation there, we need my father's permission."
"Is it his property?"
With a bittersweet smile, she says,
"It's my mother's grave."
Embarrassed, Cheongmun Ryeong coughs and looks away
We cant do a formation experiment on your mother's grave. We should look for another location, even if it's a bit farther.
I believe my father will grant permission.
Buk Hyang-hwa puts down the formation flags on the table.
The purpose of this formation is to gather dragon veins to grow plants and trees, correct? Although my mothers grave is in a desolate desert, some small plants grow due to the dense dragon veins. If the formation could make my mothers grave more vibrant, I dont see why my father wouldnt agree. Ill ask for his permission.
Cheongmun Ryeong coughs and nods in agreement.
Alright, then please do.
Buk Hyang-hwa leaves to seek permission from Buk Joong-ho, and soon after, he enters the conference room where we are designing the formation.
After hearing again about the formations effects from Cheongmun Ryeong, he nods in approval.
She would have liked it. I entrust this to you, Cultivator Cheongmun.
If you say so.
Thus, the test trial site for the formation was decided to be the grave of Buk Hyang-hwas mother, Buk Joong-hos wife.
The spirit tablet is inscribed with the name Yeon (Lian / Lotus).
Buk Hyang-hwas mother, Buk Joong-hos wife.
Her name is Yeon.
Buk Joong-ho pours some liquor at Yeon's grave and then closes his eyes for a moment.
Yeon's grave is in a sandstone cave a little away from Cheon-saek City.
Or maybe it's not ordinary sandstone.
Due to the active dragon veins, the rocks seem to have transformed into a special ore infused with spiritual energy.
Whether Buk Joong-ho had created it or not, the cave's ceiling is open to the sky, letting in light.
Thanks to the light, various unknown flowers and grasses have sparsely grown inside the cave.
This location...
I recall the memory of Buk Hyang-hwa giving me water for the first time in my past lives. It seems she used to visit this cave even then.
Please set up the formation, Cultivator Cheongmun.
Understood.
Cheongmun Ryeong and I place formation flags and discs around the grave, outside, and at various distant spots.
The formation flags attract the surrounding spiritual energy and the formation discs gather the dragon veins.
Soon, spiritual energy gathers in the center of the grave, enhancing the vitality around.
The sparse grass and flowers begin to flourish more vigorously.
Cheongmun Ryeong and I complete the external formation setup and then move inside to adjust the inner formation.
My wife had no cultivation talent in her life. It's fortunate she now rests in a place filled with spiritual energy.
Buk Joong-ho spoke while looking at the grave.
Cheongmun Ryeong looks at the spirit tablet and asks him.
Yeon, that's a beautiful name. She mustve been a lovely wife.
Yes. My wife was beautiful. A good mother.
What is her family name?
Buk Joong-ho answers with a bittersweet expression.
My wife has no family name. Not because she lacked a family, but because her family was too eminent to give her one.
He caresses his wife's grave as he speaks.
Buk Hyang-hwa also looks at her father's back with a melancholic expression.
The esteemed cultivator from the Gongmyo Clan, Elder Gongmyo Cheon-saek. My wife was his illegitimate daughter.
A vein popped on Cheongmun Ryeongs forehead.
That lustful man... causing trouble again...
I dont resent him. He was kind to me, and my wife, being a mortal without any cultivation potential... well, it wouldnt make sense for the Gongmyo Clan to give the clan name to an illegitimate mortal daughter...
I apologize on behalf of my friend for his mistake.
No need. Thanks to Elder Gongmyo Cheon-saek, we have Cheon-saek City, and my wife and I could spend time here...
After looking at the grave for a while, he takes out a small sapling of magnolia.
Yeon loved magnolias. Please let this bloom.
Certainly.
Cheongmun Ryeong plants the magnolia sapling behind the grave and connects the dragon veins of the formation to the magnolia.
After 5 years, the dragon veins will accumulate spiritual energy, and then it will rapidly grow the magnolia. We can come back later to check on the dragon veins.
He sighs lightly and looks at Buk Hyang-hwa and me.
Thank you all for your efforts. All thats left is to observe the formation for 5 years, solve minor issues, and conduct trial and error.
5 years...
Cheongmun Ryeong sighs softly.
Even at this old age, instead of resting peacefully at the main house, I'm conducting tests on formations
Haha, I apologize for that.
No, Daoist Seo, you have nothing to be sorry for. It was our clan head's command after all.
Cheongmun Ryeong pats his back and leaves, while I briefly look at the Buk father-daughter pair and leave the grave with them.
And thus, five years passed.
In Buk Hyang-hwa's underground workshop.
In its secret chamber.
Stay strong, Miss Buk.
Hnngh!
I placed my hand on Buk Hyang-hwas back, infusing earth attribute spiritual power to support her.
Not much longer now! With the techniques Cultivator Cheongmun and I taught you
Flash!
The next moment, a light bursts from her eyes, and clouds of spiritual energy billow from her mouth.
Woosh
Possessing the roots of Earth, Wood, and Metal, Buk Hyang-hwa exhales and reabsorbs clouds of yellow, blue, and white spiritual energy.
Then, suddenly.
Rumble!
A sound like thunder seems to resound from her lower abdomen, indicating the circulation of Pure Spiritual Force within her.
For about five years, Buk Hyang-hwa had been taking spiritual elixirs provided by her father Buk Joong-ho. Additionally with the guidance of Cheongmun Ryeong, a leading authority in spiritual awakening, and my teachings, she had reached the peak of Qi Refining
Following my advice, she learned additional basic methods tailored to her spiritual roots, bringing them all to peak cultivation.
Along with her preparation and my help, she has finally reached the stage of Qi Building.
Ah! Pure Spiritual Force
She lifts her hand, showing the Pure Spiritual Force swirling around it, and lets out a small cry of joy.
Thank you so much, Daoist Seo.
Its nothing. It was a friends request after all.
Haha, Senior Cheongmun is somewhat of a friend too, isnt he? Yet, he said he wouldnt help, didnt he?
Well Cultivator Cheongmun is a member of the Cheongmun Clan, so helping a non-Cheongmun cultivator with Qi Building might cause some gossip within his clan, right?
Hmm
She gives me a meaningful look, then opens the door of the secret chamber and walks out, laughing.
Well, lets leave it at that. Now, lets visit the grave. Its time.
Alright.
Over the past five years, Cheongmun Ryeong, Buk Hyang-hwa, and I have grown closer.
And as I watch her walk away, I smile wryly.
Buk Hyang-hwa ascended to Qi Building, gaining an additional lifespan of 300 years. The spiritual energy accumulated in the dragon veins over five years activated the formation, rapidly growing the magnolia tree.
Ah
We marvel at the purple magnolia blossoms inside Yeons grave.
Especially Buk Joong-ho, who looks close to tears at the sight of the flourishing magnolia.
Thank you, Cultivator Cheongmun. Cultivator Seo. And thank you, Hyang-hwa.
We should be thanking you for providing land rich in dragon veins.
Cheongmun Ryeong humbly accepts Buk Joong-hos gratitude.
Unlike five years ago, the grave is now vibrant with dense spiritual energy, causing the inner grass and weeds to grow abundantly.
Theres no need to gather the formation artifacts weve spread out. Weve confirmed this formation works, so we can just make more if needed.
Thats right.
Thank you.
Thanks to the formation designed by Cheongmun Ryeong and me, Yeons grave will continue to be a place brimming with life.
After expressing his gratitude again, Buk Joong-ho exchanges pleasantries with us.
After the courtesies are done,
Cheongmun Ryeong looks at the formation and speaks.
Now, I'll return to the Cheongmun Clan and prepare a place near there similar to the first floor of Serving Command Palace, with similar dragon veins and environment. Ill wait another five years and test the formation there. If it works as well as it did here, well finally install the formation at the actual location of Serving Command Palace.
Please do, and thank you.
Theres no need for Buk Hyang-hwas or my help in the remaining process.
The formation artifacts are complete, and the formation is fully adjusted. What remains is Cheongmun Ryeongs test trial.
Then, see you in five years, Daoist Seo. Now that youre at the same level, Cultivator Buk.
Yes!
Understood.
Cheongmun Ryeong packs up his belongings and returns to the Cheongmun Clan.
Arent you leaving, Daoist Seo?
There's no need for further adjustment to the formation, so my presence there is unnecessary.
So, its just Senior Cheongmun leaving, and youre staying?
That seems to be the case.
You could go somewhere else. Why insist on staying here?
I cant find the words to respond and avoid her gaze.
She notices my reaction and gently chuckles, taking me by the arm.
Alright. Since you're staying, for at least the next five years, you'll be in Cheon-saek City, right?
That seems likely.
Then, how about we plant a new sapling in front of my mothers grave?
Suddenly?
You said you're staying, so let's commemorate that.
Unable to resist, I'm led by her to the market and somewhat bewilderingly buy a sapling.
What kind of sapling did you get, Daoist Seo?
Ah... a quince tree.
I stroke the quince sapling.
My old master used to say I resembled a quince tree, so I bought it in his memory.
We each carry our saplings and enter Yeons grave.
Arent you curious about the sapling I got?
Oh, I'm sorry.
Haha, it's fine. My sapling is
She caresses a blooming magnolia flower.
A white magnolia.
White magnolia
Just like my mother loved purple magnolias, I love white magnolias.
I feel she suits white magnolia, much like her preference for white attire.
We plant the quince and white magnolia saplings on either side of the purple magnolia tree.
The formation is aimed at the purple magnolia, so our saplings wouldnt grow rapidly but will gradually and naturally grow beside it.
Why did you suddenly decide to plant saplings, Miss Buk?
I told you, didnt I?
That's true, but
I sense she has other, unspoken reasons, but can't bring myself to voice them first.
Shall we head back?
...Let's do that.
We return to Cheon-saek City.
That evening, I once again sat on the walls of Cheon-saek City, facing the desert wind.
You seem to enjoy contemplation, my friend.
Buk Joong-ho approaches me from behind, echoing a scenario similar to five years ago.
His question is similar as well.
How is it going lately, getting closer to the young lady?
I brush my face with one hand.
Do you still have no feelings beyond friendship for my daughter?
The same question as five years ago, but my answer has changed.
...I find myself fond of the Miss.
Hahaha, I knew it. My intuition was right.
He chuckles heartily and sits beside me.
In fact, five years ago, you already liked my daughter.
...
You were able to hide your feelings back then, but now your affection has grown too strong to conceal, hasnt it?
He accurately guesses my inner turmoil.
I can't bring myself to remove the hand that covers my face.
Falling for someone.
He is right. Five years ago, I merely hid my feelings, but now theyre too evident.
I like her, more than I can deceive myself.
So, when will you confess to my daughter? From what I see, she won't reject you.
But.
Sir
That is it.
I have no intention of confessing to the Miss.
This love has to remain a beautiful memory.
If it becomes more than a memory, and the subject of that love vanishes beyond time,
I will surely go mad.
Hmm
At my response, Buk Joong-ho gives me a puzzled look.
Are you part of a specific religion that forbids romantic relationships?
No.
Or perhaps you have a preference for men?
...No.
Or maybe a special cultivation method that renders you incapable
No!
Then why?
He crosses his arms and asks me.
Why are you making such efforts not to be with my daughter since five years ago?
...
Had you truly disliked my daughter, you would have left Cheon-saek City with Cultivator Cheongmun. But you stayed, knowing your own heart. Yet you insist on not being with her?
He looks at me, unable to understand, and I resort to a shallow lie.
...I practice a peculiar cultivation method.
I continue explaining.
Its called the One Emotion Method. Its a method that intensifies a specific emotion to cultivate special powers. Im using your daughter to amplify my emotions for faster cultivation. Staying here is just for advancing my cultivation
You're lying.
I do practice the One Emotion Method.
No, no.
He looks me straight in the eyes.
You said you use emotions for cultivation, right? If you were with my daughter, wouldn't your emotions deepen even more? Why wouldnt you choose that?
...
Wouldnt that be more beneficial for you?
Indeed.
I practice the One Emotion Method to cultivate the Five Elements Blood Curse Banner, but the emotion I use isn't love.
Rather, its calmness.
Every time I think of Buk Hyang-hwa and feel my heart flutter, I deliberately use calmness as the emotion for my cultivation.
But now, my affection has grown too strong, overshadowing my calmness.
...Please give me some time.
Hmm
I cant say anything more, and Buk Joong-ho looks at me with an unimpressed gaze.
Fine. But I hope you make a decision quickly. My daughter has spent her life confined in the city, using her mother's last words as an excuse.
Her fate, as I see it, is you. Without you, she might never meet her fated and will continue to confine herself even more. I hope for a quick decision.
Buk Joong-ho descends the walls, and I close my eyes.
Days passed, and another pleasant visitor came from the west to stir my calmness.
How have you been, Eun-hyun?
Its Kim Young-hoon.
Lets have a match.
Flash!
He draws his gold-bladed saber.
'What the...!'
Without giving me a chance to be startled, Kim Young-hoon thrusts his saber towards me.
Vroom!
Boom!
A golden saber light strikes my body.
As I have reached the Qi Building stage, my body is always enveloped in protective Gang Qi. Thus, I didn't sustain any injuries from the blow, and I am merely flung outside the city.
Outside Cheon-saek City in the Heaven-Treading Desert.
With no more eyes watching me, I don't hesitate to draw out my Formless Sword.
Feeling the momentum of my Formless Sword, Kim Young-hoon's expression changes, but he charges at me with a smile.
Vroom!
Boom!
The golden light of his saber clashes against my Formless Sword.
Its fast.
And powerful.
And then...
"Kim Hyung."
"Hm?"
Thats all.
"You still haven't reached Beyond the Path to Heaven."
Boom!
I repel his golden saber light and swing my Formless Sword towards Kim Young-hoon.
He tries to counter with his golden saber light, but in an instant, my Formless Sword accelerates even faster, surpassing his speed.
Clang!
Kim Young-hoon barely manages to block my Formless Sword in a split second, but thats the end.
He can't show me anything more.
'The speed of Surpassing Radiant Saber caught up by Formless Sword?'
Thats impossible.
Surpassing Radiant Saber is the embodiment of extreme speed.
A martial art that literally exists in the brief instants of time.
That is Surpassing Radiant Saber.
Not so pathetic to be caught up in speed by the Formless Sword, which embodies freedom of trajectory.
I estimate Kim Young-hoon's realm.
'The extreme of Ultimate Pinnacle. Just a bit beyond the extreme?'
That seems to be all.
Kim Young-hoon laughs in vain and dissipates the golden saber light.
'As expected...'
The golden saber light doesn't return to his consciousness.
It was just, golden Saber Gang.
"Right. I haven't reached Beyond the Path to Heaven."
"The extreme of Ultimate Pinnacle."
Honestly, even that is an insane speed.
'Its been almost 7 years now since the cycle began?'
In just 7 years, this person has broken through Ultimate Pinnacle and slightly exceeded its limits.
'Before, it took 10 years just to reach Five Energies Converging to the Origin...'
Knowing that there exists a realm beyond the Path Beyond the Heavens, and understanding the martial principle of it, the time of reaching that state seemed to accelerate as he trained more fervently with it as his goal
"Even that much is an insane level of growth. Impressive."
In my past life, Kim Young-hoon had spent decades reaching Beyond the Path to Heaven.
Instead, just his talent to mimic the realm of Beyond the Path to Heaven with Ultimate Pinnacle realm martial arts is insane.
But he doesn't seem to think so, looking at me with dissatisfaction.
"Who are you mocking? You, who reached Beyond the Path to Heaven and Qi Building in less than half a year..."
"..."
"And as you've seen, the golden Gang Qi I just showed was just imitating the realm of Beyond the Path to Heaven."
He raises the golden Gang Qi with dissatisfaction.
Woo-woong!
Inside the golden Gang Qi, I feel the power of nine Gang Spheres.
Instead of naturally integrating Gang Spheres into consciousness and merging them, its a method of forcibly breaking the Gang Spheres and integrating them, then controlling them within a single Gang Qi.
Incredibly inefficient and has a short duration.
Additionally, if there's even a tiny mistake when splitting the Gang Sphere, it could immediately impact the entire body's meridians, posing a risk of becoming disabled, a truly dangerous martial art.
"That's a dangerous martial art. It would be better not to continue using that."
"No problem. If one has the ability to detect and control every minute flow, there's no chance of becoming a cripple."
I silently watch his golden Gang Qi.
'Ordinary people don't have the ability to control all those minute flows...'
Its a martial art that can only be used by leveraging Kim Young-hoon's overwhelming talent.
But I shake my head and say,
"Still, even if it momentarily catches up to the realm of Beyond the Path to Heaven, it's too inefficient and dangerous in front of real strong opponents.
Just me, for example. I'm confident I can suppress you using that within 10 seconds, without using the output of Pure Spiritual Force and consciousness, and just with the Formless Sword."
"..."
It wasn't a joke but a fact.
If its Surpassing Radiant Saber, the embodiment of speed, its unlikely. But that Gang Qi, in front of the trajectory embodiment of Formless Sword, is just the epitome of useless inefficiency.
I can say this because I am in a higher realm.
'Moreover, that's...'
Originally, that was one of the many trials and errors Kim Young-hoon repeatedly went through at the extreme of Ultimate Pinnacle.
In this life, I hadn't told Kim Young-hoon about the many trials and errors he had gone through from the Ultimate Pinnacle to Beyond the Path to Heaven.
'It's a path that leads nowhere.'
Seeing Kim Young-hoon a bit downcast, I say to him,
"So, you've come all this way to the far eastern edge of Byeokra..."
"Yes. Like you said, I've entered a strange path. I came to find you to break out of the mold of Ultimate Pinnacle."
"A wise choice."
I nod.
Its been over 200 years since I reached Beyond the Path to Heaven.
Im quite confident in guiding him on this path.
I smile at him.
His growth is ever accelerating.
Every time he faces a new goal, Kim Young-hoon's talent seems to spring from an endless well, reaching higher and higher.
Simultaneously, his rate of growth is quickening.
'Even if, by chance, I can't cultivate the Longevity Fruit in this life...'
Perhaps, within the remaining 50 years, I might see the realm above Beyond the Path to Heaven.
'Good...'
A new realm will be pioneered in this life!
"Kim Hyung."
"Hm?"
"Challenging me to a sparring match, besides the techniques you just showed, you must have something else up your sleeve, right?"
"Uh... no, what I just showed was the result of long contemplation and my ultimate technique..."
I chuckle at his flustered reaction.
"Then you'll have to come up with something new right away."
Rumble!
Seeing Kim Young-hoon after so many years, I can't let it end with just this.
Im itching for a proper martial duel.
"Don't worry. I won't use Pure Spiritual Force and will match my consciousness with yours. If you want, I won't even draw out my Formless Sword. Honestly, whether I draw it or not, I've already mastered the change in trajectories, so it makes no difference..."
"Eh, eh..."
I grin and approach the person in front of me, finally a worthy opponent to spar with.
Now I understand how Kim Young-hoon felt, exhilarated when he used to spar with me when I was just beginning in Five Energies Converging to the Origin and at the entrance of Ultimate Pinnacle.
For someone who has been alone at the top for so long, the chance to play with anyone, even slightly close to the summit, is enticing.
It doesn't matter how much lower in realm the opponent is.
After all, besides such an opponent, most couldn't even find the entrance to the mountain, let alone reach the summit.
I match his level, float nine Gang Spheres, and charge at him.
"This is my friend, Kim Young-hoon, Miss Buk. Kim Hyung, this is Miss Buk, who recently worked with me on a certain formation, Buk Hyang-hwa."
"...Hello."
"Hello... But..."
Buk Hyang-hwa looks up and down Kim Young-hoon with a pitying gaze.
"Did you encounter bandits? In the eastern part of Byeokra, it's common to meet bandit groups between cities."
"..."
"Wait a moment, I'll bring you some clothes."
She looks at Kim Young-hoon whos in tatters with pity and goes inside her work area to get clothes.
"...The lady from last time."
"Yes."
"...Introducing me in this state, are you happy?"
He glares at me, rubbing his slightly swollen jaw from the beating.
"...Ahem, I did heal you, didn't I?"
"Did you have a lot of pent-up frustration at the company?"
"...Let's just say that."
Honestly, I don't even remember the things that happened on Earth anymore, but I brush it off while avoiding Kim Young-hoon's gaze.
"Hooh, but I didn't expect you to have already made a lady friend. Seems like your love life is going well."
Kim Young-hoon, having read the intent between me and Buk Hyang-hwa, looks at me sharply.
"...It's not exactly a romantic relationship."
"It isn't?"
He points outside the magic artifact shop with an incredulous expression.
Outside, a couple that look like lovers are walking by.
"Do you see their intent?"
"...I do."
"And since you're at a higher realm than me, unless your brain is damaged, you would've seen your own and that lady's intent too."
"..."
'Damn...'
Being equals in martial arts meant we couldn't hide our inner thoughts from each other.
"It's just... not that."
"What do you mean it's not? If you have eyes, you can see the intent you two are emitting towards each other."
"..."
I avoid Kim Young-hoon's gaze, and he slaps his chest in frustration.
"You were like this in the company, but why are you so frustrating?"
Why are you even bringing up the company?
It was almost 700 years ago, and honestly, I can't even remember.
My memory and thinking has improved as my consciousness expanded, but still, 700 years is no short time.
"...Right. You probably didnt know at the company. Back then, you couldn't even read intent, you dull guy."
"Excuse me?"
"Except you, all the department people knew, you fool."
"What are you talking about?"
I wish we were talking about martial arts instead.
I couldn't follow what Kim Young-hoon was saying and just looked at him.
Kim Young-hoon looks at me with pity, then just clicks his tongue.
"....???"
I don't understand his attitude and look at him puzzlingly.
Later, when Buk Hyang-hwa came out with new clothes for Kim Young-hoon, I still didn't understand what he was talking about and just tilted my head in confusion.
Two days have passed since Kim Young-hoon came to Cheon-saek City.
I was helping Buk Hyang-hwa gather materials for magic artifacts, and told her what Kim Young-hoon said to me.
"...So, suddenly he says everyone from my hometown knew. Miss Buk, what does this mean?"
"Puhaha..."
Buk Hyang-hwa bursts into laughter hearing my words.
"No, Daoist Seo. Do you really not know?"
"Am I the strange one?"
"No, not strange. Just a bit slow."
"...I've heard that a lot before."
She chuckles and says,
"Among your hometown folks, there was someone who liked you, Daoist Seo!"
"Huh?"
Im startled by her unexpected answer.
'Someone in our department liked me?'
There weren't many female staff in our department.
There were about 8 female staff, one of whom was quite elderly, and three had boyfriends.
'Among those without boyfriends, who could have liked me?'
It couldve been Deputy Manager Kang Min-hee, Deputy Manager Oh Hye-seo, Manager Kim Yeon, or Manger Shin.
'Manager Shin rarely interacted with me, so not her... A colleague then? But who?'
I press my temples, confused.
Buk Hyang-hwa watches me with a subtle expression.
"Does it bother you, Daoist Seo?"
"Hmm... It's a bit surprising but not really bothering."
I brush off the thoughts with her voice.
In fact, I hardly remember the other colleagues except for Kim Young-hoon.
Its been 700 years.
700 long years without proper conversation.
Whether someone liked me, I liked someone, we disliked each other, someone bullied me, we were indifferent, or someone I trusted.
'I don't remember who's who. My memories and feelings have all faded.'
"Since they are not beside me now, I feel nothing. Rather, those with me now come to mind much more and are much more precious."
"Ah..."
"Huh? You look tired. Let me help."
I take the magic artifact materials from her reddened hands.
It seems hot.
We soon arrive at the workshop of White Magic Lotus.
"...Anyway, Daoist Seo. There's something I want to show you..."
Buk Hyang-hwa takes the materials from me and after arranging them inside, she calls me into the workshop.
"Come see. You might find it interesting."
"What is it?"
I follow her into the workshop.
In the center of the workshop, something covered with a white cloth was placed.
I tremble slightly at its outline.
"Is that..."
"Yes, that's right."
Whoosh!
She removes the cloth, revealing what is beneath.
A puppet.
Its the Mad Lord's puppet brought from Serving Command Palace.
"You restored the Mad Lord's puppet?"
"I can't restore the central circuit yet. It's too intricate. But I successfully restored the other circuits, so it can move if spiritual energy is infused. It can't exert full power, but it can output about 60% of its strength."
She looks at me and asks.
"Shall we try it out once?"
"Sure."
I readily agree.
The Mad Lord's puppet.
What level would 60% of the puppets original strength be?
Buk Hyang-hwa and I took the puppet outside to the desert.
"Here I go!"
Vrooom!
She inserted a spirit stone into a slot in the puppet and infused it with consciousness, and the puppet flapped its wings and flew.
'Incredible...'
I marvel at the dense circuits swirling inside the puppet.
Is it more intricate than a living creature's veins?
Amazing...
I see her command the puppet with her consciousness.
The next moment.
Bang!
"....!"
Startled, I released a Gang Sphere in front of me.
Boom!
Pure Spiritual Force shot from the puppet's rear in a sharp needle form, collides with the Gang Sphere.
'Such speed...'
The next moment, the bee puppet moves again, flying behind me and extending its stinger.
Crack!
I wrap my hand with Pure Spiritual Force and catch the puppet's stinger.
'This speed...'
Its the speed of Kim Young-hoon using five Gang Spheres.
Additionally, this attack uses the puppet's Pure Spiritual Force in the form of a stinger.
'It's a Qi Building level attack...'
This is only at 60% of its full power.
If the puppet could exert its full strength, it would be as strong as late Qi Building.
Chilling!
I indirectly experienced the Mad Lord's power through the bee puppet.
I shiver all over.
How many such remains, like this bee puppet, were casually discarded in Serving Command Palace?
Not just in Serving Command Palace, but also inside the Nether Crossing Ship, there were a lot more than just a few of these remains.
'If the puppet could exert its full power, its speed would be comparable to Kim Young-hoon at the Ultimate Pinnacle using nine Gang Spheres...'
Can a mere puppet achieve such speed?
Snap!
Lost in thought, the bee puppet cuts off the Pure Spiritual Force stinger and moves away from me, shooting another stinger from its rear.
Whoosh!
The bee puppet rushes at me again.
Boom!
I grab the puppet's head and slam it into the ground.
"Impressive. Both the Mad Lord and Miss Buk who restored the Mad Lord's puppet..."
"It wasn't that hard, really. It isnt a combat puppet and it wasn't too damaged."
"...Excuse me?"
A puppet that moves at the speed of Ultimate Pinnacle and can deliver a Qi Building level blow in a moment, is not a combat type?
"This isn't a combat type?"
"Right. Apart from the stinger, it doesn't have any special attack features. It's just fast, without any peculiar devices. You can tell from the functions embedded in the puppet."
Buk Hyang-hwa approaches me and points at the puppet.
In the area she indicated, theres an intricate formation, emitting strong spatial vibrations.
"This is a transport puppet used for carrying goods. I've marked a spatial coordinate inside the workshop... Look."
As she tinkers with the back of the puppet, it hums and changes its posture.
From an aggressive stance with its stinger out, it now assumes a peaceful and comfortable stance, extending its front legs.
Buk Hyang-hwa places a glass bracelet on its extended front legs, and the puppet embraces it.
"Using the spatial formation engraved on its body and its unique speed..."
Flash!
As she manipulates the back of the puppet and enters some command, the bee puppet shoots forward at high speed and then suddenly disappears.
"It moves to the set coordinates through spatial movement to transport goods."
"..."
"The bracelet has just been put down in my workshop. And now..."
She takes out a small formation disc from her pocket.
The formation disc is engraved with countless circuits, forming a small spatial formation.
Flash!
The next moment, the spatial formation lights up, and the bee puppet reappears before us.
On the front legs of the bee puppet is a hammer from her workshop.
"It seems like this puppet was used to transport goods. In Serving Command Palace, there were countless such puppets of Senior Mad Lord."
"..."
To think this wasn't even a combat puppet, but merely one for carrying goods.
I laugh hollowly, feeling the Mad Lord's power indirectly.
'Even if I reach the Heavenly Being stage in both cultivation and martial arts, I wonder if I can ever compare to Mad Lord.'
I marvel at the puppet before me.
Suddenly, I feel a strange emotion looking at the puppet.
'But this puppet...'
"Miss Buk, did you say the central circuit of this puppet couldn't be restored?"
"Yes. I couldn't understand what the circuits meant."
"May I try to control this puppet?"
"You, Daoist Seo? Aren't you unskilled in handling magic artifacts other than flying swords?"
"I have a feeling I can handle this puppet well."
"Hmm..."
After a moment of hesitation, she brings the puppet in front of me and briefly explains how to operate it.
"First, infuse your consciousness into this circuit and try moving it."
"Understood."
I infuse my consciousness into the bee puppet.
Countless circuits inside the puppet absorb my consciousness.
"There are seven main circuits in total, among which you should sequentially infuse your consciousness into..."
Buk Hyang-hwa is explaining something beside me, but I focus on the sensations coming from the circuits.
'As I thought, this is...'
My prediction is correct.
Whoosh!
I separate my consciousness inside the bee puppet.
Consciousness is a collection of intent.
And intent is a combination of countless colors.
Among these colors are the Seven Emotions that form the foundation of human emotions.
I divide the consciousness I had infused into the puppet into seven colors.
Whoosh!
The seven massive circuits absorb the seven colors separately.
Simultaneously, I feel completely unified with the bee puppet, and it feels like I know exactly how to control it.
"Miss Buk, I have mastered the puppet."
"If you keep infusing consciousness periodically... What?"
"Watch this."
Vroom!
Following my will, the bee puppet naturally soars into the sky, circling gracefully.
It moves much more fluidly than when Buk Hyang-hwa controlled it.
"How did you..."
The puppet controlled by her only moved in stiff, straight lines, but under my control, it moves freely.
'If Mad Lord has the vision of Beyond the Path to Heaven, then naturally he would have the ability to see the colors of intent, the foundation of Beyond the Path to Heaven's heart essence...'
"How did you do that, Daoist Seo?"
"I will explain."
After controlling the bee puppet naturally for a while, I brought it back down to Buk Hyang-hwa and explained my discovery.
About the Seven Emotions.
And the colors of intent visible to those in the martial world who have reached the stages of Three Flowers Gather at the Summit and Five Energies Converging to the Origin.
Buk Hyang-hwa listened to my explanation, taking notes in her notebook.
That night.
Buk Hyang-hwa was deep in thought, touching the circuits of the bee puppet in her workshop.
'The consciousness of the Seven Emotions...'
Its an area she hadn't thought of.
Applying human emotions to rigid magic artifacts.
'What exactly did Senior Mad Lord create...'
Even this bee puppet was just one relatively intact puppet among the countless remains in Serving Command Palace that day.
'There must be an astonishing number of such puppets in his usual abode...'
Shiver!
Just as Seo Eun-hyun felt a chill sensing the Mad Lord's power, Buk Hyang-hwa also felt goosebumps realizing his genius.
'An unbelievable talent... truly an Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent...'
A talent surpassing even devils.
Rustle, rustle...
She was analyzing the circuits when suddenly her face stiffened.
'Wait, if Daoist Seo is right, this puppet is... not just a puppet with emotions.'
Whoosh!
Four-colored patterns appear on her face, and her eyes intensely focus inside the puppet.
'It's connected...?'
Buk Hyang-hwa analyzes the puppet's circuits.
'This puppet, based on emotions, is interconnected with other puppets of Senior Mad Lord. It was designed like that.
If I analyze the flow of emotions felt from this puppet in terms of circuit flow...'
After tinkering with the circuits for a while, she suddenly stops.
Thud!
One of her tools fell onto the puppet's body.
Although the circuit got slightly mashed, Buk Hyang-hwa's face turns pale, and she trembles.
Drip...
Blood trickles from her nose.
Whirr!
The four-colored patterns on her skin burn brighter than ever.
"Impossible..."
Buk Hyang-hwa stands up and steps back from the bee puppet.
"Senior Mad Lord... just what were you trying to create?"
Her breathing hastens.
She looks at the puppet in shock.
'A talent and concept surpassing devils...
No, if my speculation is correct, the realm he was attempting to breach is one only permitted by the heavens...
A realm taboo for mortals...'
An impossible fantasy and imagination.
That is what Buk Hyang-hwa discovered to be Senior Mad Lord's goal.
'But, since he's crazy, could it be that he literally intends to violate the taboo to create it..?'
Whirr-
Due to the extreme enlightenment from glimpsing a madman's taboo-breaking fantasy, Buk Hyang-hwa's qualities that were highly activated started to calm down.
After calming her startled heart, Buk Hyang-hwa turned her gaze to a blueprint hung on one side of her workshop.
Its a conceptual design of a dharma treasure she was developing for Seo Eun-hyun.
A blueprint slowly being developed to meet the absurd conditions Seo Eun-hyun had mentioned.
But having glimpsed Mad Lord's plan and witnessing the numerous emotions contained in the puppet, she feels that her ongoing blueprint has been significantly supplemented.
Buk Hyang-hwa approaches the blueprint of the dharma treasure.
'If Senior Mad Lord's insane fantasy is true, whatever I create can never match his work. However...'
She picks up a working brush and slowly re-draws the blueprint of the dharma treasure.
'When in the hands of Daoist Seo, this work might at least follow in the footsteps of his creation.'
Rustle, rustle...
Buk Hyang-hwa meticulously refines the blueprint of the dharma treasure with a focused gaze.
-x-X-x-
"Is my magic artifact almost complete?"
"Yes, the conceptual stage is nearly finished, and now I just need to precisely arrange the structure before starting the actual production."
"Hmm..."
I feel a subtle sense of anticipation.
Although Im not interested in external items, Im curious about what kind of magic artifact she has created.
"Can you tell me what kind of magic artifact it is?"
"Ah, that's a secret. I'll let you know once I've completely laid out the structure."
"Hmm... I see."
"And, Daoist Seo, you have a task to do."
"Oh?"
She takes my hand and leads me to her workshop.
"Starting today, Daoist Seo will also learn to make magic artifacts."
"Um...?"
"Didn't you stipulate that the magic artifact should be easy enough for you to make as well?"
I let out a wry laugh.
"It seems that Miss Bulk wants to turn me into a craftsman to fulfill that condition."
"Ahaha, don't worry. It's really not that hard. You'll be able to make my designed magic artifact on your own if you can manage even the simplest thing."
After some thought, I nodded.
"If that's the case, please teach me."
After all, learning to make magic artifacts could be useful.
And so, the education in artifact refining began.
The beginning of magic artifact refining is getting used to crafting' things.
I became accustomed to using Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop, starting with crafting simple handicrafts.
Whoosh!
Zzz...
I look at the glass craft I just made with my own hands in Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop.
Since beginners couldn't use precious materials, I started with making glass crafts from the abundant sand in the desert to get used to the act of making something.
"Hmm..."
Buk Hyang-hwa looks at the glass craft I made.
"What is this?"
"It's a cursed doll. It's among my cultivation methods."
"Cursed dolls are usually made in a human figure... is this a starfish?"
"...It's supposed to be a human."
At my words, Buk Hyang-hwa covers her mouth and looks away.
I can sense her muscles moving, trying to suppress her laughter.
"Hmm... It seems, Daoist Seo, that you don't have a talent for crafting."
"...I've always lacked talent in making things."
"Phew..."
After a moment of thought, she says to me.
"Let's keep trying. It'll get better over time."
"Thank you for the encouragement, but..."
My crafting skills didn't really improve.
The glass doll, which initially looked like a starfish, gradually became more human-like, but it still seemed inadequate in Buk Hyang-hwa's eyes.
I was trained not only in artifact refining by Buk Hyang-hwa but also in their use.
It seems necessary to become familiar with magic artifacts to make them.
Buk Hyang-hwa, along with Kim Young-hoon who came to Cheon-saek City, started special training with me.
Vroom, Vrooom!
She noted improvements, corrections, and new inspirations while observing the monster puppet I controlled against Kim Young-hoon.
I maneuvered the monster puppet while also operating various magic artifacts given by Buk Hyang-hwa to corner Kim Young-hoon.
"Ugh!"
Boom!
Kim Young-hoon is blown away by a magic artifact, stirring up a cloud of dust.
The artifacts are powered by spiritual power, but since their movement strictly follows my lead, the training is beneficial for Kim Young-hoon, Buk Hyang-hwa, and myself.
I trained Kim Young-hoon, constantly showing him the path to the next realm and refining his skills.
Buk Hyang-hwa had me start with doll crafts and then practice making glass artifacts in the form of flying swords.
Practicing in the form of a sword felt more familiar, and crafting became a bit easier.
I endlessly created glass flying sword crafts, gradually becoming accustomed to 'crafting.'
Months passed.
Before I came to my senses, I found myself working in Buk Hyang-hwa's magic artifact shop.
Although it wasn't artifact refining, I was the one managing the sales and explanations of magic artifacts to the cultivators who visited the store, as well as taking care of the artifacts themselves.
"Hey, boss, this saber seems a bit off."
"Kim Hyung, you don't need a magic artifact anyway. Besides, the owner of this magic artifact shop is Miss Buk, not me."
"Kukkukku, when a couple runs a store, both are the owners. What are you talking about?"
"What are you saying..."
Kim Young-hoon, who was examining a saber-shaped magic artifact, looks at me and says,
"Didn't you and Miss Buk practically live here for the past few months? Now, the cultivators who buy magic artifacts from Cheon-saek City are spreading rumors that 'a young cultivator couple' runs this place."
"..."
"Even Miss Buk's father thinks you and Miss Buk will get married soon. Hahaha, I don't know when you'll marry, but congratulations."
Buk Joong-ho and Kim Young-hoon had become drinking buddies.
'Damn it. Why has such a rumor spread...'
Feeling somewhat incredulous and dealing with Kim Young-hoon's nonsensical talk, I sent him out of the magic artifact shop and headed to the nearby market.
I had come out on an errand to buy paper for Buk Hyang-hwa, who needed it for her magic artifact designs.
It was when I reached the paper store.
"Oh, isn't this the groom, Sir Seo?"
"Excuse me?"
The old lady who owns the paper store hands me a bundle of paper with a chuckle.
"I saw you walking down the street with the daughter of the chief observer, looking quite cozy. I heard you've been living together lately, aren't you married yet?"
As Im bewildered, the old lady looks at me curiously and asks.
"...We haven't married yet."
"Oh, you haven't reached that point yet. But everyone in the city knows you two are meant for each other, so why not get married soon?"
"Ah, no..."
While Im flustered by the old lady's words, another shop owner comes out and adds to the conversation.
"Everyone in this city knows you two are lovers."
"That's right, we've been watching the two of you together for years."
"..."
It seems the rumor has spread throughout the entire city, painting me and Buk Hyang-hwa as a cultivator couple running the magic artifact shop.
'This is crazy.'
Why has such a rumor spread so far?
I received the bundle of paper amidst people's premature congratulations and returned to the workshop.
"What? You're still not officially together?"
Kim Young-hoon, practicing his saber, says to me.
I read his intent, block all his attacks, and reply.
"We haven't said anything to each other yet."
"Ugh! I'm going to explode! I mean, you're one thing, but why hasn't Miss Buk said anything to you? I thought her intent was clear..."
"Just stop it, please."
I dodge and suppress Kim Young-hoon's blade, aiming at his vital points.
"Alright, you win this time. But... thanks to you, I'm getting the hang of it."
Indeed, I could feel his speed gradually deviating from his usual patterns.
If he continues training for a few more years, he might truly grasp the essence of Beyond the Path to Heaven.
"But why can't you grasp people's hearts? Confess to her properly and start dating already!"
"...I told you to stop."
Sighing, I finish the spar with Kim Young-hoon and head down to Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop for today's crafting practice.
Behind me, I hear Kim Young-hoon yelling.
"Man, just confess already! It's so frustrating to watch!"
'Frustrating to watch...'
I feel the same way.
I sigh softly and enter Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop.
Years passed.
Whoosh!
In Buk Hyang-hwa's workshop, I pick up a newly made glass sword artifact.
"Somehow, you've grown in your refining skills. This is almost indistinguishable from a real sword, isn't it?"
"It's thanks to the Miss's good teaching."
Not only the sword artifacts, but I also look at the glass dolls.
My glass refining skills have improved significantly, and the dolls now closely resemble real human figures.
Recently, I also began attempting to refine other items beyond dolls and swords.
"By the way, Daoist Seo, did you make another starfish?"
"...It's not a starfish. It's a flower."
"Oh, a flower. I'm sorry."
"No, it's my lack of skill."
After some idle chat with her, I head outside.
Its closely approaching 10 years since I came to Cheon-saek City.
I have become well-acquainted with the streets of Cheon-saek City and have grown familiar with its residents..
In that long yet short time, many changes have occurred.
"Greetings, Immortal Seo."
"Yes, greetings to you too."
After exchanging pleasantries with an elderly passerby and greeting neighbors, I head out of Cheon-saek City towards the Heaven-Treading Desert.
Among the various changes, the most significant is Kim Young-hoon's progress.
Vroom, vroom!
Through relentless training and meditation, Kim Young-hoon has nearly reached Beyond the Path to Heaven.
In a state of no-mind, he dances with his saber, weaving countless martial principles, slicing every grain of sand carried by the winds of the Heaven-Treading Desert.
An insane display of martial prowess!
Whoosh, whoosh!
Gradually, his saber dance begins to be suffused with a golden hue.
Its a pure, natural light, reminiscent of the sun itself.
'It's been like this for a few days now.'
Hes on the brink of enlightenment.
'Really, Kim Hyung. How far can you go this time?'
It's been only 10 years.
In just a decade, hes about to cross the threshold to Beyond the Path to Heaven, with over fifty years still left in his life.
'Show me!'
His saber dance accelerates.
Was it called Stepping on Snow Without a Trace?
Although it isn't a snowy field, he moves across the sandy terrain without leaving a single footprint.
And then, suddenly.
'His heart essence is solidifying...!'
I feel Kim Young-hoon's heart essence suddenly expand and become distinct.
A giant Peng made of golden rivers!
As his heart essence becomes clear, a bright glow shines in Kim Young-hoon's eyes.
His consciousness domain radiates like a golden sun, infusing into his saber.
"Beyond the Path to Heaven."
Rumble!
"Surpassing Radiant Saber!"
Flash!
A golden radiance explodes in all directions, shooting towards the heavens and slicing through a passing cloud over the desert.
From within the golden light, Kim Young-hoon emerges with a face filled with all the joys of the world.
"I've reached it! Seo Eun-hyun!"
With a hopeful expression, he holds his golden saber and speaks to me.
"Come at me!"
Fwoosh!
Surpassing Radiant Saber rushes towards me.
Seeing its familiar speed, I smirk.
'This is it.'
This isn't some poor imitation, but the 'real' Surpassing Radiant Saber!
Boom!
I draw out my Formless Sword and clash with the Surpassing Radiant Saber, creating a massive explosion that sweeps across the desert.
With a flicker of golden light, Kim Young-hoon disappears momentarily.
I squint my eyes, scattering my Formless Sword in all directions.
The Formless Sword transforms into a massive colorless storm, sweeping around me. Kim Young-hoon, as fast as light, dodges through the storm like a graceful bird navigating the winds.
'Impressive...!'
Zap!
Kim Young-hoon, having reached me in an instant, strikes down with his golden saber.
I morph my Formless Sword to block his path and unleash countless colorless trajectories towards him.
In the instant between seconds, thousands of clashes erupt.
The desert landscape is carved out, sand melts into glass, valleys are created, and clouds are torn apart.
Kaboom!
I tear through the golden brilliance and strike upwards with my Formless Sword towards Kim Young-hoon.
In an instant's gap, Kim Young-hoon defends against my Formless Sword with his near-light-speed reflexes and strikes back nearly thirty times.
I cover myself with the trajectory of the Formless Sword to block his attacks and launch him into the sky.
Whoosh!
We ascend, tearing through the desert clouds.
Among the dry clouds, there is still some moisture, which immediately evaporates due to our movements. Only a handful of droplets are left around us.
Boom!
Our strikes send the handful of droplets flying, and soon, there are only a few droplets remaining
Seven droplets.
Swoosh!
Kim Young-hoon's Surpassing Radiant Saber pierces through the trajectory of my Formless Sword and lunges at me.
In an instant, my Formless Sword undergoes seventy-three changes, scattering the Surpassing Radiant Saber and then attacking him with hundreds of variations.
One of the seven droplets burst and evaporates during the clash.
The remaining six droplets slowly fall downwards.
We follow the droplets down, exchanging blows as if by agreement.
Kim Young-hoon circles around me, pressuring from all sides.
I extend my Formless Sword in all directions, catching his saber. This leads to another droplet bursting, leaving five remaining.
Bang, bang, bang!
After several more exchanges, we stare at each other, descending together at the speed of the falling droplets, with the ground slowly approaching below.
Whoosh!
I infuse the changes of my Formless Sword into two of the droplets in front of me and shoot them towards Kim Young-hoon.
All the variations of the Severing Mountain Swordsmanship contained within the Formless Sword are packed into those droplets.
Recklessly intercepting them will result in being torn apart instantly!
Kim Young-hoon observes the changes in the two droplets and, with his Surpassing Radiant Saber in hand, precisely pierces through the weakest point of the transformations and rushes at me.
The two droplets burst, leaving only three remaining between us.
Kim Young-hoon's assault begins.
He uses Mountain Wind to stab at me, and one more droplet bursts in the process.
I barely dodge the thrust, but cant avoid a slight scratch on my face.
Kiiiing!
Hundreds of thousands of variations erupt from my Formless Sword, engulfing Kim Young-hoon like a tidal wave.
Kwaaaang!
He tries to escape the onslaught of changes but fails to shake off the techniques of my Formless Sword, falling straight down.
Another droplet bursts, leaving only one remaining.
We land on the ground faster than the last droplet, assuming our stances.
The last droplet is on the verge of hitting the ground.
Fwoosh!
Kim Young-hoon's Surpassing Radiant Saber shines brightly.
His internal energy connects to the Surpassing Radiant Saber like veins, drawing in external energy.
The Surpassing Radiant Saber acts as an external core, amplifying his energy. Kim Young-hoon holds his stance in that state.
I too grasp my Formless Sword. Simultaneously, the Pure Spiritual Force within me links with the Formless Sword, and I feel my life force intertwining with it.
My Formless Sword also becomes an external core, amplifying my energy.
When the last droplet falls precisely to our eye level.
Without hesitation, we both smile and unleash our most powerful attacks towards each other.
At that moment, when our martial prowess causes the last droplet to evaporate on its own.
[I've decided. To confess.]
In the midst of the intense spar and the whirlwind of emotions, I finally share my decision with him.
-x-X-x-
Boom Boom Boom!
As the light exploded, Kim Young-hoon was struck by my Formless Sword and hurled into the middle of the desert.
"Cough, cough, cough!"
From within the dust cloud, Kim Young-hoon can be seen coughing as he struggles to his feet.
"Ptui, ptui! Damn it, Seo Eun-hyun, you cunning guy! To say such a thing at this moment?"
"Ha ha, sorry."
He spits out sand and holds his saber, letting out a hollow laugh.
"Damn it, phew..."
After shaking off the sand, he sighs.
"Alright, fine. My attack couldn't match yours anyway... But still..."
He thumps his chest, continuing,
"Now you decide to confess! Aargh! I thought I'd vomit blood from frustration!"
"..."
I sigh.
"It really wasn't an easy decision..."
"You're so frustrating. What's so difficult about it?"
"Just... there are things hard to explain. Please understand."
Fighting against Kim Young-hoon, who has obtained the Surpassing Radiant Saber, I felt it clearly.
Even as I wielded the Formless Sword, even while executing techniques, even while focusing my best.
The pinkish color of love in my heart never left.
If martial arts have become a part of my life that I never give up,
Then my affection for her has also become an integral part of my life.
'If it's impossible to shake off, then let's accept it.'
I can no longer endure.
Nor can I leave.
Being with Buk Hyang-hwa brings comfort.
Learning artifacts from her makes me forget the pain of my return, if only momentarily.
The pain of those numerous losses would subside, even if just for a moment.
That comfort has become so strong that hiding my feelings is no longer possible.
"So! When will you confess? Do you need my help?"
"Ah, I will confess, but..."
I smile wryly and say,
"Recently, I've been practicing making flowers out of glass."
"So?"
"But whenever I make a flower, she says it looks like a starfish. So, I plan to wait until I get the shape of the flower right."
Hearing this, Kim Young-hoon scowls again.
"Damn it, waiting again! It's maddening for those watching!"
"Hmm, hmm..."
"You frustrating guy... Just confess quickly!"
"Calm down, Kim Hyung."
I sweat trying to calm down the annoyed Kim Young-hoon, who is thumping his chest.
"If you really insist..."
"Oh, wait a moment, Kim Hyung."
Suddenly, I take out the transmitting device thats ringing in my pocket.
"Ah...!"
"What now?"
"Oh, sorry, Kim Hyung. I need to return to the city quickly."
"Wait, you scoundrel!"
Using the transmitting device as an excuse, I fly towards Cheon-saek City.
Admittedly, escaping Kim Young-hoon's annoyance was part of it, but it was also due to something truly important.
Cheongmun Ryeong has returned.
"How have you been, Daoist Seo, Cultivator Buk?"
"It's been a while, Daoist Cheongmun"
I greet Cheongmun Ryeong respectfully as he approaches.
Cheongmun Ryeong laughs heartily as he descends from his flying artifact and enters Buk Hyang-hwa's magic artifact shop.
Buk Hyang-hwa and I head into the conference room.
She brews tea, and we chat briefly over it.
Then, Cheongmun Ryeong starts the main topic.
"The formation is 99 percent complete."
"Ah...!"
"The remaining 1 percent will be finished after Cultivator Buk makes the final adjustments to the formation artifact and we go to Serving Command Palace to install the formation, while making some final tweaks."
Cheongmun Ryeong looks at us and says,
"You've both worked really hard so far. The clan head also said that once the Longevity Fruit blooms safely, you will both be rewarded, and the Cheongmun Clan will give you one or two more corresponding rewards."
"I am thankful."
He looks at me and speaks,
"Especially Daoist Seo, since you have means like the Nether Crossing Ship to enter Serving Command Palace, if you wish, we can even offer you the position of a guest elder in the Cheongmun Clan. Of course, corresponding rewards will also come your way."
"I'll accept it gratefully."
I convey my gratitude to Cheongmun Ryeong, filled with burgeoning expectations.
'Now, perhaps Kim Young-hoon's lifespan can be extended a bit.'
If only the Longevity Fruit can bloom!
Just then.
"Seo Eun-hyun, you rascal! Where are you going while an elder is speaking?"
Kim Young-hoon enters the magic artifact shop.
"Hmm?"
Cheongmun Ryeong looks at Kim Young-hoon, and their eyes meet.
My martial arts master and my cultivation master are facing each other.
Before the atmosphere becomes awkward, I quickly introduce Cheongmun Ryeong and Kim Young-hoon to each other.
They greet each other, albeit awkwardly.
"Daoist Cheongmun, Kim Hyung here has mastered a unique method... His spiritual power is undetectable, but he possesses skills beyond the stage of Qi Building."
"I see."
"And Kim Hyung, Daoist Cheongmun here is among the top three scholars among Qi Building cultivators, so please show him the respect his knowledge deserves."
"Uh, okay."
After introducing them, I have a brief discussion with Cheongmun Ryeong and then leave the conference room.
Cheongmun Ryeong also finishes discussing with Buk Hyang-hwa and leaves the room.
"Have you been well?"
"I had my fun. But..."
Cheongmun Ryeong looks at me and asks,
"Daoist Seo, have you married Cultivator Buk?"
"...Pardon me?"
"Just before entering the conference room, it seemed like Daoist Seo's traces of life were everywhere. It looks as though you were living here, so I wondered if you were married."
"Ah, that's..."
Before I could respond, Kim Young-hoon interjects with frustration.
"Don't even bother. Seo Eun-hyun here hasn't even properly dated Miss Buk yet."
"Hmm?"
"Just listen to this. This guy..."
Cheongmun Ryeong and Kim Young-hoon began a conversation about my relationship with Buk Hyang-hwa.
A little while later.
Both of them looked at me, shaking their heads in frustration.
"Daoist Seo, it's really unbearable. I've been curious since 10 years ago when you two would get engaged, and you're still not officially dating?"
"That's what I'm saying, Cheongmun Hyung. This frustrating guy. Back in our hometown, there was someone who liked him, but no matter how much she showed it..."
"Hem hem...! Enough, please!"
I cough and hurriedly escape into the conference room where Buk Hyang-hwa is still present.
"Hmm, Miss Buk."
"Ah, Daoist Seo, its time for your practice today, isnt it?"
"Yes, let's start right away."
I join her in the workshop to make glass crafts.
Recently, shes been teaching me the basics about magic artifacts.
"Once youre familiar with the terms Ive taught, reading this 'Compendium of Artifact Refinement' Ive compiled will definitely deepen your understanding of magic artifacts."
"I understand, Ill read it later."
I followed her lead and made some glass crafts.
After a while, she moves to another side of the workshop to adjust the formation artifacts brought by Cheongmun Ryeong.
For a moment, the only sounds in the workshop were of us working on our respective tasks.
After making a glass craft of a sword, I tried to create a white magnolia sculpture, which I know Buk Hyang-hwa likes, and showed her the glass magnolia.
'It doesnt look like a starfish, does it?'
At least it somewhat resembles a flower.
"...Miss Buk."
"Yes, what is it?"
"I apologize for the trouble caused by my inadequate skills."
"No, Daoist Seo. The pieces youve made are also wonderful, arent they?"
"Wonderful? Compared to the magic artifacts you make, Miss Buk, what I make is just... chunks of glass."
"Hmm..."
She pauses her work on the magic artifacts and turns her attention to me.
"Daoist Seo, you know what glass is made of, right?"
"Im aware. Its made from the sand around here."
"Correct. May I see it for a moment?"
She takes the glass flower, which resembles a starfish, and begins working on it again.
"Sand is just common stone fragments. But when the right person handles it, it becomes a glass craft."
She continues.
"I've mentioned this before, havent I? Theres no waste in the world, just things that havent found their fate or connection."
Gradually, in her hands, the glass starfish I made started to take on the proper shape of a flower.
"That means, if the right fate touches it, anything can become a beautiful craft. Right?
Fwoosh!
She hands me a glass quince flower she just made.
"I wasn't sure what kind of flower you wanted to make, so I made a quince flower that suits Daoist Seo. Do you like it?"
I take a moment to look at the quince flower she had handed me.
"People of Byeokra like glass. It's easily made from desert sand, and though its true value is not seen in the dark, it reveals itself in the light.
"...Miss Hyang-hwa."
I look at the quince flower and then at her.
"I have something to tell you."
I had planned to confess once I am skilled enough to make a proper flower.
But now, it seems I can no longer wait.
Yes, I like this person.
"Yes?"
"I..."
Thump, thump...
I can hear her heart beating.
She seems to have sensed my mood, as her face gradually reddens.
Numerous thoughts swirl in my mind.
What should I say?
What would be the best...
Just then.
"Wait, just a moment!"
She speaks with a flushed face.
"I also have something to give you, Seo Orabeoni! I'll give it to you by tomorrow, so can you please wait until then?"
"...Understood, Miss Buk."
"Ah, and I need to concentrate in the workshop for a bit, so could we stop here for today and you step out for a while?"
"Understood."
I obediently leave the workshop.
"Hmm?"
Outside, I see Cheongmun Ryeong, Kim Young-hoon, and Buk Joong-ho coughing.
I had sensed their presence since earlier.
Buk Joong-ho nods at me with a proud expression.
"Do well."
Thump, thump
He pats my shoulder and leaves the magic artifact shop with a smile, while Cheongmun Ryeong and Kim Young-hoon sigh.
"Finally, this dense guy..."
"Cultivator Buk doesn't seem likely to reject him."
They can't hide the satisfied smiles on their faces as they look at me.
"Ahem, it's not certain yet."
"Not certain!? If you had eyes, you would have read the mood! Just pretend you don't know!"
I listen to Kim Young-hoon's nagging and Cheongmun Ryeong's advice and briefly step out of the magic artifact shop.
It seems unlikely that I will get much sleep tonight.
Buk Hyang-hwa sits inside the workshop with a flushed face.
'Miss Hyang-hwa...'
She covers her reddened face with her hands.
'Finally, Orabeoni called me by my name.'
She sits still for a while and then finishes adjusting all the formation artifacts and turns her attention elsewhere.
In a corner of her workshop is a small wooden box.
Buk Hyang-hwa opens the box and takes out a piece of paper.
On it is a diagram of a dharma treasure.
The result of her constant contemplation and observation of Seo Eun-hyun's Formless Sword over the past 10 years.
Its the nearly completed blueprint of his dharma treasure.
'Let's finish it now.'
Its a dharma treasure perfectly suited for Seo Eun-hyun.
She recalls when she first heard Seo Eun-hyuns conditions for the dharma treasure.
'I thought he was crazy.'
A magic artifact with such impossible conditions!
Yet, she was driven by the challenge, which eventually turned into earnestness.
She wanted to make a weapon genuinely for Seo Eun-hyun.
The words Seo Eun-hyun was about to say to her today.
She realized what they were by the atmosphere.
But that's why she wanted to hear them tomorrow.
It will be complete by then.
Scratch, scratch...
As she draws with her brush, the diagram receives additional strokes.
Each stroke fills her mind with thoughts of Seo Eun-hyun.
Soon, patterns appear on Buk Hyang-hwa's face.
Chiiii!
And those patterns shine brightly.
The intertwined black and purple patterns gradually merge into one.
It is said that the Extraordinary Pattern Law Talent grows with strong emotions.
Although she had worked hard until now, it is the strongest emotion she has ever felt that began to develop her talent.
Buk Hyang-hwa continues to draw the diagram, entranced.
Unaware that her Four-Patterns are transforming into Three-Patterns.
As the three patterns emerge, her hand moves faster.
She feels like she can grasp the ideal way to perfect the dharma treasure.
The dharma treasure she had been contemplating and perfecting for 10 years is completed by her with even more perfection and novelty.
She, with purple, gold, and pink patterns on her face, tirelessly details the structure of of her gift to Seo Eun-hyun.
And thus, the next day dawns.
***