"Hmm?"
The first to notice my abnormal state is Hong Fan.
Seeing my complexion, Hong Fan quickly approaches and asks.
"Master, is there something wrong?"
"...I'm fine. But, is this the body of a Vestige...?"
Soon, the Vestige's body will collapse, and we will enter the Bright Cold Realm.
Pasaak―
The sky collapses.
Following that, the dimensional barrier of the Bright Cold Realm appears before our eyes.
'Three forces of attraction...'
Just like last time, I feel three attraction forces grasping my hand.
One leads to the Flying Immortal Platform.
Another is connected to the Black Ghost Valley.
And the last one...
'Ah, I see.'
Now I finally understand the identity of the last attraction force.
"Ancient Force, is it?"
Seat Holder of Health, Deputy Judge of the Netherworld, Ancient Force True Lord Hae Nyeong!
I felt the same sensation when reading the will left by Hae Nyeong to Lofty Dragon and from their tears, the Clear Scale Armor.
It's clear.
'This attraction force leads to the Ancient Force Realm.'
I ponder for a moment.
'Should I go to the Ancient Force Realm?'
It's then,
Bo-oong—
Puhak!
Suddenly, the 'attraction' from the Ancient Force Realm intensifies tremendously.
'This is crazy!'
The attraction, as if determined to pull me in, wraps around me!
"Seo Eun-hyun, what's going on?"
"Master!"
Jeon Myeong-hoon and Hong Fan look at me in surprise and ask.
"It seems another Middle Realm is pulling me in."
Although the Bright Cold Realm is somewhat close to the Head Realm due to the Ascension Gate, one can still ascend to other realms like Ancient Force, Nether Ghost, True Devil, and Purple Gold as long as one has the qualifications and uses the Serving Command Seal.
Considering I am currently in the state of 'mid-ascension' from the Head Realm, I can still reach the Ancient Force Realm without spending much time.
'What should I do? Should I explore another Middle Realm?'
That could be a worthwhile choice.
More importantly, there are people like Kim Young-hoon, Buk Hyang-hwa, and Seo Ran in the Ancient Force Realm.
Meeting them might not be a bad idea.
However, I frown.
'No, it's not right.'
There's too much to be done in the Bright Cold Realm to be swept away by this attraction so absurdly.
Besides, I still have to find a way to save Kang Min-hee.
'Let's head to the Bright Cold Realm first.'
I make my decision and gather my strength.
Wiiiiing―
Currently, my realm in martial arts is at the First Step Before the Throne.
My realm in cultivation is at the Four-Axis stage of the Heaven and Earth Tribes.
Though I possess the Axis of Wealth, I only possess it. I need to fully reach the Four-Axis stage to utilize it properly.
Just as Seo Hweol conducted the Axis Foundation Practice in the Lower Realm to acquire the Axis, but his actual power was at the Grand Perfection Heavenly Being stage, I am in a similar state.
However, as confirmed during my regression, it's possible for a cultivator at the Four-Axis stage to manipulate attraction force using just their soul.
'My cultivation is at the Heavenly Being stage, but my soul is at the Four-Axis stage...'
Kuguguguk―
I manipulate attraction force, breaking free from the ferocious pull of the Ancient Force Realm.
Then, approaching Jeon Myeong-hoon and Hong Fan, I reach out towards the dimensional barrier of the Bright Cold Realm.
Kwagwagwagwang!
With an explosion of light, we enter the Bright Cold Realm.
How many hours have passed since Seo Eun-hyun entered the Bright Cold Realm?
Kugugugugugu―
A massive, dark-red mist squirms outside the dimensional barrier of the Bright Cold Realm, approaching it.
Kwarururung―
The dark-red entity attempts to approach the Bright Cold Realm, but after being scorched by a colossal Heavenly Tribulation, it lingers around briefly before retreating.
Chwaaak!
I feel the familiar spiritual energy nearby.
From a distance, a figure who seems to be an inspector at the Four-Axis stage is flying towards us.
I speak to Jeon Myeong-hoon.
"Jeon Myeong-hoon, are you familiar with the rituals of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect?"
"Yes. What do you need?"
After the fall of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect in the Bright Cold Realm, paradoxically, he obsessively studied the remnants of the sect.
Among them were rituals that can delay Heavenly Tribulations.
"Delay the Heavenly Tribulation for a moment. I have something to do."
"Hmm?"
Without waiting for his response, I sit down and focus my consciousness.
Kurung, kururung!
Dark clouds began to gather in the sky.
Just as Azure Tiger Saint, Heo Gwak, Jin Byuk-ho, and Seo Hweol reached the Four-Axis stage upon ascending to the Bright Cold Realm, I will do the same.
Using the attraction force generated by my soul, I begin to draw in an immense amount of Heaven and Earth spiritual energy from the Plane of Qi.
At the same time, I rise to the Four-Axis stage of the Earth Tribe using the energy stored in the Colorless Glass Sword.
Kugugugu!
"Damn it! Give me a warning before you do something like this!"
Jeon Myeong-hoon curses but quickly plants the flags of the Seven Lightning Quaking Scripture around and sets up a formation.
Kwaduk, kwaduduk, pukak!
Interacting with the energy of the formation, Jeon Myeong-hoon sacrifices three of his fingers of his Heavenly Golden Thunder Body to temporarily delay the celestial energy.
As the celestial energy shifts, the Heavenly Tribulation that should have struck during the breakthrough is postponed for three days.
For a moment, it feels as if the dragon veins of the Heaven-Earth Palace are merging with me.
'I think I understand why Hon Won recuperates in the Heaven-Earth Palace.'
Harmony (調和)!
The energies of Yin and Yang are harmoniously enveloping each other in a perfectly balanced way
The Taiji Quaking Lightning Body can twist and disrupt the Yin and Yang within an opponent's body, but the dragon vein of the Heaven-Earth Palace seems capable of gradually restoring the twisted Yin and Yang.
Kwagwagwang!
A tremendous roar erupts from my body as radiant light bursts forth.
In an instant, I rise to the Four-Axis stage.
'It's a bit lacking.'
To achieve the Three Great Ultimates, I need to use the power of the Ghost King given to me by Seo Li and rise to the Four-Axis stage with Heaven Tribe methods.
However, rising with Heaven Tribe methods requires a ritual, which seems difficult at the moment.
While I am gauging my strength,
Kuguguguk―
Hon Won emerges, tearing through the space.
"You all..."
"Ah. Greetings, Penglai Palace Lord. It's been a while."
I speak, making eye contact with Hon Won.
He glares at me with the Supervisory Eye.
"Your manners are lacking."
"Ah, I apologize for that. However, I don't have favorable feelings towards you, so I hope you understand."
"..."
He glares at me.
Despite his fairly dignified and handsome appearance with his topknot hair tied with a black manggeon, his hair is spilling out from between the strands of the topknot and his eyes look sunken, giving him a very haggard appearance.
As Yeon Wei had said, he seemed to have been quite a handsome man in his youth, but now he is just a worn-out old man.
"And one more thing. Jeon Myeong-hoon, the current highest Grand Elder of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, has canceled the bounty, so there's no need to capture us."
"Ah, that's right. We won't be pursuing Seo Eun-hyun anymore. But Seo Eun-hyun, what kind of tone is that towards a Grand Cultivator?"
Jeon Myeong-hoon speaks with some courtesy, while looking at me with disapproval due to my attitude.
Hon Won glances at us briefly before nodding and turning around.
I immediately open my mouth and draw out the Colorless Glass Sword, and Hon Won turns back around, swinging his hand at me as if he has been waiting for this moment.
Flash!
A palm-shaped energy wave imbued with the power of the Five Elements fly towards me.
I infuse the All Heavens Sword into the Colorless Glass Sword and deflect Hon Won's strike into the sky.
Thud!
Kuaaang!
The sky shakes, revealing the wavering protective barrier that envelops the entire Heaven-Earth Palace.
Jeon Myeong-hoon is flabbergasted by the sudden turn of events, while I smirk at Hon Won.
"What's with the sudden ruckus?"
Hon Won stares at me briefly.
Giving me a glare, he snaps his fingers.
Snap!
Bo-oong!
The space twists, and before I know it, we are outside Heaven-Earth Palace due to Hon Won's ground-shrinking technique.
"To be honest, I don't like you lot. Despite my goodwill in supporting the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, you still caused its downfall again..."
"What!?"
Jeon Myeong-hoon's face turns livid with anger at those words.
However Hon Won, ignoring Jeon Myeong-hoon, continues to glare at me as he speaks.
"But regardless, you are still valuable forces of the Human Race, so I can't just kill you. Since I've lost all my investment in the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, you'll have to compensate for my loss by enduring my one strike. If you can withstand it, I will forgive you and disregard the lost investments and support."
"..."
"No, what nonsense is this!? Do you even know what investing means?"
Jeon Myeong-hoon roars in anger, releasing red lightning, while I chuckle at Hon Won's words.
"Ha, haha...hahahahaha...!"
As I burst into laughter, both Jeon Myeong-hoon and Hon Won stare at me.
"Ah...this is hilarious."
What?
If we endure a strike, you will forgive us? Let us go?
'This bastard really...When we seemed weak, he tried to kill us outright, but now that we seem a little threatening, he changes his tune?'
Knowing Hon Won well, his changed attitude due to my regression irritates me even more.
Squish, squelch...
I take out Yuan Yu from my bosom and stand him beside me.
Then, I push Yuan Yu while holding his shoulder towards Jeon Myeong-hoon.
"Well, fine. Come at me, Grand Cultivator Hon Won."
Twitch―
Hon Won's eyes twitch, and he begins to gather attraction into his hands.
"Good. If that's what you want..."
It feels as if the Yin and Yang of Heaven and Earth are concentrating on Hon Won.
'Let's see...'
Kugugugu—
As I operate the Azure Spirit Starlight Quintessence Great Method, I transform into a giant of stars.
My body grows larger, and tremendous power fills my entire being.
As if to make it easier to hit me, Hon Won floats into the air to match my eye level while preparing the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique.
In my transformed state, I draw upon the power of the Ghost King gifted by Seo Li.
Although not fully at the Four-Axis stage of the Heaven Tribe, by overlaying General Seo's circuits over my body and amplifying the Heaven Tribe power, I can temporarily exert the strength of one.
Kugugugugugu!
Faces begin to sprout from my shoulders.
Kiyaaaaaaaah―
Kuaaaaaaaah―
Huaaaaaaaah―
Ghostly wails echo as 18 faces sprout from my starry giant's shoulders.
"This, this is crazy! What is that!?"
"A monster from the Interdimensional Void has invaded!!!"
"The Heaven-Earth Palace Lord is going to slaughter the monster!"
"Palace Lord! Please, do not lose!"
As the giant of starlight with 19 heads appear, the cultivators at the Four-Axis and Heavenly Being stages within the Heaven-Earth Palace scream in terror.
Wiiiiing―
Although the power of the Heaven Tribe has only been forcibly amplified using the Mad Lord's circuits, it's enough to summon the Three Great Ultimates for a brief moment.
Kuguguguk―
Despite being somewhat unstable, the symbol of the colossal Three Great Ultimates blooms like a halo behind the 19 heads.
From below, even Jeon Myeong-hoon shows a slightly uneasy expression at this grotesque sight.
Chualalalala!
The Heaven and Earth spiritual energy envelops me.
At the same time, gathering black and white Immortal-Devil energy in his hands, Hon Won's eyes brightened.
[Here I come. Do not regret this...!]
[Come if you dare.]
Kugugugugu!
[Great Mountain!]
Immense power radiates from Hon Won's hands.
However, I look at Hon Won and smirk.
Pasasasak―
Salt sprouts from my hands.
I channel all of the volcanic power of the Three Great Ultimates into my hands.
'I've always wanted to try this at least once.'
Chuckling inwardly, I concentrate the power of the Yin Soul Ghost Incantation and White Orchid Blessing Incantation in both hands.
Then, mimicking Hon Won, I shout.
[Great Mountain!]
Surprise and bewilderment flashes in Hon Won's eyes.
His gaze vividly screams, 'You bastard! What kind of sorcery is this!?'
I grin and extend my hands towards Hon Won.
As expected, the barrier of Yin and Yang Five Elements emerges around him as well.
Hon Won grits his teeth and extends his hand towards me.
[Splitting Emperor!]
[Splitting Emperor!]
Flash!
The world is dyed white.
Paaatt!
In a space left with nothing else but light.
Two beings are clashing with their powers.
A starry giant with 19 heads and a halo behind it.
And a dignified middle-aged man with a topknot wearing a black manggeon, surrounded by the energies of Yin and Yang.
At some point, as the power of the two beings reach their peak and the boundaries between the two become blurred within the light,
They see [something] within each other.
The giant of stars with 19 heads sees a 'name' in the direction of Hon Won.
The name is Cheon Ra (Heavenly Net).
Kuadududuk!
From the body of the starry giant with 19 heads, numerous bizarre rocks, trees, and soil sprout as the giant begins to transform into the Great Mountain (太山).
Conversely, the dignified middle-aged man with the topknot sees a 'certain shape' in the direction of the giant.
It's an [inverted cone].
Peoseoseok!
A salt pillar begins to grow from throughout the middle-aged man's entire body.
[Aaaaaah!!!]
[Aaaaaah!!!]
Both beings, having seen 'something' terrifying within each other, scream simultaneously.
***
The light fades away.
Kugugugu!
A massive mountain plummets to the ground.
No, it's a giant who has sprouted a mountain from its body.
Cheolpeok!
Simultaneously, a middle-aged man with a salt pillar growing from his body also falls to the ground.
For a while, both focused on shedding the bizarre foreign substances that have sprouted from their bodies.
Peoseok, Peoseoseok!
"Kuuuughh!"
The middle-aged man, Hon Won, tears at the salt that has grown on his body, regenerating himself.
At the same time, the giant, Seo Eun-hyun, also tears off the mountain ranges that have sprouted from his body.
Hon Won is the first to recover.
After tearing off all the salt chunks and completely regenerating his body, he glares at Seo Eun-hyun.
"You're someone who shouldn't be left alive."
Wiiiiiiing―
Hon Won's arms begin to emit attraction force again.
Seo Eun-hyun growls, his 38 eyes glowing.
[What are you saying, didn't you say you would forgive and let us go if I took a hit!?]
"Sorry, but I don't remember that."
Hon Won smirks and once again prepares the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique with both arms.
[I don't know what kind of secret art allowed you to mimic my Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique, but disappear!]
[Kugh!]
Seo Eun-hyun, with a hurried face, brushes off the mountains growing on his body and gathers attraction force in his hands again.
However, he displays a frustrated expression.
[I can't use it consecutively...? I see, it's a matter of proficiency.]
Proficiency!
The reason Hon Won can perform continuous attacks with the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique is that he has been mastering it for tens of thousands of years.
Even for someone like Seo Eun-hyun, it's impossible to freely use the supernatural powers of a technique he has only just acquired.
In fact, the only reason that he had been able to use the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique even once after seeing the technique formula is because he is a Heaven and Earth Dual Cultivation practitioner, is well-versed in Yin and Yang, has mastered all Five Elements, and has all the conditions met through the Yin Soul Ghost Incantation and the White Orchid Blessing Incantation .
Typically, just seeing the formula alone would never allow one to use the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique.
Kugugugu!
Hon Won gathers his energy.
To make matters worse, Seo Eun-hyun is currently struggling to move due to the rebound effect from seeing the 'name' through using the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique!
It's a moment of life and death.
At that moment, Yuan Yu, who is next to Jeon Myeong-hoon, moves.
Surung―
In Yuan Yu's hand, the All-Heavens Sword appears.
Shukak!
Once.
Once is enough.
To divert Hon Won's concentration while he is intensely focusing on preparing the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique, just once is sufficient.
Chwaaaak!
A wound of all of Heaven's colors appears on Hon Won's body, struck by the sword energy of the All-Heavens Sword.
He turns around hurriedly to look at me, and I smile brightly as I speak.
"It seems I know quite a few miscellaneous techniques."
When I had grabbed Yuan Yu's shoulder earlier and sent him to Jeon Myeong-hoon, I left a heart essence avatar inside him.
Just in case of moments like this!
Woo-woong―
I emerge from Yuan Yu's body and stand in front of Hon Won.
Cheok, Cheok, Cheok, Cheok!
There are a total of 24 heart essence avatars that I had placed in Yuan Yu's body.
Just now, one of them was used to warn Hon Won.
"Keep your promise, Penglai Palace Lord. We would like you to let us go now. Surely, I trust you are not someone who goes back on promises spoken with your mouth."
With burning eyes, Hon Won glared at me and spat out his words.
At my words, Hon Won glares at me with burning eyes and spits out his words.
[...You even turn out to be a vile Heart Tribe spy. Now I have one more reason to not let you go so why should I?]
I sigh and say,
"I may have learned the techniques of the Heart Tribe, but I am clearly of the Human Race. I may be associated as a vile Heart Tribe, but I am not a spy. More importantly, as someone who has reached the fourth stage of Manifestation, I would be acknowledged as a genuine force even by the Grand Cultivator Association!"
[How can those who have learned the Heart Tribe method not be Heart Tribe spies! Recognized by the Grand Cultivator Association, you say? You dream big.]
Wiiiiiing―
Hon Won laughs mockingly at me as he gathers black and white Immortal-Devil energy in his hands.
"There's precedent, so why wouldn't they recognize it? I will say it again, keep your promise!"
[What precedent are you talking about? I will say it again, you will all die here!]
I click my tongue while looking at him.
"Words won't work, huh."
Tstsutststsut!
Out of the 23 remaining heart essence avatars, 22 of them enter one clone.
One move per avatar.
"I have warned you multiple times."
Paaatt!
Around me, the barrier of Yin-Yang and Five Elements swirls.
And then, Hon Won shouts.
[Great Mountain (泰山)!]
I take the Starting Form, countering his technique with my own ultimate move.
"Severing Mountain (斷岳)!"
Though there's no need to shout technique names in martial arts, in this case, I shout to signify my resolve to crush Hon Won's will to kill us.
Hon Won's single strike bursts from his hands, and my 22 sword strikes combine, tearing through Heaven and Earth with a brilliant burst of light.
Take this.
Each strike is equivalent to the full power of an Integration stage Grand Cultivator.
Combining those strikes into the framework of swordsmanship, I maximize their power and unleash them in a single ultimate move!
I see Hon Won's entire being, and even his domain within his soul, being shredded by the strike.
Of course, in exchange, my entire body is being dismantled.
I will likely scatter into seven types of energy and vanish.
'But this is just a clone, so...'
It doesn't matter.
He should blame himself for foolishly using his ultimate move on a clone.
'Despite accusing me of being a Heart Tribe spy, it seems he has little actual combat experience against them...'
All the heart essence avatars I had imbued into Yuan Yu through his shoulder have disappeared.
And I see Hon Won, struck by the avatar's ultimate move, right before my eyes.
Chiiiiii―
My body returns to human form.
It appears maintaining the giant form with the incomplete Three Great Ultimates is too much of a strain on my body.
"Kugheok, geok, geo, geo!"
"You must not have fought the Heart Tribe much. But even so, did you not even think to ask her, your fellow Grand Cultivator, about it?"
"Kurlugh, keoheok, heok...what are you talking about...?"
"Well, never mind. Are we going to continue?"
Wiiiiing―
I gather attraction force in both hands and ask.
"My energy has recovered. I can use the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique again. Moreover, if you wish, I can perform the slash you just saw as many times as needed."
Of course, it's a bluff.
No matter how strong the Four-Axis stage body is, delivering the First Step Before the Throne's strike 22 times consecutively is extremely difficult.
Even though it isn't completely impossible to use it to some extent other than 22 times, expecting the same power as before is unrealistic.
Above all, the biggest problem is...
Cheon Ra (天羅).
The moment I recognized that 'name,' I was engulfed in immense fear.
'It's them...! That existence...!'
The Being that [exudes a determination as immovable as a great mountain].
One of the ten seats I saw during my regression.
It's definitely them!
That is certainly their True Name (眞名).
'But it's strange...'
Both Hon Won and I should have recognized something terrifying, yet neither of us seem severely affected.
'Why?'
It's clear that Hon Won had seen 'it' too, given that he turned into a pillar of salt.
However, he recovered too easily.
'Moreover, Cheon Ra is undoubtedly a current Governing Immortal.'
Yet, how can I remain so unaffected even after knowing their true name?
When I learned the names of deceased True Immortals like Yu Hao Te and Hae Nyeong, I was severely affected.
'Most importantly...Yeon Wei casually mentioned the name Cheon Ra...'
At that point, I begin to get confused.
'Are they not the owner of the seat I saw during my regression? Is it just a name that exudes similar energy...?'
In any case, the crucial point is that I can no longer delay.
If I drag it out any further, I don't know what kind of existence would notice me.
"Do you want to continue, Penglai Palace Lord?"
Paaaatt!
Light bursts forth from both arms, and salt begins to emerge.
Hon Won flinches at this sight and grits his teeth before speaking.
"...Fine. I will keep my promise. Go."
"A wise decision."
I nod and immediately begin moving with Jeon Myeong-hoon and Hong Fan.
Hon Won groans as he heals his ravaged body with the energy of the Heaven-Earth central territory.
"Kuuugh...damn it...if it weren't for the seizure of the Supervisory Eye..."
He groans, clutching his eyes.
The character for supervision (監) in both of Hon Won's eyes are burning exceptionally brightly.
Heavenly King Heavenly Domain.
Within a palace of light where radiance of all colors converge.
Under the Seat of Radiance, eight shadows are gathered.
The eight colossal beings communicate with one another using metaphysical language.
Each time they exchange words, the light of the entire Heavenly Domain fluctuates.
In front of the throne they reside, an Entering Nirvana True Person in the form of a Peng Bird flies in.
Though even one wing of the Peng Bird is originally large enough to cover a continent, it appears no bigger than a small sparrow before the shadows.
[To the Honorable ones, I bring a message. While observing the Earth Axis Heavenly Domain, the Mountain God has sent a message.]
The eight shadows converse in metaphysical language for a moment before one speaks to the Entering Nirvana True Person in the language of the lower world to prevent them from going mad.
[Speak.]
[Yes. The Mountain God has said, 'I will descend to the Sun and Moon Heavenly Domain.']
The True Person struggles to not directly face the eight shadows and delivers the message.
A commotion arises among the eight shadows.
The entire Heavenly King Heavenly Domain trembles.
One of the shadows, mindful of preventing the Entering Nirvana True Person from going mad, asks,
[Is that all?]
[Yes, I apologize, but after delivering that message, they began exerting their power in the Earth Axis Heavenly Domain. It seems they intend to descend to the Sun and Moon Heavenly Domain at any moment.]
[Relay that it is forbidden (不可). Also, ask if they are unaware of the matter of Heavenly Punishment.]
[P-Pardon?]
The Entering Nirvana True Person is startled by the command from the shadows to deliver such a message.
Considering the temperament of the Mountain God, it's akin to telling the True Person to go and die.
Nevertheless, the Entering Nirvana True person grits their beak and nods.
[I...will obey the command.]
The Peng Bird then leaves the throne of light.
How much time has passed?
The Peng Bird does not return.
The shadows communicate in metaphysical language once more.
The gist of their conversation is roughly as follows:
[The messenger bird has not returned.]
[It must have been killed by that tyrant.]
[Do they truly wish for the Radiance Supreme Deity to take action?]
[No matter how powerful the Mountain God is, do they not know that without being a Heavenly Venerable, they cannot compare to the Seat of Light?]
[This might be for the best. Does the Mountain God not have an old grudge with us that needs to be resolved?]
[Must we imprison another Supreme Deity? It's a laborious task...]
[We already warned 40,000 years ago that interference in the Sun and Moon Heavenly Domain is forbidden...]
[It's already been 120,000 years since the power of light was last shown...it seems everyone is underestimating the Owner of Light. It's about time...for the Owner of Light to act.]
The eight shadows look up at the Seat of Light above them.
[...As the Owner of Light has decreed, we shall convey to the Mountain God.]
Shortly after, the eight shadows disappear from the hall.
Only the Seat of Light continues to emit an even brighter radiance from above.
Flinch!
I suddenly look up at the sky.
For some reason, I feel a chill run down my spine, but as the sunlight brightens, the ominous feeling that had brushed past me fades away.
'What was that?'
It passed too quickly for me to dwell on, but I decide to remain vigilant.
Hon Won might suddenly chase after me from behind, the Mad Lord might emerge from the ground, or Seo Hweol...
"Hoho, greetings, Daoist Seo."
"Ah, yes. Actually, I was about to call you."
I look at Seo Hweol, who has approached me at some point with an unpleasant smile.
"Hoho, it's impressive that you noticed my concealment technique. By the way, you've reached the Four-Axis stage already..."
"Hong Fan, Jeon Myeong-hoon. Cover your ears for a moment."
They obediently cover their ears at my words.
I look at Seo Hweol, who has appeared in front of me with a disturbing laugh.
In my past life, he only came when I called, but now he spoke to me first without my beckoning.
The reason is obvious.
"Are you surprised that the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens within me has disappeared, Seo Hweol?"
Freeze!
Seo Hweol's body stiffens.
"If you want, I'll give you another chance. Try again. You can sacrifice a few personalities if needed."
I spread my arms and speak nonchalantly.
Then, Seo Hweol's eyes turn into those of a reptile.
"...Hoho..."
If he tries to parasitize me again, I can incinerate him with the Karmic Fire burning within me.
If he doesn't attempt to parasitize me out of caution, I can manipulate him as I wish.
'You've enjoyed using others for a long time, haven't you, Seo Hweol?'
Now it's my turn.
***
A brief standoff occurs between Seo Hweol and me as we lock eyes.
Seo Hweol seems to gaze at me for a moment before smiling faintly.
"Hoho, you seem to be a fellow Daoist. As expected, is Daoist Seo also someone from 'above'?"
He chuckles and points towards the sky.
"Hmm, 'above,' you say?"
I shrug, pretending not to understand, and Seo Hweol chuckles as if to say not to joke around.
"Hoho. I came here knowing everything, Daoist. Since you've come to the Saha World, it would be wise to accept my help. If you know about Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens, you would know that as long as it exists, this world revolves around me."
He extends his hand towards me with a gentle expression.
"An immortal art that makes the world move according to my desire...as Daoist should already know, as long as this immortal art exists, it's overwhelmingly advantageous to join forces with me, no matter what your goal is. Hoho, please, tell me. What is your purpose here?"
But I scoff.
"So, you're not even going to attempt brainwashing?"
"Hoho, attempting to use immortal arts recklessly on someone of your standing could lead to serious trouble, would it not?"
"Hmm..."
As I look at Seo Hweol, I roll my eyes.
I feel it.
Having experienced Seo Hweol before, I know.
His 'configuration' is imprinting itself in me.
At this rate, I will be consumed by Seo Hweol at some point, just like in my previous life.
'If it weren't for me falling and escaping Seo Hweol's grasp once, I would never have noticed.'
"So, this thing you're imprinting now, should I think of it as a communication device?"
Seo Hweol flinches slightly at my words, then smirks.
"As expected, you've figured it out right away."
"Stop joking around. If you want to genuinely collaborate, show some sincerity."
I speak coldly, glaring at Seo Hweol.
He laughs as if he can't help it.
"Hoho, I apologize. As you know, I have a bit of a playful nature."
"Who are you?"
"I am...Blood Yin."
"Oh, Blood Yin?"
I squint my eyes.
'Does a guy who calls himself Blood Yin not even sense the Karmic Fire burning in my soul?'
What an absurd statement.
Of course, I know this guy has some kind of relationship with Blood Yin, who is suspected to be a leftover of Yu Hao Te.
He mainly uses devilish arts that originate from Blood Yin.
I reply with a sardonic smile.
"It's the first time I've heard that the Blood Yin originating from the noble Yu Hao Te is playful."
"Hoho, it seems my personality changed a bit after I got a new name."
I glare at Seo Hweol, feeling the 'configuration' still writing and expanding its domain within my mind.
"I have one question, Seo Hweol."
If he takes over my soul, he will immediately be burned by Karmic Fire, and if he doesn't, I can manipulate him accordingly.
I ask without feeling any urgency.
"What do you think about the Cheon Ra (天羅)?"
At my question, Seo Hweol asks back as if confused.
"Hmmm, who are you referring to?"
"You call yourself Blood Yin and don't even know Cheon Ra?"
At my question, Seo Hweol smiles brightly.
"Hoho, of course, I know. But as you know, they are not something I can mention carelessly, no?"
Seo Hweol points 'above' again, as if hinting at some secret, but I find it ridiculous.
'So, he's basically saying, 'I don't know what you're talking about, so let's just skip this part because it's difficult to talk about it here,' huh?'
I smile even more sarcastically and speak.
"Then, you must also not know much about the events related to the Governing Immortals 40,000 years ago."
"Hoho, Governing Immortals..."
"Yes, the Governing Immortals! Those beings higher than the Netherworld's [Chief Judge Nether Devil True Lord Yu Hao Te], [Reincarnation Judge Nether Ghost True Lord Yu Soo Ryeon], and [Deputy Judge Ancient Force True Lord Hae Nyeong]!"
"..."
"The [Heavenly Venerable of the Underworld], who dispatched the Tribunal, including the Lofty Dragon True Person, to the Sun and Moon Heavenly Domain, the Heavenly Venerable who opposes the Heavenly Venerable of the Underworld, [Sal Tree Heavenly Venerable], and those other great and honorable Seat Holders!"
"..."
Mentioning great beings will inevitably draw their attention.
However, considering that I already encountered the Heavenly Venerable of the Underworld when meeting Yang Su-jin's remnant thoughts by this point, he will undoubtedly be watching me already.
And regarding the Sal Tree Heavenly Venerable.
Trusting in Yu Hao Te's words of their generous and lenient nature, and knowing that they fear the Heavenly Venerable of the Underworld, I mentioned them believing that since the Heavenly Venerable of the Underworld is already watching me, the Sal Tree Heavenly Venerable would not do anything to me.
I feel like my head could explode at any moment, but I can endure it because I had built my resistance to these names in my previous life.
However, Seo Hweol only smiles for a long time in response to my words and remains silent.
"What's the matter, 'self-proclaimed Blood Yin' Daoist?"
I smile sardonically and approach Seo Hweol, placing my hand on his shoulder.
"If you are truly Blood Yin, are they not your dear superiors?"
"..."
"Listening a little more about [Governing Immortals] might..."
At that moment.
Clench!
Seo Hweol suddenly reaches out and grabs my shoulder.
Flinch!
I'm startled, but at the same time, a triumphant smile spreads across my face.
'Have you made up your mind, Seo Hweol?'
"Well, I understand. You truly are a True Immortal."
Chechechechechett—
A serious light flickers in Seo Hweol's eyes.
"I have always regarded you as a subject of vigilance, but now I must elevate you to a target of danger."
'Indeed, he's decided to brainwash me.'
Go ahead, Seo Hweol!
Brainwash me completely and burn in the Karmic Fire!
I smile faintly, having laid a trap for Seo Hweol.
I can feel it.
Through the configuration Seo Hweol imprinted in me, 'Seo Hweol's' personalities begin to infiltrate within me.
Jiiiing—
I first protect my heart essence and hide it deep within the depths of my mind.
Simultaneously, as I become immobilized, Seo Hweol reaches out to my head.
The observing Jeon Myeong-hoon and Hong Fan try to intervene, but Seo Hweol does not stop.
Clench!
He places his hand on my head.
Personalities of the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens rush to infiltrate my body.
Through those personalities, Seo Hweol begins speaking to me.
[Since my goal is to surpass 'them' anyway, I will test it through you.]
Seo Hweol, who grasps my head, starts pouring energy into it.
The energy enters through the Baihui point, piercing the center of my brain where the pituitary gland is, then circles my upper dantian once before erupting through my glabella.
'This is...'
It's a familiar mind-awakening spell.
Originating from the Black Ghost Valley, it was transmitted to the Sea Dragon Tribe, with whom they had fought for many years, and from there to the Makli Clan and Jin Clan influenced by them.
It was associated with talent awakening and fundamentally served as a 'spell that clears the mind' cast in the Sea Dragon Palace.
'Why use a mind-clearing spell during brainwashing...ah, I see.'
I now finally understand why Seo Hweol used such a mind-clearing spell.
Wiiiiiing—
This spell isn't to clear the mind of the brainwashing 'target.'
It's a spell to clear and strengthen the mind of 'Seo Hweol's personality' formed within the target's mind.
'I see...'
Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens is an Immortal Art that replaces the target with oneself.
Depending on the situation, it could implant multiple personalities, two, three, even dozens.
'When brainwashing a powerful target, it aims to clear and strengthen the minds of the multiple implanted personalities to quickly dominate the target's mind.'
The reason such a spell was set up in the Sea Dragon Palace is obvious.
It was to easily implant the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens on anyone entering the Sea Dragon Palace.
And I realize that Seo Hweol is genuinely expending a significant number of personalities from the hundred of millions he possesses.
'This, this bastard...!'
Jjiiiiiiiiiing—
[Grade-1 dangerous entity identified.]
[Commencing brainwashing.]
[Attempting to consume 400 'selves.']
'This is somewhat dangerous...!'
Kuguguguguk!
A tiny fraction of the hundreds of millions of Seo Hweol's.
Merely 400 or so, but these personalities are all being systematically implanted into me, sacrificing themselves to replace me with Seo Hweol, with the replaced 'Seo Hweol's' mind gradually clearing.
Kugugugugu—
Although I haven't collapsed yet, the domain of my heart essence begins to shake, and I realize that if the number of implanted Seo Hweol personalities exceed a thousand, even my heart essence world wouldn't be guaranteed.
'No, no...'
But at the same time, through contact with Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens, I realize that there is something even more 'truly frightening.'
Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens is still incomplete.
There is still one condition left for the 'true' Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens to activate, and I can sense that Seo Hweol hasn't triggered that condition yet.
Chills!
'Haha, how spine-chilling. This damned guy.'
Seo Hweol, who at some point already imprinted his configuration into Jeon Myeong-hoon's brain, is using Jeon Myeong-hoon to subdue Hong Fan while slowly brainwashing me.
When the proportion of 'Seo Hweol' within my soul exceeds 70 percent,
Crackle!
I faintly hear the sound of embers sparking.
I smile within my heart essence.
Come on, feel it.
Crack, crackle, crackle!
Huarururururururu!
"...!"
Seo Hweol flinches and shudders.
My Karmic Fire clings to Seo Hweol, who is trying to seize 'me.'
Last time, he severed the connection with Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens while being wary of me, but this time, fully determined to brainwash me, Seo Hweol himself directly connected the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens to me!
Huarurururuk!
My Karmic Fire originally only burns me.
It doesn't particularly transfer to others.
However, Seo Hweol is trying to steal 'me' to make 'me' become him.
Thus, the Karmic Fire begins to transfer directly to Seo Hweol, to his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
"KUAAAAGH!"
Jeon Myeong-hoon screams.
The Karmic Fire nested in his mind ignites.
The one who had subdued Hong Fan is now being supported by Hong Fan, while I laugh as I watch Seo Hweol start to burn fiercely in front of me.
Seo Hweol, with Karmic Fire clinging to his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens, can't overcome his own terrible karmic sins and falls away from me.
"Kuuuuugh! Ho, ho...!!!"
"You're still laughing, huh? How disgusting."
I smirk as I regain control of my body with my eyes glowing.
Seo Hweol's configurations, still burning, lingers within my mind.
But Seo Hweol hastily severs the connection between Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens and the personalities imprinted in my mind.
However, I smirk again.
"Have a taste of the vile Heart Tribe."
Surung—
It's interesting. The Heart Tribe's First Step Before the Throne and Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens have similarities.
They are quite similar in the sense that both can imprint 'themselves' onto their opponent.
I forge my heart essence, holding the heart essence avatar of myself imbued with Seo Hweol's configurations in my hand.
All-Heavens Sword.
Single strike!
Bo-oong!
The All-Heavens Sword pierces Seo Hweol at a speed he can't even react to, embedding itself inside him.
And then, I forcibly reconnect the 'burning configurations of Seo Hweol' within it to Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
"Kuuuuurghhh!"
Seo Hweol trembles in pain while starting to retrieve the four Five Blessings Axes of Health, Wealth, Longevity, and Love of Virtue within his body.
It seems he is trying to disconnect this body entirely from the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
However, I laugh again.
"No, you cannot."
Because I won't allow it.
Kuguguguguk!
I use the Wealth Axis within me to emit an attraction force.
My attraction force captures Seo Hweol's attraction force, sealing it within his body.
Finally, the smile disappears from Seo Hweol's face.
Seo Hweol hastily forms hand seals and begins to flee.
Paaaatt!
He who transforms into his original Sea Dragon form hurriedly tries to escape from me.
If he gets far enough from me, he could break the attraction curse I placed on him, reclaim his Five Blessings Axes, and sever the connection with Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens to stop the spread of the Karmic Fire.
However, I smile coldly.
"I told you, Seo Hweol,"
A glint shines from my eyes.
Flash!
In an instant, I become a flash of light.
Seo Hweol tries to escape by even using the ground-shrinking technique, but it's useless.
"Hohuk...ho, ho...!"
"You can't escape."
Clench!
I quickly lunge and grab Seo Hweol's tail.
He seems to try to sever his own tail, but I invoke the Azure Spirit Starlight Quintessence Great Method.
Kuguaguaguaguagua!
My body transforms into a giant of stars.
I grip his tail and start swinging him around.
Wham, wham, wham, wham!
[Kuuugh!]
Seo Hweol seems to attempt using his demon abilities to break free.
Boom!
I slam him to the ground, still holding onto his tail.
Kugugugugugu!
The ground shakes violently, causing earthquakes everywhere.
[Hoho, such an attack...only tickles me.]
[Oh, really? Since you seem to like it, I'll tickle you more.]
[Hoho...!]
Seo Hweol opens his mouth and shoots a beam of light at me.
Kuaguaguaguang!
Indeed, the breath of the Dragon Race is certainly powerful.
I momentarily lose hold of Seo Hweol, and he starts to flee again.
Kuduk, kudududk, kududududuk!
Faces begin to sprout from my shoulders once more.
[Stop right there!]
Kuaguaguaguang!
I chase after him, the Three Great Ultimates glowing behind me.
In an instant, we cross the Heaven-Earth central territory and traverse through the territories of numerous races.
Spirit Scale Race territory.
There, I finally caught Seo Hweol again.
Somehow, it seems he has managed to drive out the Karmic Fire by sacrificing personalities.
The Karmic Fire no longer burns within him.
[That won't do.]
Bo-oong!
Chwak!
I swing the All-Heavens Sword again, forcibly reconnecting the Karmic Fire to his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
[Kuuugh!]
Seo Hweol's eyes are bloodshot.
The Karmic Fire doesn't just cause him personal pain; it truly harms his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
He might really be feeling fear.
[It won't be easy...!]
Flash!
He opens his mouth and shoots a beam of light again.
But I don't back down, and from my 38 eyes, I shoot beams infused with ghostly energy in response.
Kuaguaguaguang!
The beams we emit shake the territory of the Spirit Scale Race.
The Spirit Scale Race members in the area scream and flee in all directions.
"Huaaaaaahh, monsters are fighting!"
"Just what race is that?!"
"Damn it, is that monster hunting the sacred Dragon Race to eat?! Just run, or we'll be eaten too!"
To an onlooker, it might certainly look like a malevolent starry giant with 19 heads hunting a blue dragon. But such trivial matters are none of my concern. I grab Seo Hweol by the neck and bring him close to my face.
[Seo Hweol, do you not wish to learn more about the Governing Immortals?]
[Do you not have any interest in the Vast Cold Heavenly Lord or the Purple Gold Heavenly Lord?]
[If you wish, I can tell you more about the Tribunal of the Netherworld. Yu Hao Te, Yu Soo Ryeon, Hae Nyeong...]
[Are you not curious about the salt pillar in the Head Realm?]
[I have the astronomical data observed from the Head Realm interpreted through the Understanding before Breakthrough insights of the Heaven Tribe methods. Let me tell you about it...]
[I also have knowledge gained from directly facing Heavenly Punishment...]
Whisperwhisperwhisperwhisperwhisperwhisperwhisper...
Grabbing the bastard's head so he can't escape, I endlessly whisper great knowledge with my 19 heads.
Seo Hweol struggles 'like mad' to escape from me, but he can't escape from someone who inherited the teachings of Azure Tiger Saint.
At the same time, with my heart essence burrowing All-Heavens Sword, I begin to dig through the depths of his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
'I'll find it.'
I tear into the depths of his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
To find the 'real' clue that will completely overthrow Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens!
And just then.
'This is...'
I sense it.
At the center of the Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens.
There is something there.
Hidden in the deepest, darkest depths...I can feel what he desires to conceal.
That is...
[I see, Seo Hweol.]
My 38 eyes glow with glint.
[I see...you...have a main body, don't you...?]
'Somewhere'!
'Somewhere' in this world!
Seo Hweol's main body exists!
No, should I even call it his main body?
There exists a 'central point' around which all the personalities of his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens revolve!
I can instinctively feel it.
If I destroy this 'central point,' his Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens will scatter.
And then, Seo Hweol's expression, which has been trying to maintain a playful smile, completely changes.
Expressionless.
He looks at me with eyes devoid of any emotion.
[...Very well. I have lost.]
Then.
Kuadudududuk!
His body begins to transform.
A scarlet blood mist envelops him.
Seo Hweol transforms from the appearance of a divine sea dragon into the shape of a devilish monster (魔物) emitting a red-black aura in an instant.
Chuarururuk!
Seo Hweol's body stretches and extends, wrapping around me like a rope.
[Since the Mad Lord Jo Yeon.]
Crack!
Seo Hweol, wrapping around my body, speaks in an emotionless voice.
[No one has ever disrupted my plans as much as you have. From now on, I will devise plans to destroy you along with Jo Yeon. Rejoice.]
[Haha, do as you wish.]
I laugh, staring into his eyes.
[I will find your main body.]
With my eyes blazing with ghost fire, I meet Seo Hweol's gaze, which emanates devilish energy.
[I will find your main body and utterly annihilate you!]
Because of Seo Hweol, because of his schemes, how many lives have been ruined?
Jo Yeon, Gyu-ryeon, Seo Ran...
He even tried to make his own subordinate, Yuan Li, into a puppet.
And because of that Yuan Li, I...lost too much.
[...Grade-1 dangerous entity Seo Eun-hyun. Thanks to you, my plans will be delayed by thousands of years. The Five Blessings Axes...will be abandoned.]
Kugugugugu!
I feel it.
This is certainly dangerous.
The Five Blessings Axes within Seo Hweol are emitting light.
Drawing upon the power of the Three Great Ultimates, I fill my hands with black and white energy.
Flash!
Seo Hweol detonates all of his Five Blessings Axes, and I counter his self-destruction at the cost of my cultivation with the Great Mountain Splitting Emperor Technique.
This time, the barrier of Yin-Yang and Five Elements protects me.
'Finally, I've got a clue on how to destroy you, Seo Hweol!'
While self-destructing, and channeling the energy of his self-destruction towards me, I can feel Seo Hweol's will to destroy me.
Just like in the previous cycle, when I felt Seo Hweol's determination to 'unquestionably' destroy the Mad Lord when he went for the confirmation kill on the Mad Lord who suffered at the hands of Jang Ik, I can now see his unwavering resolve to eliminate me by any means necessary.
Yes, I have finally become Seo Hweol's equal adversary.
***
Light fades away, and I realize that my body is in shambles.
'Damn, I feel like I'm going to die.'
However, I feel as if my spirits are soaring.
I can tell.
Seo Hweol has truly suffered significant damage from me.
Although he's someone who never speaks the truth, it's true that his plans have been greatly delayed.
Since he sacrificed the Five Blessings Axes he cherished so much, he will be running around to retrieve them again.
Given the damage inflicted on him by the Karmic Fire, he won't be able to show his face or act openly for a long time.
Cough, cough!
I collapse to the ground, vomiting blood.
In the distance, I can sense the presence of several Spirit Scale Race members.
It seems they are coming to investigate as the presence of the monsters has faded.
I don't have the strength to even move a finger.
The Spirit Scale Race isn't particularly friendly with the Human Race, so it would be quite troublesome if they capture me.
Of course, I have means to escape even in my weakened state, but I continue to stay down.
Kuarurung!
Red Lightning flashes as Jeon Myeong-hoon clicks his tongue in irritation.
"This bastard… can't you at least say something before you act?"
The Karmic Fire attached to Seo Hweol through me has already gone out within Jeon Myeong-hoon.
The Karmic Fire is originally meant to burn only me, it was only due to the peculiar situation of Seo Hweol trying to take over 'my' very existence that it burned others. Hence, it isn't strange that the fire has already been extinguished within Jeon Myeong-hoon.
Hong Fan, who has flown in with Jeon Myeong-hoon, helps me up.
"We'll head to the Human Race territory first, but we should perform some emergency treatment before that."
"What emergency treatment? A good night's sleep will fix everything."
"If you rely solely on your vitality just because you've reached the Four-Axis stage, you'll end up in trouble."
Hong Fan takes out some poison liquids from his storage scroll and mixes something on the spot before pouring it into my mouth.
Instantly, I feel life force surging through my body, and accelerated regeneration.
As expected from Hong Fan, who reached the pinnacle in dealing with medicinal poisons, the efficacy of his concoction is remarkable.
"Now that the treatment is done, let's get out of here. It's risky to stay in another race's territory for too long."
Jeon Myeong-hoon grabs both Hong Fan and me by our necks and uses the Flying Escape Technique.
Kuarururung!
We are enveloped in a streak of red lightning, flying towards the Human Race territory.
A week passes like that.
We arrive at the Human Race territory and officially register our 're-ascension' at Temporal Fate Island. Jeon Myeong-hoon, using his authority as Grand Elder of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, officially lifts my bounty.
Then, we head towards Thunder Spirit Island.
Kuarurung!
In my past life, I was assimilated by Seo Hweol and lived in Seo Li's body, so I couldn't find it.
Together with Jeon Myeong-hoon, I head to the ruins of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect on Thunder Spirit Island, to the place where Hong Su-ryeong had died.
Though the funeral was held in the Lower Realm, her remains are actually here.
Stomp, stomp...
Perhaps it's because I returned her to the soil with the Yin Soul Ghost Incantation.
There's no body at the place where Hong Su-ryeong had died.
I brush the soil where she had died.
This soil is her remains.
Jeon Myeong-hoon went to find Jin So-hae's cave residence, and Hong Fan gave us some space for privacy.
Creak—
Using a wood-attribute spell, I create a wooden shovel and slowly dig into the ground, burying the soil infused with her body.
I then create a small mound and sit in front of it, pouring a drink.
"It's been a while. I'm back."
Drip...
Come to think of it, this is something I should have done immediately upon returning in my past life.
But because of Seo Hweol, I didn't even think about it and passed it by.
"Is it comfortable there?"
There's no response.
"I hope the Death God is kind to others, even if he is harsh with us."
I wish for your peace after death.
Rambling might seem pathetic and unsightly.
But maybe such pathetic things are necessary in the life of humans.
I ramble and complain for a while in front of her grave.
A ghost's resentment accumulates because it cannot be conveyed to the living.
Perhaps it's because I am also a ghost who can't die even after death.
Just rambling to Hong Su-ryeong like this makes me feel a bit lighter.
Evening comes.
I finally finish my rambles.
"...Anyway, a lot has happened."
There's no response.
But even though I feel sadness, my heart is at peace.
Since the regression point was fixed, my connection with Hong Su-ryeong did not vanish beyond time.
It didn't disappear into nothingness.
I bid farewell to Hong Su-ryeong and leave the place of her mound.
'Hyang-hwa...'
What if the regression point had been fixed after her death?
Though she wouldn't be alive and moving, the 'Buk Hyang-hwa' that shared a connection with me wouldn't disappear.
Suddenly, I remember the feelings Seo Li left me with in my past life, the emotions he felt for me.
―Even if his body becomes soil, his soul will regress and endlessly repeat life.
―Even if his body remains here, his soul will move to another time, and he will no longer be able to reminisce about those connections that remember him.
―Only the records stored in the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections will comfort Seo Eun-hyun, warmly but sorrowfully.
Rustle—
Suddenly, the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections unfold around me naturally.
It's full of cherished memories.
To others, it might look like empty mist, but to me, they are irreplaceable pillars of my heart.
Suruk—
I reach out to the past figures inside the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections, those who laughed and chatted, cried and shed tears, and bled and raged.
My hand passes through them so emptily.
After all, they are just records.
"..."
I stared at them for a moment.
And then I see an annoying gaze inside the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections.
It's Seo Hweol.
Regardless of what happened, he is also in here.
―Haha...it must be frustrating for Daoist Seo to have created such a terrifying technique and not be able to use it properly, only to suffer from me.
Looking at him, then around the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections, I set my goal for this life.
'This life...'
"The Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections...shall I uncover its secrets?"
How did Buk Hyang-hwa connect to my Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections?
Is she still inside it somewhere?
What exactly is the relationship between it and my immortal beast bloodline?
Can the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections counter Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens?
There might be a possibility to track his main body through counter-assimilation, so understanding the secrets of the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections is crucial.
And above all,
Sararak—
I smile bitterly as I look at my hand, which emptily passes through the scenes in the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections.
The memory of watching the sunset with Kang Min-hee at Namsan, which Seo Li wanted to remember so much, brushes past me.
I will delve deeper into the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections.
Simply watching it is too sorrowful.
Just as Seo Li thought.
The Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections is so warm yet also so lonely.
To better feel this warmth, even if it's just a little.
The primary goal of this life will be to find a way to manifest the power of the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections externally.
It's a goal connected to the issue of my immortal beast bloodline, countering Seo Hweol's Tainted Soul Filling the Heavens, and the matter of Buk Hyang-hwa entering the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections.
As of now, it is the most important issue.
'Save Kim Yeon as well, and Kang Min-hee, and Oh Hyun-seok.'
Now, my power is not so lacking.
Do I not have at least the qualifications to save those who I want to save?
Saving them is not even a goal.
Saving them a matter of course (當然) and doesn't even need to be set as a goal.
I rise into the sky and look down towards the direction of Jeon Myeong-hoon.
He is gazing at the sky with a sentimental expression, gently caressing the wooden box with Jin So-hae's hand in front of her cave residence.
"Hong Fan."
"Yes, Master."
I speak to Hong Fan, who is waiting.
"I'll be heading to Heavenly Human Island for a while. Tell Jeon Myeong-hoon that I've gone to Heavenly Human Island to obtain the Grand Cultivator qualification, and give him this method."
"Yes, I understand."
I take out a jade slip from my storage scroll, record the formula for the Six Extremes Yin Thunder Body, and hand it to Hong Fan.
"I'll be back in a few days, so make sure he reaches Great Achievement by then."
"Hmm, it appears to be quite a high-level method..."
"If it's a Lightning Path Method, there's nothing the current Jeon Myeong-hoon can't learn."
Considering that there are things Jeon Myeong-hoon must accomplish with the Six Extremes Yin Thunder Body, it's better for him to learn it in advance.
After giving a few more instructions to Hong Fan, I prepare to head to Heavenly Human Island.
Chaaaaa—
Then, I feel goosebumps all over my body once again.
'What is it?'
Looking up at the sky, the evening sunset glow seems to brighten alongside the distant rising moonlight.
As the light grows brighter, the sensation fades.
It's definitely the same feeling I had before meeting Seo Hweol.
'Is Seo Hweol up to something again? Or is it something else...?'
Keeping my guard up, I continue towards Heavenly Human Island.
Earth Tribe, True Dragon Alliance.
Hyeon Eum's cave residence.
Hyeon Eum, who has transformed into his true form and is meditating, suddenly opens his eyes wide.
A subtle blood light (血光) emanates from Hyeon Eum's eyes.
[The main body is communicating...? What's going on...?]
Wo-woong—
Hyeon Eum seems to gaze towards somewhere momentarily.
Then, upon recognizing the signal coming from a distant place, his eyes narrow sharply.
[What…?! Those beings are going to war...? To prevent that from descending upon the Sun and Moon Domain...?]
Fear fills Hyeon Eum's eyes.
Chwarararak—
Instantly transforming from his dragon form into his human form, Hyeon Eum clenches his trembling fists.
His hands are already drenched in cold sweat.
"Those ominous beings fighting each other...it's good news. E-Even if one side wins, the other won't be able to exert their power for a while...It's a good thing."
He tries to calm his trembling voice, forcing himself to imagine a positive outcome as if trying to overcome his fear.
At that moment, Hyeon Eum, who seems to be communicating with a distant place, suddenly shivers and looks at the void.
"Wait, main body, what do you mean by that! What do you mean by laying low for a while...didn't you say you found traces of Authority!? Wait, don't cut off communication! Main body! At least give me some instructions..."
But Hyeon Eum stops moving his hand that was waving towards the void.
After a while, he clenches his fists tightly.
"Damn it...! They said they found traces of Authority and now they want to lay low to avoid the fallout...?"
Seemingly enraged, Hyeon Eum suddenly finches as the moonlight of the deepening night streams into his cave residence, stepping back as if avoiding the light.
His hands are trembling like an aspen leaf.
Recalling some unpleasant memories, Hyeon Eum grits his teeth.
"...Th-That's right. Perhaps lying low for a while is a good idea. Ho, hoho..."
He hides himself in the darkness, breathing heavily.
Heavenly Lotus Mountain.
At the top, above the white jade pavilion.
Surrounded by white light, Sacred Master Baek Woon is looking at the sky with a shocked expression.
[This is insane...they're clashing at the borders...? Ha, it's fortunate to have become a Sacred Master. The True Persons of the Astral Realm must be screaming in agony by now...]
Sacred Master Baek Woon, whose hands are trembling, takes a deep breath and forces a bitter smile.
[This isn't the time to feel relieved. If that tyrant descends, this entire Heavenly Domain will turn into the Asura Path...I must pray for their victory.]
Hyeon Eum and Sacred Master Baek Woon.
Other Sacred Vessel Sacred Masters of the Middle Realms.
True Persons of the Astral Realm.
Those who know of the true myths are reading the celestial energy, sensing the movements of unfathomable colossal beings, and trembling in fear.
Using the Flying Escape Technique to reach Heavenly Human Island, I suddenly turn my gaze downward, just below Heavenly Human Island.
'Below there is the Grand Nirvana Temple.'
I debated whether to enter the Grand Cultivator Association then see her, but decided to visit the Grand Nirvana Temple first.
'First, sparring with her and receiving guidance on the First Step Before the Throne, then stabilizing my realm, and then being properly recognized as a Grand Cultivator would be the best course of action, right?"
Furthermore, due to preventing Seo Hweol's self-destruction, my Heaven Tribe cultivation decreased, leaving me at the mid Heavenly Being stage.
If possible, it wouldn't be bad to reach Grand Perfection Heavenly Being using the newly obtained formula for the Grand Perfection stage by Seo Li.
'Now that I'm free from Seo Hweol, I can finally understand.'
Yang Su-jin had said that if one blesses In and Yeon, they would receive the blessing of the strongest Ender. But why did I not know of it and only receive the blessing of 'Heavenly Circle's Formula' through Seo Li's body?
The reason is simple.
The strongest Ender had blessed 'Seo Eun-hyun,' not 'Seo Hweol.'
At that time, Seo Li was much less assimilated by Seo Hweol compared to me, and when he obtained the formula, he hadn't fully differentiated into Seo Li but still recognized himself as 'Seo Eun-hyun,' thus allowing him to obtain it.
Everything is all because of Seo Hweol.
'Thinking about it this way makes me angry again.'
But it doesn't matter.
Seo Hweol should be infuriated as well, having lost the Five Blessings Axes because of me.
I arrive at the valley where the Grand Nirvana Temple is located.
Out of respect for her, I decide to land at the entrance of the valley and walk rather than entering the temple directly.
I also retract my consciousness into my body, not wanting to be disrespectful by scouting ahead.
It's a sign of respect for a martial artist who has reached such a high realm.
As I walk through the valley, I feel something strange.
'...Why are the Taenghwa paintings...gone?'
Previously, Tae Yeol-jeon had painted Taenghwas across the entire valley.
But now, the valley looks clean.
Feeling a sense of strangeness, I walk through the valley.
And when I arrive at the site of the Grand Nirvana Temple.
I feel a chill down my spine.
The temple still exists.
But it appears neglected, dilapidated, and crumbling in places.
Thorn bushes have grown all around, and the main gate of the temple is on the verge of collapse.
It looks like a haunted house.
'What, what happened here...?'
I can't hide my dismay as I enter the Grand Nirvana Temple.
The main hall, the Grand Nirvana Hall, is on the verge of collapse due to complete neglect, and piles of garbage are scattered everywhere.
I venture inside the Grand Nirvana Hall.
The interior of the hall where rituals are held for Buddhism is completely rotten, and the roof had caved in from the lack of maintenance.
The room where Tae Yeol-jeon had served tea to me and Kim Yeon is utterly ruined and in a complete wreck.
The once abundant artistic Taenghwa paintings are nowhere to be found.
At that moment, I suddenly notice a presence somewhere.
As I step out of the Grand Nirvana Hall, I hear someone yawning from inside the monks' quarters.
I walk to the monks' quarters with hurried steps.
Upon closer inspection, I see that the monks' quarters are somewhat maintained and show signs of habitation.
"...Is anyone there?"
Before entering, I call out towards the presence I feel inside.
Bang!
Suddenly, the door to the monks' quarters opens.
Flinch!
A woman with jet-black hair is scratching her belly and rubbing her eyes inside.
Her hair is disheveled, and it seems she hasn't washed in quite a while as it emits a strange smell.
The aura of a Nascent Soul cultivator emanates from her, likely at the mid Nascent Soul stage.
"Uhm, who are you?"
She looks at me with a sullen face and then flinches.
"Oop, it's a senior. Uh, um, please excuse this junior for her unkempt appearance."
She seems to gauge my cultivation level, and upon sensing my Heavenly Being stage spiritual energy, she hurriedly tidies her disheveled hair and hastily straightens her clothes.
"P-Please, come in...no, this room is a bit...I'll lead you to the guest room."
As if flustered, she hastily moves to guide me to an adjacent room next to the monks' quarters.
I stare at her with a stern expression.
When I glance into the room she came out of, I see a tremendous mess.
It's the exact opposite of where the tidy Tae Yeol-jeon used to stay.
Even the guest room she leads me to seems quite messy, judging by the sounds of frantic cleaning coming from inside for quite some time.
After a while, she invites me in.
"S-senior, everything is ready. Please, come in."
I enter, scrutinizing her face with a stern expression.
She lowers her eyes fearfully at my stern gaze.
Usually, I would have shown some consideration for a lower-level cultivator, but I'm not in the mood for that now.
I sit down and look around.
"...Where's the tea?"
"Eh, pardon? Ah...please forgive me, Senior. There used to be a tea that my master used to brew...but due to my neglect, it all rotted away 500 years ago..."
"...There are no Taenghwa paintings in the room."
"Oh...I apologize. As I haven't received teachings from my master...ah...actually, I think I have been taught but...as I never practiced it even once, I forgot...haha."
"..."
I look sternly at this woman who bears the same face as Tae Yeol-jeon.
She has the same face, but everything about her is different.
"What is your name?"
"Pardon? Oh...I don't really have a name. I was abandoned here at the Grand Nirvana Temple when I was young, and my master, who was the head monk, took me in and raised me. Master told me to find my parents when I reached the Nascent Soul stage and didn't give me a Dharma name...but when I reached the Nascent Soul stage and saw my life's flashbacks, I realized my parents didn't name me either and just abandoned me...haha...my master used to call me things like 'rascal-like thing,' 'dirty thing,' or 'lazy thing'..."
"..."
"Uh...senior, please call me whatever you like."
She scratches her head awkwardly as she speaks.
I fail to soften my stern expression, and she cringes further at my stern gaze.
"Take this one move."
Bo-oong—
I draw the All-Heavens Sword and launch an attack at her at the plane of Soul.
But she doesn't even recognize the All-Heavens Sword, staring blankly at me.
Suruk—
The sword strike from the All-Heavens Sword passes right through her.
If she were Tae Yeol-jeon, she would have gladly accepted the strike.
But this woman doesn't even perceive it.
"...Who are you?"
I glare at her and I ask.
Could the sudden chill I felt when the moonlight brightened earlier be because of this?
Terrified by my glare, her head hits the ground as she trembles.
"Hi, Hieek...spare me, Senior. Even though living is meaningless, I don't want to die yet...! I think dying would hurt too much...could you please spare even a bit of mercy?
"..."
Her past is exactly as I had heard from Tae Yeol-jeon.
But why is the woman in front of me not the Grand Cultivator of the First Step Before the Throne, but someone uninterested in Taenghwa paintings, who has not even shaved her head as a nun should? Where has her proud demeanor and her simple, unrestrained spirit gone?
Is the woman in front of me the strange one?
Or was the previous being known as Tae Yeol-jeon in the last cycle an existence somehow 'possessed' by something?
Rather than feeling pity for this woman, I am filled with an unknown fear, raising my vigilance to the maximum and ready to end my life at any moment.
Glaring at the woman before me, I ask.
"I have a question. What...method have you learned?"
***