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00349 Heavenly Realm ————————————————————————=

The Eight Demons of the Demon Path, Shadowless Gate.

As the top sect of the Demon Path, I had once learned the profound martial arts of the Shadowless Gate from the Sword Demon in my past life. Therefore, just now, I recognized that the Shadowless Soul-Removing Technique recently executed by the Master of Shadowless Sword astonishingly resembled the ultimate technique of the Shadowless Gate.

[Actually, these are two separate martial arts. It’s referred to as Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword because it simultaneously employs the Shadowless Sword Technique and the Soul-Removing Sword Technique.]

[While the opponent merely perceives it as a sword shadow, it is, in fact, the Soul-Removing Sword Technique silently executing a fatal strike from the dark. This is the essence of the Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword.]

Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword Technique!

It was the ultimate technique of the Shadowless Gate and the martial art of the Sword Demon. This technique, which simultaneously releases two sword strikes targeting the opponent’s weaknesses, concealed exceptional subtleties unlike other heretical sect martial arts. The Sword Demon’s mastery of the Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword Technique was enough for him to seize the position of the heretical sect’s leader.

When I fought Yeodong-bin earlier, I was uncertain, but the moment the Shadowless Soul-Removing Technique was executed, my suspicions solidified strongly. Although general basic techniques and unfolding flows differ from the Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword, the energy released when using the Shadowless Soul-Removing Technique was remarkably similar. The name alone makes it impossible not to consider it as belonging to the same sect’s martial arts.

Then, the Master of Shadowless Sword’s face briefly stiffened. He sent me a message.

[Please wait a moment. I’ll wrap up clan matters and explain.]

[Understood.]

I nodded in agreement with the Master of Shadowless Sword and headed toward a nearby hill. After roughly waiting a moment, I saw the Master of Shadowless Sword approach. He gazed at me from the edge of the pond and spoke.

“Baek Woong.”

“Please go ahead.”

“What exactly is your identity?”

As I silently stared at him, the Master of Shadowless Sword continued.

“Your astonishing martial arts and internal power… it’s impossible to view you as just a boy of your age. Do you know how badly I’ve wanted to duel against you? You are likely a Half-Transition Master.”

“……”

“Yet you summon the legendary Sword Master Yeodong-bin… Not only that, but you also recognized the martial arts of the Shadowless Gate at first glance… I’ve never met someone as peculiar as you.”

I answered calmly, “I know this naturally since I possess the status of the Dharma Guardian of the Shadowless Gate. Also, Yeodong-bin was summoned by mere chance through a fortuitous encounter. Right now, what’s important is not my identity, but rather why you are using the martial arts of the Shadowless Gate.”

“Hmm… Could it be that the Sword Demon sent you to find me?”

“Not at all. I’ve only heard rumors about a hidden talent in the Namgung Clan.”

“Hmm.”

The Master of Shadowless Sword gave a short hum, pondering something before saying,

“There is no issue with me using the martial arts of the Shadowless Gate because I, too, am a disciple of the Shadowless Gate.”

“……!!”

I had somewhat anticipated this statement, but I couldn’t help but be surprised.

The Master of Shadowless Sword, former holder of the title of Greatest Sword under Heaven and possibly the strongest warrior of the Namgung Clan throughout history, was a disciple of the heretical Shadowless Gate!

I calmly looked at him.

“I fail to understand. Please provide me with a detailed explanation.”

“Of course. It seems you wouldn’t let this slide without a proper explanation anyway.”

The Master of Shadowless Sword continued, “This dates back more than a hundred years… I was celebrated as the best talent of the Namgung Clan and was among the top-tier figures of the orthodox sect. Without realizing how fierce the world could be, I wandered through the Jianghu, claiming to engage in collaborative actions. In doing so, I encountered a true foe and faced a life-or-death situation.”

He said that with a self-deprecating tone.

“I attempted to challenge a renowned Peak Expert of the heretical sect, but all my comrades perished. At that time, I truly was just a rookie. I had nothing to say even if I died.”

“Well, you’re alive now, right?”

“Indeed. That day, the one who saved my life was my master, the late Lord of the Shadowless Gate, Seo Mun-gul.”

Seo Mun-gul!

It seemed that the Shadowless Gate passed down martial arts through bloodlines as expected. When I looked at the Master of Shadowless Sword, he continued,

“I desperately begged Seo Mun-gul to teach me his martial techniques. He denied me, saying that I was a member of the Namgung Clan’s sideline, but I promised to abandon the Namgung Clan if it meant I could learn. Ultimately, I became a disciple of the Shadowless Gate and second disciple of Seo Mun-gul.”

“Second disciple?”

“The direct disciple was the son of Seo Mun-gul.”

The Master of Shadowless Sword briefly replied and settled down on a nearby rock.

“I dedicated nearly twenty years to honing my martial arts from the Shadowless Gate, forgetting the Namgung Clan, through blood, sweat, and tears. It was during that time I learned the Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword Technique. After laying the late Seo Mun-gul to rest, I returned to the Namgung Clan.”

“I see.”

“… However, when I returned to my clan, hardly anyone remembered me. Many looked down on me, so I abandoned my name and drifted as a mere swordsman in the world.”

Then he chuckled.

“It’s funny. Among all the martial artists, none could withstand a hundred exchanges against me. I achieved Hundred Victories and soon after attained the titles of Greatest Sword under Heaven and Master of Shadowless Sword. My pride inflated, and I aspired to create the strongest sect while disregarding the Namgung Clan.”

“What happened then?”

It was evident that some incident transpired for the Master of Shadowless Sword to end up a recluse. As I guessed the situation, he lamented,

“It was then that my senior brother, the direct disciple of the Shadowless Gate, Seo Mun-hwi, came to see me. Seo Mun-hwi intended to formally establish a faction within the Shadowless Gate and asked for my assistance. However, I believed myself superior to my senior brother, so I demanded the position of sect leader.”

“So you two competed for the position of sect leader.”

“Indeed. Seo Mun-hwi was at a much higher level than I, and I was thoroughly defeated.”

The Master of Shadowless Sword spoke bitterly.

“It was truly embarrassing! The title of Greatest Sword under Heaven is just a hollow name among mediocre folks. However, Seo Mun-hwi spared my life considering my contribution to the martial arts of the sect, and thus I promised to live in seclusion for the rest of my days.”

Now the situation began to clear up, and I nodded.

“And you’ve been in seclusion for the past hundred years since then.”

“It seems so.”

“However, I can’t fathom why you took the secret techniques of the Namgung Clan…”

The Master of Shadowless Sword cleared his throat.

“It was because I thought the martial arts of the Namgung Clan were too weak. They had forgotten the fundamentals and were too obsessed with flashy techniques, which led them to hit a wall as they sought the ultimate. I believed that relying on secrets was the cause and thus took the secrets to live in seclusion.”

“Did it work?”

“It did. As you can see, I reached a high level through oral transmissions and self-training. I believe it was indeed the right choice to live in seclusion with the secrets.”

I understood.

Regardless of how much martial arts is praised, it ultimately relies on one’s body to be truly learned. If one depended solely on secret techniques without the willingness to train actively, improve, and develop an intuitive sense, regression is inevitable. The Sword King, Namgung Myeong, is a prime example of someone who grew to be one of the top martial artists in Jianghu thanks to the Master of Shadowless Sword’s plans.

I organized the information in my mind and asked,

“What is your relationship with the current leader of the Shadowless Gate, the Sword Demon?”

“The Sword Demon, Seo Mun-dae-ryong, is the biological son of Seo Mun-hwi. While I am his uncle through the line of masters, I have no intentions of revealing myself to him.”

“Why not?”

“For the same reason he doesn’t seek me out.”

“……”

In that moment, I understood what the Master of Shadowless Sword’s words meant.

Certainly, the Sword Demon must also know of the Master of Shadowless Sword’s existence. However, due to the Master’s commitment to keeping the promise with his senior brother, he had consistently remained in seclusion for the past century, thus neither side wanted to disturb the peace. Although the Sword Demon found the Master a burdensome figure, they were both keeping peace by not interfering with each other.

The Master of Shadowless Sword spoke.

“I’ve said about all I can say. Now, how about you share your identity and intentions with me?”

“I believe I’ve already mentioned them…”

“That doesn’t qualify as an answer. I feel you’re hiding a great secret.”

Swoooooo

The Master of Shadowless Sword gradually released his sword intent. I quickly drew my sword in response, but coming face to face with his intent felt like plunging into an icy abyss. The ability of the Master of Shadowless Sword, who had trained the Peerless Sword Technique for over a hundred years, transcended the realms of the martial world. Even now, it would be absolutely impossible for me to defeat him one-on-one.

I glared at him.

“If this continues, I’ll have no choice but to summon Yeodong-bin again.”

“Well, it can’t be helped…”

At the mention of Yeodong-bin, the Master of Shadowless Sword’s aura softened a bit. Still, a wary expression lingered on his face.

“I’ve just slain blood relations and successors of my clan, even if they’re scum like those beasts. Today’s events will undoubtedly go down as a chaotic turning point in my life. Yet here you are, intending to manipulate me and then vanish at your convenience?”

“……”

“I cannot accept such a thing. I hope you have at least a sliver of conscience.”

I went into contemplation.

‘Hmm… I definitely took too much advantage of Namgung Jo.’

Although it’s true that I wiped out the Namgung Clan, Namgung Jo himself was not particularly guilty. The fact that he stepped forward to implement justice while shouldering the burden of bloodshed stemmed from his personal conscience. Therefore, neglecting to inform him of the circumstances would be undeniably unethical.

After some thinking, I spoke to the Master of Shadowless Sword.

“Very well. Are you willing to meet with the Sword Demon alongside me? This matter cannot be determined solely by me, so it requires discussion with your honor, the sect leader.”

Upon hearing this, the Master of Shadowless Sword showed a clearly uncomfortable expression.

“He will likely expel me. Furthermore, I do not wish to confront him.”

“Only a meeting will tell. I cannot say anything without discussing it with your honor.”

“Hmm…”

He emitted a contemplative sound and then nodded his head.

“Alright then. Let’s meet.”

“Good decision.”

Whoosh!

I finally took him with me to the Shadowless Gate. We then went directly to find the Sword Demon.

The Sword Demon seemed to be seated quietly on the sparring arena, engaging in mental meditation. Noticing my presence, he opened his eyes and turned his gaze toward me. Soon after, he appeared to spot Namgung Jo standing beside me.

“Baek Woong. Who is he?”

“Elder Namgung Jo, a disciple of Seo Mun-gul.”

“……”

The Sword Demon’s eyes lit up. He then stepped down from the sparring arena and respectfully bowed to Namgung Jo.

“I’ve heard about you, Elder Namgung Jo.”

Namgung Jo, feeling shy, turned his gaze away but reciprocated the bow.

“Forgive me. I assure you I have not broken my promise with Seo Mun-hwi.”

“I would like to know the details.”

“That is… I infused the essence of the obsidian slightly and conveyed a brief memory of what transpired in the Namgung Clan. The Sword Demon, analyzing the visual memories, nodded and spoke.

“I see. If it concerns clan matters, I shall acknowledge it, Elder.”

Namgung Jo seemed relieved as he let out a sigh.

“I swear I have not created any successors nor disclosed the martial arts of the Shadowless Gate externally. Please trust me.”

“Who would not believe the words of the former Greatest Sword under Heaven?”

“Hmm…”

When Namgung Jo cleared his throat, the Sword Demon spoke up.

“Elder, how about returning to the Shadowless Gate instead?”

“No, that cannot be. What face do I have to return, having coveted the seat of sect leader then forsaking my principles? I shall bury myself as a rogue from now on.”

“That is unnecessary.”

The Sword Demon continued calmly.

“Do you know why my father, the previous sect leader, aimed to formally establish a faction that led the traditional Shadowless Gate?”

“Seo Mun-hwi spoke of wanting to assist those suffering under the oppression of hypocrites since the Jianghu was in turmoil.”

“That’s correct.”

The Sword Demon said.

“I have inherited this sect created by my father and have maintained the position of leader of the Eight Demons of the Demon Path for over several decades, preventing individuals labeled as heretics from falling completely into darkness. Moreover, I also protect the vulnerable ones misjudged and caught in crisis. However, I presently feel overwhelmed.”

“Overwhelmed, you say?”

Namgung Jo seemed baffled.

“I’ve heard from my senior that your talents are unrivaled among the sect leaders of the past. In a few decades, you should be able to contend for the title of Greatest under Heaven. Your martial arts are impressive; how can you claim to feel overwhelmed?”

“The White Lotus Sect!”

“……!!”

“The strength of the Dharma Guardians is something you may have heard of.”

Namgung Jo, contemplatively, remarked,

“… Of course. I nearly lost my life to the Su Shin Sect’s Dokgo Jun long ago.”

“Why did you fight him?”

“He claimed that being the Greatest Sword under Heaven was arrogant. I barely managed to escape by begging for his mercy.”

It seems the Master of Shadowless Sword, just like Namgung Jo, had also fallen to the Su Shin Sect’s Dharma Guardian, Dokgo Jun.

“Things are progressing fast. Right now, the White Lotus Sect is secretly taking over the Eight Demons of the Demon Path, the Five Great Families, and the True Heaven Alliance, planning to rule the world soon. I do not possess the strength to confront them, so I hope the elder can assist.”

“Are you truly going to fight against those monsters? The Heavenly Spirit Pill is beyond human realms.”

“Precisely why the Great Dharma Guardian is here.”

The Sword Demon pointed at me.

“The Great Dharma Guardian has the potential to defeat even the Master of the White Lotus Sect. If that happens, there may come a day when they are subjugated.”

“……!! Really?!”

“……”

I couldn’t deny the Sword Demon’s words since they were true.

Yes, eventually, they could be defeated, but whether it would cost my life several times over is the real question.

Namgung Jo seemed resolved and said,

“Alright. Moving forward, I will fully support you to revitalize the Namgung Clan.”

“I beg you.”

This 19th lifetime felt promising from the start.

From the very beginning, I managed to recruit the former Greatest Sword under Heaven and the Peak Expert of the Shadowless Gate, the Master of Shadowless Sword, as my comrade.

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