119 - Martial Arts Ain’t That Big of a Deal

Title: Martial Arts? It's Nothing Special Namgung Jincheon, regarded as the most esteemed head of Namgung's family lineage, stood tall. His daughter's lover, Lee Seo Jun, engaged in a sparring match with Namgung Hyuk, an elder from the clan. The onlookers held their breath, captivated by the rapidly unfolding exchange. Early on, Seo Jun appeared to seize the upper hand. He skillfully merged various martial techniques and spells, dominating the momentum with such flamboyance that cheers erupted sporadically. "That's our treasure doing so well!" Namgung Yeon, supporting Seo Jun, jumped in excitement from where she stood. Though Seo Jun held the advantage, he had yet to secure a definitive victory. Beside her, Namgung Hyun Cheol, the head of judiciary affairs, commented. "Indeed, his level is commendable. Particularly in the realm of internal energy, he's approaching the caliber of a master." “Old man! Stop overthinking and cheer, will you?” “You, too, should stop watching aimlessly and truly observe. There's much to learn from this spar.” Suddenly, the spells engraved into the rocky pillars erupted, and an interconnected series of incantations unfolded. Just when it seemed Seo Jun might secure victory, Namgung Hyuk mustered his full strength, reclaiming the momentum. Namgung Soo Ah clenched her fists against a sky spilling with azure tides. “He’s completely made the Changgoong Muaegeom Method his own….” Chun Bong snorted. “Seo Jun will still win.” “But that’s….” A tsunami cascaded from the heavens. In the face of the magnificent spectacle, everyone fell silent. Even Chun Bong, silent and with sweaty palms, observed as Pae Jin Gwang scratched his arm casually. 'He won't be taken down by just that…' Whether he suffers significant damage or counters effectively is key. “Brother, win…!” Glancing at Chun Bong, cheering energetically, Pae Jin Gwang’s eyes gleamed. Sighs emerged from the spectators. As the tsunami threatened to engulf Seo Jun, those who presumed to foresee the outcome let out a collective sigh. "Still, isn’t he remarkable?” “To have only practiced martial arts for two years, achieving this much is extraordinary.” Pae Jin Gwang snorted at the naive comments of the ignorant. ‘Let's see what unfolds.’ Was it called Honwon Ilwol Ganggi? The heart of the fist king raced at the rare sight of martial prowess unfolding from the hands of a budding genius. “Brother…! Knock that bastard down…!” Though momentarily deflated by Chun Bong’s increasingly intense encouragement, it was fleeting. As Seo Jun brandished his sword, everyone fell silent. “Ha ha…” Pae Jin Gwang was the only one laughing, trying to calm his heated body. “It’s a blessing for the martial world!” He longed to clash swords and fists with that guy. Suppressing the strong urge, Pae Jin Gwang smiled brightly. It was unfortunate not to utilize the Paeryeog Gwaesin Martial Arts actively, but given that Seo Jun hadn’t been learning for long, it was understandable. “Nevertheless, truly…” All the martial arts currently being demonstrated were infused with the Paeryeog Gwaesin Martial Arts. The external force reinforced the internal energy silently. Just by that, every martial art exhibited became exponentially more powerful. Life as the fist king: Paeryeog Gwaesin Martial Arts had become a root for future generations. “Hahaha…!” It was truly a joyous spectacle. * The tsunami bore down. Caught in its torrential flow, Seo Jun didn’t hasten. He merely swung his sword. Honwon Ilwol Ganggi. The principle of Taiji was embraced within the energy flowing from Seo Jun's hands, from the hands of a sovereign. Taiji signifies harmony and expansion. The dispersed Taiji merged with the tsunami, integrating into the Taiji manifested at Seo Jun's fingertips. Swoosh──────── The ideal of Baekhagwiyang and the technique of Heoseong contributed to the Honwon Ilwol Ganggi. As Seo Jun's sword traced a circle, the tsunami, drawn to it, formed a massive ring, following suit. His body groaned. The absurd weight threatened to shatter it. The void and the existent. The Taiji, enveloping the tsunami, exerted pressure over Seo Jun's entire form. The Geryeong Spirit Art and Paeryeog Gwaesin Martial Arts supported his body, on the verge of collapse. A mighty force ingrained in his entire being elegantly guided the weighty sword akin to a mountain. “Phew…” Namgung Hyuk stood dumbfounded, mouth agape. Witnessing one's sword technique dismantled in such a manner would leave anyone in awe. ‘Wudang…? No, it seems slightly different…’ Especially for those familiar with the Taiji Wisdom Sword Art of Wudang. However, there was no time to mull over it. By the time realization struck, it was slightly late. “Damn…!” Seo Jun's sword, having completed its preparation, swung forward. The Honwon Ilwol Ganggi surged alongside the tsunami, ascending toward the sky. A marveled Namgung Hyuk, with trembling hands, met it with his sword. Crraaaash─────────!!! It was merely a clash of swords. Yet the impact reverberated, shaking the surrounding space. “Oh no…!” “Evade!” The spectators hurriedly attempted to retreat, though it wasn’t necessary. A simple gesture from Namgung Jincheon pulled the impending aftermath aloft. Only the scattered clouds bore witness to the sudden calamity, dispersing in disarray. A sky devoid of clouds. Underneath, Seo Jun gazed upward through the fatigue washing over him. “Hmm…” Staggering, Namgung Hyuk grounded himself. He, too, was immensely fatigued, yet no decisive wound was inflicted to determine victory or defeat. ‘Being at that stage does show…’ However, intercepting the powerful returned strike abruptly had left no part of his form or blood vessels intact. As evidence, a crimson stream trailed from Namgung Hyuk's lips. In contrast, Seo Jun’s body merely accumulated pain and fatigue due to the strain imposed. Even that was quickly healing, marking an advantageous situation. As Seo Jun pointed his sword, Namgung Hyuk, standing in contemplative silence, suddenly burst into laughter. “Ha, hahaha…!” Seo Jun, staring at him with a peculiar expression, saw Namgung Hyuk's mouth curl upward. “For an old man not to have seen the world properly. Indeed, you are the blessing of Namgung!” Namgung Hyuk readied his sword in return. His face, flushed with euphoria, bore a boyish smile. When was the last time swordplay caused his heart to race like this? Amidst the ashes of his sunken heart, a miracle ignited a spark, casting a faint light that illuminated his path forward. You could call it enlightenment, or perhaps, a source of energy. He could see it, albeit faintly—the realm beyond. Though the journey ahead remained long, and he must diligently progress, having the destination in sight meant he would eventually reach it. Namgung Hyuk, who had previously been stagnant, broke into a joyful smile. “Come! The sword of Namgung shall never break!” “What…?” Seo Jun chuckled, extending his left forefinger and middle finger to rest them at the base of the sword. His fingertips traced along the blade’s edge, forming its shape. Yeokcheon Ilwol Ganggi. Unveiling the technique he had prepared in advance, Namgung Hyuk also launched his own famed attack. Changgoong Nakha Made into the Great Sea. On his raised sword, a surge of blue energy roared. The blue sky descended, forming a vast sea. He stepped forward decisively, bringing his sword down with a force befitting the momentum. Fragments of small rocks on the ground—Seo Jun thought to unleash the Honwon Ilwol Gong within them but then decided against it with a slight smile. After all, one must have dignity. He charged forward directly, raising his sword to counter. Calling upon the Geryeong Spirit Art and Paeryeog Gwaesin Martial Arts, he channeled tremendous force and swung the Yeokcheon Ilwol Ganggi in the form of the Sovereign Sword Style. The clash of the swords wasn’t loud. Swoosh— A gentle breeze blew, ruffling Namgung Hyuk’s hair. Seo Jun’s sword halted an inch before Namgung Hyuk’s neck, intercepted by a sword that appeared from nowhere. “…I have lost.” Namgung Hyuk lowered his severed sword. With a whoosh, his domain dissolved, sending a blue wind swirling outward. “Cough…!” Blood spewed from his mouth. As his domain was cut, Namgung Hyuk, finding his spirit wounded, gently pushed away the floating sword lingering at his neck. “Extend my gratitude to the head of the family. My life was spared thanks to him….” Namgung Jincheon’s sword sliced through the air before returning to its scabbard. Namgung Jincheon gazed at Namgung Hyuk with composure as he tidied his disheveled clothing. After collecting his breath momentarily, he declared with a straightened posture. “Lee Seo Jun has proven himself worthy of mastering the Sovereign Sword Style through his honor and martial prowess.” Everyone at the grand martial arts arena focused intently on Namgung Hyuk’s words. In the silence where even the sound of the wind seemed loud, Namgung Hyuk continued. “And since he has formed ties with Namgung’s lineage, this is a boon for the martial world. On this occasion, we celebrate his union with Namgung Soo Ah.” “What?” Panting, Seo Jun snapped his head up. Celebrate what? They hadn’t married yet! “Additionally, his qualifications are recognized by both the family head and this elder. Henceforth, such foolish disputes, clouded by ignorance, should no longer occur.” Namgung Hyuk closed his eyes briefly. Once open, he turned to everyone gathered there, clasping his hands in respect. “It’s disgraceful for an elder to hinder a young one’s future. This incident was a clear fault born of my shortcomings and ignorance. From this moment on, I relinquish all authority and devote myself to the family’s service. In exchange, I hereby appoint Lee Seo Jun as an elder of the family. This will be a blessing to the family and mark the beginning of a new wave.” Elder? Gazing narrowly at Namgung Hyuk as he approached and patted Seo Jun's shoulder, Seo Jun felt nonplussed. “I’ve acted disgracefully in my age. My vision grew dim with age. Please continue to care for the family.” “Um…” Seo Jun blinked in slight confusion as Namgung Hyuk chuckled heartily, whispering. “They’re all waiting eagerly for your words. If there’s anything you wish to say, speak earnestly.” Indeed, many eyes were focused on Seo Jun, anticipation clear upon their expressions. Everyone seemed exceptionally entertained by the array of emotions—surprise, awe, flushed cheeks—on display. After momentarily pondering, Seo Jun eventually spoke up. “Well, then… I extend this honor to my Chun Bong, Sister Soo Ah, the family head, Mr. Pae, and so forth…” Reciting his impromptu acceptance speech, he suddenly raised both hands high. “Everyone, please join in commemorating our Chun Bong’s coming of age!” A stunned silence ensued. Amidst those who didn’t grasp his intent and exchanged perplexed glances, one loud voice rang out. - You little bastard! At that instant, spontaneous cheers erupted throughout the martial arts arena, celebrating regardless. Waaaaaaah────────!!! Thus concluded the affair. * Got thrashed. Chun Bong’s fists, usually akin to playful punches, were now something entirely different. Groaning under the pummeling, Seo Jun only dared to lift his head once the relentless beating ceased. “Well then, let's have a celebration party, shall we?” “What, you punk?” “Chun Bong’s coming-of-age ceremony…! I've been thinking about it for the past few days…” “Drop dead!” Regrettably, the proposed party was vetoed by Chun Bong’s vehement rejection. Seo Jun sat down on the ground with a pout. It seemed best to destroy the “Coming-of-Age Congratulations!” banner he had prepared in advance before Chun Bong found it and possibly ended him. Now, the most pressing matter was Yongbong’s assembly…, there was still some time before its commencement. “Ah, Elder! Congratulations!” “Oh, thank you. But ‘Elder’ sounds a bit old. How about just calling me ‘Young Master’?” Smiling at the congratulations from passing acquaintances, Seo Jun contemplated his available time. ‘Maybe I should create new martial arts?’ Being addressed as ‘Elder’ several times a day wasn't quite appealing. New techniques needed crafting regardless. There’s Chun Bong's Martial Art, techniques to gift the Fist King, and ongoing updates to Life-and-Death Penetration Technique. Considering the ongoing war, devising a counter to the North Sea Ice Palace’s Bingbaek Divine Art—knowledgeably understood due to the encounter with Baek Yu Ryeon during the Green Forest suppression—seemed prudent. Beyond martial arts, verifying the effects of the Heavenly Human Elixir consumed by Chun Bong and Namgung Soo Ah, which had enhanced their bodies, wouldn’t be neglected. ‘Why am I so busy?’ Seo Jun’s musings were interrupted by the sensation of his sleeve being pulled. It was Chun Bong. “Oh, Chun Bong! What’s up?” "This spring, you mentioned the Yongbong Grand Assembly would be held, right?" "Yeah. Why? Are you planning to enter?" "That, and..." Chun Bong paused, fixing his gaze intently on Seo Jun. "Aren’t you thinking of participating?" "Me? What's the point of me joining kids' games?" "You punk..." Chun Bong snorted at Seo Jun, who was boasting with a raised nose. "What, are you scared?" "What. Did you just...?" "Chicken?" "Hah!" Unable to hold back, Seo Jun declared confidently. "I’ll win this whole thing, just watch!" “Sure, I’m counting on you, big brother.” “Good grief!” The Yongbong Grand Assembly? It was settled—everyone else didn’t stand a chance. Behind the overly excited Seo Jun, Chun Bong chuckled with a sly grin. ‘This way, I’ll be spreading the fame of the Sacred Sword Clan far and wide…!’ Of course, Namgung Jincheon soon intervened. "Son-in-law… Considering the purpose of the Yongbong Assembly, your participation might require some reconsideration..." The Yongbong Grand Assembly is fundamentally meant to encourage the growth of the younger generation, the late-bloomers, and to reward outstanding achievements amongst them. However, if Seo Jun, who could rival seasoned experts, joined, it wouldn’t kindle competitive spirit but rather instill discouragement amongst the young participants. In these times of war, dampening the spirits of the young martial artists was something to avoid. ‘But Chun Bong said she trusts only me…’ Seo Jun smacked his lips in disappointment. “Well, I suppose there’s no helping it. But what’s the prize for winning this time?” "To my knowledge, it's the Great Elixir…" "Whoa." The Great Elixir? The ultimate pinnacle of medicinal tonics. Perfect for Chun Bong to consume. Seo Jun slyly asked. "If I held back from participating…?" "I'd greatly appreciate it..." Unfortunate. "Head of the Family." Instead, Chun Bong stepped in—but it wasn’t concerning Seo Jun’s entry. While disappointed, there was no need to push further. Chun Bong had her own desires, and if Seo Jun couldn't help, she would achieve it on her own strength. "This Yongbong Grand Assembly presents a chance to reaffirm the prestige of the Sacred Sword Clan." "By that, you mean…?" "Will it not bring disgrace to the Namgung family?” With the Namgung clan as her backing, Chun Bong now had the foundation to step forward as a representative of her clan, the Golden Mark. At this assembly, she intended to announce to the world that the successor of her clan was alive and well. Namgung Jincheon smiled gently at Chun Bong's earnest gaze. “Of course. The Namgung family will wholeheartedly support the revival of the Golden Mark Clan…” The resurrection of the Sacred Sword Clan was on the horizon.