A Modern Man Who Got Transmigrated Into the Murim World

**Chapter 55**

In Wucheng County, Shandong Province.

The expressions of the people passing through various places within the county were somewhat special.

Their faces all carried a passionate emotion that could not be felt from people of other regions.

What filled their hearts with pride was the reason this place was called the “City of Martial Arts.”

The greatest family in the world.

This was the famous land of Sima.

The legendary Martial God’s presence still lived in the holy grounds of the martial family.

However, despite such a glorious title of being the “Greatest in the World,” the appearance of the Sima clan was rather humble.

Even a slightly larger manor would cause one to nod in acknowledgment.

This was to be expected, as the clan had been isolated from the world for hundreds of years.

No matter how renowned the title of “Greatest in the World” was, if they did not live among others, it was inevitable that they would fall out of the world.

Yet, despite their diminished influence, no one could doubt Sima’s “Greatest in the World.”

The traces they left in the world were too profound to be questioned.

“Damn it. Where should I even start?”

Jo-hwi’s face showed frustration as he looked at the Sima clan’s appearance.

For an ordinary clan, one would expect goods to flow in and out of the clan’s manor, but after observing for three days, Jo-hwi found that no one entered or exited Sima’s domain.

They had no external activities.

Aside from participating in the faction wars of the Grand Council, they had essentially remained isolated.

He had no room to use the Chowa Myuncheon (Chowa River’s banks) for his purposes.

After inquiring, Jo-hwi learned that once every three months, Sima’s clan would lead a long caravan to a nearby marketplace and purchase all the necessary goods in bulk.

This meant that to use the riverbanks, he would have to wait up to three months—something he didn’t have time for.

What would happen if he directly visited and demanded to see the *Cheonmu Dohyero*?

He would certainly be treated like a madman and chased out.

While Jo-hwi was deep in thought, the sound of commotion reached him from a distance.

“Ah! It’s the Alliance Flag!”

“It’s the experts of the Wulin Alliance!”

People quickly stepped aside, yet their eyes were filled with reverence as they watched the long procession of the Alliance.

For ordinary people, the procession of the Alliance was no different from the Emperor’s procession. Their influence was just as powerful.

It was then that Jo-hwi’s eyes brightened.

Ssssss—

Using his divine technique, which had reached the level of a god, Jo-hwi quickly blended into the Wulin Alliance’s procession.

He stealthily hid in one of the wagons of the procession.

The Wulin Alliance was visiting Wucheng?

If they weren’t visiting the Sima clan, there was no other reason they would be there.

Just as Jo-hwi had guessed, the tightly shut gates of the Sima clan opened, and a group of servants came out to welcome the Wulin Alliance’s procession.

At that moment, Jo-hwi sensed a familiar fluctuation of internal energy within his sensory range.

“Huh? Who’s that?”

He immediately recognized the unique internal energy.

The energy came from the front wagon of the procession!

It was unmistakably the internal energy of Inspector General Dan Baek-woo.

In an instant, Jo-hwi’s eyes flashed coldly.

Dan Baek-woo! Wasn’t he the one Jo-hwi had encountered numerous times already?

Sssssss—

Jo-hwi, moving with the swiftness of a ghost, used his divine technique to silently slip past the bars and infiltrate the wagon without anyone noticing.

Dan Baek-woo, who had been adjusting his clothing to meet with the Sima clan’s elders, froze at the sight.

“Ugh!”

Jo-hwi’s cold, emotionless face turned toward him.

“Hello, Inspector General. It seems we are fated to meet again.”

Jo-hwi grinned.

What the hell was this?

Dan Baek-woo could hardly believe his eyes, seeing Jo-hwi’s face again in such an unexpected place. He cursed the heavens inwardly.

After their previous negotiation, where the Wulin Alliance suffered great losses, Dan Baek-woo had been haunted by nightmares ever since.

Because of that, the Alliance Leader’s constant scolding had not ceased for a single day.

“What… what are you trying to do this time?” Dan Baek-woo’s voice trembled.

The Small Sword God (Jo-hwi) was officially a member of the righteous sect.

Yet here he was, openly displaying hostility toward a high-ranking member of the Wulin Alliance?

Dan Baek-woo’s eyes were filled with fear, even as he felt anger boiling inside him.

Jo-hwi casually extended his hand toward him.

“Please hand over the order documents related to this procession, the Alliance’s orders, and such.”

“W-what do you mean by that?”

“I need to know why the Alliance is visiting the Sima clan, right?”

“Why should the Grand Council care about that?”

Did the Grand Council intend to monitor the Wulin Alliance’s every move?

Jo-hwi smiled mischievously.

“Ah, but we’re allies, aren’t we? Isn’t that what an alliance is for? We should help each other in times of need.”

The Sima clan’s servants were almost at the head of the procession.

Jo-hwi’s urgency grew as he pressed Dan Baek-woo further.

“There’s no time, hurry! Hurry and give it to me!”

Dan Baek-woo grimaced as if in disbelief.

What in the world does this guy think the Grand Lord is?

“The one who claims to be the ruler of the forces—what kind of madness is this! Stop speaking nonsense and get out of this carriage immediately!”

“I haven’t even begun my madness yet.”

In an instant, a brilliant white flame flared in Jo Hwi’s eyes.

Then came the manifestation of the absolute sword lord.

In the blink of an eye, Dan Baek-woo collapsed, sprawled on the floor, his eyes wide with confusion.

“…W-What is this!”

“Yes, it’s poison. A poison, to be exact.”

“Hah!”

With a nonchalant expression, Jo Hwi began to rummage through Dan Baek-woo’s clothes.

“Ugh! What are you doing! Ugh, not there! Kek!”

This guy can’t even stand a little tickling, even in this situation.

After some time, Jo Hwi found a command letter and a letter hidden deeply and smiled brightly.

“Oh, here it is. You hid it quite well.”

“Poison?! What in the world did I do to deserve this!”

“I don’t have any personal grudges against you.”

With a wicked grin, Jo Hwi tucked the command letter and the letter into his robes and then smiled faintly.

He leaned closer to Dan Baek-woo’s face, staring intently at him.

“What exactly are you trying to do?!”

“Ugh, disgusting. What are you thinking? Are you planning to kiss me or something?”

At that moment, Jo Hwi’s face began to shift and change in front of him.

Dan Baek-woo stood frozen in shock, as Jo Hwi gradually transformed into his exact likeness.

Soon, Jo Hwi had perfectly become Dan Baek-woo.

Jo Hwi silently began to strip Dan Baek-woo of his clothes and then flashed a radiant smile on his newly transformed face.

“By the time you wake up, everything will be over.”

“Wait, no, stop this!”

As Jo Hwi touched his pulse, the irresistible sleepiness overwhelmed Dan Baek-woo, and he collapsed.

– “Inspector, sir? The Sa-ma-sega is waiting outside.”

Hearing a cautious voice from outside the carriage, Jo Hwi hurriedly hid Dan Baek-woo in the corner and covered him with a blanket, then calmly opened the carriage door and stepped out.

Dan Baek-woo appeared to be calm on the surface, but the authority of the inspectorate was ingrained in his every move.

With a solemn expression, Jo Hwi bowed toward the Sa-ma-sega.

“Inspector Dan Baek-woo reports.”

Dan Baek-woo’s rough and grating voice was difficult to mimic.

Of course, anyone who lived in the martial world would be skilled in basic voice modulation, but this imitation was a rather crude one.

However, Jo Hwi had received training in voice modulation from Sa-ma-jong-ak, a legendary master in the Sa-ma-sega who had been praised as “The Saint of Arts” by the emperor in his time. Because of this, Jo Hwi’s skill in voice modulation was even more advanced than that of the great martial artist Cheon Byeon-hyeol-hu, a renowned practitioner of the martial arts.

“Ah, it’s you. Liu Ji of Sa-ma-sega.”

Liu Ji?

That name seemed vaguely familiar.

As Jo Hwi’s mind raced, he quickly recalled a name from the “Martial World Chronicles.”

‘Wait, could this be the Liu Ji who, a century ago, worked with the Wudang sect to verify the Zaha Divine Art of Mount Huashan?’

Liu Ji was a famous figure in martial history, known for verifying the Zaha Divine Art of Mount Huashan alongside the Wudang sect.

Though Sa-ma-sega had initially refused, it had to participate because the Zaha Divine Art, which was part of a major sect, was at risk of turning into a dark art.

It was a significant historical event, and the mention of Liu Ji brought a sense of awe to Jo Hwi.

Could Sa-ma-sega’s members live for over a hundred years?

Indeed, Mu-shin Sa-ma-cheon-se had lived for over two centuries and still had many followers who reached remarkable levels, even if they were not as powerful as Mu-shin.

Jo Hwi couldn’t afford to underestimate such figures, so he respectfully bowed his head.

“It is an honor to meet you, Master Liu Ji.”

Master Liu Ji was a martial artist second only to the divine Mu-shin, wielding immense influence across the martial world, even more than the leader of the martial alliance, Mu-hwang.

Finally, Liu Ji, stroking his beard with satisfaction, smiled.

“It is thanks to young people like you who strengthen the alliance that the martial world is at peace. You must be exhausted from your long journey. Please come inside.”

“Thank you.”

As Jo Hwi entered Sa-ma-sega’s residence, he immediately noticed the state of disrepair. There were several places that clearly needed maintenance.

This gave him a clear sense of Sa-ma-sega’s deteriorating financial situation.

While he followed Liu Ji toward the reception hall, Jo Hwi couldn’t help but wonder about the gravity of the matter between the Sa-ma-sega and the martial alliance that even such a legendary figure had come to greet him in person.

Still, he hadn’t yet examined the command letter and the secret letter.

As they arrived at the reception hall, Liu Ji invited Jo Hwi to sit and expressed his gratitude.

“I appreciate your help once again in supplying us with resources for our operations. My apologies for the inconvenience.”

Jo Hwi smiled warmly, recalling the long line of wagons carrying resources for Sa-ma-sega.

“It’s nothing. Given all that Sa-ma-sega has done for the martial world, this is but a small contribution. I’m just glad to be of help.”

It seemed that whenever the martial alliance visited, it was customary to bring supplies to support Sa-ma-sega’s operations.

“Haha, you truly honor our family’s reputation. I’m even more grateful.”

With a pleased expression, Liu Ji stroked his beard again but soon turned serious.

“By the way, I had received the alliance’s message via the transmission stone, but what exactly is this about? You’re asking us to move Sa-ma-sega’s base near the alliance’s city?”

Jo Hwi, sensing the moment had arrived, took out the alliance’s command letter and secret message from his robes.

“It is the will of the Alliance Leader. Please read it for yourself.”

As Jo Hwi handed the letter to Liu Ji, he unfurled the command letter and began to read it.

‘Hmm?’

Unexpectedly, the order contained numerous mentions of the “Choga Daesanghui” and “Sogeomsin.”

The problem was that almost all of them were negative references.

Frowning harshly, Jo Hwi quickly erased his unpleasant expression and looked back at Sema Yugi. He, too, was reading the letter with a serious expression.

“As you can see, the momentum of Choga Daesanghui, which has established its influence in the martial world, is formidable. Now, its territory is stretching into the Northern River, an area controlled by the Alliance. In particular, Sogeomsin, the direct disciple of the Sword God, has gained significant power. The unrest among the Alliance’s swordsmen is growing, and we may soon face a situation where the righteous forces split into two factions.”

Since Jo Hwi was currently impersonating Dan Baek-woo, he had no choice but to criticize Choga Daesanghui and himself in this situation.

What was absurd was that the order outlined specific measures to counteract his Choga Daesanghui.

Indeed, recently, many swordsmen from the Northern River had been coming to Choga Daesanghui, requesting to join.

Most of them were admiring the legend of the Sword God.

However, if such swordsmen from the Northern River were to be recruited, unrest would inevitably spread within the Alliance like wildfire. Regrettably, Choga Daesanghui had no choice but to turn them away.

To recruit swordsmen from the Northern River was to undermine the Alliance’s influence, an act that would cross the line for an ally.

“Hmm, I understand Mu Huang’s intentions,” Sema Yugi said thoughtfully.

The power of the Sword God was only comparable to that of the Martial God.

Sema Yugi understood that Mu Huang intended to incorporate the Sa Ma family, a martial family, into the Alliance’s base, thereby stabilizing the unrest among the swordsmen. The Alliance was clearly taking the situation of the Northern River swordsmen very seriously.

Protecting one’s vested interests is something that must be done, and it is far more difficult to maintain them than to take them from others.

“Although the Sa Ma family’s stronghold has lost its prestige, it is not easy to move the foundation of a family with such a long history. Unfortunately, please convey this difficult situation to Mu Huang.”

This was a polite yet firm rejection.

“Yes, I will report that,” the Alliance’s inspector responded immediately, without attempting to persuade or dissuade Sema Yugi.

Surprisingly, Sema Yugi was the one who seemed startled by the quick decision.

Had he traveled such a long distance and offered gifts only to return empty-handed?

Even though the Alliance presented itself as a force for righteous cooperation, such actions were not taken lightly.

“Is there another hidden intention? Or are you testing our family?” Sema Yugi asked suspiciously, narrowing his eyes.

Jo Hwi, impersonating Dan Baek-woo, smiled warmly at Sema Yugi.

“No, of course not. No matter how great the Alliance’s authority is, who would dare interfere with the foundation of the world’s greatest family? If Mu Huang’s judgment is as such, the Alliance will naturally have to accept it.”

The idea of the Sa Ma family joining the Alliance’s base was not something that Choga Daesanghui welcomed.

Jo Hwi was not someone who would help the Alliance benefit in any way.

“I’ve encountered many of the Alliance’s officials over the years, but you’re truly exceptional. Heh heh!” Sema Yugi suddenly burst into laughter and expressed a clear liking for Jo Hwi, leaving him somewhat perplexed.

“What… what do you mean?”

Sema Yugi’s eyes gleamed brightly.

“How many famous negotiators do you think I’ve encountered throughout my life?”

“Huh?”

“Normally, the side that makes the first offer is considered the weaker party, right? If the other side expresses refusal, they would propose alternatives or concessions to persuade them. But you… you’ve managed to turn me into the weaker party.”

“Wh-what do you mean by that?”

As the situation didn’t go as Jo Hwi had planned, he was flustered.

“If the Alliance had offered a reasonable price and shown some sincerity, my negotiation strategy would have been to reluctantly accept it,” Sema Yugi explained.

“…”

Jo Hwi’s mind was spinning rapidly, realizing that Sema Yugi had already intended to agree to Mu Huang’s wishes from the start and was merely testing him.

“So, you had already decided to move the Sa Ma family to the Alliance’s base from the beginning?” Jo Hwi asked in astonishment.

“That’s right. That is the collective wish of the children of our family,” Sema Yugi affirmed.

“Really?” Jo Hwi’s eyes widened, surprised.

Suddenly, Sema Yugi’s gaze turned intense.

“I heard that this rash child, Sogeomsin, treated our strong one like a mere beginner. Many of our family’s warriors who observed this are furious.”

“Ah…”

The thought of Sema Kang, the embodiment of arrogance and pride, made Jo Hwi’s head throb.

If he had not expelled the Sa Ma family back then, the factional battle would have undoubtedly gone awry.

But who would have expected that this event would lead to the Alliance and Sa Ma family coming together?

“So, I have one more request,” Sema Yugi said sternly.

Jo Hwi looked bewildered.

“What do you mean?”

Sema Yugi answered resolutely.

“Make my strong child the Vice-Alliance Leader.”

“Ah…”

No matter how lofty the legends of the martial world were, in the end, he was still an unavoidable father.

Jo Hwi bitterly smiled.

“This decision goes beyond my authority. I will, for now, pass on Lord Mu’s intentions to the Alliance.”

Damn those Sa Ma bastards!

They had already decided among themselves to demand the position of Vice-Alliance Leader and were going through this formal procedure!

But as far as Jo Hwi knew, it was nearly unheard of for anyone from the five great families, not the Nine Factions, to be appointed as the Alliance Leader or Vice-Alliance Leader. The combined strength of the Nine Factions was at least ten times greater than the five great families.

The elders of the Alliance would surely express their opposition.

“Then, you should rest and head back. As you can see, our family doesn’t have enough rooms to accommodate so many Alliance members. I’ve already arranged a guest house for you; please rest there.”

Hmm?

This approach was troublesome.

Suddenly, Jo Hwi gave a stern look and locked eyes with Sema Yugi.

“I’ve long admired the reputation and authority of the Sa Ma family. Would it be possible for me to stay here? I would like to experience the refined atmosphere of your family, even if just for a day.”

Flattered by the praise of his family name, Sema Yugi was pleased and agreed to Jo Hwi’s request.

“Heh heh, of course. I will instruct Sibi to prepare the guest room for you.”

“Thank you.”

* * *

As the day grew dim, Jo Hwi, who had been preparing in the guest house, secretly took out his disguise tools from inside his clothes.

These tools were the key to his *Jo Hwa Myeon Cheon Byeon*—the art of perfect disguise.

Even if he perfectly replicated someone’s facial features, without adding specific details like skin tone, moles, or facial hair, the disguise would be ineffective.

Soon, Jo Hwi, now disguised as Sema Yugi using *Jo Hwa Myeon Cheon Byeon*, added a mole to his forehead, attached eyebrows and a mustache, and darkened his complexion with powder.

He looked at his reflection with satisfaction, nodding approvingly.

This was perfect.

His face was indistinguishable from the Sema Yugi he had met earlier at the guest house!

Feeling pleased, he heightened his internal energy.

The Sa Ma family was truly a lineage of *Yong Dam Ho Hyeol*—a family that had passed down the martial arts of the first Martial God for generations.

It was difficult to even imagine how many martial artists had reached the supreme realm of *Jeol Je Gyeong* (absolute perfection) there.

Not sensing anything unusual within his range of perception, Jo Hwi slipped out of the guest house using his ghostly technique.

Concealing himself on the ridge of a building, he then called out to the Martial God Sema Cheon Se.

*‘Now, where do I go? Where is the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*?’*

– *I don’t know.*

*‘What did you say?’*

Jo Hwi was taken aback by the reply.

Did the old man just say he didn’t know? Was he telling him to search the entire estate?

– *Try searching the Mu Won Dong (Martial Origin Cave) first.*

*‘Mu Won Dong? Where is that?’*

– *It’s a cave that only the head of the Sa Ma family can enter. All previous heads of the family retreated there.*

At that moment, Jo Hwi’s eyes turned pale, and his internal energy shot out in the direction the Martial God had indicated like a beam of light.

The Mu Won Dong, said to be the retreat of the Sa Ma family head, was not a grand location at all.

It was simply a shabby natural cave on the left side of the estate’s cliff.

There were no guards or anyone maintaining it, and it looked like bats could fly out any moment—it was a desolate sight.

Staring at the pitiful scene, Jo Hwi felt a wave of desolation.

Was it really appropriate to call such a humble cave “Mu Won” (Martial Origin)?

This was supposed to be a sacred retreat within the walls of the mighty Sa Ma family, but it didn’t look the part at all.

Could the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok* really be hidden here? Even if it was, it was likely already stolen by the most notorious bandits of the martial world.

– *Hmm? How did Mu Won Dong end up in such a state?*

The Mu Won Dong that the Martial God remembered was surrounded by lush greenery, blooming with rare medicinal herbs, and filled with the scent of divine flowers.

Moreover, the clear stream flowing below Mu Won Dong was a cherished memory in the Martial God’s heart.

But now, that stream was completely gone, replaced by overgrown, crumbling weeds.

The once beautiful natural surroundings had been completely ruined!

The Martial God never expected the family’s financial situation to have deteriorated to this extent.

– *Did they really pick all the *Yang Saeng Cho* (Life-Preserving Herb)?*

Jo Hwi cast a disappointed glance.

*‘Ugh, just spending a month in a small room can turn someone into a fool. Do you think hundreds of years of family heritage are just a joke?’*

– *…*

The Martial God, Sema Cheon Se, became as silent as a mute who had swallowed honey.

He never imagined that the *Feng Men* (封門) decision he had made would lead to such a disastrous fate for his descendants.

Suddenly, feeling a pang of regret toward his descendants, the Martial God found himself at a loss, unable to figure out what to do.

However, his decision at the time had been made for the survival of the family.

At that time, they did not know the true identity of the mysterious group—the followers of the *Shin Jwa*—who were relentlessly pushing both him and his family toward death.

– *For now, enter the Mu Won Dong.*

Jo Hwi silently began to walk.

He did not expect any grand infiltration, but still, he found himself feeling a bit disillusioned about how easily he could enter the so-called “Sa Ma Family Head’s private retreat.”

Once inside the cave, he quickly drew his iron sword.

*Tsutsutsutsu—*

From his sword surged a beam of white sword energy, about three feet long.

This sword energy, which could only be momentarily unleashed at the *Hwa Gyeong* (Martial Realm), was something that even the onlookers couldn’t help but admire.

The fusion of his demonic energy and the supreme sword technique, *Gyeom Cheon Dae Sin Gong*, was a level that even the most respected individuals could only marvel at.

As the interior of the cave lit up, Jo Hwi carefully observed his surroundings.

*Hmm…?*

No matter how hard he looked, it appeared to be nothing more than an ordinary natural cave.

The walls and floor of the cave showed no signs of human manipulation or traces of craftsmanship—just pure nature.

If this were really the private retreat of the family head, there should have been signs of sword training, such as scratches from practice, but there were none.

All that was visible were two large jars and a chamber pot, tucked into a corner of the cave.

“Damn, how ignorant can they be?”

Just looking at the family head’s retreat, one could feel the Sa Ma family’s martial spirit.

It was extremely rudimentary and lacked refinement!

Although simple, there would at least be a stone-carved bed and a raised platform for reading in a more proper training area.

– *What’s wrong with a retreat being humble? There is no better place for meditation training than this. And yet, nothing here has changed.*

The voice of the Martial God sounded full of sentiment, as if reflecting on the past.

However, no matter how much the Martial God reminisced, Jo Hwi could only feel frustration, as it seemed like a futile journey.

“Anyway, there’s nothing here—not even the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*.”

– *It’s not that there’s nothing.*

Jo Hwi gave an incredulous look at the empty surroundings.

“There’s nothing here! The jars? The chamber pot?”

– *Put away your sword energy and lie down on the ground.*

With the Martial God’s grave voice, Jo Hwi withdrew his internal energy and lay on the ground.

In that moment…

“Hmm?”

There were faint, innumerable glowing spots embedded into the ceiling and walls of the cave.

These were faint light sources that Jo Hwi could only discern through his internal vision, almost invisible to the naked eye.

Among all inanimate objects on Earth, the only things capable of emitting their own light were *Ya Myeong Ju* (glowstone) and similar luminescent materials.

Jo Hwi, a modern man, instantly realized what they were.

The fact that the objects emitted light meant they were slowly undergoing radioactive decay.

While people in the martial world treated such radioactive materials as treasures and traded them for high prices, Jo Hwi knew very well how dangerous such materials were, thanks to Madame Curie’s example.

Naturally, he felt uneasy and hurriedly got up from the ground.

“Ugh, this cave is full of radioactive material.”

– *Radioactive?*

“Those glowing stones are extremely dangerous! Keeping them close can slowly kill a person!”

– *Ah! That’s it! No wonder I felt an unknown poison and evil energy seeping into my body after the glowstones were crushed and scattered around the cave…*

“You mean you placed them here yourself?”

– *Indeed. Didn’t I tell you to look carefully?*

Jo Hwi shuddered at the Martial God’s terrifying madness.

Could it really be that the numerous glowing dots—there must have been thousands, even tens of thousands—were all placed by human hands?

And not just that, but the reason those dots didn’t seem to have any trace of human intervention!

The countless dots lacked any specific order or pattern, and instead, appeared completely chaotic, like natural disorder.

– *Those patterns are the true result of my realization of the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*, the *Cheon Mu Mu Hae Gong* (Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Skill).*

At that moment, Jo Hwi activated his *Gyeom Cheon Jeon Neung Ji Che* (Supreme Sword Technique’s Divine Eyes).

But no matter how hard he examined the glowing spots, he could not make sense of any grand mathematical phenomena.

This was, of course, to be expected, because the glowstones were so irregular that they displayed such variability that no basic mathematical structure existed to form a physical pattern.

It felt more like staring at an ocean of infinite variables, like the chaotic world of quantum theory.

How could something like that have any true martial meaning?

If it were a drawing, it would look like a drunken person scribbling aimlessly, with no meaning at all.

– *That is what I realized—the true *Mu Hae* (Unsolvable).*

*Mu Hae?*

It means that there is nothing to be realized or solved.

Crazy—what kind of martial art is that!

– *Then, what would you call the realization of the divine in martial arts, achieved through such an unsolvable way?*

Wow, is boasting so shamelessly part of the Martial God’s talent?

– *Stop talking nonsense and keep observing.*

The Martial God’s voice was filled with expectation.

Even the past heads of the Sa Ma family had spent decades in retreat here, meditating deeply in hopes of realizing the martial god’s insights, but in the end, none had ever reached great success.

But if someone like the “Small Sword God”—the greatest prodigy of the age and famous for achieving the fastest martial prowess in martial history—was here, there must be something special.

Reluctantly, Jo Hwi once again lay down on the ground, mumbling complaints under his breath.

As he lay there, observing the ceiling and walls endlessly, all he could feel was the chill rising from the floor.

No matter how much he looked, it seemed meaningless, like random scribbles.

At first, he tried connecting the irregular dots as a form.

But no matter how much he tried, the lines became tangled like a spider’s web, and eventually, his memory reached its limit, causing him to give up.

Next, he tried to perceive the points not as individual objects but as a collective will.

This was a peculiar sensation Jo Hwi had experienced when he understood the *Seong Ha Ryeok* (Star River Force) in the *Geum Cheong* sword technique, which might have been similar to the Martial God’s ancient origins, if it had come from modern humanity.

But that too ended in failure.

The moment he tried to perceive it as a collective will, countless flashes of light danced before his eyes, and it felt as though his brain’s processing power was instantly overwhelmed.

Jo Hwi instinctively realized that the Martial God’s *Cheon Mu Mu Hae Gong* was not something that could be comprehended in a short time.

Indeed, hadn’t even the Sa Ma family, full of martial geniuses, failed to produce a single person who had truly realized the Martial God’s *Cheon Mu Mu Hae Gong* after all those years?

*Damn it.*

Remembering the threat from the *Yu Jon Sin* about the meeting with the *Jo Ga Dae Sang Hwi* (Great Assembly of the Jo Clan), Jo Hwi became more anxious.

Time was running out.

He couldn’t just lie here in the cave, staring at something that might never be understood.

Sighing deeply, Jo Hwi stood up.

“We’ll come back here later.”

– *Do you think you can face the followers of the *Shin Jwa* without having united our martial arts first?*

“It’s not something that can be achieved in a day or two, is it? Even if I spent years studying it, I might not be able to. But I don’t have that kind of time.”

There was a brief silence.

After a moment, it seemed the Martial God had made up his mind, and he revealed his true intention.

– *I will make you feel it yourself.*

Jo Hwi was about to shout out in alarm, but the pressure from the Martial God’s spiritual energy was far greater than the *Geum Shin* (Sword God) or any other martial god.

*Whhhh—*

The Martial God examined Jo Hwi’s body with an emotionless expression.

This was the first time the Martial God had manifested in the physical body of a living being since reaching the *Jon Ja* (Great Sage) level.

As he moved and adapted quickly, the Martial God examined Jo Hwi’s internal energy and was soon visibly shocked.

“Amazing. To have reached such a profound level of martial art within the *Absolute Realm*. Truly, the *Ma Shin* (Demonic Energy) is an extraordinary form of martial power.”

The Martial God had discovered the intense demonic transformation deeply embedded within Jo Hwi’s body.

As the Martial God focused his will, a deep purple demonic energy, like the flames of hell, began to rise around him.

*Fwooooshhhh!*

This was a truly overwhelming force, rarely seen among mortals!

Thus began the Martial God’s dance.

*Swishhh—*

Heaven and Earth moved with the Martial God’s will.

Though his movements might seem delicate at first glance, those watching—both the Sword God and the Demon God—felt a deep shiver.

It was not *Mu Hae* (Unsolvable), but *Mu Hae* (Martial Sea)!

Every graceful movement, seemingly without meaning, made the heavens respond and the earth resonate.

It was divine.

This was a state that could not even be compared to the level of *Natural Realm*.

Unlike themselves, who distorted and destroyed the laws of nature, the Martial God ruled over and guided nature.

It was like that of a transcendent being.

At last, both the Sword God and the Demon God were forced to acknowledge that the Martial God, Sa Ma Cheon Se, was at a level far above their own.

How long had passed?

When the Martial God’s dance, which had made the world tremble, finally slowed, Jo Hwi, who had felt it in his very body, was left speechless and stunned.

And then, at that moment:

“Ah… Ah… Father?”

Suddenly, sensing a divine energy emanating from the Muwon Cave, Sa Ma Gang (司馬强) rushed in.

With a face filled with trembling awe, he gazed at his father, Sa Ma Yu Gi (司馬有基), speechless.

“…Could it be that you’ve completed it?”

Tears were now streaming down Sa Ma Gang’s face.

Seeing the family’s centuries-old secret unfolding before his eyes, he could no longer contain the overwhelming emotions.

Sa Ma Yu Gi responded with a kind smile.

“Bring me the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok* (Heavenly Martial Diagram). I will personally bestow my teachings upon you.”

“…The *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*?”

Sa Ma Gang tilted his head, unable to comprehend.

“Why do you ask me for it? Isn’t it in your possession, Father?”

Wait a minute!

It wasn’t the family head, Sa Ma Gang, who held the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*, but the Taesan Family Head, Sa Ma Yu Gi?

The Martial God, Sa Ma Cheon Se, shifted his gaze uncomfortably, avoiding Sa Ma Gang’s stare.

“My memory isn’t what it used to be. I understand now.”

Sa Ma Gang’s face grew more puzzled.

His father, despite his age, was in perfect health and mind, still personally handling the family’s affairs.

For someone so meticulous in everything, could it really be possible that he had forgotten the whereabouts of the family treasure, the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*?

That was unimaginable. Anyone who knew his father would never believe such a thing.

What was even stranger was that, just a while ago, Sa Ma Yu Gi had been eating with him, and now, suddenly, he appeared in the Muwon Cave.

Had enlightenment suddenly struck while eating?

Could the great awakening of the Heavenly Martial truth come so unexpectedly?

But after witnessing his father’s dance, which seemed beyond human comprehension, how could anything be denied?

“Please, give me your teachings too!”

Sa Ma Gang, bowing and pleading, was met with the Martial God’s half-lidded gaze.

While his determination to pursue martial arts was commendable for a family head, the *Mu Hae* (Unsolvable) martial art was not something that could be taught.

If it were possible, many martial gods would have been born among the descendants of the Sa Ma family long ago.

“Continue to diligently pursue it on your own.”

“Ah, Father!”

Was it so difficult to share even a bit of your realization?

The distorted emotions on Sa Ma Gang’s face were unmistakable.

Years of longing had transformed into desire, and now his nature had become narrow and impatient.

The Martial God instantly recognized that his intense desire for martial arts was the source of Sa Ma Gang’s current state.

“If left alone, he will soon be consumed by the *Ma* (Demonic Power).”

In an instant, a refreshing breeze, like flowing water, surrounded Sa Ma Gang, soothing his exhausted body and mind.

The Martial God had drawn on natural energy to calm his distressed state.

“Aah…!”

A pure, invigorating energy surged from Sa Ma Gang’s head to his toes, and he shuddered in response.

Though he had never experienced the *Mu Hae* energy before, he instinctively recognized it.

But then, another wave of energy rushed in.

Thud.

The Martial God again invoked the *Mu Hae* energy, gently tapping Sa Ma Gang’s energy points, causing his body to collapse.

Even though Sa Ma Gang had reached the highest level of martial art, in the face of the Martial God’s *Mu Hae*, he was like a helpless child.

Afterward, the Martial God lightly tapped his foot.

The surrounding space rippled softly, and soon his form appeared in the heart of the Sa Ma family estate.

Jo Hwi, watching from a distance, was horrified.

He had seen this spectacle once before in the spirit world.

This was *Cheon Woo Ja*’s *Chuk Ji Seong Chon Sul* (Space Compression Technique)!

The extreme limit of Taoist techniques, the ultimate realm, was being wielded by the Martial God as well.

The saying *Ban Ryu Gui Jong* (All will return to unity) must be true—once reaching such a level, all powers merge into one.

Just how mad must the followers of the *Shin Jwa* (Divine Seat) be, to make even a god-like martial artist tremble in fear?

Meanwhile, the Martial God calmly surveyed the Sa Ma family estate.

The only place worthy of housing the family’s greatest elder, Sa Ma Yu Gi, was one: *Jung Dal Dae Gak* (Central Great Pavilion).

The Martial God had no doubt this was the location of the Taesan Family Head, Sa Ma Yu Gi.

With a slight click, the Martial God entered the *Jung Dal Dae Gak* and found the Taesan Family Head’s seal on the table, smiling with satisfaction.

Just as he had expected, this was indeed Sa Ma Yu Gi’s residence.

“Phew…”

With a soft exhale, the Martial God began searching the room.

It was unimaginable that the Martial God, a being of such power, would search through his own descendant’s residence. But for the greater good, he had no choice.

However, despite rummaging through drawers and examining every shelf, he could not find the *Cheon Mu Do Hae Rok*.

It was impossible for such a precious family treasure to be stored carelessly.

“Ha…”

After a long sigh, the Martial God quietly closed his eyes and sat in meditation.

In the end, he decided to wait for Sa Ma Yu Gi, his descendant, to return.

Some time passed.

“Ha!”

When Sa Ma Yu Gi, who had just washed and entered his quarters to rest, came face to face with the Martial God, he froze in shock.

“Who… who are you?”

This presence, this sensation, had completely eluded his sharp senses.

How could someone infiltrate his private chambers without being detected?

The Martial God slowly opened his eyes.

“Sit.”

The audacity of the intruder, disguised with such a petty appearance, to infiltrate the greatest family in the world and speak to him so disrespectfully!

Moreover, aside from a few legendary monks of Shaolin, no one in the martial world possessed a higher status than himself.

“What a daring fool! I’ll personally tear you apart today… huh?”

Sama Yugi froze like a wooden statue, shocked. The aura that was slowly emanating from the intruder was, astonishingly, the complete martial aura of the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Technique (天武無解公)!

Furthermore, if someone could manifest such a sacred and divine martial aura in the mortal world, there was only one person he knew who could do so.

A colossal force that ruled over nature!

In a shudder, Sama Yugi collapsed to his knees and lowered his head with great reverence.

“Master Wuzhu…!”

He had no need to ask why the Master was now appearing in the form of his own visage. The will of Master Wuzhu was, truly, the will of the divine. How could an ordinary person dare to fathom it?

Sama Yugi was filled with relief, knowing that the revered Master was still alive. Despite some misguided words from the so-called minor official of the Zhaoda Sect, Master Wuzhu would not have perished so easily.

“Do not make a fuss. Stand up.”

Sama Yugi stayed on his knees, raising only his head, with a respectful expression.

“Your humble servant will, of course, listen attentively to Master Wuzhu’s teachings.”

“Bring me the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Record.”

“Yes, I will do so… huh?”

Why was Master Wuzhu suddenly interested in the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Record, a technique he had already mastered?

“I need to confirm something.”

“Ah, I understand.”

Though puzzled, Sama Yugi quickly untied his clothing. As he removed his outer garments, his bare upper body, wrapped tightly with white cloth, was revealed.

To his astonishment, the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Record was concealed around his body.

It was no small feat to carry such a thick, rough, and ancient parchment bundle wrapped around one’s body all the time.

“Did you carry it on your body your entire life?”

Sama Yugi, with a deeply moved expression, bowed again.

“It was entrusted to me as a task, so I have always kept it close, treasured in my care.”

“Hah, foolish.”

Though the words seemed like a rebuke, the tone was incredibly warm.

As Master Wuzhu recognized the task Sama Yugi had carried throughout his life, Sama Yugi couldn’t help but shed a tear, overcome with emotion.

Sama Yugi respectfully handed the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Record over with both hands.

However, the moment Master Wuzhu took the Record, he suddenly returned to the spiritual realm, discarding the physical body of Zhi Hui.

Zhi Hui, holding the Record in his hand, was left in shock.

“Just what is going on here? After causing this mess, you’re leaving me to clean up after you?”

Though he had managed to acquire the Heavenly Martial Unsolvable Record after much trouble, Zhi Hui quickly tucked it into his clothes.

But then, a strange thought occurred to him.

Wait a minute… this could be a golden opportunity!

Zhi Hui put on a serious face.

“I have something to ask.”

“Please ask, Your Excellency. I will answer anything.”

Then Zhi Hui suddenly snapped angrily.

“I personally reviewed the affairs of our family today! And what did I find? Our Sama family, who once pledged loyalty, is now acting as a servant to the Ming Clan!”

In an instant, Sama Yugi’s face turned pale, frozen in shock like a wooden statue.

“How much do you think our Master Wuzhu’s family knows? How dare you even suggest using the Sama name to monitor the martial world’s guilds!”

“M-Master Wuzhu! It’s not like that…”

“Enough!” Zhi Hui bellowed.

“Sama Yugi, what exactly do you want to achieve with this madness?”

Sama Yugi, trembling and almost on the verge of prostrating himself, shuddered like a trembling aspen.

He was truly pitiful to behold.

“Command me, Master! I will bring the family head of the Sama clan before you, in the village of Muondong!”

“Obey!”

Sama Yugi vanished in an instant, using a ghost-like technique, and soon reappeared holding his son by the neck.

Sama Yugi was so surprised that his heart was still racing.

It was none other than the mighty Master Wuzhu who was rebuking the Sama family’s lost authority!

Although he had reluctantly agreed due to his son’s strong will, the very idea of the family being aligned with the Ming Clan disturbed him deeply.

It was this lingering discomfort that made Master Wuzhu’s words feel even heavier on his chest.

Zhi Hui glared fiercely at Sama Gang, who had been dragged in front of him, as if he were about to kill him.

“Do you want to disgrace the Sama name?”

Still recovering from his sleepiness, Sama Gang looked dazedly between his two fathers, confused and unable to make sense of the situation.

What on earth was going on?

Seeing his son’s confusion, Sama Yugi scolded him harshly.

“What’s wrong with you! Kneel down immediately!”

“What exactly is happening here?”

“This fool! This is Master Wuzhu!”

“Ah?”

Suddenly, Sama Gang’s mind was struck with clarity.

So, the dance he had witnessed in Muondong earlier wasn’t his father’s but Master Wuzhu himself!

Tears began to flow from his eyes in torrents.

“Master Wuzhu!”

Master Wuzhu was a living legend and a myth to the Sama family. Sama Gang’s admiration and reverence for him were as strong as Sama Yugi’s.

In an instant, Sama Gang’s face turned dark with anger.

How dare the insolent fool speak such words! He had been foolish to believe in them!

“I ask again, do you truly want to disgrace our name?”

“Master Wuzhu, what do you mean by this…?”

“Shut up! How dare the leader of the greatest family in the world crawl like a dog and serve the Ming Clan?”

Sama Yugi glared at his son as if he were about to kill him, while Sama Gang, his face twisted with emotion, fell to the ground, trembling in submission.

His pitiful state was almost unbearable.

“Furthermore, you say you’re doing it to monitor some martial guild? Hah! The greatest in the world? Give it up!”

“Master Wuzhu!”

“Ah! My humble self… I’ve committed an unforgivable sin!”

Zhi Hui shouted fiercely.

“That’s right! You’ve committed a grave sin! I will personally take control of your Sama family! Where is the family tree? No, wait! What use is a family lineage to these foolish fools who only tarnish the reputation of their ancestors! Destroy the family completely!”

Sama Gang was so deeply shocked that he couldn’t utter another word. He clutched Zhi Hui’s pant leg and begged desperately.

“Ahhh… I was completely wrong! If you want me dead, I’ll die without hesitation! But please, spare our family’s name! Please don’t destroy our lineage!”

Sama Yugi, too, grabbed the other pant leg.

“Master Wuzhu! I have failed to raise this boy properly! Please, take my life instead and calm your anger!”

Hmm.

Now that they were both so eager to die for their cause, perhaps it was time to reveal the true nature of things?

“If that is truly your wish, I will personally give you a chance.”

Sama Gang’s face immediately brightened.

“What must I do?”

Zhi Hui smiled meaningfully.

“As an apology, send the deputy head of the family to the Zhaoda Sect to strengthen the bond between our families!”