A Modern Man Who Got Transmigrated Into the Murim World

Chapter 77

When Yeom Sang-rok awoke from his long meditation, what entered his field of vision were his companions, all sitting cross-legged, organizing their enlightenment.

Some of them were in the *True Martial Flower* state, performing breath exercises, and particularly Nam Gung-Jang-Ho and Jin Ga-hee were deep in the realm of enlightenment, trembling with ecstatic bliss.

As Yeom Sang-rok watched his companions reach such heightened levels of cultivation, he couldn’t help but let out a small laugh.

“Haha…!”

At this point, it almost seemed like the Demon King was truly a *God*.

Unable to suppress his curiosity, Yeom Sang-rok nonchalantly asked the Demon King, who was watching his companions with an indifferent expression.

“Demon King, how did you manage to do this to them?”

“It’s me.”

“Hmm?”

Indeed, the vast demonic aura that had once surrounded him seemed to have vanished. Furthermore, judging by his playful laugh, it was clear that he had returned to his original self, Jo Hwi.

“I can’t believe it, even after seeing it with my own eyes. Are they really all reaching their realms now?”

“The differences in enlightenment might be subtle, but yes, that’s basically it.”

“Wait, is that even possible?”

Jo Hwi chuckled lightly.

What made the *Three Gods* (삼신) so extraordinary wasn’t just their attainment of the Natural Realm (*Jeong*), but the immense breadth of insight and experience they possessed. That was the true reason they were called *Gods*.

Having experienced countless shivers of excitement while learning from the Sword God’s teachings, Jo Hwi found the current scene not at all unusual.

“Instead of sticking with the *Joga Daesang* (a martial sect), we should open the *Three Gods Sect* (*Samshin Mun*). If we can produce martial masters at this rate, conquering the martial world will be a piece of cake, right?”

At Yeom Sang-rok’s words, Jo Hwi couldn’t help but laugh again.

Even this reckless young man was a disciple of the famed *Black Heaven Eight Kings*.

Moreover, Nam Gung-Jang-Ho was the *Sogyeongju* (leader of the small sword) of the Nam Gung family, once competing with the top martial artist, Hwa San So-ryong.

Kang Bi-U was also the most cherished successor of the *Sichuan Assembly*, and Jin Ga-hee possessed remarkable martial talent.

The young people gathered here were all late-stage prodigies, each one renowned for their extraordinary skills in their respective sects.

Not everyone could grasp teachings like those of the *Three Gods*.

“You think anyone can handle the teachings of the *Three Gods*?”

“Hm?”

Although his tone sounded a bit displeased, Yeom Sang-rok knew he was praising his companions.

It was rare for someone as ruthless as the *Small Sword God* to compliment him like this—truly, life was full of surprises.

“Well, *Joga Daesang*’s strength has definitely grown exponentially.”

After admiring his companions for a while, Jo Hwi suddenly made a gesture in the air, causing his iron sword to hover.

“Where are you going now?”

“*Il-Yaman-Ryak-Hwa-Jeop*.”

“Hmm?”

Then, Yeom Sang-rok realized that Hong Ye wasn’t present.

He had been so preoccupied with the chaos at the Black King’s mansion that he had completely forgotten about her.

“When we all went down to the underground, she stayed behind on the surface. With the things she saw and heard there, it wouldn’t be surprising if she caused some trouble. Would you like to come with me?”

“No. Go on ahead.”

Yeom Sang-rok sat down again and closed his eyes. Jo Hwi smiled lightly before stepping onto the floating iron sword and taking off.

—

**Public Meeting Room, Shaolin Temple**

*Gonggong*.

The *Living Buddha* of Shaolin.

Although Shaolin had an abbot, the true leader of the Zen Sect at that time was undeniably Gonggong, the grand master.

Shaolin’s guest hall.

The general of the *Zheguo* army, *Zhuge Canhui* could not hide his nervousness. His eyes kept darting around.

He was about to meet Gonggong again, and the thought of it made his hair stand on end, causing an uncomfortable chill to run down his spine.

Gonggong was a universally recognized grand master with unparalleled martial skills. Until the *Three Heroes* (U-Nae-Sam-Hyeob) appeared, he had been a towering figure in the martial world, regarded even higher than the leader of the martial alliance.

Zhuge Canhui, being a disciple of Gonggong’s from a much later generation, couldn’t help but feel tense.

“Amitabha…”

“Master… Master Gonggong!”

The elderly monk, who quietly muttered the *Amitabha*, entered the guest hall with a calm and composed demeanor. There was no mistaking that this was Gonggong, the Grand Master of Shaolin.

His brow was marked with the faint trace of the *keim* (戒印), a symbol of his long years of cultivation that no one could even begin to guess the depth of. His white eyebrows drooped down, yet his eyes gleamed with a youthful light. This vitality was a privilege and a symbol of Shaolin monks who maintained their *Tongja Gong* ( “Child’s Skill”) throughout their long years of practice.

“Heh heh… Please, sit down.”

“Thank you!”

Despite being the General Commander of the *Muraim Maeng* (Martial Alliance) and a representative of the military power, he knew he could not wield authority in front of the Zen Sect’s *Living Buddha*.

“That was a difficult decision… Tell me, have you let go of all your worries?”

It must have been referring to the recent decision to impeach the previous *Mu-hwang* (Martial Emperor) and elevate his own brother to the position of the new *Mu-hwang*.

Zhuge Canhui slightly bit his lips.

“If I had thought of loyalty or conscience, I would never have been able to take such a bold step. I have no regrets, nor worries.”

“Amitabha… *Seonjae*.”

Hearing this, Zhuge Canhui narrowed his eyes slightly. *Seonjae*, meaning “good” or “well done”? How could betraying the previous *Mu-hwang* and crowning his own brother be something to make Gonggong pleased?

He still couldn’t understand why this had caused Gonggong to express such approval.

“Your face is full of confusion, and you’re deceiving yourself, hiding your suffering. Amitabha… when you forget all your troubles, only then will you truly come to understand.”

After finishing his words, Gonggong rose from his seat with an indifferent expression.

At that moment, Zhuge Canhui clenched his fists tightly.

His bold decision had all been made under the guidance of Gonggong’s will. The decisions made by the *Living Buddha* of the Zen Sect and one of the greatest elders of the orthodox martial world were not something easily accomplished.

At this very moment, Zhuge Canhui’s family, the *Zhuge* family, bore the brunt of the backlash, the harsh criticisms, and the immense responsibility.

Yet Gonggong seemed to treat it as though it were nothing to do with him, as though it were all someone else’s business. This made Zhuge Canhui, no matter how great a senior Gonggong was, feel his anger rise.

But he couldn’t openly express his anger.

“This matter is too much for our family to bear. The situation is more complicated than you realize, Master Gonggong.”

Zhuge Canhui’s calm voice made the indifferent face of Gonggong shift with emotion.

“You are a foolish junior.”

Although his tone was kind, it was clear that Gonggong’s words were not a compliment, but a reprimand. Unable to hold back any longer, Zhuge Canhui stood up suddenly.

“Do you wish to remain hidden behind the scenes, pulling the strings and becoming a *Mi-Jon* (Hidden Master)?”

For a moment, deep surprise appeared in Gonggong’s eyes.

“Amitabha… Heh heh…”

The *Living Buddha*’s muttered *Amitabha* and his mocking laugh were not just expressions of amusement; they were filled with immense spiritual power, reverberating with a lion’s roar—a technique that Shaolin was famous for.

“Ugh!”

Zhuge Canhui, unable to withstand the tremendous pressure, collapsed on the spot, his internal organs feeling like they were turning inside out. Unimaginable pain shot through his body, but he gritted his teeth, swallowing the bitter taste of blood.

“Did you think that you alone must bear everything?”

“Ugh! Isn’t that the case?”

*Thud!*

Gonggong slammed his staff onto the ground, his powerful voice resounding.

“The deceitful nature of people comes from narrow-mindedness, from failing to reflect on themselves! Have you forgotten how easily I helped calm the opposition of the Elders’ Council with my assistance?”

“Wasn’t it all based on your will, Master Gonggong?! How can you be so indifferent!”

For a moment, contempt flashed across Gonggong’s face.

“You are the General Commander of the Martial Alliance.”

“…”

When power shifts, there are always inevitable consequences—rebellion, confusion, and disorder follow.

Gonggong was reprimanding Zhuge Canhui for not even being able to handle the chaos properly, despite his position as the General Commander of the *Muraim Maeng*.

But Zhuge Canhui couldn’t help but feel wronged.

“The *Small Sword God* is *Cheonoe* (out of this world)!”

“*Cheonoe*?”

Normally, when referring to something beyond human reach, people call it *Cheonoe* (天外), a realm beyond the heavens, and they revere it with great awe.

However, Zhuge Canhui was no ordinary person. As the General Commander of the Martial Alliance (*Muraim Maeng*), he held enormous power and military strength that could influence the vast martial world. For him to casually speak of *Cheonoe* meant it was not a trivial matter.

“Tell me everything that has happened.”

At these words, Zhuge Canhui began recounting the misdeeds of the *Sogeomshin* (Small Sword God).

Out of nowhere, he had accepted the great hero *Wu Nae Sam Hyeop* (Three Heroes of the South) as a guest at the *Joga Daesanghoe* (Great Assembly of the Wine), and then gathered countless orthodox martial artists at *Ojangpyeong* to host a grand banquet of unprecedented scale. He even summoned the *Mushin* (Martial God) to publicly endorse this event.

The martial artists of the northern orthodox sect, who were present at the banquet and tasted the offerings of the *Joga Daesanghoe*, were utterly captivated. From that moment on, they became addicted to the culture of the *Joga Daesanghoe*, and it was clear that the northern orthodox sect would soon be overtaken by it.

The most perplexing thing for Zhuge Canhui recently was the strange leather clothing.

One by one, the martial artists of the Martial Alliance began wearing it, and soon it spread like wildfire, with nearly all the martial artists of the Alliance donning the black and strange leather attire. It had become a trend in every major city and county on the way to Shaolin, which was truly an astonishing sight.

“The strong can be subdued by force. The clever can be drawn out by manipulation. But…”

A vicious light gleamed in Zhuge Canhui’s eyes.

“I’ve never encountered someone like this mad *Sangwi* (Merchant Ghost) who is capable of completely revolutionizing the culture of the central plains and the martial world.”

“Amitabha. *Sangwi*… Heh heh!”

Gonggong, the *Living Buddha*, chuckled in amusement at the General Commander’s words.

Zhuge Canhui continued, his gaze more intense.

“No matter what clever strategy I’ve learned, I cannot predict this person. If we prepare for his martial power, he counters with his cunning. If we prepare for his cunning, he uses money to force us. That’s still fine. But how can I deal with a man who has stolen the hearts of the northern orthodox martial artists?”

“Heh heh…!”

Zhuge Canhui clenched his teeth.

“In this situation, if we were to officially declare *Sogeomshin* and the *Joga Daesanghoe* as enemies of the Alliance, we all know what will happen. At least half… No, more than half of the orthodox martial artists would turn against the Alliance.”

Gonggong became a little more serious.

“Amitabha, is it really to that extent?”

Zhuge Canhui gritted his teeth.

“That man has become a hero unparalleled in the world because of the great banquet at *Ojangpyeong*. He represents both the *Sogeomshin*, the ancestor of the orthodox sword schools, and the fame of the *Mushin*, who ended the war with the *Saeoe Daejeon*. Most frighteningly, he has completely dominated the lives and culture of the orthodox martial artists with the *Joga Daesanghoe*’s ways.”

“Hmm…”

“What’s worse is the *Gangho* (martial world). The martial artists can’t forget their way of life. If the Alliance decides to punish them, all their resentment and criticism will be directed at us. The Alliance would be shattered, and its very existence would be in jeopardy.”

“Amitabha… Heh heh heh…”

“Please, do not just laugh. Please, Master Gonggong, give us your wisdom.”

Zhuge Canhui continued to express his frustration, but Gonggong only smiled gently and remained silent for a while.

Finally, Gonggong spoke after a long pause.

“What is the essence of the *Gangho*?”

“Yes…?”

Gonggong smiled and reached into his robe, pulling out an old book.

“Heh heh… I didn’t expect it to be so quick.”

Zhuge Canhui was astonished as he looked at the ancient words written on the cover of the book.

“Master, this is…!”

Gonggong smiled warmly.

“Do not forget the essence of the *Gangho*. It is *Mu* (Martial).”

*Dalma Jin Gyeong*.

The words were inscribed on the cover of the book.

*Dalma Jin Gyeong*.

This was the source of the seventy-two branches of martial arts etiquette that Shaolin prided itself on, and it was the root of the martial arts of the central plains.

However, only legends about the mysterious teachings left by *Bodhidharma* had been passed down, and no scholar, not even the renowned monks of Shaolin, knew the true nature of this scripture.

“Was this secret scripture truly real?”

Zhuge Canhui asked nervously, swallowing his saliva, as he gazed at Gonggong.

“This is the true text left by Bodhidharma himself.”

“Ha!”

To think that this was the true original manuscript left directly by *Bodhidharma*—not a mere copy!

Zhuge Canhui could sense that the antique calligraphy and the mysterious aura emanating from the book were not ordinary, but he had never imagined it to be the true original manuscript.

If Gonggong’s words were true, this legendary text had been passed down for over a thousand years.

Moreover, considering the significance of *Bodhidharma*’s name and his influence on the history of the martial world, the *Dalma Jin Gyeong* could easily be compared to a treasure worth as much as an entire nation.

No treasure in the martial world could possibly compare to the greatness of the *Dalma Jin Gyeong*!

“Why show me such an immeasurable treasure?” Zhuge Canhui asked.

Gonggong, however, only smiled serenely, handing the book over to Zhuge Canhui.

“Now, this belongs to the Martial Alliance.”

“What…?”

“How you use the *Dalma Jin Gyeong* is entirely up to the General Commander.”

Zhuge Canhui’s face showed disbelief, but then his sharp mind began to grasp the deeper meaning behind Gonggong’s words.

“Could it be that you, Master, are…?”

“Heh, you’ve already figured it out. Indeed, as expected of the General Commander.”

The *Dalma Jin Gyeong*, the greatest martial treasure of the martial world, could indeed overturn the chaotic state of affairs in the martial world caused by the *Joga Daesanghoe*.

But could Shaolin, which had stood for a thousand years, simply turn a blind eye to such a treasure?

Zhuge Canhui, now tense, listened as Gonggong’s calm voice continued.

“Who do you think *Nonap* (Old Man) is?”

Gonggong said this with a deep, meaningful smile.

“Amitabha… *Nonap* is Gonggong.”

There was no greater presence in the martial world at that time.

Zhuge Canhui was left speechless, his face filled with astonishment.

This meant that Gonggong was declaring his willingness to single-handedly deal with the backlash from Shaolin and the chaos within the martial world.

Moved by such a serious declaration, Zhuge Canhui immediately paid his respects.

“I will never forget the decision and consideration you’ve shown, Master.”

“Heh… Amitabha.”

Gonggong’s face was filled with a compassionate smile.

But Zhuge Canhui, unable to see the dark glint hidden in Gonggong’s eyes, could not perceive the hidden intent behind his expression.

—

* * *

*Crash! Crash! Boom!*

Once again, the deafening sound of the ceiling collapsing echoed through the room, causing Hong Ye, who had been sorting documents, to freeze in shock.

However, she quickly hid her panic and looked at Jo Hwi with a resigned expression, as if to say, “Let it be.”

“Ha…”

Jo Hwi approached Hong Ye with a terrifying expression, starting to look over the documents she had been organizing.

“Ha? Did you already take all the valuable information?”

At some point, Hong Ye had somehow infiltrated the underground chambers of the *Heukwangbu* (Black King’s Division) and had been recording the detailed layout of the chambers as if they were blueprints, complete with extensive footnotes.

Despite the chaos, Hong Ye had kept her professional composure, stealing all the secret information about one of the most hidden places in the world.

“Wow! This isn’t something one person could’ve done! Did you have spies waiting around there?”

“Isn’t that obvious? It’s only easy for you, but what do you think of the owner of the *Yajeop* (a hidden faction)?”

“No one told me about this beforehand.”

“Ha! You think a *Yajeop* leader would be going around without any bodyguards or informants? Hey! What are you doing?!”

As Jo Hwi started tearing up the maps Hong Ye and her informants had spent days and nights working on, Hong Ye reacted violently, furious at the idea.

“You can’t just steal something this secret without the owner’s permission.”

“What? The *Heukwangbu* chief isn’t stopping me. Why are you judging it?”

Jo Hwi laughed.

“If the *Heukwangbu* chief finds out about this, your *Yajeop* will disappear from this world.”

The true identity of the *Heukwangbu* chief was none other than Sa Eulcheon, the first leader of the *Cheolsa Ja Maeng* (Iron Lion Sect), who once conquered the world.

Even though the *Yajeop* might be formidable, challenging someone like Sa Eulcheon and his subordinates was a near impossible task.

“Answer my question. If you act recklessly, I’ll really tear it up.”

“Alright, alright!”

Jo Hwi leaned back in the chair opposite her, his eyes gleaming with an ominous light.

“Given how thoroughly you’ve examined it, I’m sure you don’t even need to look at the back pages of the diagram. You’ve probably seen all the inscriptions in the underground chambers as well?”

“Y-Yes.”

“Then you must also know that the one who left those chambers was the Taoist ancestor, Zhang Sanfeng.”

“Yes…”

“You also know about the existence of the *Shinza* (Divine Seat), and that the martial world is doomed to extinction?”

“……”

At this question, Hong Ye couldn’t bring herself to respond.

While the information was indeed obtained from the walls of the underground chambers, it was so enormous and otherworldly that it was hard for her to accept it easily.

“What will you do now?”

“……What do you mean by that?”

Jo Hwi laughed lightly again.

“If you didn’t know, that’s one thing. But now that you’ve learned about the *Shinza* and the world’s impending destruction, there’s no way you can continue living the same way as before, is there?”

“T-That…”

“When the world is on the brink of collapse, what’s the point of gathering all this information and making money? What will you use it for?”

Hong Ye looked utterly baffled at Jo Hwi’s question.

What on earth is this crazy miser talking about?

And what about you? What exactly are you going to do with all that massive amount of money you’re hoarding?

The influence of the *Joga Daesanghoe* was expanding daily, now stretching beyond both the southern and northern parts of the martial world, practically covering the entire Central Plains.

It was even said that they had recently taken control of the Silk Road.

Now, the *Joga Daesanghoe* was not below even the legendary *Cheonhwa* and *Manggeum*, the greatest merchant factions in the world.

“Wow, it’s amazing how one’s eyes alone can convey so many curses.”

“Wh-what do you mean by my eyes?”

“Never mind. Join the *Joga Daesanghoe*.”

“Eh? What are you suddenly saying?”

“Well, you’ve already boarded the same boat as us. If you keep scheming outside of this small *Geomsin*’s protection, you’ll likely become prey for the followers of the *Shinza*.”

As far as information was concerned, the *Yajeop* was a name that rivaled the greatest in the world.

Could someone so casually suggest that such an incredible information network join a mere business organization?

Where does this *Geomsin*’s unfounded confidence come from…?

However, as images of the sword gods, martial gods, and the Three Heroes flashed in her mind, Hong Ye ultimately shook her head in resignation.

Hmm, maybe it’s not so baseless after all.

“After experiencing the underground world, do you still not understand? If the *Shinza*’s followers begin to take serious action, your *Yajeop* will probably be listed first on their death list. Either you will be swayed, or, if that’s impossible, eliminated.”

“That’s too far-fetched!”

“Is it really, though?”

“Ha…”

When it’s yours, it possesses endless power, but once it falls into the hands of the enemy, it becomes the root cause of all failure.

From the perspective of world domination, information networks were like a double-edged sword.

Hong Ye knew better than anyone that the fates of the information networks throughout martial history had not been favorable.

She bit her lip and stared at Jo Hwi.

“Ha… And what will I get in return?”

“Well, of course, your survival.”

“No, that’s too much!”

You’re asking me to give up a global information network like *Yajeop* in exchange for just being kept alive?

“A person who calls himself a merchant, rather than a martial artist, sure has a dark calculation even in the dark.”

“What are you talking about?”

Jo Hwi stared at Hong Ye with a furrowed brow, his expression one of even more disbelief.

“Think about it. When the time of extinction comes, how much do you think the entry tickets to the underground chambers will sell for?”

“Pardon? What… what did you say?”

Hong Ye, the strategist who could come up with countless plans in a single night, immediately understood the hidden meaning behind Jo Hwi’s words. He was casually talking about the entry tickets to the underground chambers.

This meant that he would have control over the operation of the underground chambers.

“W-What! The Black King’s Army! Even the legendary Black King’s Army has been incorporated into the Joga Daesanghoe!”

“He wants to make me his supreme ruler.”

“Ha?”

In that instant, Jo Hwi’s gaze sank into an abyss, like a deep pool.

“The final day. Yajeop will be included in the number 6,448,000. This is the promise that only this Geomsin can make.”

If the prophecies of Zhang Sanfeng described on the walls of the underground chambers were true, then becoming a member of that underground chamber was an immeasurable stroke of luck.

The ‘obliteration of existence,’ where divine beings devour your soul alive, severing you completely from the cycle of reincarnation and karma! Just imagining it sent a chill through the bones.

“But there’s no guarantee that those prophecies are true.”

“True. The decision is yours. Will you believe what your own eyes have seen, or not? Isn’t life essentially a gamble?”

“Hm…”

The decision wasn’t easy.

In truth, Hong Ye, having seen the underground chambers firsthand, had an intuitive sense that Zhang Sanfeng’s prophecies might be true. Still, her intuition was not objective.

Trusting her unclear gut feelings and leaving the fate of Yajeop entirely in her hands was what left her so conflicted.

“Do I have to make a decision right here?”

Jo Hwi answered naturally, almost nonchalantly.

“Yep. As of today, I deny everything in the world except for Joga Daesanghoe and its subordinates.”

Namgung, Tang family, Sima, Black King’s Army, and Black Heaven Alliance.

The Sword God, the Martial God, the former Martial Emperor, the Three Heroes of the World, and Wan Bokja.

These were the powerful names gathered in the massive fortress that was Joga Daesanghoe.

It was an outrageously bold statement, yet Jo Hwi’s declaration carried a destructive power beyond words.

Hong Ye, who knew Joga Daesanghoe’s true power better than anyone, now saw Jo Hwi’s might in a new light.

This was the most critical crossroads in her life.

Hong Ye stood at the center of that crossroads for a long time before finally taking a step toward Jo Hwi.

“I will follow the will of Geomsin.”

“Ah, good! Very good!”

Jo Hwi grinned in satisfaction, standing up briskly.

“Well then, as a mark of your allegiance to your new supreme ruler, may I issue the first order?”

Hong Ye, who had already made up her mind, was not the type to regret her decisions later.

“Please give your order.”

Jo Hwi gazed heavily out the window to the north and spoke in a deep voice.

“Recall all the eyes of Yajeop scattered across the world. And deploy them all to the Martial Alliance.”

At those words, Hong Ye was startled.

You want to limit all the resources of Yajeop to the Martial Alliance?

“Has something happened in the Alliance?”

Just then, the door to Hong Ye’s office suddenly opened, and a figure wrapped in dark clothes entered.

“Wolbi?”

Hong Ye was taken aback. It was the first time Wolbi had barged in without asking for her permission.

“Urgent news!”

Wolbi, who was in charge of the Martial Alliance’s headquarters, looked tense.

“Speak! What happened in the Alliance?”

Wolbi’s heavy gaze turned toward Jo Hwi, and Hong Ye hastily reassured him.

“He is no longer an outsider! Go ahead!”

After a brief sigh of relief, Wolbi cautiously spoke.

“The Alliance has revealed the Daruma True Sutra to all the sect leaders.”

What, what did you say? The Daruma True Sutra?

A scream of shock echoed in the spirit world.

Having maintained his calm through every situation, Jo Hwi was now visibly curious.

“Why are you so shocked?”

Wolbi, seemingly in shock, struggled to speak for a moment, and Jo Hwi, unable to contain his urgency, asked again.

“Why are you so surprised?”

After a moment of silence, Wolbi slowly answered in a voice full of solemnity.

“I don’t know. No one has seen it firsthand… But I suspect it contains his origins.”

“Origins?”

“His martial system, philosophies, and secret techniques related to the Shinza, as well as his observations of worlds beyond human reach… Everything he experienced is likely contained within it, but it’s only a vague guess.”

The secret techniques of the Shinza, which the Six True Gods had longed to see with their own eyes, and which had never been revealed to even his most favored disciple! The Martial Alliance had just announced that they would reveal this legendary treasure to all the sects.

If it’s true, this would be an unprecedented event in martial history, one that could throw the entire world into chaos.

“Ha, would he really reveal the Daruma True Sutra, something he never showed even to his favored disciple? It must be a rumor.”

Jo Hwi’s gaze turned toward Wolbi, who stood silently in the shadows.

“Are you sure this is accurate? It could just be some baseless rumor trying to get attention?”

Without hesitation, Wolbi coldly replied.

“I am Wolbi of Yajeop.”

At those words, Wolbi fell silent.

Hong Ye’s face hardened with pride.

“Stop questioning it. If it’s Wolbi’s information, doubting its credibility would be foolish.”

“Can that really be true?”

Jo Hwi was stunned.

The Daruma True Sutra?

I have heard of it.

The Gucheonghyeonnyeogyeong (Nine Heavens Mysterious Woman’s Scripture) that Cheonwooja begged me to find is just as absurd a treasure of the esoteric.

If the Gucheonghyeonnyeogyeong is the scripture that all Taoists dream of, then the Dalmagyeong (Dalma True Sutra) is the dream of all monks.

It is said that if one sees it even once, they can immediately attain Buddhahood in the arms of Guanyin Bodhisattva, the legendary Buddhist scripture.

And now, to say that this mysterious treasure, which might even contain the secret methods to reach the highest position, will be revealed to all the members of the Murim League?

At that moment, Jo Hwi’s face turned pale.

“Wait a minute! Does that apply to new disciples joining the League as well?”

“Of course. I’ve heard that martial artists from all over the world are gathering in Jeongju to join the League.”

To the people of the Jianghu (martial arts world), the Dalmagyeong holds a slightly different position.

It is firmly believed by everyone that the seventy-two unique martial arts of the legendary Shaolin Temple were derived from the mysterious Dalmagyeong.

In terms of fame, the Dalmagyeong would not be inferior to the legacy of the Three Gods.

“Are these monks crazy? There’s no way they’d let this go without reacting.”

In the Jianghu, even spying on training scenes is seen as a crime.

They are extremely protective of their martial arts, afraid of it being leaked to outsiders.

And now, to think that the secret techniques of Bodhidharma would be publicly revealed to the world, there’s no way Shaolin would simply stand by and watch.

“The Dalmagyeong was the property of Gonggong Dasa. He believed that the Buddha’s teachings, in the spirit of great compassion, should be generously shared with all of humanity, and he overcame all opposition to make it happen.”

“Gonggong Dasa?”

The name had been echoing frequently in Jo Hwi’s ears.

Wait a minute…

Did he personally own the Dalmagyeong?

– He is a follower of the God Seat! Be extra cautious when dealing with him, he might be an incarnation!

At Cheonwooja’s frantic cry, Jo Hwi’s eyes sank deeply.

Until now, the God Seat had been an unreachable, mysterious entity for Jo Hwi.

But now! Finally!

That being has shown his true power.

Not only trapping those poor old men in the spirit world but also trying to obliterate the souls of every human being in this world.

The sheer audacity of it sent a chill down Jo Hwi’s spine, leaving even Wolbi, who stood across from him, horrified.

“Ugh…!”

Wolbi bit his lip so hard that blood came out, retreating hastily, but Jo Hwi’s indifferent voice followed him.

“Then it’s likely the monks at Shaolin didn’t even know the Dalmagyeong existed. They must be shocked out of the blue.”

Hongye, standing further back, nodded her head in agreement.

“Besides, it’s Gonggong. He’s an elder of the highest rank in Shaolin, and when he proclaimed the great compassion of Buddha’s teachings, who would dare to go against his will? But you should really calm your thoughts. How could someone who’s not enlightened live in peace?”

“Ah, sorry.”

Jo Hwi quickly pulled back his expanding thoughts and immediately lifted his sword into the air.

When he suddenly tried to leave on his flying sword, Hongye grew anxious.

“Where are you going all of a sudden?”

“To meet the monks.”

“Um… what? Wait, what did you say?”

Hongye’s face was painted with disbelief.

Jo Gadaesanghoe had openly been hostile to the Murim League. To him, Shaolin was like a dragon’s blood and venom.

Jo Hwi chuckled lightly.

“Well, I just want to secretly meet with the monks protecting Shaolin.”

“Are you referring to Dalmahwawon?”

At Hongye’s question, Jo Hwi widened his eyes in surprise.

“Wow, you even know about Dalmahwawon?”

“Ha…”

What did Hongye think of the world’s number one intelligence organization, the Yajeob?

Looking at Jo Hwi with a scornful expression, Hongye suddenly hardened her face.

“Ah, I see! Dalmahwawon is the group that stops Shaolin from falling into chaos and danger! This situation is more than enough to give them a reason to move the secret monks!”

Jo Hwi nodded with a faint smile.

“Shaolin is not a place that one crazy old monk can handle. It’s called the thousand-year Shaolin for a reason.”

“Exactly!”

In the long history of Shaolin, the most precious treasure, the Dalmagyeong, has now leaked out to the outside world.

The secret monks guarding Shaolin in the shadows cannot simply let this urgent situation unfold without action.

But Hongye couldn’t help but express her doubts.

“However, the secret monks of Dalmahwawon are so covert that few even know of their existence. Even the head of Shaolin didn’t know about them his entire life.”

“What about Yajeob?”

Hongye, perhaps feeling a hit to her pride, closed her mouth tightly.

“The world’s top intelligence organization is now second in the world.”

“Then you know about them?”

Jo Hwi grinned and mounted his sword.

“That’s why they’re second in the world.”

“Who are they? Who is a secret monk of Dalmahwawon?”

“Again! It’s a professional habit!”

“Please, stop!”

But Jo Hwi was already far away, turning into a dark speck in the distance.

“You devilish bastard! You’re a thief who terrorizes the world! Aaaah!”

As Hongye cursed furiously, Wolbi stealthily retreated, pressing himself against the wall.

—

The most well-known monk in the martial arts world from Shaolin was the Head of the Guest Reception.

Due to his position, he was in contact with many outsiders and was often seen by martial artists and guests from all over.

Ironically, the monk who was most familiar to the Jianghu world, Beomseung, also held the most secretive position at Shaolin—he was a secret monk.

Jo Hwi was expanding his field of vision from far above the Shaolin mountain gates, searching for Beomseung.

However, the warm-faced monk, who had always greeted visitors with kindness, was nowhere to be seen.

The warriors who accompanied him were also absent, and the only thing hanging at the center of Shaolin’s gates was a plaque with the word “Hui”written on it.

Return.

It meant that they wouldn’t receive any guests.

With the unexpected guest ban, many travelers and visitors who had climbed the mountain had to turn back, indicating that the guest ban had likely been in place for some time.

Not wanting to be seen, he floated in the air, but inevitably, Jo Hwi had to land and inspect the mountain gate.

Shaolin seemed quiet on the surface, but in reality, it was a place filled with world-renowned martial monks, like dragons and tigers.

Naturally, if a skilled martial artist like Jo Hwi arrived at the mountain gate, someone would have already come out to assess him and keep watch.

But strangely, there was no reaction at all, which made Jo Hwi’s face grow dark with suspicion.

Feeling something was off, Jo Hwi extended his aura to cover the entire Shaolin and immediately turned his gaze toward the northern ridge.

There, an enormous presence cast a chilling aura over the entire mountain.

An unprecedented, enormous presence.

It was something entirely foreign, an energy unlike any Jo Hwi had ever encountered.

It was neither the aura of his own force nor that of a manifestation of divine power.

It was an unknown presence, something Jo Hwi had never felt before.

Only the spirits of the underworld could recognize this terrifying energy.

—

“That… that!” Jo Hwi thought.

If that energy came from what the spirit was afraid of, there was only one possibility.

“God’s Seat?”

“That’s right! But how?”

The worlds of the gods and humans were separated by the laws of the universe.

If something had crossed that barrier, it would have caused a cosmic upheaval, but there had been no signs of any strange phenomena in the martial world.

Naturally, Jo Hwi had doubts.

“Isn’t it a manifestation?”

“Would a manifestation have such divine power?”

Divine power!

The mysterious energy was truly the power of a god?

But why, of all places, in Shaolin?

With no time to think further, Jo Hwi immediately took flight on his sword, flying straight toward the source of the divine power like a beam of light.

After some time, a horrible, disgusting scene unfolded before Jo Hwi’s eyes.

“Beom Seung Dae Sa…”

In the distance, a monk in yellow robes, covered in blood and holding a large scroll, was undoubtedly Beom Seung!

Around him, seventeen monks, clutching black rosaries and chanting Buddhist mantras, stood firmly in defense.

These were the only ones who had survived.

A mountain of corpses and a sea of blood.

Countless monks, presumably from the Dalmahawon, had been so violently crushed that their forms were unrecognizable.

The massive palm-shaped marks left by the attack had turned the Dalmahawon’s protectors into blood and gore.

– “Wida!”

Hearing the voice of the sword god, Jo Hwi glanced with an indifferent gaze toward an entity hovering higher in the sky.

Suddenly, Jo Hwi’s lips twisted.

“Kong Kong?”

But this “Kong Kong” wasn’t just a monk—he was an entirely different being.

The followers of the divine throne, such as Eun Bongryeong, had infiltrated the martial world and caused havoc.

The entities from the underworld like Ilnoidong (One Old Man and Two Children) and Gimtcheonjong appeared by tearing through the dimensional barriers.

These beings, like Hwiyongjeon and Tongcheonjeon, wielded transcendent powers, just like this divine presence before Jo Hwi.

Although these followers also possessed powers beyond human limits, the energy emanating from Kong Kong was something completely different.

It was far beyond anything Jo Hwi had ever experienced.

“Isn’t this just a manifestation?” Jo Hwi wondered.

The idea of a manifestation—where a soul is forced to submit and be controlled—was far more plausible.

However, the energy from Kong Kong was far beyond that. It was the raw, absolute power of the divine.

—

With a laugh, Jo Hwi felt as if all the heavy chains that bound his body for millennia were suddenly snapped.

His mind, honed over three thousand years, was now free to unleash its full potential against the one entity before him.

He raised his sword high, and a tremendous aura surged from his body, compressing into a single point.

**Paaang—**

A sharp, light sound reverberated through the air.

But to Kong Kong, it was far from a weak attack.

Kong Kong slowly fixed his gaze on the point coming toward him, his eyes filled with intense emotion.

Then, his hand slowly reached out, unleashing a massive golden palm that collided with Jo Hwi’s point.

**Whoooosh!**

The golden palm, brimming with overwhelming power, collided with Jo Hwi’s point.

In that instant, a terrifying shockwave tore through the air.

**Boom boom boom—**

Far below, Beom Seung Dae Sa and the monks from Dalmahawon widened their eyes in horror.

They instinctively knew that the power on display was far beyond anything a mortal could handle. In fear, they hurriedly formed a defensive stance, bracing themselves for the incoming shockwave.

In an instant, the entire space seemed to crack and bend as the force intensified, creating a massive vortex that spread outward.

**Krrrrrrr—**

“Ahhhh!”

“Ughh—!”