NOVEL NEXT Chapter 160
Chapter 160
Completion of the Four Divine Techniques
“Truly extraordinary.”
“……”
“No, extraordinary is an understatement. A young man who has just crossed into adulthood, has already embarked on the transcendent path of martial arts. It’s truly remarkable.”
The old Taoist master expressed his pure admiration.
“I’ve encountered countless heroes in my time, but never have I seen someone so specialized in the martial arts. You did well to seek his guidance.”
“Yes.”
Okcheong responded with a particularly cautious expression but spoke nonetheless.
“When I look back quietly…”
“Hmm?”
“I’ve observed Commander Yeon for the past few months. From what I’ve seen…”
He wondered if there was a need to say this.
But Okcheong was the type who couldn’t suppress his curiosity. He never hesitated to act when something was necessary.
Despite his gentle and mild nature, he had a firm resolve.
“Honestly, I never thought of him as a genius.”
“You never thought of him as a genius? What do you mean by that?”
“Well…”
A look of embarrassment crossed Okcheong’s face.
“It feels more like his martial prowess is built on unimaginable experiences rather than talent.”
“Experiences?”
“That’s just the feeling I get. Rather than growing strong through talent, it seems like he regained a level he once knew through previous training.”
The old Taoist master, Seunghyeon Jinin, the head of Wudang, burst into laughter.
“Haha, that’s nonsense. Are you saying Commander Yeon was a prodigy who broke the ultimate barrier at an even younger age?”
Okcheong scratched his head awkwardly.
“Of course not. That’s why I said it’s just a feeling.”
“Whatever it may be, it’s clear that he’s a truly astonishing talent. Moreover, having achieved great feats with his fervent chivalry, the future of the martial world may revolve around Commander Yeon.”
“That’s very likely.”
Seunghyeon Jinin smiled faintly.
“Aren’t you envious?”
“Pardon?”
“Your senior is known as the Sword Immortal, revered as the greatest sword in the world. Don’t you want to be the best as his disciple?”
Okcheong smiled gently.
“You’re joking, right? I only wish to perfect my martial arts. I have no desire to compete or seek attention.”
“Haha.”
“Well, maybe that’s why I am the way I am. Commander Yeon once told me that competitiveness can be a driving force for growth.”
“That’s true. But it’s not an absolute factor for development.”
“I understand. Commander Yeon acknowledged that too.”
“Hahaha.”
Seunghyeon Jinin kept laughing but was inwardly surprised by Okcheong’s response.
‘My disciple has changed a lot.’
In the past, Okcheong was like a seeker rather than a warrior. It was commendable as a disciple of Wudang.
Wudang, like Shaolin, is highly regarded, but it’s a sect of Taoists pursuing the Way. The sword is a means of training, not killing.
Okcheong practiced martial arts not to defeat someone but to study.
Now, Okcheong desires the perfection of his martial arts.
‘Though he has temporarily strayed from the path of a seeker, this too is good. I believe he will eventually return to where he started.’
Seunghyeon Jinin asked.
“So, when is Myeolsagun’s next deployment scheduled?”
“I haven’t been informed yet.”
“Hmm, that means there are at least a few days?”
“It’s hard to be certain. As you saw before, we might be deployed as soon as we gather. It could be the same this time.”
“Haha, is that so?”
Seunghyeon Jinin stood up.
“It’s said that haste makes waste, but since time is limited, it’s best to start right away.”
“Pardon? Start what?”
“What else? I intend to observe and assist in your martial arts.”
Okcheong’s eyes widened.
“Master, you will personally…?”
“Why not? Is there any reason I shouldn’t?”
“No, it’s an honor for me.”
“Stop being silly.”
Seunghyeon Jinin turned.
“Follow me. I’ll see your improved martial arts and help you refine them as much as possible.”
* * *
The drinking session with his father ended earlier than expected.
Yeon Hojeong didn’t anticipate his father drinking so hastily. Despite consuming a vast amount, his posture remained upright, though the drinking was almost binge-like.
Thus, the drinking session that started in the morning ended by midday.
“Phew…”
With a breath, the alcohol’s effect dissipated on its own.
Yeon Hojeong frowned.
‘I still can’t control it.’
The Azure Dragon Qi.
The Azure Dragon Qi, which extremely activated his liver functions, achieved immense growth through symbiosis with the three divine energies. Of course, the same applied to the other three energies.
The extent was so intense that it was difficult to properly control. At least, it was so at the current level.
Maybe that’s why? This time, even Yeon Hojeong wanted to get drunk, but the Azure Dragon Qi continuously dispelled the incoming alcohol, preventing him from getting intoxicated.
It had been a long time since he couldn’t freely control his internal energy. Of course, it was something to be glad about.
‘I’ll get used to it soon.’
Uncontrolled power inevitably causes problems.
It’s like a butcher doesn’t become a warrior just because he wields a divine weapon. The key is not only to handle the power correctly but also to use it aptly in situations.
‘Anyway.’
Yeon Hojeong’s eyes sparkled.
‘This marks the true beginning of the Four Divine Techniques.’
How long had it been?
It had been about two years since he had been with the Four Divine Techniques before returning.
But why did it feel like meeting an old friend after a long time? The joy was immense.
He once again felt the Azure Dragon Qi.
‘Welcome back, Azure Dragon.’
Azure Dragon.
The Azure Dragon, the wood spirit of the Jia Yin, symbolizes spring and governs the liver among the internal organs.
The energy itself aimed for recovery and detoxification, and further, for immunity. The martial arts performed with the Azure Dragon Qi focused on evasion and self-preservation.
‘I’d like to have a good run.’
He mastered the techniques of Xuanwu, Baihu, and Zhuque through real battles.
The Azure Dragon was different. From the moment he trained the three divine energies, he could summon the Azure Dragon Qi by himself.
‘I’ll manage.’
A martial artist of Yeon Hojeong’s level could immediately apply martial arts learned in theory to real combat. Especially techniques he had used countless times in the past.
“Maybe I should rest today.”
By now, Moyong Woo would be meeting with the daughter of the Tang family, the Dark Sky Divine Maiden.
Other than that, there was nothing particularly concerning. Rumors about his martial arts advancement would spread, but today Pagun Pavilion had restricted access to outsiders, even setting up guards.
Rest. It’s well-deserved.
Just as Yeon Hojeong stood up.
‘Hmm?’
He sensed someone approaching.
It was a familiar energy. Yeon Hojeong smiled.
After a while, Mok Bi appeared on the first floor, yawning widely.
“Just woke up?”
Mok Bi’s eyes immediately turned sharp like a wildcat.
“Thanks for your help earlier.”
“Hmm? Ah, because of my father?”
Mok Bi exclaimed with a resentful expression.
“I’m never drinking in front of you again…!!”
At that moment.
“……Huh?”
Mok Bi blinked, confused.
Yeon Hojeong tilted his head.
“What’s wrong?”
“What’s this?”
“What?”
“……”
“What is it?”
“……”
“What’s with you? Why are you speechless?”
Mok Bi looked Yeon Hojeong up and down in a daze.
Yeon Hojeong frowned.
“What’s there to see that you’re staring so much?”
“How is this possible?”
“Could you speak clearly?”
“Have you gotten stronger?!”
What an intuitive choice of words.
Yeon Hojeong nodded.
“Yes.”
“Oh my…!”
All traces of sleep vanished from Mok Bi’s face.
It was only natural. The change in Yeon Hojeong that Mok Bi perceived was nothing short of transformation.
Mok Bi swallowed hard.
‘Incredible!’
Yeon Hojeong stood there with a relaxed face.
Even his posture had slightly changed. Just this morning, he stood with a solid, unyielding stance, but now he appeared somewhat relaxed and flexible.
This flexibility, which could be mistaken for slackness, was also described as natural.
It wasn’t an issue of realization. The energy in Yeon Hojeong’s body naturally created this posture.
A stance where the energy could be used most efficiently.
“What method did you use…?”
“What method? It’s just that my diligent training finally bore fruit.”
“……”
“You brought it up at the right time. Instead of wasting time drinking with Ahyeon, spend that time practicing archery. I want you to quickly reach where I stand.”
Mok Bi looked at Yeon Hojeong with trembling eyes.
Yeon Hojeong smiled.
“You can do it too. As long as you don’t get impatient.”
“Do you really think so?”
Of course.
“I believe in you. If I can do it, there’s no way you can’t.”
It wasn’t just a statement to instill confidence. It was the truth.
Their levels of talent were different from the start. Moreover, unlike in the past, now she had many people to support her.
She could reach higher and faster.
“Tsk.”
Mok Bi slumped onto the bench.
“It feels a bit deflating.”
“Hmm?”
Mok Bi chuckled.
“I wanted to beat you at least once. Ideally, in martial arts.”
“What would you do after beating someone like me?”
“Are you serious?”
“Of course not. You’ve still got a long way to go, you rascal.”
“Hmph.”
“Now you’re even snorting, you’ve really grown up.”
“I’ve always told you I’m older. And what does age have to do with snorting?”
“It’s just a saying.”
Eventually, a cheerful smile spread across Mok Bi’s face.
But only for a moment.
“Huh? But…”
“What?”
“Do others know yet?”
“Know what?”
“That you’ve gotten so strong.”
“Ah, well…”
“Remember last time with Moyong’s family head? After that duel, everyone came rushing in.”
“……?!”
“Well, they wouldn’t do something so foolish after being burned once…”
“……”
“Everyone knows, don’t they?”
“Well, that’s…”
Yeon Hojeong forced a smile.
“It’s different now, isn’t it? Hey, I’ve surpassed the ultimate barrier of martial arts. Do you know what that means? It’s a level where you’re called a supreme master. Though I’m just at the entry level, it’s still quite…”
“Do they know or not?”
“……”
“They know. The whole alliance knows.”
“Haha.”
Yeon Hojeong patted Mok Bi’s head.
“It’s okay, my friend. Unlike before, the situation has completely changed. Back then, people rushed in with overconfidence, but now? Now it’s different. There aren’t many who can match me…”
At that moment.
“Commander Yeon!”
A loud voice filled with the energy of Tai Chi was heard.
“Commander Yeon, are you inside? This is Seunghyeon of Wudang. If it’s alright, may I see you?”
Mok Bi remarked sourly.
“It always starts with Wudang, doesn’t it?”
“……”
“What are you waiting for? Respond. An elder is calling.”
Unbelievable.