Reincarnation Sword God

---

00520 Dark Heaven Village ————————————————————————

“You say you’ll create a stepping stone to the Absolute Realm within a month?”

I harbored doubts, but it was true that, for now, I had nothing specific to do as Jin So-cheong said. Still, it seemed implausible to achieve something substantial in just a month, so as I fretted over this, Jin So-cheong made a tempting proposal.

“Understood.”

Jin So-cheong led me to the training ground and said, “To be honest, although I just said that, I don’t actually think I’ve fully reached the Absolute Realm yet. The training period has been insufficient, and I’ve only been testing the waters. It might require a significant catalyst to definitively reach that level.”

“I see.”

It appeared that Jin So-cheong was merely on the cusp of the Absolute Realm. Was there someone like Yong Junil at a similar level?

“However, I caught a fleeting glimpse of Martial Soul elements in the memories of Martial Arts you’ve accumulated. Upon reflection, I realized there’s a crucial foundation lacking for you to acquire the Thunder Spirit Technique first.”

“Foundation?”

Jin So-cheong nodded. “To acquire the Thunder Spirit Technique, a special essence is needed, and it has immense difficulty. Why do you think it’s difficult, Baek Woong?”

After pondering for a moment, I replied, “Isn’t it because vast amounts of knowledge must be condensed into a short essence?”

“Exactly. It involves compressing the achievements of a genius of the Thunder God Lineage, who has gathered countless accomplishments over a lifetime, into that single essence, and using that as the foundation to realize the Thunder Spirit Technique. Therefore, it’s something that cannot be grasped unless you’re a genius yourself.”

Jin So-cheong continued, “While I was contemplating the Thunder Spirit Technique, I realized, Baek Woong, you require additional training.”

“Eh?”

“To achieve Martial Soul, you must learn from masters who are proficient in fist techniques and sword techniques, repeating the processes of stripping down and refining. This is likely a symbolic procedure. In other words, whether you master the Thunder Spirit Technique or achieve the Martial Soul, it necessitates proof that you have grasped ‘everything’ from the Thunder God Lineage.”

“Everything…?”

“Literally everything. As a Grand Master, you need to master all combat arts of the Thunder God Lineage, from fist techniques, sword techniques, spear techniques, grappling, to divine techniques at the level of a master.”

Boo-woong

Jin So-cheong aimed his spear inward. “Up until now, Lee Cheong-un hasn’t mentioned this to you. He assumed that by the time you could challenge the Thunder Spirit Technique, you would have mastered all the miscellaneous techniques. But from what I see, you still have deficiencies in the grappling and divine techniques of the Thunder God Lineage. A prime example is the Soul Removal Technique’s Heavenly Light.”

I protested against Jin So-cheong’s statement. “I handle the Soul Removal Technique quite well.”

“That’s not what I mean. You need to reach the realm of the secret technique’s Heavenly Light. Hence, I specifically went to rescue Cheongwol for no particular reason. If you cannot elevate the Soul Removal Technique to the level of a master, you won’t be able to attain the Thunder Spirit Technique and will just waste your time. Alternatively, you need to reach the highest level in Thunder Shadow Step or Heavenly Gathering Kill, which is even more challenging and time-consuming.”

“……”

“Grappling is the same. I believe you need to get in touch with Elder Green Moon from the later generation.”

“Green Moon… you mean the Thunder God Lineage’s Thunderbolt Three Saints?”

Jin So-cheong nodded. “Exactly. The Ghostly Spirit Sect possesses the most diverse techniques within the Thunder God Lineage, and they’re quite adept at using those techniques. I suspect Lee Cheong-un has largely mastered the techniques of the Ghostly Spirit Sect.”

“Understood.”

“And one more thing. You seem to be unfamiliar with fist techniques among the spear, sword, and fist. Therefore, you should seek out Jeong Yun-bo, who works as a Guardian Warrior in Luoyang, or Elder Red Moon to learn fist techniques.”

Listening to Jin So-cheong’s advice, I felt overwhelmed. “Why on earth didn’t Lee Cheong-un tell me this?”

“Well, it was already insufficient time just to transmit the Eight Immortal Divine Art… And if you attempt to learn numerous techniques of the Thunder God Lineage before properly mastering the Eight Immortal Divine Art, it’ll likely lead to confusion in your martial flow.”

“That makes sense.”

“I can’t help you with everything at this point. But I’ll do what I can.”

And thus, the training began.

Heavenly Light!

Swish, swish, swish

In the blink of an eye, the illusion of light erupted, demonstrating the movement of the Soul Removal Technique alongside fantastic motions. Jin So-cheong used the secret technique the moment he grasped some of the lacking essentials. However, given his history of remarkable feats, it wasn’t surprising at all.

Initially, Jin So-cheong, who showed me the Heavenly Light of the Soul Removal Technique, said, “The way I will teach you the Heavenly Light differs from others.”

“Eh?”

“First, envision the Seven Great Techniques and the Eight Immortal Divine Art in your mind, and try to perform them with your body.”

I followed Jin So-cheong’s instructions. After the training process concluded, Jin So-cheong gripped his spear firmly and said, “Now, let’s spar while intensely focusing on the essences of everything you’ve just performed.”

I couldn’t grasp what Jin So-cheong meant and asked, “Sparring? You actually intend to pass on the secret technique through a spar?”

Even with guidance from masters during repeated training, transitioning to sparring while trying to retain a singular essence was baffling to me. My years of martial arts training had never encountered such a method.

“Trust me.”

“Hmm…”

“However, you must limit your internal energy by half while fighting. That would be appropriate.”

“I don’t know what you’re thinking, but I’ll give it a shot.”

Clang!

At that moment, Jin So-cheong’s spear met my sword in the air with a loud clang. Even halving my internal energy made me feel markedly superior due to my higher innate power compared to Jin So-cheong. If he didn’t use the Mind Control Technique, he would surely be overpowered.

Boo-woong

Jin So-cheong engaged in battle with me for several moments before suddenly changing his momentum. Like a raging storm, he released attacks of “Lan”, “Na”, and “Thrust”, countering me. I realized that this simple combination of movements was indeed the Mind Control Technique.

‘Incredible!’

The difference between this and the moment I had first gone to recruit Jin So-cheong was astronomical! I tried to maintain a steady stance, searching for an opening in Jin So-cheong’s relentless assault. Then out of nowhere, Jin So-cheong unleashed the Heavenly Five Divine Decisions from the Seven Great Techniques, launching an attack towards me, which I barely managed to deflect using my bloodline.

Pababang!

“……!!”

In that very instant, I felt the image of Jin So-cheong’s body racing towards me, like a mirage. Unsure if it was real or an illusion, I quickly prepared to defend myself, but Jin So-cheong instantly twisted into the Tai Chi Yau Ji Willow Sword technique, aiming directly at my bloodline. His movements targeted only my weaknesses, causing me to panic and evade with the Soul Removal Technique. Yet, Jin So-cheong also followed up with the Soul Removal Technique.

In that fleeting moment, the Heart Command Technique resonated within me.

I could sense Jin So-cheong’s thoughts echoing in the silent space.

[This isn’t a sparring match aimed at winning or losing.]

In a heartbeat, I felt Jin So-cheong’s spear cut through the air, aiming for my neck. But that attack carried no malice, just a sense of authority.

[Submit to the flow. And realize that the footwork is merely created to facilitate evasion.]

Shihihih

Using the Soul Removal Technique, I felt myself entangled as Jin So-cheong relentlessly pursued me. I found myself unable to shake him off, even though he was trying to engage in close-quarters combat. Whenever I attempted to employ the Seven Great Techniques or the Eight Immortal Divine Art, he would effortlessly counter me with his proficiency, rendering me incapable of breaking free.

Boo!

Unable to withstand it, I summoned my internal energy, creating a protective barrier to push Jin So-cheong away. Jin So-cheong flipped in mid-air, landing gracefully as he stated, “That’s why I said not to exhaust all your internal energy. You’re hindering your training.”

“Hmm…”

“I will continue to pursue you using the Seven Great Techniques and the Eight Immortal Divine Art. No matter what techniques you utilize, I’ll match you in close-quarters combat. You must realize that there’s only one way to escape.”

Once Jin So-cheong finished speaking, he charged at me again. And so commenced my day-long bout of this inexplicable spar. After dripping with sweat during six full moments, it seemed Jin So-cheong tired first, wiping the sweat from his brow as he said, “It really isn’t easy. I’ll take a moment to rest, while you delve into your sparring techniques.”

“Understood.”

As Jin So-cheong went to rest, I sat down and pondered deeply. The more I thought about it,the more I realized the remarkable depth of Jin So-cheong’s application and comprehension. It felt as if he could anticipate the next transformation I would use.

But I couldn’t understand why this spar was crucial for obtaining the secret technique of the Soul Removal Technique. After half a moment of deep contemplation, I decided to call upon Jang Sam-bong.

[Jang Jin-in. Please help me.]

[Hehe. I watched that spar closely.]

Jang Sam-bong chuckled before adding, [From my perspective, there is but one answer. However, I worry that if I merely convey the essence through words, you might fall into a trap of misunderstanding, hence doing my best to push you forward.]

[Please offer your advice.]

[Hmm… haven’t you already achieved the Three Steps?]

[Just now, while using the Three Treasure Technique to evade, Jin So-cheong followed right along with the same Three Treasure Technique.]

[Is it truly the same?]

[Eh?]

Jang Sam-bong chuckled and said, [It’s not difficult at all, so don’t overthink it. Just trust in the effort and sweat you’ve put in until now.]

In that moment, I felt something snap into place in my mind. ‘Could it be…?’

Two moments later, Jin So-cheong emerged, fully restored and ready to continue. Silently, our spar resumed.

Clang!

I sensed Jin So-cheong’s surge of immense power as he charged in again. If I tried to shake him off, he would instantly retaliate. I found myself thinking I might have been wrong, and desperately unleashed the Three Treasure Technique.

Swoosh

As if expecting this, Jin So-cheong similarly utilized the Three Treasure Technique to penetrate my attacking range. Clearly, in terms of technique, he far surpassed me.

‘Can it work?’

I focused intently on the moment Jin So-cheong executed a strike, this time using the Soul Removal Technique in tandem with the Three Treasure Technique. The Soul Removal Technique felt as if it would naturally guide my movements if my essence flowed properly, but I hadn’t considered its application until Jang Sam-bong’s advice prompted me to try.

Pababang!

“……!!”

In that moment, I found myself significantly distanced from Jin So-cheong, now confronting him from a different angle. He did not pursue me further, resting the spear on his shoulder as he spoke.

“You’ve figured it out.”

“To combine the Soul Removal Technique and the Three Treasure Technique… that is the way to acquire the secret technique’s Heavenly Light?”

“That can’t be all. Elaborate on what you’ve realized.”

With a determined expression, I raised my sword and declared, “I will speak through my sword!”

Boom!

At that moment, my Soul Removal Technique’s Heavenly Light clashed with Jin So-cheong’s version of the Seven Great Techniques. The Bowing Sky Slash was unleashed in a dazzling display, bringing forth the King of Hell and Seven Stars’ power in the air. In a trance, I unleashed all the techniques I knew, maintaining a steady distance as I synchronized my movements with Jin So-cheong’s.

Approximately two hundred beats of the heart passed before Jin So-cheong withdrew his weapon and said, “Now, let’s see you perform the Heavenly Light.”

Zheong!

As soon as those words were spoken, I released the Light of the Soul Removal Technique, manifesting it beautifully. Multitudes of radiant flashes danced about, disorienting heaven and earth; the transcendent secret technique, Heavenly Light, had now completely become my own. Jin So-cheong grinned widely.

“You mastered it in just one day. I must be quite the instructor, eh?”

I smiled wryly, admitting, “It’s true. Though, I still have some lingering questions…”

“What is it?”

“Well, I merged the two techniques by feel, but how does that lead to mastering the secret technique? While I understood the essence of Heavenly Light, it still doesn’t completely add up.”

Then, Jin So-cheong replied, “The moment you grasped the Three Treasure Technique, it was akin to acquiring the secret technique of the Soul Removal Technique. This is because the Three Treasure Technique serves as a superior substitute to all footwork; one who attains the pinnacle of footwork can achieve anything!

However, you became too fixated on the perspective of evading with the Three Treasure Technique, leaving you unable to apply it offensively.”

“Hmm.”

“You’ve only just now broken free from your preconceived notions, realizing that footwork is about controlling space and attacking the enemy. Hand and foot must always move as one; therefore, the moment you obtained the essence of the footwork, it’s as if you gained everything.”

“I think I understand.”

I nodded, continuing, “That both the Three Treasure Technique and Bowing Sky Slash hold the power of controlling space.”

I didn’t even need Jin So-cheong to explain more; it was evident.

To reach the Absolute Realm, one would need insights that surpass ordinary Mind Control Techniques. Achieving this enlightenment might even necessitate skills that surpass those of a master or expert in martial arts. With this instance of achieving complete understanding of the Three Treasure Technique and Bowing Sky Slash, I had erected a tiny pillar, which upon further expansion could solidify my foundation toward grasping the Thunder Spirit Technique. The traces of the Thunder Spirit Technique had already begun to appear within me.

Jin So-cheong continued, “Let’s keep sparring with this momentum, for at least seven nights.”

I was flabbergasted and objected, “What? I’ve already mastered the secret technique…”

“From our previous spar, it became glaringly clear that your combat experience gathered during the Revelation of the Eight Immortal Divine Art had not been absorbed at all. If you had gained even half of that experience, you should easily be able to defeat someone of my stature. This suggests that you’ve entrusted everything to Jang Sam-bong or Yeodong-bin, without understanding a single principle of combat. Although it seems you made an effort to grasp things.”

“……”

I couldn’t argue back.

“You and I have shared similar techniques through the Obsidian. While sparring with me, focus on blending technique with experience. If you do so, I believe you’ll achieve considerable progress in your true mastery.”

“Understood.”

“Ah…!!”

Suddenly, Jin So-cheong gasped. I tensed, feeling as though he’d forgotten something important.

“What is it? Did you have an insight…?”

“Not quite!”

Jin So-cheong appeared flustered and said, “I’m lacking energy and stamina to continue the training. Please hand over any remaining spiritual pills or the like.”

“……”

Asking for the world’s precious spiritual pills for training must surely be a unique characteristic of Jin So-cheong!

Reluctantly, I retrieved all the spiritual pills I had been holding on to and passed them over to him. Jin So-cheong selected one or two before saying, “Soon the Sword Demon will return after finishing his tasks. He’ll be helping—no, training you as well. Let’s reserve the rest for him.”

“……”

There was no doubt left. I would once again face Hell Training.