CHAPTER 131

The expressions of the Tang clan leaders and the Tang siblings remained calm.

No one reproached Heon Wonchang.

Neither did their faces show displeasure—they simply stood still, gazing at Jung Yeonshin.

The murmurs of Grandmaster were ignored.

"It must sound mysterious. When moonlight from the full moon is captured several times, it becomes water with miraculous effects."

Tang Yun-hwang, the family head, spoke with a slight smile.

The previously formal tone had shifted to a more casual one.

This was because Jung Yeonshin had asked to be addressed humbly when they met at the Desolate Fortress' branch.

Even for someone with a transcendent status in the martial world, the formality from one of the Eight Great Clans felt burdensome.

He was of a status counted among the most esteemed in the martial world.

However, Tang Yun-hwang never fully shifted to informal speech.

"They call it Spirit Water. With heavenly fortune aligned, it replaces the spiritual essence of a master craftsman. It's a mystical material—be it Dragon Veins or Spirit Veins. It's the reason the great ancestors who opened our martial lineage chose this place."

The sound of water flowing from the mountain wrapped gently around Tang Yun-hwang's calm voice.

It was a place with a serene atmosphere.

Jung Yeonshin stroked the handles of his twin swords and nodded.

"I am simply grateful."

"The Spirit Water gives rise to the exceptional weapons our family produces regularly. Rare, but not unheard of. It's too soon to speak of gratitude. I ask you not to express thanks lightly."

He spoke with a faint smile, and his thick beard softened his demeanor.

Tang Yun-hwang carried both a naturally cheerful disposition and the ruthless aura of a vengeful specter.

The boy could still vividly recall the sight.

The Tang family head had mercilessly swept away the notorious killer, Gal Sa-ryang, and countless warriors of the Ten Perfection Sect with the deadly technique of Full Sky Flower Rain.

Looking at how he now carried himself around Jung Yeonshin, it was hard to believe he was the same person.

"We'll melt the Xuan Steel that has already been immersed in Spirit Water and mix it again. Weight and size might be an issue, but your swords should handle it. Both are standard three-foot swords, with blades under one cun wide—classic weapons for martial artists."

Tang Yun-hwang's eyes scanned Jung Yeonshin's twin swords.

The Desolate Sword had already been revealed down to its blade, but in the case of the Beiming Sword, he only saw the guard and scabbard yet could infer its shape.

Indeed, these were weapons made for martial artists. Three feet equaled about one meter—long enough for common folk to need both hands to wield.

Tang Yun-hwang's and the Tang siblings' eyes followed Jung Yeonshin's fingers as he brushed the guard of the Beiming Sword.

When his fingertips briefly touched the Desolate Sword, Tang Yun-hwang spoke again.

"It's common yet renowned. Wonderfully crafted. I'm curious about the blacksmith who made it. It's a mass-produced weapon from Desolate Fortress, yet..."

Jung Yeonshin's sword had long carried the techniques of the Radiance Sword Style.

There were rumors that weapons forged by the Iron Tribe grew alongside their masters. Even if mass-produced, this sword fit Jung Yeonshin's hand better than any other.

That was no longer the case. He had recently achieved the black rank through the Radiant Wheel technique.

Soon, he would face a succession of top-tier masters.

The blade's edge was already chipped.

'The sword can't keep up.'

It struggled to withstand the enemies' overwhelming internal energy and sword techniques.

Weapons were inherently consumable tools.

That's why the Desolate Sword was labeled as a supply weapon.

Martial artists of the fortress were constantly provided with high-quality weapons after every mission.

They faced opponents who often wielded techniques capable of damaging steel.

Even protecting the blade with internal energy had its limits.

Shriiing.

Jung Yeonshin drew both swords at once.

Tang Yun-hwang's eyes immediately turned to the Beiming Sword.

The sunlight scattered across the blade's rippling patterns.

It was a sword he had received as a reward after his achievements at the Blood Flame Cult's headquarters.

"A rare and fine blade."

Tang Yun-hwang commented.

It seemed to catch the eye of the Tang family head, renowned as a master craftsman.

Jung Yeonshin, too, felt the Beiming Sword was unique. It moved well with the wind.

In terms of balance, the Desolate Sword was flawless as well, but the Beiming Sword felt sharper and cut through the air more cleanly.

It simply hadn't had enough opportunities to display its strength.

'Because I wielded the Desolate Sword while creating the Radiance Sword Style.'

Due to frequent battles, he unconsciously relied on the sword he was most accustomed to.

It was a minor but persistent cycle. Now, it seemed time to break away.

Having endured countless battles with his supply sword, Jung Yeonshin was stepping into a new realm.

No matter how attached he felt, a divine weapon would be helpful as he fought for survival.

"You've made an excellent choice. This one is far superior—its essence is more precious."

Tang Yun-hwang accepted the Beiming Sword's handle as he spoke.

"A weapon that rarely breaks is a divine weapon. It keeps the blade firm and leaves the outcome of battle entirely to its wielder's skill. Surely, you understand how effective such techniques can be."

"Yes. Pardon me for asking, but how long will it take?"

The boy asked quietly, prompting Tang Yun-hwang to burst into hearty laughter.

"Don't be so hesitant! Ask freely, and I'll answer anything. As for reforging a new divine sword, it will likely take about a month. We aim to mix the Xuan Steel with utmost precision. I've already informed the master craftsmen. I'll be the one wielding the hammer."

"Family Head. Did you mention melting the Xuan Steel?"

Flame Dragon asked, looking slightly startled.

It was an extremely rare mineral—rumored to be metal harvested from fallen meteors.

When tempered using secret techniques, it could create an unbreakable blade.

Despite being heavier than ordinary iron, it was prized because some martial artists believed it enhanced sword techniques.

Even a small quantity was invaluable.

Given the Tang family's famed craftsmanship, Xuan Steel imbued with Spirit Water might even gain mystical abilities.

Everyone present understood the implications.

"That matter is settled. Master, we'll handle the sword, so let's move on to another topic."

Tang Yun-hwang waved his hand, as if to ease Jung Yeonshin's burdens.

He carefully placed the Beiming Sword into the mountain stream and spoke again.

"There's something just as important as the divine sword. I'm aware of the suspicions troubling the experts at Desolate Fortress. Thunder bombs."

"..."

"Head of the Beggars' Sect has already given a hint. He traveled to the cliffs of the City of Master Craftsmen to deliver the news. Blood Flame Cult members have been seen visiting our main house. All were bald-headed."

"Blood Flame Cult...!"

As Heon Wonchang let out a sigh, Jung Yeonshin opened his mouth.

"Our Elder Council Head also disappeared while tracking their movements. We're desperate for any leads."

"But rooting them out is extremely difficult. If someone in our main house is involved, they won't be of ordinary rank. Secrets are hard to keep in the Tang Clan."

Tang Yun-hwang's face showed strain.

It was possible he was admitting to a family disgrace.

Jung Yeonshin pondered.

If it were the Hwangbo or Namgoong clans, they would've likely executed the warriors present under the pretext of eliminating threats.

Tang Yun-hwang was different.

'He's not like the righteous sects. He's a worldly hero with integrity.'

As Jung Yeonshin silently admired him, the conversation continued.

The more they talked, the harder the situation seemed. Flame Dragon sighed impatiently.

"It'll be nearly impossible to find a snake that's been lurking in the Tang Clan for so long. They're likely venomous, whether in mind or venom arts."

Heon Wonchang looked exasperated, but Tang Yun-hwang agreed.

"You're right. The elders of our main house are mostly sly and scheming. They may be mocking us from the shadows."

"But why would someone from our house conspire with the cult...? I just can't understand..."

Tang Ryeo-ryeo furrowed her brows, looking troubled throughout the discussion.

Tang Yeohwa, the Venomous Dragon, felt the same.

Having developed his Tang martial arts with unmatched talent, he never once felt lacking.

The Tang Clan wasn't weak, making the betrayal even harder to comprehend.

Tang Yun-hwang smiled at his daughter.

"I know your martial talents have blossomed brilliantly. But it's been far too long since our family witnessed the Full Sky Flower Rain. Perhaps they sought an alternative. Whether they craved forbidden arts to augment their strength or pursued something else entirely..."

"It could be both."

Namgoong Hwashin interjected. Yet, the mystery remained unsolved.

Like a case spiraling into chaos, thus ended their first day at the Tang Clan.

* * *

"These new warriors are quite impressive. Desolate Fortress is too blessed."

"Are you referring to White Qilin...? Or perhaps Lightning Genius?"

Deep inside a cavern, aged voices echoed in the darkness.

"Both are here. That brat Lightning Genius was tempered first. It turned out black."

"Heh, heh-heh..."

A strained, aged laugh broke off intermittently.

"Black, you say… I saw it during the match against Namgoong. I thought the child was brimming with talent, but to think he had already bloomed… Astonishing, truly astonishing."

"He fulfilled my lifelong wish on his journey through Sichuan. I spent my entire life pleading to the heavens for inspiration for the Full Sky Flower Rain, yet it was my incompetent son who stole my life's desire. That young warrior, Lightning Genius… He is exceedingly dangerous. He possesses the talent to bring divine martial arts down into the realm of mere techniques."

That statement.

The previously lifeless voice now carried a firm weight.

The voice that had struggled to respond now rang with striking clarity.

"That is another remarkable matter. All the more reason not to interfere. Tell me, why do you keep this old man alive?"

"For no other reason than insufficiency. My grandchildren's bodies are peculiar. I've implemented much of Lightning Genius' anatomical insights, yet the results remain unsatisfactory. They can't wield their talents like that boy. And I've examined your body thoroughly, assessing both your blood arts and Three Yang Techniques."

At the same time, bursts of laughter erupted.

"You fail to grasp the essence of genius. It is, as the word suggests, a gift bestowed by heaven. How dare man attempt to encroach upon the realm of the innate? It is a futile struggle. Be content with what you have."

"Spout whatever nonsense you like, Elder of Desolate Fortress."

* * *

The next day.

Jung Yeonshin was invited to a banquet hosted by the Grand Elder of the Tang Clan.

It was expected. The tension between the family head and the Grand Elder had not been resolved.

This was a martial aristocracy where blood and power intermingled.

The Grand Elder, who once held absolute authority, would not relinquish his power so easily.

The banquet hall was extravagant.

The size of the indoor space rivaled that of most training grounds.

The loud cries of cicadas in summer accompanied the scent of grass drifting in through the windows.

The tables, arranged in square formations, were made of aged wood and exuded an antique charm.

Ten people sat at each row.

In the center, dancers performed, and musicians played stringed instruments, adding to the lively atmosphere.

The banquet was already as rich and festive as the glow of red lanterns.

Guests raised their glasses, savored delicacies, exchanged greetings, and discussed martial arts.

Some even debated the political situation in Sichuan.

"I hear the young members of unorthodox sects held a gathering in the patrol division. Truly, it's the end of times. Those heretical bastards strut about in broad daylight, calling themselves prodigies."

"There are also rumors that the head of the Qingcheng Sect passed away. They say he fell to a peerless swordsman."

"Are you talking about the Celestial Sword Dragon? That's absurd… More likely, the rumor about the Little Sword Queen, who ventured out with disciples from Emei and Qingcheng, holds weight. Our clan's Twin Venoms should put them in their place at least once."

Jung Yeonshin had already accepted several drinks, all offered by the Grand Elder's men.

Having experienced such hospitality during dueling receptions, he entertained them just enough to make them smile.

It was then.

"All this idle talk is becoming tiresome. Hey."

The voice belonged to the Grand Elder, who was seated beside Jung Yeonshin. He wore the same golden robe as when they first met.

His eyes, half-closed, lingered on the boy.

Was he pretending to be drunk by not dispelling the intoxication? Or was he deliberately feigning clouded judgment?

—He must be a terrifying viper.

Flame Dragon's words echoed in Jung Yeonshin's mind.

"Hey, Lightning Genius. What's occupying your thoughts so deeply? A prodigy who practically owns the world shouldn't look so troubled."

"..."

"Or is that not the case? The black rank master of Desolate Fortress."

The Grand Elder quietly asked. His aged breath carried an ominous weight, like a deep abyss.

Before they realized it, the banquet hall had fallen silent.

The sharp gazes of the martial experts now fixated solely on Jung Yeonshin.

"I was simply…"

The boy opened his mouth calmly.

"wondering what your intentions were. Just now, didn't you yourself mention idle talk?"

"Ah… That's true. You're right."

The Grand Elder's lips curved upward.

A faint madness lurked in his smile—his expression almost tearing apart as it stretched.

"I was curious, that's all. That day, you handed down the technique of Full Sky Flower Rain to my son. It's difficult to understand. You merely held his hand briefly, and yet, how did our family head come to wield the blossoms? As a martial artist, I tried not to ask, but my curiosity as a martial artist has become unbearable."

This was a banquet hall filled with martial experts serving as his escorts.

Even a request, when delivered in such a setting, turned into pressure.

The Grand Elder quietly asked.

"Would you enlighten this old martial artist? Separate from the Full Sky Flower Rain already housed in our clan, I am deeply curious about your martial arts techniques. Am I asking for too much?"

"…No. It's not difficult."

Jung Yeonshin slowly parted his lips.

"After all, these are the words of the most revered figure in this household. If we're speaking of the highest authority in the Tang Clan, it could only be you, Grand Elder."

"No, no. The young ones who sustain this clan are the truly esteemed ones."

The Grand Elder shook his head slightly in humility, maintaining a smile.

Soft cheers echoed from the martial experts present.

"Then."

Jung Yeonshin extended his hand to the Grand Elder.

At the same time, he activated the Radiant Wheel Technique.

The Grand Elder of the Tang Clan.

Unlike the martial experts of the Thirteen Heavens, who had witnessed him slay the Sword Fist Demon, this man had not seen it firsthand.

The Radiant Wheel's force wasn't as flashy from a distance.

It was built upon the verses of the Diamond Sutra and Caigentan(Discourse of Root Cultivation), forming the backbone of its energy formula.

Heavy within, yet serene outwardly.

The martial arts formulas mastered by the Great Fang Sect's masters were invaluable knowledge.

All the experts who had sensed the Radiant Wheel's force had died.

Only the Ten Perfection Sect might have learned of it through Crescent Moon Sword So Jin-rang.

Yet Sichuan was vast, and the flow of information was slow.

Even the treasures retrieved from So Jin-rang, including spirit beasts, were secured.

Unless it was the Demon-Slaying Azure Steel Palm, the Radiant Wheel's capabilities remained highly classified.

Swish.

A wrinkled hand and a youthful hand made contact.

Yet, inwardly, the boy thought. No matter what, it couldn't possibly be the Grand Elder.

Graaah!

A scream burst forth. It came from the Grand Elder's mouth.

"…?"

For once, Jung Yeonshin was caught off guard.

Both Heon Wonchang and Flame Dragon simultaneously spoke within.

"Is there any other martial clan this chaotic in the entire world?"

"You brat!"

"Let go of him!"

The men seated nearby leaped to their feet. Their reactions were astonishingly quick.

Their strikes flashed like lightning.

Somehow, the Grand Elder's guards had already drawn their weapons.

Without hesitation, they hurled them.

Dagger-like projectiles and fine threads streaked through the air like beams of light.

Jung Yeonshin extended his left hand.

From the Laogong and Shaofu acupoints in his palm, waves of suction and repulsion energy spread outward.

The spinning energy waves of the Radiant Wheel began to churn rapidly.

Amid the clattering of flying cups, plates, and utensils, the formulas of divine martial arts surged with a genius rhythm.

'Full Sky Flower Rain.'

Hwoooosh!

The flying projectiles momentarily froze, then spiraled as if to sweep the entire room clean.

In a flash, their ownership changed.

With a storm raging, the beams of light reversed direction and shot back.