A Modern Man Who Got Transmigrated Into the Murim World

All the grand halls and gardens, which had once boasted immense majesty, were now completely destroyed.

It was as if a storm had slashed through the place, leaving nothing but ruins.

As proof of the brutal battle from the night before, Iron Fist King’s face was covered in black soot. His once-proud beard, which had been a source of vanity, had been completely burned away, leaving a grotesque sight.

His trembling hands were digging through the rubble, searching for the head of a statue that was barely sticking out of the debris.

His eyes, shaking with fury, burned with madness.

It was the Green Goblin Buddha Statue he had purchased from a renowned monk in the Western Regions of Tianchu for an astonishing ten thousand gold coins.

In fact, he had considered the price cheap, as it was an ancient treasure that would be difficult to obtain, even with money. If he sold it to someone who understood its value, he could easily get five times that amount.

Yet now, the face of that precious Buddha statue was melting away.

The once-sacred image had transformed into the twisted face of a demon.

And so, Iron Fist King’s heart grew as cruel as that demon’s.

“This, this damn…!”

The destruction wasn’t limited to just the Buddha statue.

A priceless ancient treasure, the Lü Yibai Porcelain Mirror, worth tens of thousands of gold, had been shattered into powder, and the Royal First Calligraphy—Zhou Yunqing’s masterpiece, the Eight Birds and Mountains painting—was burned and scattered on the ground like scraps of paper in the market.

But that wasn’t all.

The silken scrolls, which were meant to be delivered to the Black Heavenly Alliance in a month’s time, had been reduced to ash and were now fluttering in the wind. And the precious Sweatblood Horse, which he had been entrusted with by General Yu, was now nothing but a blackened corpse.

Most heartbreaking of all was this estate.

It had been meticulously designed by the famous military strategist Jin Seohan, with years of effort put into its construction.

Everything in this estate had been the crowning achievement of his entire sixty years—his life’s work.

Now, to see it reduced to rubble was beyond words.

Interestingly, the estate had been built at the bottom of the gorge as a precaution.

By securing the land at the narrow bottom, he had made sure that no enemy could infiltrate, as it was impossible for them to drop from above, with multiple layers of defenses in place.

But today, the enemy *did* fall from the sky.

The one who had been raining down sword energy from above and destroying the halls.

Every time Iron Fist King tried to climb the cliff in pursuit, the enemy would descend to destroy again, and whenever he tried to descend, the enemy would rise to attack.

Building the estate in the gorge had ironically become the cause of its destruction.

But that had only been possible because the enemy was using *absolute* techniques.

A noble martial artist employing such cowardly methods, destroying only wealth—it was something Iron Fist King could never have imagined.

“Ahh! Namgung Su, you damn bastard!”

He was itching to march straight into the Namgung family’s stronghold.

Iron Fist King gave orders to his subordinates.

“We’re going as a full unit. Hurry up!”

Having lost everything—his life’s work, his fortune—he was filled with a rage that could never be quenched. Now, his fury was directed toward the Namgung family.

The eight messengers, the Ghost Slayers, who had delivered all the news, were lying prostrate on the ground, as if awaiting their fate.

A figure leaned against the massive statue of the Grand General, silently observing them.

He was the absolute being who ruled over the vast realm of the Black Heavenly Alliance—Black Heaven Slayer.

Black Heaven Slayer.

As befitting such a renowned name, he was said to be an absolute master of the martial arts world, with over one hundred disciples skilled in the righteous schools of martial arts.

Leaning his chin in his hand, Black Heaven Slayer gently stroked the head of his beloved bird, Black Wing, as he slowly spoke.

“Did the granary burn to the ground?”

An ominous, dark aura emanated from Black Heaven Slayer’s body, swirling through the grand hall like a tangible presence.

The immense killing intent that leaked from his body made the frontmost Ghost Slayer tremble violently, and he pressed himself further to the ground.

“Y-yes, it’s true!”

Black Heaven Slayer’s vacant gaze shifted toward the second messenger.

“The grain fields of Guiya Field have burned as well?”

“It, it’s true!”

“The fleet in Nok Mountain Port has been completely sunk?”

“Yes! Lord Lian!”

“Some of the estates of the Eight Kings were also affected?”

At this question, no one could answer.

They themselves had only compiled the information from various messengers sent from across the lands, but they simply could not believe it.

Who were the Eight Kings?

Each one of them was a person whose strength could rival the leading figures of any major sect.

At first, Black Heaven Slayer thought it was a plot.

With Lian’s forces having withdrawn three thousand men, it was the perfect opportunity for those who harbored rebellious thoughts to strike.

But the enemy did not aim for Lian’s army.

What they were after was only wealth. More than half of Lian’s riches had been destroyed.

“If they were after wealth, then it’s not a rebellion,” Black Heaven Slayer muttered.

The Ghost Slayers, who were still prostrate on the ground, shivered with fear. Even though their supreme leader had mentioned the tremendous word “rebellion,” there was no sign of hesitation or fear in his demeanor.

It was the embodiment of his unshakable confidence.

One of the Ghost Slayers summoned the courage to speak.

“They all reported that it was the martial arts of the Namgung family that defeated them.”

“…Namgung?”

For the first time, there was a flicker of emotion in Black Heaven Slayer’s usually indifferent eyes.

Only then did Black Heaven Slayer place Black Wing back into its cage.

Instead of relying solely on the messengers’ words, he decided to examine the letters that had arrived himself.

He began to unfold and read the letters.

– Report from the First Division Messenger, Ghost Slayer Ma Seoryang.

Thirty wounded and no casualties.

The entire granary area completely burned.

Based on testimonies from the wounded, the martial arts of the assailant are believed to be “Qi-controlled swordsmanship” and “Intent-based sword power.”

It appears to be the sword style of the Namgung family.

Speculation: Martial arts level is “Absolute Peak.”

Likely candidate: Seven Martial Seats, Changtian Sword Hero.

– Report from the Yangtze River Special Forces Messenger, Ghost Slayer Yeom Seoak.

Seventy-five wounded, two casualties.

Eight warships under repair were destroyed, and all merchant ships sank.

The assailant’s martial arts, based on testimonies: “Shifting Positions,” “Heavenly Ladder,” “Qi Surge,” “Single Reed Crossing the River,” “Qi-controlled swordsmanship,” “Intent-based sword power.”

Martial arts level: Absolute Peak.

Namgung sword style: Confirmed.

Likely candidate: Changtian Sword Hero.

Had there ever been a time when reading letters was so captivating?

As Black Heaven Slayer read through the letters, his expression changed constantly.

His face was filled with a subtle excitement, as if he were a child witnessing something miraculous.

‘…That Namgung Su?’

If the contents of the letters are true, this is a major incident in the martial world.

Such tactics are usually the methods of the lowest scoundrels—those vile flying bandits.

To think that an absolute martial artist would stoop to such cowardly hit-and-run tactics!

If an absolute martial artist had decided to fight this way, no one would have been able to stop him, unless they were also of the same caliber.

The noble and proud Seven Martial Seats of the Namgung family have cast away their reputation as if it were nothing more than a used rag.

He had expected some kind of retaliation.

From the moment the Murim Alliance’s intelligence network had been wiped out, he had already braced himself for this.

However, due to the nature and limitations of the righteous factions, he had expected that their response would be no more than reinforcing their defenses or seeking support from the alliance.

That would never have been enough to stop the thoroughly secretive and well-prepared Sa-rok Union.

That’s why Black Heaven Slayer had placed so much hope on this expedition.

But to think that the main force would be attacked in such a way.

One solitary absolute martial artist moving with nothing but utter disregard for all honor.

Could it be that the righteous martial artists, who hold honor more precious than life, had such a filthy side?

A smirk appeared on his face.

The proud Seven Martial Seats of the Namgung family were now rolling in the dirt like swine. Rather than feeling anger, Black Heaven Slayer oddly felt a sense of victory.

Nonetheless, the scale of the damage was certainly no small matter.

“General, what’s the extent of the damage?”

General Seo Yu, who had been standing respectfully, replied with a stiff face.

“At the very least, Lian’s property alone amounts to about 200,000 gold coins. We haven’t been able to fully assess the personal assets of the Eight Kings, so this is just an estimate.”

200,000 gold coins.

That was enough to buy several counties, and given the power and stature of the Eight Kings, it was certain that their personal wealth had also suffered immensely.

One person could cause such devastation!

The power of an absolute martial artist, having discarded honor, was truly terrifying.

“First, the forces stationed in Daecheonpo will remain on standby and await the rains. Then, we’ll use the spies and informants in various regions to spread rumors of the Changtian Sword Hero’s atrocities throughout the martial world. The sooner the better.”

“Understood!”

Despite the painful losses, Black Heaven Slayer didn’t feel upset in the slightest.

In fact, he felt strangely refreshed.

For a mere 200,000 gold coins, the noble Seven Martial Seats of the Namgung family’s reputation had been tarnished!

In a way, it might even seem like a bargain.

The 200,000 gold coins could be recovered in six months. With a bit more pressure on the merchants and fishermen, recovery could be hastened.

However, tarnishing the reputation of the Seven Martial Seats was not something that could be resolved with money.

“Hahahahahaha!”

Black Heaven Slayer’s laughter, filled with immense energy, filled the grand hall, causing the eight Ghost Slayers to cover their ears in pain.

Just then, the door to the grand hall was violently thrown open.

Entering with a grim face, leading his Ghost Slayers, was Iron Fist King.

“Lian Lord!”

Iron Fist King, who had bowed slightly in greeting, now glared fiercely at Black Heaven Slayer with a face full of rage.

“Lian Lord! Please send out the Special Killing Ghost Spirit Troops! I will crush the Namgung family in no time!”

Iron Fist King, panting heavily, tried to contain his fury.

Black Heaven Slayer watched him with amusement.

“Has your estate been plundered as well?”

The word “plundered” seemed to set Iron Fist King off even more.

“Hmph! That rat-like Namgung Su came at us with such despicable tactics—what else could I do?!”

“What exactly happened?”

Iron Fist King began to explain in detail to Black Heaven Slayer what had transpired in the valley.

Black Heaven Slayer erupted with laughter once again.

“Hahahahahaha!”

Upon hearing everything, it was truly a sight to behold.

How could any absolute martial artist in the martial world carry out such actions?

To think that a righteous sect’s absolute master could sink so low—it was almost miraculous.

However, curiosity should stop at mere curiosity. Emotionally, he could not allow the grand scheme of the Lian (Lian sect) to be ruined.

“I cannot send out the Special Killing Ghost Spirit Troops,” Black Heaven Slayer said. “It will rain soon, and the Sa-Rok Union will be deploying shortly. Let them handle it.”

He had already dispatched five of the Eight Kings to the Sa-Rok Union. Lian had taken action, recruiting high-ranking martial artists from Black Heaven Sect for this purpose.

If he pulled more powerful fighters from Jiangxi, where the main headquarters and the First Branch were located, it would give the Sa-Chun Assembly an excuse to mobilize.

Moreover, with the Changtian Sword Hero causing havoc like a rat, if the strongest of the Eight Kings, Iron Fist King, was absent, internal strife would likely ensue.

Yet, Iron Fist King could not contain his rage.

“I will reduce the Namgung family to ashes right now! If we don’t strike those vile bastards now, when will we!? My estate is completely burned down! My estate!”

Black Heaven Slayer, with his fingers intertwined, rested his chin in a thoughtful pose. His usual indifferent gaze began to sink deeper.

“…Are you defying me?”

Normally, Black Heaven Slayer respected Iron Fist King, who had lived in the same era. But now, he was asserting the power and authority of the Black Heaven Sect.

“Li Qingzhen!”

Iron Fist King called the name of his old fellow student, whom he had trained with under the infamous Black and White Pair. Although they had split paths—one pursuing the martial way of fists, the other of swords—the long history of their bond could not be erased by rank alone.

“Have you lost your mind?”

The onlookers could only watch in silence.

Black Heaven Slayer’s eyes turned a bleak gray as a powerful aura filled the hall. His absolute martial authority was now unmistakable.

Iron Fist King immediately knelt, his face filled with anguish as tears welled up.

“My estate has burned down! And there were heirlooms of my Master, Black Lao, in there!” He sobbed, barely able to contain his emotions.

As one ages, they live through memories.

Iron Fist King’s estate was not just full of wealth.

However, at that moment.

Boom!

With the sound of thunder, the roof of the grand hall exploded.

Dust filled the air from all directions.

Black Heaven Slayer, using his powerful inner energy, cleared the dust.

Through the hole in the ceiling, a dark iron sword soared like a night bird, cutting through the air.

Soon, a powerful aura of “intent” and “sword energy” began to emanate from the sword.

‘Could it be…?’

Was the Changtian Sword Hero attacking the Black Heaven Sect’s main base single-handedly?

Whoosh!

The enormous claws of a dragon-like figure soared towards the grand hall, filling the sky.

Unlike the temporary sword energy released in an instant, sword aura was the ultimate form of power, enhanced by the martial artist’s soul and spiritual energy, making it far more destructive.

When a martial artist’s pure energy is combined with their will, it forms “intent-shaped” energy—reaching the realm of intent and form, which was known as the pinnacle of martial power.

Martial artists referred to this stage as “Wu Hun” (martial soul) or “Absolute Realm”.

The night sky was filled with the powerful sword aura, hovering with grace.

Black Heaven Slayer, with an indifferent expression, gazed at the vast claws of the dragon-like figure, slowly gathering his own aura.

His energy was the exact opposite of the pure, righteous martial soul.

Soon, a grayish aura began to flow from his eyes.

It was the evil energy of the dark path.

A martial soul forged from countless lives taken—its aura was like burnt ash, gray and destructive.

The martial power of Black Heaven Slayer, the leader of the dark path, was completely different from that of the righteous sects.

The “Gray Killer Heaven” and “Fifth Kill: Thousand Calamities Black Dragon Fang” emerged.

Hundreds, thousands of black dragon fangs surged forward, each one infused with deadly, gray energy.

Could this truly be the greatest dark art in martial history, Sa-Chun Dangga’s “Wan Tian Hua Wu”?

Those who witnessed the deadly aura shuddered, feeling as if their skin was crawling.

The terrifying gray light filled the night sky like a locust swarm, emitting an eerie sound.

At the same time, the martial artists in the hall, who had braced for the incoming shockwave, stood frozen, eyes wide in disbelief.

“…”

“…”

The dragon’s claws, which had been striking through the air, suddenly disappeared, vanishing as if they had been extinguished.

Hundreds, even thousands, of black dragon fangs, now without direction, simply cut through the sky aimlessly.

Then, a tremendous roar echoed through the air.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

The martial artists in the grand hall leaped onto the roof in unison.

Thud! Thud!

Black Heaven Slayer and Iron Fist King, along with the other experts, all looked toward the north.

A thick cloud of dust rose from the northern gate of the headquarters.

That place was the Black Heaven Secret Palace, the storage for all the treasures and assets of the Black Heaven Sect.

“Did they retrieve the intent sword energy?”

Recovering one’s martial soul energy was far more difficult than unleashing it in the first place.

Even someone with the reputation of Black Heaven Slayer, known as the Emperor of the Dark Path, would have to prepare for severe internal damage to even attempt such a feat.

Yet, without healing his injuries, he had directly struck at the Black Heaven Secret Palace?

No, this meant that the attack that destroyed the roof earlier had been a feint!

“…At the same time?”

Black Heaven Slayer was stunned.

To execute two moves containing the essence of “intent” simultaneously…

Of course, it wasn’t impossible for someone of his caliber.

The problem was that he would need to rest for at least one or two months to recuperate, considering the immense mental and physical strain. The thought alone sent a shiver down his spine.

However, an astonishing scene unfolded.

Whooosh!

Two swords, cutting through the air with grace, came flying toward him.

Simultaneously, the sword energy of intent surged from both blades.

“No!”

For the first time, a look of panic appeared in Black Heaven Slayer’s eyes, which were usually calm and impassive.

Was this even possible?

Given the exhaustion of both mind and body, it should have been difficult for anyone to even stand, let alone perform such a technique.

But these two swords had immediately launched their intent-based attacks?

Even the absolute martial realm couldn’t explain this.

Then, the two swords simultaneously changed direction.

One headed northwest.

The other aimed eastward.

As Black Heaven Slayer realized where they were headed, his expression turned grim.

To the northwest of the headquarters was the weapons storage.

At the request of the Imperial family’s distant relative, Huang Yixian, dozens of cannons and hundreds of shells were kept there.

Moreover, the gunpowder used for making shells was also stored under strict supervision.

If those swords reached that place, everything would be lost.

The power of the Imperial family and the entire situation could change in an instant.

If the Imperial family lost its protection from Huang Yixian, Black Heaven Sect’s influence over Jiangxi would be completely compromised.

It was imperative to stop them—at all costs!

Black Heaven Slayer unleashed an immense air jump, soaring into the air above the palace.

Pushing his energy to the absolute limit, he performed the “Controlled Qi Surge” technique.

His eyes glowed with a darker, more intense gray.

Black Heaven Slayer unleashed his martial soul’s ultimate technique, the peak of his life’s cultivation, expelling all of his accumulated energy in a single strike.

“Gray Killer Heaven” (灰灰杀天绝艺).

The Seventh Kill: “Gray Blade, Spirit of the Ghost Slayer” (灰刃念鬼天杀).

His gray energy condensed, forming a massive blade.

The dark, grim blade, filled with murderous intent, clashed with the dragon’s claws.

Crash!

Black Heaven Slayer was taken aback.

Another feint!

Thud!

Black Heaven Slayer turned his gaze to his sword, which he had retrieved. His face reflected in the blade was grotesque, twisted like a demon’s.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

A tremendous shockwave reverberated, and his head snapped back violently.

Far in the distance, a massive warehouse exploded.

That was the Black Heaven Grand Warehouse, the place where all materials and supplies from the sect’s branches were stored.

Gold coins, silver, banknotes, and various goods such as grains, pottery, silks, spices, wines, and timber—everything Black Heaven Sect owned was stored there.

And now, that very warehouse was burning.

A surge of rage filled Black Heaven Slayer, his fury so intense that it felt as though his head would explode.

“Ughhh…!”

He then began wildly scanning the surroundings from the roof.

Expanding his senses wide, he searched frantically, but could not locate his opponent.

“Aaaargh!”

A scream of madness erupted.

The once untouchable Black Heaven Slayer, the leader of the Dark Path, found himself in the same helpless state as Iron Fist King in the face of his opponent’s monstrous actions.

* * *

“AAARRGH!”

A beastly, ominous wail echoed through the tranquil mountain landscape, its eerie sound wrapping around the serene atmosphere.

Zhou Hui, having completed his round of cultivation, smiled faintly with his half-open eyes as he calmed his mind.

‘You’re quite angry.’

The technique of the Taoist’s **Yang Yi Xin Gong** (Two-Intent Heart Technique) had proven to be incredibly effective.

The founder of the Sword Sovereign Sect, a nameless ancient modern martial artist, had devoted immense effort to researching this martial art: the **Yang Yi Xin Gong**.

It was a method of splitting the intent raised in the mind into two distinct visions, allowing the practitioner to manifest two different kinds of power simultaneously.

Such an extraordinary and profound martial art had been absorbed by Zhou Hui in the world of transcendence, mastering its essence.

Though its power was tremendous, the mental energy expenditure was also immense.

Zhou Hui had to shut his eyes and meditate for a while to overcome the dizziness caused by such intense mental strain before he could open them again.

‘More practice is needed.’

To make this level of energy expenditure habitual would require extensive training over a long period.

If he felt dizzy after using only one or two of the techniques, he would never be able to use it effectively in real combat.

Especially in a confrontation with another supreme martial artist, if the **Yang Yi Xin Gong** failed to land a decisive blow, he would certainly fall prey to his opponent’s counterattack.

After a moment of gathering himself, Zhou Hui slowly rose from his seat.

It was time to move.

Soon, the **Black Heaven Sect’s** 1,200 elite warriors were deployed, tracking the trajectory of the flying swords and setting up an inverted **Heaven’s Net** formation to capture them.

**Thud!**

Zhou Hui used his lightness skill and arrived at an unexpected location—the darkness beneath the eaves of the deepest part of the **Black Heaven Hall**, a place that was ironically within their own headquarters.

Taking advantage of the fact that the **Ghost Killers** and **Black Slayers** had gone off to search the mountains, Zhou Hui had infiltrated their inner sanctum.

He immediately summoned two iron swords into the air.

‘Damn!’

The swords, hastily purchased for the purpose of using the **Yang Yi Xin Gong**, had developed cracks.

Unlike the **Zhao Family Steel Swords** that his father had meticulously crafted, the durability of these was significantly inferior.

There were still critical targets remaining, such as the weapons warehouse, the gunpowder storage, and **Black Heaven Slayer’s** personal vault in **Black Dragon Hall**.

At this rate, the **Yang Yi Xin Gong** could only last for two or three attacks at most.

It was time to focus his efforts.

‘First, I’ll destroy the weapons warehouse.’

The **First Secret of the Martial World**.

This precious information had been bought from the notorious information broker **Night Butterfly** for a small fortune.

They all confirmed that the weapons warehouse was Black Heaven Sect’s most vulnerable point.

According to the intel, these madmen were conspiring with the emperor’s distant relatives.

Cannons and gunpowder were not items that could be distributed in the civilian market.

They were strictly controlled imperial assets!

The imperial family’s relative, **Huang Yixian**, had smuggled these military supplies—particularly the cannons and gunpowder—into Black Heaven Sect’s warehouses.

This was a life-or-death risk taken in preparation for a potential conflict with the Imperial Army.

If this secret were exposed to the public, not only would **Huang Yixian** be labeled a traitor, but **Black Heaven Sect** would be branded as rebels as well.

Were they really that reckless?

They were truly madmen, fearless in their ambitions.

But such monumental risk would undoubtedly bring equally immense rewards.

With the backing of the powerful imperial family’s relatives, Black Heaven Sect could solidify its grip on control over Jiangxi.

‘Hmm…’

Thus, Zhou Hui began his deliberation.

Was destruction the only answer?

If the warehouse of such scale were to explode, the attention of the Imperial Court would undoubtedly be drawn.

The Imperial Inspectors would soon arrive, and everything about Black Heaven Sect would be exposed to the world.

Such a turn of events could lead to the Imperial Court cracking down on the martial world, something Zhou Hui definitely did not want.

Instead, he realized that he could use this to his advantage.

With his decision made, Zhou Hui gathered all his internal energy and shouted out.

– **Black Heaven Slayer! This is a deal!**

The first to react to Zhou Hui’s voice was Iron Fist King.

“You damn bastard, Nam Gung Soo! You son of a—where are you hiding? Come out! Come out, you pathetic little scoundrel!”

Iron Fist King was throwing a tantrum.

– **Get out of the way, you little shit. Tell the leader to come out!**

Iron Fist King, a member of the Eight Kings of Black Heaven and the most powerful among them, was being called a “little shit”?

Zhou Hui’s words drove Iron Fist King into a rage, and he started demolishing the surrounding structures.

**Boom! Boom! Boom!**

“Where are you hiding? Come out! Come out, you bastard! How can you still talk about righteousness and morality, claiming to represent the righteous sects? Are you even aware of what you’re saying?!”

– **What the hell are you talking about, idiot?**

Before Iron Fist King could go further into his frenzy, Zhou Hui’s voice came through again.

– **You filthy scum, with your gambling dens, brothels, black market dealings, and assassination contracts, are you really comparing me to you?**

Black Heaven Sect controlled not only legitimate businesses but also ruled the underworld.

Their activities were far more debauched than those of the **Hefei** underworld.

If **Hefei** was known for youthful exuberance, competition among the elite, and dangerous flirtations, the underworld of **Nan Chang** was about pure depravity, offering the most visceral pleasures and instincts.

The brothels on the streets of **Nan Chang** were rife with vice, and every day, dozens of bodies of those stabbed with knives could be found in the morning.

Those who couldn’t pay off their gambling debts often found themselves hanging from trees, their bodies lifeless.

The cruelty and corruption of the underworld, including extortion, exploitation, and even murder, were the same businesses that Black Heaven Sect ran.

Yet, here they were, lecturing Zhou Hui on righteousness.

– **You hypocrites have the nerve to talk about humanity and morality? Don’t talk nonsense and bring your leader out. Come on, Black Heaven Slayer. Why are you hiding, you coward? Do you really think you can act all high and mighty? If Huang Yixian really blows up the gunpowder, are you saying you can’t stop him?**

At the mention of **Huang Yixian**, a chill ran down Black Heaven Slayer’s spine.

In truth, he had been tracing the faint traces of intent hidden within Zhou Hui’s **Six Harmony True Voice** technique. However, Zhou Hui had cleverly hidden his true intent.

“Speak.”

– **If I keep attacking like this, will any of your wealth remain intact?**

“…”

It was hard to admit, but it was the truth.

If a master of the Absolute Realm continually relied on hit-and-run tactics without considering the honor of a martial artist, there honestly was no way to stop it.

– “Withdraw from Gangseo. Otherwise, you’ll be aligned with the Gangseo lord, or perhaps even with that man. It might be better to report this to the Emperor. Did you understand?”

If it were known that the Imperial family’s in-laws had joined forces with the martial world factions to secretly steal and store cannons and gunpowder, it would undoubtedly break the delicate balance between the government and the martial arts world.

Would the imperial military then differentiate between right and wrong, justice and evil?

Heukcheondaesal’s face turned incredulous.

“Crazy bastard. Are you trying to drag us all down with you?”

Whoosh!

Two steel blades, each carrying the deadly aura of a sword, floated above the Heukcheonryeon faction.

The ominous energy that followed swirled in the air.

Heukcheondaesal bit his lip so hard that it bled and shouted.

“Stop!”

The force gathering around the two blades vanished in an instant.

– “Will you withdraw from Gangseo or not?”

Heukcheondaesal, frustrated, clenched his teeth and responded.

“This is about the lives of eight thousand men of the Heukcheonryeon. Don’t even think about negotiating for something impossible.”

– “So, is the negotiation over? Are you saying that even if the armory and gunpowder stores explode, your eight thousand men will remain unharmed? Do you really think that’s possible?”

“…”

He clenched his teeth harder.

Unable to refute the point, Heukcheondaesal only felt more irritated.

Was this really the legendary Namgung Su? Despite the overwhelming martial skill of the Namgung family, his actions seemed strangely like those of a lowly rogue.

His voice echoed through the air with the resonance of the Six Harmony Divine Power, making it impossible to estimate his age.

“Show yourself. What kind of negotiation are you trying to carry out by hiding?”

– “You want to negotiate face to face, while you’ve got the Iron Fist King and the Black Killers behind you? Do you think I don’t know what kind of underhanded tactics you’re using? Hey, Iron Fist King, stop making a scene. There’s no point in trying to activate your Qi. I see now—you’re just stalling for time.”

In that moment, the two floating steel blades shot off in opposite directions with incredible speed.

Whistle!

“Don’t!”

– “It’s happening!”

Heukcheondaesal exchanged glances with his subordinates and rushed toward the gunpowder store.

Iron Fist King and the Black Killers activated their ultimate moves to intercept the flying blades, creating an explosive dash of energy.

Heukcheondaesal knew he had to defend the gunpowder storage at all costs.

He was sure that the enemy would attempt to destroy the store. The Absolute’s power could only be met by another Absolute.

He could sense that the opponent was well aware of this fact.

However, Heukcheondaesal also realized that the imminent threat was the attack on the gunpowder store itself, not the swords in the air.

Despite the obvious tactics, he couldn’t afford to leave the gunpowder store unguarded. If the swords weren’t a feint, everything would be lost.

He poured all his energy into his blade technique.

Whoosh!

As he anticipated, the fragments of the Thousand Calamity Black Dragon Fang barely managed to hit the opponent’s sword energy.

Boom!

In the distance, explosions erupted from the Heukryongdang.

Even Iron Fist King, the second-in-command of Heukcheonryeon, was powerless to stop the attack. How could the Black Killers have a better strategy?

It was clear that Heukcheondaesal’s perfect technique, the Victory Blade, would easily overwhelm them.

Heukcheondaesal’s eyes twisted with fury.

“Goddamn bastard!”

The tedious days of issuing orders and hearing reports from his subordinates were long over.

He cursed, a rare outburst of anger for someone usually so composed.

The cruel world of the dark martial arts had awakened memories of the past, when he wandered the world with nothing but a sword at his side.

The rough days of his youth came flooding back, making his body heat up with nostalgia.

Today, Heukcheondaesal had fully returned to his former self as the legendary Sky Kill Sword Demon.

“Yeah, you bastard! Let’s see who runs out of inner power and mental strength first, or whether my entire faction will be destroyed. Let’s see who can keep playing this game!”

Heukcheondaesal shouted to all directions.

“Pass the order to the Black Killers! Gather all subordinates and head to the gunpowder store!”

His powerful voice echoed across the battlefield.

– “Loyalty!”

– “We obey!”

Jowei, hiding in the darkness beneath the cliff, stiffened his face.

The opponent had clearly stated that they would mobilize all of Heukcheonryeon’s forces to protect the gunpowder store.

The leader of Heukcheonryeon, a master of the Absolute Realm, was personally guarding the store, making it nearly impossible to breach.

It was truly a last stand!

If the opponent had made such a move, there was no other option. All the primary targets had already been destroyed.

‘Hmm…’

From the perspective of the Choga Daeshanghoe (Choga Trading Guild), the best scenario would be for Gangseo to become a leaderless, desolate land. But if that wasn’t possible, they would have to pursue other practical benefits.

– “They’re coming on strong? Alright, should I lower the negotiation stakes?”

Heukcheondaesal grinned wickedly.

“Speak.”

– “I have three demands. First, disband the forces gathered at Dangcheonpo and sever the alliance with Noklim. Second, grant me full control over all businesses operating in Gangseo under the name of Choga Daeshanghoe. Third, sell the land around Poyang Lake to Choga Daeshanghoe as we see fit. I will not back down from these demands. If they are not met, I guarantee that an unending attack on Heukcheonryeon’s assets will begin.”

Heukcheondaesal could no longer smile.

The forces gathered at Dangcheonpo.

And the alliance with the Sado-Nokrim factions.

It was a thoroughly protected secret.

He had crushed all the spies to prevent any leaks of information.

Even the messengers were organized in a strict cell system, so capturing one messenger wouldn’t reveal anything significant.

Only the senior experts within the Heukcheonryeon were privy to such information.

He had been certain that even the Murim League, which was always vigilant, wouldn’t have knowledge of it—but his opponent had casually mentioned it.

And then, Choga Daeshanghoe.

This massive trading guild, which controlled the economic world of Anhui, was the fundamental reason for this campaign.

According to the intelligence they had gathered, Choga Daeshanghoe’s estimated annual revenue was a staggering 700,000 gold.

That was equivalent to the entire annual income Heukcheonryeon earned from its operations in Gangseo.

If this campaign succeeded, it would be as if Heukcheonryeon had taken another city of the same scale as Gangseo, which had a thriving trade district.

Originally, Anhui had only half the economic scale of Gangseo, but Choga Daeshanghoe had turned Anhui into an economic powerhouse with extraordinary inventions and unique business methods.

Currently, rumors were spreading that the government of Anhui was overwhelmed by the continuous influx of people, leading to administrative paralysis.

If Choga Daeshanghoe were to open up a new market around Poyang Lake, the impact on Heukcheonryeon wouldn’t be so bad after all.

Looking at it from Heukcheonryeon’s perspective, it didn’t seem harmful.

What if the population influx that transformed Hefei also affected the southern region of Gangseo? The business district would inevitably expand, and the area would thrive.

However, if Choga Daeshanghoe started their operations in the domain of the Sapa factions, it would certainly attract the attention of the Murim League.

‘So they’re only presenting Choga Daeshanghoe as the front-runner?’

Of course, everyone knew that Choga Daeshanghoe was under the influence of the Namgung family.

If news spread that the Namgung family had teamed up with Heukcheonryeon to start a business in Gangseo, it would certainly be interesting to see how the Murim League would respond.

Heukcheondaesal made a resolute decision and shouted powerfully.

“I accept!”

His subordinates, gathered around him, were visibly shaken.

“Lord!”

“No! It’s not possible!”

Regardless of the reason, it was shocking to see Heukcheonryeon, the leading faction of the dark martial arts world, submit to the will of a single individual.

“…Is there really no way?”

There was no way.

How could anyone stop a determined master from the Absolute Realm when they had already set their mind on something?

Heukcheondaesal raised his voice again.

“However! If the Murim League dares to interfere with the Poyang Lake market, we will respond together!”

– “Of course! If that happens, I’ll be the first to deal with the Murim League myself!”

‘Hmm?’

Heukcheondaesal, unsure if he had heard correctly, glanced around at his subordinates before speaking again.

“Did you just say you’ll punish the Murim League?”

“Yes, Lord.”

“I heard it clearly too!”

To “punish” meant to reprimand and impose a penalty.

The idea that the Namgung family would punish the Murim League was ridiculous!

Heukcheondaesal laughed out loud in disbelief.

“Namgung Su, the Heavenly Sword Sect has truly lost its mind. This is getting interesting.”

The Murim League, the most powerful faction in the martial world, would never tolerate being opposed by a single family, no matter how influential.

For Namgung to openly declare opposition to the Murim League was a bold move.

And this was the same Namgung family that played a major role in the Five Great Families!

“Fine! The negotiation is concluded!”

With that, Heukcheondaesal had made the most brutal and foolish decision of his life.