Emperor’s Sword [EN]: Chapter 14

The banquet finally ended around the hour of In (3-5 AM). Of course, on the surface, it seemed amicable, but in reality, their hearts were filled with worries about the impending storm of blood that would soon engulf the martial world, and this was subtly revealed. A crusade against the Demonic Cult! In the thousands of years of martial history, this was probably the first time the orthodox sects had declared they would be the ones to conquer them. The North Sword Society Lord asked everyone to return to their respective sects and gather again at the North Sword Society in a month. Any sect that wished to participate could do so, and individuals could also join the crusade. If the Nine Great Sects, the pillars of the orthodox faction, the Five Righteous Alliance centered around the North Sword Society and the Five Great Families, and even the Southern Alliance joined forces, the most extensive orthodox martial alliance in martial history would be born.

The dazzling energy of the sun was pulling the earth out of the darkness of the previous night. As soon as Pa Cheon woke up, he went to the back garden of Subin Pavilion. There, a small training ground was set up among the gardens, and here and there, the ground was dented. Pa Cheon went to the center and stood there. Two divine swords were hanging from his waist. If the people of the world recognized these swords, there would be great chaos. But fortunately, they did not realize the true nature of the swords Pa Cheon possessed. He was drawing his sword. It was the Heavenly Demon Sword.

The four-and-a-half-foot-long sword seemed a bit long. He had never used it before, so he didn’t know how powerful it was, but just looking at it gave him the feeling that it was something extraordinary.

‘Heavenly Demon! What is a sword?’

-A sword is both propriety and the Way!

It was hard to believe that those words came from the Heavenly Demon.

‘Propriety and the Way? Forget such nonsense… After all, a sword is a tool for killing people. How effectively you subdue your opponent? Isn’t that what’s important?’

-Do you really think so?

His voice was heavy and low. It was an uncharacteristic reaction.

-Listen carefully. Even if I explain it in words, it’s useless if you don’t realize it… Do you know why the sword is called the king of all weapons? It’s because the sword is the most complete form of weapon, but also the best means to reach the ultimate state. Try floating the sword in the air!

Pa Cheon obeyed his words like a well-behaved child. As he manipulated his inner energy to float the sword in the air, the Heavenly Demon’s voice continued.

-Ultimately, martial arts is about understanding Qi [life force or vital energy]. The reason you can float the sword in the air is because you are controlling it with your inner energy. The universe is full of Qi. Humans accumulate and use some of it as inner energy. Inner power is the reaction between the Qi of the universe and you. It is the Qi that has changed into a certain form with you as the origin. But that doesn’t mean its nature has changed!

Now, I will tell you about the essence of the ascending martial arts.

He spoke as if he were a stern master teaching his disciple. It was definitely a different side of the Heavenly Demon, who was usually full of mischief.

-Try flying the sword far away!

At his words, Pa Cheon began to move the sword that was dangling in the air. The Heavenly Demon Sword gradually became faster and was moving more than ten yards away.

-Recover it.

‘Uh oh!’

*Thwack!*

The sword was embedded about a foot into a tree fifteen yards away. It was something that would surprise anyone who saw it.

Wasn’t this the Art of Controlling a Sword with Qi?

-What you just did was merely imitating sword control.

‘Imitating?’

-That’s right. Imitating. When the Heavenly Demon Sword went beyond ten yards, your inner energy couldn’t reach it. I clearly told you to recover it, but the sword went straight and hit the tree. That’s the limit of your inner power. So why didn’t the sword respond to your inner energy? It could be said that the power you exerted to recover it was weaker than the power you exerted to throw it. In the end, if the sword is not in your hand or at least within ten yards, it’s useless! Using sword energy, sword force, or sword aura while holding the sword is only a very basic level. Even if you create countless sword rings and shoot out sword blossoms, it’s just swordsmanship. It’s not enough to call it sword studies, sword etiquette, or the way of the sword. So, what is the ascending level of the sword? What do you think it is?

‘Well, I don’t know…’

-The first is the unity of sword and Qi, and the second is controlling the sword with Qi. Often, people think that the unity of body and sword, where ordinary martial artists become one with the sword and fly, is the ultimate level. Hah! And then they think things like sword flight techniques are amazing. You can do that much too. The unity of sword and Qi means that your own true Qi and the Qi of the universe become completely one through the sword. It means that it reacts on its own without you having to use your accumulated inner energy separately. Therefore, understanding Qi and enlightenment are essential. This is the beginning of ascending sword studies.

‘That’s just the beginning?’

-Then, when it can be done freely, you can unleash true sword control. The first is hand-controlled sword, where you control the sword energy with your hands. You can have a range of at least 100 yards. The next is eye-controlled sword! The range of sword control expands to where your gaze can reach. Mind-controlled sword is the level where you control everything with your mind. And what’s important here is that the sword flying in the air is no different from when you hold it in your hand.

In the state of sword control, sword blossoms bloom, sword rings are created, and sword auras are formed. That’s why I said what you did earlier was just imitation.

‘Whew… That’s amazing. Then, mind-controlled sword is the highest level?’

-Absolutely not! People who learn swordsmanship generally think that sword control is the highest level. But that’s just the beginning.

‘The beginning?’

-There is the level of formless sword.

‘Formless sword? Does that mean the sword has no form?’

-There are two stages to this as well. The first is having no sword in your hand but a sword in your heart, where you create a sword with your inner power without a sword like the one you have, and when it reaches a certain level, the sword you create even loses its form. This is the level of mind-equals-kill. It’s not killing with your mind. It’s the formless sword created by your mind that kills the opponent.

This naturally surpasses all the mysteries of sword control. And this is the sword that cannot be blocked.

‘What does that mean?’

-There is a way to block all sword energies. If a sword net is a collection of countless sword lines, then a sword membrane is a mass of unified sword force! If you create a sword membrane, no sword energy can penetrate it! The only way is to break the sword membrane with force. When sword energy becomes stronger, it becomes sword aura, and when it becomes even wider, it becomes sword wind. The next is called sword explosion. Sword energy is a kind of line. Sword aura can be seen as a more strengthened line! But sword wind is a surface. It’s a broader concept. Sword explosion destroys the space itself. It creates a kind of vacuum state. Only sword explosion cannot be blocked by a sword membrane. The formless sword is the highest essence of this sword explosion… To put it simply, look at water. It flows over anything. Just as water flows from high to low, the formless sword flows through anything. Whether it’s sword energy, sword net, or sword membrane, it just flows through. Let’s say there is someone who has reached the highest level of sword control, mind-controlled sword! The sword membrane that person creates has multiple layers, and each layer has the form of sword aura. So it seems impossible to penetrate. But the formless sword flows through that sword membrane. In other words, it goes against the path of Qi! Can this really be blocked?

‘Heavenly Demon, then what level did you reach?’

-I… I surpassed the formless sword.

‘What? Does that mean… there is a level beyond that?’

-That’s right. I also stayed at the beginning, but if you surpass the formless sword, what immediately appears is the level of natural sword.

‘Natural sword?…’

-That’s right. Natural sword! Nature is great. It’s not about formless sword energy, but about turning a part of nature into sword energy.

‘I don’t understand what you mean…’

-For example, although there will be differences in ability, imagine turning raindrops into sword energy when it rains! Even an army of hundreds of thousands would be annihilated in an instant! Is there anyone who can stop the wind? If the wind becomes sword energy, who can avoid it? Can you block lightning with a sword?

‘Is that possible?’

-It’s possible. The next is cosmic sword. This is a level that even I cannot explain. But… it is definitely a level that exists. The universe and I become one, assimilating with its power and becoming a part of that power. And isn’t it the level where you use that power according to your will? That’s the only way I can think of it…

‘Then, Heavenly Demon! Has anyone in martial history reached the level of natural sword?’

-No. As far as I know, there is no one except me. But it exists in places other than the martial world!

‘What… do you mean? Places other than the martial world?’

-You will gradually find out. When you become strong enough to be a threat to them… you will naturally find out.

=You mean them!

-Huh? Monk, you knew about them too?

=I haven’t met them myself, but I heard about them from my master. He said that they visited Bodhidharma [a semi-legendary Buddhist monk traditionally credited as the founder of Zen Buddhism].

-Really? Then… that means that Bodhidharma also reached the level of natural sword. Then I’ll correct myself, there were two people in history.

The Heavenly Demon was a person from 1700 years ago. He was born in the year Mencius was born and died in the year Qin Shi Huang unified China (B.C. 372-221). So he was 800 or 900 years before Bodhidharma.

-In the end, everything is connected. From now on, forget the miscellaneous martial arts you have! And focus only on the sword. If you steadily practice, enlightenment will come suddenly at some point, and only then will you enter the true realm. If you clearly understand the profound meaning of the Heavenly Demon’s Three Swords, that path can be shortened.

‘Then what about those mysterious moves I know…’

-If you cling to such things, it will hinder your development. In the end, moves are just appropriate variations of speed, change, and power. It is said that all streams flow to the sea, so in the end, they all lead to one. If you insist on only speed, change, or power, there will be a limit, and if you cannot overcome that wall, you will not be able to reach the true realm. Even if your inner power reaches dozens of gi [a unit of energy], if you are bound by moves, although such a thing is practically impossible, you cannot be stronger than someone who has reached the true realm of five gi. There is a fundamental difference between someone who constantly uses what they already know and someone who sees the whole and understands only the essence. It is difficult for a master to emerge, but it is even more difficult for a wise person to emerge, and it is rare for a true person to emerge. But there are only a few divine beings throughout history.

Which path you choose is entirely up to you… but one important fact is that you already possess what others have to acquire, develop, and become accustomed to throughout their lives. Perhaps you are the most suitable human to see the end of the sword. But if you give that up, it is an insult to the will of heaven that has given you this opportunity.

Pa Cheon was listening to his words and pulling out the Heavenly Demon Sword that was stuck in the tree. Why did the Heavenly Demon Sword feel heavier today? A flame was burning in his heart.

It wasn’t just a simple desire to win. It was the manifestation of a strong curiosity about the virgin territory that no one had ever reached. He retraced his steps, lost in deep thought. He had a goal to achieve for the rest of his life. If he turned away because it was far and difficult, as the Heavenly Demon said, it would be cowardly. Let’s try it! If I can’t go any further, I’ll be satisfied with how far I’ve gone… Somehow, this morning felt even more refreshing.

When he returned to his room, Pa Cheon took a bath. He was so solemn as if he was trying to wash away all the dregs of his heart with water. And after having a meal with Namgung Hyukryun and others, they had tea and talked about various things.

But his mind was preoccupied with the things the Heavenly Demon had said, and he often didn’t hear what they were saying, and he was often lost in thought. They thought it was strange, but there were no particular reactions.

Lunch was held at the Divine Sword Pavilion at the invitation of the North Sword Society Lord. He had invited only Pa Cheon separately, and even the masters of the Guardian Hall had come to escort him.

The Divine Sword Pavilion had a total of nine floors. From the first to the seventh floor were the offices of the Guardian Hall and the Military Hall, and the eighth floor was the medical office. The ninth floor was a place where no one was allowed to go without permission, and it was the office and residence of the North Sword Society Lord, Musang Divine Sword Dokgo Hancheon. Pa Cheon was guided to an inner room on the ninth floor. Dokgo Hancheon was wearing a black dragon robe, and the nine golden dragons that rippled seemed as if they would come to life and wriggle at any moment. He was already seated.

“Come in, come in, Great Warrior Moon! Today, I wanted to create a special occasion with Great Warrior Moon, so I asked you to come here. I hope it wasn’t too much trouble?”

“You’re too kind. I’m just grateful for the invitation. But the Society Lord’s residence is very cozy and nice. You must have nothing to envy living in a place like this.”

Pa Cheon said, looking around. It sounded like there was a hidden meaning in his words.

“Haha, if you wish, I can empty it for you at any time…”

It was a rather bold joke.

“Then, should I just settle down here?”

“Hahahaha, I would welcome it anytime. If you were to stay at our North Sword Society, I would like to build two more Divine Sword Pavilions.”

“Why build new ones? You can just empty this one…”

His words were a bit too much, and his face seemed to flinch, but it soon changed back to a bright one.

‘That sly fox! What? Empty the Divine Sword Pavilion?’

‘That guy! He’s so good at spouting empty words. In his heart, he’s probably cursing me out.’

Both were thinking such things, yet their faces were beaming with smiles. Neither was easy to deal with. After a while, about ten servants came in, their hands full of food. They began to lay out the dishes in front of Pa Cheon, one by one. There were quite a few dishes that he couldn’t even recognize. He, who had once been an emperor! He prided himself on having tasted every delicacy in the world, yet there were so many dishes here whose ingredients he couldn’t even identify. Just this alone showed how luxurious Dokgo Hancheon’s life was.

“Please, eat. Let’s talk slowly while we dine.”

……

During the meal, the two asked and answered questions. Dokgo Hancheon was mostly the one asking, and Pa Cheon was the one answering.

“So, how was your experience participating in this Righteous-Demonic Grand Tournament?”

“Well… I was a bit disappointed. I had some expectations since it was a grand martial arts tournament, but there wasn’t anything special. But are you really planning to conquer the Demonic Alliance?”

“It’s already been decided… so there’s nothing we can do about it, is there? I don’t want to either, but all the martial artists want it, so I have no choice but to follow along.”

-Wow, that guy is really disgusting. He set it all up himself, and now what? He has to follow along because the martial artists want it? Ugh, may you be buried in a pile of dung!

“Hmm… then how do you plan to conquer the Demonic Alliance?”

“Well… we’ll have to see once the Martial Alliance is formed… but we’ll have to attack head-on. I’m estimating at least a year. Their headquarters are in Hangzhou, but they have secret bases scattered everywhere, so it might take even longer to completely eradicate them. But if someone like Great Warrior Moon helps, the time could be shortened.”

“Then, after the Demonic Alliance is completely eradicated, will the Martial Alliance be disbanded?”

It was a question that hit the core.

“Well, that will be decided when the time comes. Honestly, I’d like it to remain as a permanent organization. Wouldn’t that be desirable for the peace of the martial world?”

-Not for the peace of the martial world, but to fatten your own belly.

“I’ve heard that the Overseas Three Families and the Demonic Alliance have a very close relationship. What if they help the Demonic Alliance?”

“That won’t happen. They’ve already made a public statement about it… and even if it did, it wouldn’t make much of a difference in the outcome.”

It was strong confidence. Well, if the Righteous Four Families united, the Overseas Three Families would be a piece of cake.

“Are there any other variables?”

“The main pillars of the martial world right now are the Righteous Four Families. And honestly, the remaining forces aren’t much of a threat. So, there aren’t really any variables, but there’s talk of the Heavenly Demon Sect’s martial arts appearing… that’s what’s worrying. If the Heavenly Demon Sect really reappeared, what could be more threatening than that?”

“The Heavenly Demon Sect has appeared?”

“It’s not that the Heavenly Demon Sect has appeared, but a person called the Heavenly Demon Scholar has appeared, and his martial arts seem to be from the old Heavenly Demon Sect.”

“Ah, is that so?”

-You fool! He doesn’t even know he’s right in front of him… Actually, those who pretend to be so smart are never the real deal. How resentful and angry will he be when he finds out later?

“So, what I’m saying is… the Martial Alliance that will be formed in the future needs talents like you. How about we work together for the justice of the martial world? If you wish, I promise you a position of being second to none.”

‘What a remarkable guy. He’s already talking as if he’s going to be the leader of the Martial Alliance, so he’s basically telling me to become his lackey. What does he think of me… There’s no way. Even if he offered to make me the leader, I’d hesitate… You’ve got the wrong idea, buddy.’

“Haha, I’m honored that you think so highly of someone as lacking as myself. I’ll think about it and make a decision.”

“Then… please do so. Just don’t forget that I think of you as someone special.”

“Father, it’s me, Seolran.”

“Oh, yes. Come in.”

‘Huh? What’s this now?’

It was Dokgo Seolran, the beauty. He had already seen her naked last night, but her beauty in formal attire was something else. She was wrapped in blue silk, and the curves of her body were clearly visible, making anyone who saw her gasp in admiration.

She entered and seemed startled to see another person in the room.

“This is my daughter. Say hello.”

“I am Dokgo Seolran.”

She greeted him and looked at Pa Cheon.

‘Isn’t that the young master? Last night…’

“Ah, is that so? I am Moon Yoon, the Jade-Faced Divine Dragon. It is an honor to meet such a beautiful person.”

-Ugh, what a shameless guy!

=Amitabha! [A Buddhist expression of surprise or dismay]

“Haha, come and sit here. Great Warrior Moon, what do you think? Not just because she’s my daughter, but isn’t she someone who wouldn’t be lacking anywhere?”

-That guy! What’s his intention? It seems like he called her on purpose.

‘He’s really something. He’s really making me sick of him. Two-timing… If I didn’t know, I would have been completely fooled.’

“Yes, indeed. I’ve seen many beauties in the martial world, but I’ve never seen a beauty like Miss Seolran.”

At those words, Dokgo Seolran’s cheeks were turning red.

[Miss, I will come for you tonight.]

At Pa Cheon’s telepathic message, she subtly nodded her head when her father wasn’t looking.

“This child is now nineteen, so she’ll have to get married soon… It pains my heart. I have to find her a match, but I don’t want to let her go. Haha, I guess all parents feel the same way.”

‘His words are so smooth. What must a child feel seeing such a father? Even though he’s her parent, does she find him disgusting?’

“It seems like her marriage hasn’t been decided yet?”

“Of course… everyone is clamoring to take her, but how can I send her to just anyone? Unless it’s someone like Great Warrior Moon?…”

He looked at Pa Cheon with a meaningful gaze.

Even Pa Cheon, who already knew the situation, was starting to get confused. Was he wrong about something?

“Great Warrior! Please help me. I really need the help of someone like you. For the peace of the martial world, I look forward to your active assistance.”

“If I can help, I will. I’m very grateful for all the consideration you’ve shown me. I’ve enjoyed the meal today, and you’ve even broadened my horizons. If the Society Lord wishes, I’ll do anything.”

‘You little punk, take a hit to the back of your head. Trying to play tricks in front of me…’

“Haha, thank you. Hearing those words from you makes all my worries disappear. I feel like I’ve gained a thousand troops, I’m so happy.”

“Well… I should be going now. I have a group waiting for me…”

“Ah… I’ve been holding you for too long without realizing it. It’s all because I admire you so much, so please don’t take it too hard.”

“Not at all…”

He once again took in Dokgo Seolran’s appearance. Dokgo Hancheon’s face, as he watched this, held a meaningful smile that quickly disappeared, and Pa Cheon rose from his seat. Even after he turned and left, the smile on Dokgo Hancheon’s face didn’t fade.

“Father, who is that person?”

“Haha, don’t worry about it. You just stay quiet and prepare to get married. I’ll have you married by next spring…”

“To whom?”

“Who else? Didn’t I say it’s the young leader of the Southern Alliance?”

“Father, that person…”

“Enough. You just need to do as I say. Who do you think you are to talk back to me? After raising you this much, can’t you fulfill one of your parents’ wishes? And where else would you find a marriage prospect like that? You just need to do as your father says, and you’ll live a life without any wants. You can go now.”

“Yes…”

She bowed to her father and went outside.

‘Father. I don’t need any of that. I can do everything else as you wish, but when it comes to marriage, I want to marry someone I love. I’m sorry.’

Unaware of her inner thoughts, the laughter of the Peerless Divine Sword Dokgo Hancheon echoed as if to tear down the Divine Sword Pavilion.

“Hahahahahahahaha”

It was a triumphant laugh, believing that everything was going according to his plan. Would it really be so?

[Serial] Emperor’s Sword 16. Dokgo Seolran’s Runaway. Related Materials: None [59011]

Sender: Im Sam-yeol (logos333) 2000-12-24 00:24 Views: 1946

-Emperor’s Sword-