Characters[]
- Jin Woonhwi (Sodamgeom) (Namcheomcheomgeom)
- Sima Young
- Jo Seong-Won
- Hae Ak-Cheon
- Twice Brothres
- Ha Moon-chan
- Lee Gyu
- Baek Hye-Hyang
- Tang Hye-Hwa
- Qing Myung
- Hyun Jin
- Do Gyeongwook
- Jo Ik
- Kang Hyemi
- Seo Ilju
Synopsis[]
Novel[]
The protagonist confirms to Hae-ak-cheon that Baek Hye-hyang simply disappeared after a brief encounter. However, the manner in which she left was unusual, as she made a threatening statement before leaving, hinting that the protagonist would eventually succumb to her. Despite this, he chooses not to share these details with Hae-ak-cheon, only informing him that she tried to recruit him. The main focus, however, is that Baek Hye-hyang is also seeking the Blood Demon Sword.
Hae-ak-cheon, realizing the seriousness of the situation, believes that Baek Hye-hyang's presence complicates obtaining the sword. However, he concludes that she will not participate in the subsequent index discussion competition, as her pride prevents her from mingling with political figures to be evaluated. The real challenge comes after the competition, as even if the protagonist obtains the sword, he will still need to transport it without being intercepted by Baek Hye-hyang.
Faced with this impasse, Hae-ak-cheon decides to change his original plan. Previously, he was supposed to wait outside the Murim Alliance, but due to the new circumstances, he will now remain in a closer position to quickly intervene if Baek Hye-hyang tries something. He makes two requests of the protagonist: to run away or shout for help if Baek Hye-hyang appears again, and to always move in groups of three to avoid surprise attacks.
To ease the tension of waiting, the protagonist and his companions, Jo Seong-won and Sima Young, spend their time exploring local restaurants, trying famous dishes such as Hubei-style roast duck. Thus, three days pass without Baek Hye-hyang reappearing. On the fourth day, the protagonist turns about 75 swords into iron powder after absorbing their memories. This process strengthens his understanding of Baek Hyang-mook's Blackest Sword and allows him to visualize and execute its techniques with greater precision.
However, he has yet to fully master the sword’s internal energy, limiting the potential of his techniques. He realizes that his constant practice has led to a significant advancement in his martial art, allowing him to reach the level of 6-star Seongmyeong Shingong. Testing his new skill, he realizes that his energy can now be used as a sharp blade, a clear sign of his progress.
Excited by this achievement, he prepares for his next mission inside the Martial Arts Federation castle, where he will finally begin his search for the Blood Demon Sword. In the meantime, he watches the restoration process of the Namcheon Iron Sword, feeling a deep connection with the spirit of the blade. He realizes that the sword is being restored to its former glory and eagerly awaits his moment to wield it.
That night, the group visits an inn famous for its specialty dish, Dongpa Pork. The place is packed, evidence of its popularity. The trio is excited to finally try the dish. However, while they wait for their food, a group of six martial artists enter the inn. Their presence is immediately noticed by the protagonist, as they possess significantly stronger energy than the other customers. He soon recognizes some of the members of the group: disciples of the Honam Province Martial Arts Federation and three other disciples from different sects, including the Cheongseongpa and Jeonjinkyo. Among them, two notable swordsmen stand out: the Taoist monk Cheongmyeong, known as Il-yang Geom-gaek, and Hyun Jin, future vice-minister of the Hyeonmu Party. The swords they carry indicate that they are high-quality weapons, donated by their respective sects. The situation becomes more complicated when the newcomers sit next to the protagonist's group. Among them are Do Il-chan, Jo Kang and Kang Hye-so, figures familiar to the protagonist, who do not miss the opportunity to provoke him. Do Il-chan’s older brother, Do Kyung-wook, addresses him sarcastically, and Jo Ik of the Suning Jo family tries to humiliate him by mentioning his expulsion from Ikyang Soga. The protagonist realizes that his reputation has not yet reached the ears of these individuals. In response, he decides to take a different approach, surprising them by respectfully greeting the disciples of Cheongseongpa and Jeonjinkyo, demonstrating knowledge of their identities and titles. This causes a change in the dynamic of the conversation, as they return the greeting respectfully. The teasers, Do Il-chan and Jo Ik, are visibly uncomfortable with the way the protagonist is coming across. When Jo Ik tries to continue his teasing, the protagonist acts quickly, putting an arm around his shoulder and subtly squeezing his neck, sending him a silent message that he could break it at any moment. Startled, Jo Ik forces a smile and retreats. This way, the protagonist can avoid a confrontation direct and, at the same time, reaffirm his presence with confidence in front of the others.
The meeting ends with a tense but controlled atmosphere, and the protagonist focuses again on his mission. The Blood Demon Sword remains his main objective, and he knows that even greater challenges await him inside the Martial Arts Federation castle. With his newfound strength and allies by his side, he prepares to face what is to come.
Manhwa[]
Gallery[]
