Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors
The next day, I began teaching the Soul Extinguishing Step to the Dongyoung Sword Masters. Despite it being the Soul Extinguishing Step, one must first master the basic footwork technique known as Thunder Shadow Step from the Thunder God Lineage to be able to use it, so I asked them whether they were familiar with the concepts of footwork.
To my surprise, all the Dongyoung Sword Masters answered in unison,
“Of course we know it!”
“Footwork is the foundation of martial arts!”
“Hmm.”
To confirm, I called each of them individually to demonstrate their understanding of both footwork and swordplay in a one-on-one setting. It turned out that they all possessed a certain level of mastery in footwork and had also refined their internal energy. I felt a strange sense of wonder.
‘It doesn’t seem like they’ve learned a specific internal martial arts technique, so how did they cultivate their internal energy?’
As I pondered, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, who was revered as the sword saint among the Dongyoung Sword Masters, spoke to me.
“Lord Baek Woong, if it’s not too much trouble, may we have a conversation?”
I followed him to a private space.
He appeared to be in his fifties or sixties, and among the Dongyoung Sword Masters, he radiated the most refined energy. Moreover, his meticulously honed aura indicated that he was no ordinary expert. He was probably the strongest swordsman in all of Dongyoung.
Kamiizumi Nobutsuna said,
“I know that your skills surpass anyone here. I wouldn’t even have the confidence to win against you. However, it seems you’re not very knowledgeable about the martial arts here, so I could provide some assistance.”
“Hmm, indeed. It doesn’t seem like you guys are studying any specific internal techniques—how do you accumulate martial prowess?”
He chuckled softly and replied,
“In my youth, I was curious about the martial arts of other countries, much like you, Baek Woong. I once traveled to Goryeo and the Ming Dynasty to train as a warrior. From that experience, I can share a few differences.”
“Differences?”
“The martial arts of this land lack the concepts of Xian Dao.”
I stared at him, and he began to explain.
“Refining Essence into Qi, Refining Qi into Spirit, Refining Spirit back to Void, Refining Void to Unity, No Intent, No Thought, No Affairs, No Heart, Nature’s Spirit Shines Alone, Transcending and Transforming All Spirits… As you know, these concepts are foundational for practicing martial arts in the Central Plains and Goryeo’s Daoist and Buddhist sects. However, the swordsmanship of Dongyoung focuses intensely on the simple processes of Aiki and Striking, leading to a different direction in practice.”
“Hmm… fascinating.”
I instantly grasped what Kamiizumi Nobutsuna meant. It was thanks to his decades of martial arts experience and his extraordinary level of insight.
“That means your swordsmanship only grows through actual combat without any additional internal studies? You’re accumulating internal energy by forcefully honing it, essentially relying solely on your internal force and spirit rather than employing proper techniques.”
“Exactly.”
“That’s exceedingly dangerous. And as you reach ultimate levels, it will become monotonous.”
As I pointed out the weaknesses in Dongyoung swordsmanship, he responded bitterly.
“I agree with you. The Fast Sword of Dongyoung is indeed faster than that of experts from the Central Plains, making it difficult to reach the absolute levels like Strong Qi or Yiqi Sword. This is also why the martial artists here fear engaging with the Twelve Rat Clan.”
“I see…”
“Martial arts schools, including mine, pass down systematic internal techniques, but many others simply refine their skills through real combat. With that in mind, I respectfully ask that you consider this while imparting your martial arts.”
“Understood.”
I realized that Kamiizumi Nobutsuna was indeed the most formidable swordsman among those gathered. Though his words were calm, he possessed a deep understanding of the essence of martial arts. He was probably at an extraordinary level within the realm of sword.
Since his advice was invaluable, I began teaching them the Thunder Shadow Step while first explaining the fundamental concepts of natural energy flow. Given that they only had a basic understanding of practical sword techniques, I feared they would struggle to grasp the nuances of the Thunder Shadow Step without some preliminary discussion. My thoughts were validated, as the Sword Masters listened intently to my explanation of martial arts principles.
On the third day, I officially began teaching them the forms of the Thunder Shadow Step. Of course, I was still pondering whether to teach them the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique, but for now, I planned to focus on teaching them the footwork itself.
‘These truly are skilled swordsmen. Their learning speed is astonishing.’
On the eighth day of teaching, I found that more than half of them had mastered the form and were entering the application stage. It was somewhat expected, as they were naturally gifted martial artists who had honed their skills through real combat for a long time. It was unlikely they would struggle with just learning a single technique.
A few of the Sword Masters, with curious expressions, asked me,
“Do experts from the Ming Dynasty always use such footwork during battles?”
“Not necessarily. The footwork of my school is quite unique. However, I should mention that many schools possess advanced techniques.”
“Oooh…”
It was clear that these warriors were accustomed to making life-and-death decisions in close quarters using their Fast Sword, and they were unfamiliar with the complexities of high-level martial arts battles involving intricate techniques.
After another ten days, I judged that they had all mastered the Thunder Shadow Step at a basic level and announced,
“From today onwards, I will test your skills through one-on-one matches. This will determine whether you are qualified to receive the secret techniques.”
At that, the eyes of the Sword Masters sharpened. They had also gained an indirect understanding of my capabilities while receiving instruction. It was only natural for their competitive spirits to flare up, being specialized combatants.
At that moment, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna interjected.
“Lord Baek Woong, may I propose something?”
“What is it?”
“Given that there is a high risk of serious injury or death among warriors during sparring, how about we use these weapons for practice?”
Swish
What he presented was a bamboo sword. It appeared to be made by splitting a single bamboo stalk into four sections midway and covering the split parts with a leather sheath made from cowhide. As everyone stared at this peculiar object, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna smiled and said,
“I personally call this a Fukuroshinai.”
“Ah, a Shinai.”
With this, the chances of accidents would indeed decrease. Nodding in agreement, one of the nearby Sword Masters shouted irritably,
“We should be fighting with real swords! What a ridiculous idea! Such a waste for someone called a sword saint!”
“Exactly! What kind of child’s play is this?”
Surprisingly, the majority of the Sword Masters expressed negative opinions about the shinai. Then Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, with a light chuckle, turned to the first man who voiced his complaints.
“If that’s the case, why not challenge me using your prized real sword?”
“Do you think I can’t?”
Swish
In that instant, one of the sword masters darted out like lightning, drawing his sword. His speed was comparable to experts from the Central Plains, demonstrating that the Fast Sword skills in this land were indeed at a significant level. At this rate, I wouldn’t be able to easily evade it; instead, I would need to either dodge or block the attack.
Yet, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna seemed to glide through time, effortlessly cutting through the Sword Master’s openings. In the blink of an eye, he disarmed the young warrior, causing the sword to fall from his grip as he pointed a finger at the warrior’s vital spot.
“……!!”
What a supernatural feat!
As the warrior’s complexion turned pale, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna remarked,
“Well… if I had a real sword, it could have led to a disaster, don’t you think?”
“Ugh…”
Nervously retrieving his sword from Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, the warrior let out a sigh of relief.
“So that’s the New Shadow School’s Blade-less Technique…!! I would have had no excuses had I died.”
“I wasn’t trying to showcase my skills,” Kamiizumi Nobutsuna said, scanning the crowd with a discerning gaze.
“However, the era of turmoil is over, and those gathered here are precious talents who will carry on the legacy of swordsmanship. This gathering was arranged thanks to Lord Baek Woong from the Ming Dynasty, who came to impart techniques; we certainly can’t afford to have any accidents that might disgrace our Shogun from the Shogunate.”
“Indeed… I’m deeply enlightened.”
The Sword Masters soon set aside their pride and began picking up the Shinai one by one. Observing this scene, I realized one crucial fact.
‘The sword saint, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, is on a different level than I am. Who would have thought that such a swordsman could emerge from this remote land of Dongyoung…!!’
I felt as if I had underestimated Dongyoung too much, and yet it was true. Practicing skills without a theory of martial arts, relying only on real combat to hone their Fast Sword and Aiki techniques was a rather primitive form of martial arts. While the Fast Sword might show impressive strength at lower levels, as one progresses beyond that stage, Dongyoung practitioners would suffer significant setbacks. Their techniques to wield Qi were far too rudimentary.
Yet, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna had reached an entirely different dimension compared to the other Sword Masters. Particularly, the Blade-less Technique I had just witnessed was a culmination of both attack and defense, and an elevation of intent.
Tap tap
“Ugh!”
“Ugh.”
I sparred sequentially with a dozen Sword Masters, ending up defeating all of them within fifty matches. Thankfully, using shinai meant I could do so without wounding anyone. Achieving a streak of 9 wins solidified my position, and soon I found myself facing Kamiizumi Nobutsuna at the training ground, both of us wielding our shinai.
“…….”
I stood across from him in silence, mulling things over, then said,
“It won’t do. I can’t find any openings.”
“Ha ha… looks like you still have a lot of potential left.”
“I’m not reckless enough to attempt any forbidden techniques, nor do I have confidence in breaking through your Blade-less Technique.”
If I improved my abilities through the Destruction Technique and Baek Woong Style, I might stand a chance. However, revealing my Lightning Technique to an expert like Kamiizumi Nobutsuna would definitely expose weaknesses and could lead to disaster. Besides, this spar was meant to assess my qualifications to teach the Thunder Shadow Step and the Soul Extinguishing Step.
Kamiizumi Nobutsuna chuckled lightly and said,
“You must be disappointed in the martial arts of Dongyoung, Lord Baek Woong.”
“Not at all. It’s people like you that elevate it.”
“Ha ha ha… Certainly, the martial arts of Dongyoung may not be on par with those from the continent’s esteemed schools. However, there are three martial lineages here that should not be underestimated.”
“Three lineages?”
Intrigued, I leaned in closer to hear what he had to say.
“First… is my New Shadow School.”
“I acknowledge that.”
“Second is the Two Heavens One Style of Miyamoto Musashi.”
“I think I’ve heard that name from the Twelve Rat Clan.”
From what I understood, he was hailed as the finest swordsman currently in Dongyoung, known for his mastery of Two Heavens One Style. It was only natural if he exceeded Kamiizumi Nobutsuna in strength.
As I responded, he gave a wry smile.
“He is a born-genius of extraordinary talent.”
“And the last, what is it?”
At this, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna’s expression turned serious.
“Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique.”
“Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique…?”
“It is said to be the supreme Fast Sword Technique that only the blind can master. While the identity of the current practitioner remains unknown, there exists a legend that whenever a master of the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique appears, the world gets stained with blood.”
I couldn’t help but chuckle.
“There are many such legends in the Central Plains. Besides, old legends can’t stand against the new, and often, they all end up breaking down pathetically.”
And indeed, that was true.
Throughout history, there have been countless top-notch martial arts techniques and concealed secrets that would occasionally appear in the martial world. People would panic each time, but in reality, the capabilities of martial arts largely depended on the practitioner’s own skill. Many of those who wielded ancient techniques would either dominate a region, creating a reputable school, content with living well, or get themselves killed for being cocky at the hands of a true master.
There had only ever been one exception of a technique so phenomenal that it shook the martial world— the martial arts of the White Lotus Sect Master.
Kamiizumi Nobutsuna shook his head.
“The Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique is something even the White Lotus Sect Master deemed ‘dangerous’! It is not to be taken lightly.”
“……!!”
Was it true that the White Lotus Sect Master had made such an evaluation?
Surprised, I looked at Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, who sighed deeply and then added,
“There was a time I was in the Ming Dynasty searching for the White Lotus Sect Master, claiming he had reached the peak of martial arts. I sought him out at the White Lotus Sect and had a personal meeting with him to discuss martial arts. At that time, he told me,
[If you wish to become strong as a person from Dongyoung, learn the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique. It is the most dangerous martial art in all the world.]
… Of course, I didn’t heed his words and returned to Dongyoung, practicing the Blade-less Technique instead. I always believed that it was the ultimate achievement to win without drawing a sword. Although my belief hasn’t changed, I must acknowledge that the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique is indeed a vicious form of swordplay.”
“…….”
I was taken aback.
Could it be that this man had met the White Lotus Sect Master during his martial training in the Ming Dynasty? And forget about the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique, this fact alone preoccupied my thoughts. I hastily asked him,
“Y-you’ve met the White Lotus Sect Master? What was he like?”
“I didn’t see his face or his attire. He primarily communicated behind me without ever raising his voice, using only Yihap Jeonseong to convey his thoughts.”
“Hmm…”
Not using his voice but relying solely on Yihap Jeonseong?
That hinted that the White Lotus Sect Master might have some compelling reason for his silence.
I took a mental note of that information and then said,
“Thank you. So, who might currently be practicing the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique?”
“I wouldn’t know. I’ve searched for decades, but have found no traces. No one aside from myself is even aware of whether or not the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique truly exists. It remains merely a phantom martial art.”
“Hmm…”
The White Lotus Sect Master wouldn’t have lied about bothering a warrior from Dongyoung. There must be a pride associated with being the world’s best. Though no one from Dongyoung seems to know anything about it, it’s possible that the White Lotus Sect Master might be the only one who knows its true nature.
‘I should ask other masters from the Central Plains about the Round Moon Heavenly Killing Technique.’
I felt my plans had been expanded further.
I concluded my discussions with the Sword Masters, saying,
“It seems that other than Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, you all have yet to grasp the essence of this technique. I will provide further guidance before introducing it to you.”
“Ugh…”
The Sword Masters looked visibly ashamed. It was understandable considering they had all been easily bested by a youthful teen like me while only Kamiizumi managed to save face. Yet for someone who had reached the extraordinary level of martial prowess like myself, they appeared to be mere children. I couldn’t help but smile wryly to myself.
‘If Lee Gwang or Jin So Cheong were here, you would all have died within three seconds…’
I spent another month teaching them about the functions of the Thunder Shadow Step and how to integrate footwork with swordsmanship. Occasionally, I dueled with Kamiizumi Nobutsuna using shinai; he was indeed an incredible master, as I found it impossible to penetrate his absolute defense when I refrained from using my lightning technique.
After a month, I confirmed that the Sword Masters could hold out against me for a full hundred seconds. Only then did I happily state,
“Now, I will pass on the Soul Extinguishing Step.”
My goal was to complete the dissemination of the Soul Extinguishing Step to them within a year. Following that, I’d discover the conditions for mastery and then learn those conditions myself! Each step I took was steadily paving the way to enhance my martial arts skills.
‘By the way, whatever happened to King of Gambling and Dongbang Mukyeol?’
Lost in thought, I used Illusionary Steps to return to the capital of Sichuan. I then visited Gaebang to inquire about their well-being.
“The King of Gambling hasn’t been found yet, and it seems that Dongbang Mukyeol has vanished beyond Nanman.”
“Beyond Nanman?”
“Further pursuit is impossible. He has escaped beyond the borders.”
With that, Master of Great Bell returned a hundred taels to me. It appeared he deemed it a half-failure. I returned the hundred taels and said,
“This isn’t over. I will come back later, so please continue tracking the movements of Dongbang Mukyeol and the King of Gambling.”
“What do you…”
“Depending on the information I obtain, I will give you an additional hundred taels later.”
“Understood.”
Once again, I returned to Dongyoung. There, Miho was lounging around, munching on grapes while giggling.
“You seem busier than a bee!”
“Can’t you help out a bit?”
Miho leapt up, singing cheerfully,
“Keep up the effort, keep up the effort~ Even with the strength of a child~”
“……”
So, you’re using the style of the ancient Kumiho to cheer me on, huh?
It took me about eight months to completely teach the Thunder Shadow Step to them. With their exceptional talents, mastering the deeper levels of this footwork was proving to be an uncomplicated task. Finally, I was ready to impart the essentials of the Soul Extinguishing Step and excitedly shared the key technique with them.
“Feel free to study it personally.”
Unlike before, I did not demonstrate it this time. After all, it was bound to turn into quite the comical spectacle.
Noticing their skills were gradually improving, the Sword Masters now followed my instructions without any complaints. I grew curious about how they would interpret the Soul Extinguishing Step and began waiting in anticipation.
The results came about a month later.
The first to visit me was, as expected, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, who entered and immediately stated,
“This is truly an astonishing technique.”
“You’ve mastered it?”
“Well… I’ve formulated a hypothesis, but I feel we should hear what the others have to say.”
Soon after, the Sword Masters began visiting one by one. They engaged in discussions about their impressions and insights on the Soul Extinguishing Step. Most were convinced that it was ultimately impossible to master, claiming such an nonsensical technique could not exist. However, one individual among them spoke up,
“… This seems to be a martial art related to Mental State.”
“Indeed.”
“Kamiizumi-sama. Have you had any revelations…?”
He gave a brief sigh and then turned to the individual,
“Yagyu Munenori. Show me the Soul Extinguishing Step you’ve learned.”
Swish swish
Whoosh!
“……!!”
I was astonished.
The warrior known as Yagyu Munenori had suddenly succeeded in executing the Soul Extinguishing Step! It was something I’d struggled to achieve, so I was utterly astonished. As the other Sword Masters watched in shock, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna affirmed,
“Just as I thought. That was it.”
“What do you mean?”
“Munenori. Your son, Yagyu Jubei, would undoubtedly excel in mastering it even better.”
At this, Munenori smiled wryly.
“Perhaps that may be the case.”
Kamiizumi Nobutsuna turned to me and said,
“The conclusion has been reached, Lord Baek Woong. We have uncovered the nature of the Soul Extinguishing Step.”
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