Chapter 223: Chapter 223

Heavenly Realm

The Dharma Protector of the Water God Lineage, Dokgo Jun, concealed his true appearance behind a golden dragon mask. I found myself curious about what lay underneath.

‘I’ve never seen his bare face due to that mask.’

There was something about the mask that evoked fear and intimidation in others. Just as I was pondering who Dokgo Jun really was, the Sword Demon spoke up.

“What brings you all the way here?”

This time, Dokgo Jun replied without using the Six Harmony Transcendence.

“I noticed that the Sect Leader did not attend the recent Assembly of the Eight Demons.”

His unmasked voice was somewhat soft but undeniably masculine. He also spoke with a tone that reflected politeness and formality. The Sword Demon nodded gravely.

“I had personal matters of great importance to attend to, so I couldn’t make it.”

“Our White Lotus Sect is already aware that the Leader of Shadowless Gate is the true head that governs the Central Plains Martial Sects. Therefore, without you, the Assembly held no real significance.”

“……”

“That’s why I’ve come personally.”

The Sword Demon looked around suspiciously before asking,

“Are you here to subdue me by force?”

“Today, I have no such intention. I simply wish to inquire about your reasons.”

“What reasons are you referring to?”

“I want to know why you were absent due to personal affairs.”

Dokgo Jun’s tone bore almost no hint of arrogance or domineering attitude. Compared to other Dharma Protectors like Han Baek-ryeong or Yong Bi-cheon, he seemed exceptionally meek. It was my first time witnessing a Dharma Protector speak in such a gentle manner.

The Sword Demon answered,

“I discovered the Divine Arts Technique and was delayed in my training.”

“The Divine Arts Technique…?”

“For a martial artist, martial arts are more important than life itself. However, that’s not a reason to notify the other Eight Demons, is it?”

Following that, the Sword Demon performed a Martial Arts Technique.

“If we offended the sentiments of the White Lotus Sect, I apologize, but please be understanding.”

“……”

Dokgo Jun fell silent for some time. Then, he looked at me standing beside the Sword Demon and asked,

“Who is this boy?”

“This is the new Dharma Protector of the sect. His name is Baek Woong.”

“Indeed, a Peerless Talent. Congratulations to the Sect Leader on his good fortune.”

“Thank you.”

With arms crossed, Dokgo Jun continued,

“Is this Divine Arts Technique related to the boy?”

“That’s a separate matter. I happened to acquire the Ultimate Technique from the Ten Thousand Kills, and Baek is a disciple of a former connection.”

“Hard to believe.”

“Please set aside your doubts. We do not have the audacity to oppose the White Lotus Sect.”

The Sword Demon seemed to be skillfully confusing the Dharma Protector by skillfully mixing truth and deception. Although it was true he had learned the Divine Arts Technique, he wanted to divert attention from other elements. After all, having the legendary Sword Demon act with such humility would definitely be regarded with esteem by a Dharma Protector.

Dokgo Jun then said,

“Very well. Then I shall simply state my purpose.”

“I’ll listen.”

“Our White Lotus Sect has been coiled up with ambitions for a long time. We intend to announce our intentions to the world soon, and we hope the Sect Leader and the Eight Demons can take the lead.”

Hearing this, the Sword Demon let out a short sigh.

“Are you hoping for my submission?”

“I assure you, I will not become a hindrance to your future endeavors. Just recognize that you are now allies of the White Lotus Sect.”

“……”

Though he was being indirect, his intentions were crystal clear.

The White Lotus Sect was attempting to take control of the Central Plains Martial Sects and the Eight Demons!

In name, they would be allies, but practically, the Eight Demons would become subservient to the White Lotus Sect.

‘Perhaps the intention was to gather the Eight Demons at the Assembly for their consent, but the crucial Sword Demon didn’t attend, prompting the Dharma Protector to come and speak directly.’

The Sword Demon was clever enough to have understood the meaning behind these words long ago. After contemplating in silence, he said,

“You could have sent a messenger; why come in person?”

“Because we share some connection, so consider this a form of courtesy.”

“… What does the White Lotus Sect desire? Unified Martial World?”

The Sword Demon’s question prompted Dokgo Jun‘s reply.

“That’s not a difficult ambition. However, the leader seeks more than that.”

“What do you mean by that…?”

“First, provide me with a clear answer.”

Swish…

The Sword Demon deliberately drew his sword with an audible sound. Although he could have drawn it silently without a trace, he chose to make a sound. With a sly smile, he said,

“Before we discuss, would you allow me to exchange a hundred moves?”

“……”

“I imagine you would like to see first-hand what the Divine Arts Technique entails.”

Dokgo Jun appeared taken aback by the request.

“This isn’t a life-and-death duel, is it?”

“Of course not! How could I foolishly challenge a Dharma Protector? It’s merely my pursuit of martial arts—I wish to understand the higher realms of combat.”

“In that case, I shall gladly engage.”

Swish…

Dokgo Jun uncrossed his arms and seemed to gather the energy of martial arts into his stance. A formidable aura emanated from his body, indicating he regarded the Sword Demon with seriousness, despite being a Dharma Protector.

‘Yong Bi-cheon underestimated me, but not this one…’

Normally, someone who had defeated an opponent in fifty moves would not be so cautious against them. The Dharma Protector of the Water God Lineage, Dokgo Jun, was a prudent character, as evidenced by his lack of underestimation. Furthermore, it indicated that he sensed something different about the current Sword Demon.

The Sword Demon took the stance of Midstance, a flawless posture with no visible openings, then suddenly lunged at Dokgo Jun.

“Let’s begin!”

Clash!!

The first clash was a conflict between the Sword Flames and Hand Pressure. The deep blue flames unfurled from the Sword Demon‘s sword and collided with the powerful energy rebounded from Dokgo Jun’s left guard, resulting in an explosion. The Qi shook the earth.

‘Explosion?!’

I was startled by the initial exchange. Typically, the flames produced by a sword would not compare to fully developed energy. One would either be massively pushed back, consumed, or thrown off balance. The notion of an explosion suggested that the power behind the Sword Demon’s flames was on par with Dokgo Jun’s defenses.

Following that, the Sword Demon unleashed five techniques in rapid succession while Dokgo Jun began utilizing an incredibly unique footwork I had never seen before. It was as if his body transformed into water, fluidly flowing with remarkable flexibility and speed.

Wham-wham-wham!

I watched the duel unfold from the side, swallowing hard. I had already enhanced my sight using my internal energy but still could grasp barely 30% of their exchanges.

‘This is too profound…!!’

The Sword Demon’s swordplay resembled the Shadowless Soul-Removing Sword Technique, but it seemed to incorporate elements from the techniques I had taught him—like Seizing the Sky Sword and Heavenly Crane Sword. Yet within it, the adapted, profound variations went beyond my comprehension.

What amazed me most was Dokgo Jun. If I were in his position, I wouldn’t even last against the Sword Demon’s third technique, let alone the subsequent variations, but Dokgo Jun stood firm, moving with calm precision, countering each move effortlessly. This meant he could perceive every technique and variation the Sword Demon employed.

Truly exceptional masters!

Bam!

The Sword Demon used Mysterious Heaven’s Five Divine Technique to launch two strands of powerful energy, but Dokgo Jun used the soft Gentle Fist to disperse the energy. After exchanging several more techniques, Dokgo Jun said with intrigue,

“You have grown at least two-fold since our last meeting.”

“However, your capabilities remain hidden.”

“This only intensifies my desire to recruit the Sect Leader.”

At this moment, Dokgo Jun suddenly gripped his fist tightly with one hand.

“This is getting exciting. Now, I shall also use my Secret Technique.”

“That’s what I’ve been hoping for.”

Whoosh! Whoosh!

In that instant, I believed a massive explosion would erupt from Dokgo Jun’s body. But in reality, it was just him releasing the trapped energy, bursting forth with tremendous power.

“……!!”

However, at that moment, I felt breathless, my muscles tensing. This was because the explosive power he released far surpassed my maximum energy threshold. Dokgo Jun’sHeavenly Spirit Pill clearly showcased what it meant to utilize an unbounded internal power!

The Sword Demon seemed to hold steady against that pressure, not budging. He glared fiercely at Dokgo Jun then promptly thrust his sword forward.

The darkness cleaved apart. The Sword Demon’s quick sword action dexterously pierced time itself, rushing toward Dokgo Jun’s throat in an instant. However, both could utilize the Mind Control Technique, which meant Dokgo Jun was also already executing his defensive stance.

Ping!

Dokgo Jun’s index finger flicked against the tip of the Sword Demon’s sword, sending him spinning through the air, managing five rotations before stabilizing himself. Although he regained his balance swiftly, Dokgo Jun followed with a barrage of thirty-six energy strikes, leaving the Sword Demon bewildered.

Kaboom! Kaboom! Bang!

At that moment—I lost track of both of their movements. It seemed as if they were darting around at an immense speed, creating a whirlwind of energies like a Sword Qi tempest. But each of their actions was so rapid and variable that my ability to perceive them simply didn’t measure up!

‘Monsters…!’

I trembled from head to toe. Even though I had become far more accustomed to Mind Techniques and Mind Control Technique, the mystical realm in which they stood was invisible to me. I could only vaguely sense the crucial aspects amidst their chaotic exchanges. If I were to jump in, I would suffer a fatal injury within a matter of seconds!

Whip!

The Sword Demon’sEnergy Manipulation Sword resounded in the air. Unlike before, he seemed capable of channeling three manifestations of it, apart from the one real sword he wielded, miraculously creating illusory swords with his mind. With a flick of his finger, those illusions raced through the air at incredible speed, distorting space itself.

Crash!

It felt like hundreds of rays came raining down. In an instant, a radius of twenty feet was obliterated beneath the whirlwind of Sword Qi, likely a blow no human could withstand. However, the Dharma Protector of the Water God Lineage, Dokgo Jun, casually evaded the attack, stretching out his left guard into the void.

Water God Lineage

Secret Techniquen/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Light Sphere

Murmuring Dokgo Jun unleashed his Secret Technique, the Light Sphere, at the Sword Demon. This was Dokgo Jun‘s first display of the Water God Lineage’s ultimate technique. Realizing this was arguably the most powerful strike thus far, the Sword Demon rapidly raised his aura, preparing to employ the Energy Manipulation Sword.

“Whoo!”

Thud!

Crash!

The Light Sphere grazed past at the sound of three successive impacts. While it may have sounded almost laughably weak, the Sword Demon was clearly struggling, his back and sides heaving intensely. The sweat rolling down his forehead indicated that he was expending every bit of energy just to withstand such an attack!

Something about the Light Sphere hinted at some hidden danger.

Once Dokgo Jun landed back on the ground, he said,

“Quite impressive. You’re the first, excluding the Sect Leader and Dharma Protector, to have resisted the Light Sphere.”

“Whoo…”

The Sword Demon

breathed heavily and replied earnestly,

“You’ve certainly toyed with me.”

“Isn’t this a friendly duel?”

“Indeed…”

I widened my eyes upon hearing their exchange.

‘You let him off the hook?!’

In the midst of such intense and high-level combat, Dokgo Jun had not gone all out?! If the Sword Demon’s claim held any weight, then Dokgo Jun was undoubtedly a monster among monsters!

I became certain of the following:

‘Dokgo Jun surpasses the Dharma Protector of the Water God Lineage, Yong Bi-cheon, by at least one, if not two, levels!’

Even at my lower level, I could palpably sense the hierarchy. What I had just witnessed was not merely a difference in internal power; it also underscored the elevation of Dokgo Jun’s martial understanding.

Even if it were Ikwang or Jin So-cheong, they wouldn’t fare any differently against Dokgo Jun! The Dharma Protector of the Water God Lineage was on another level altogether!

Dokgo Jun then suggested,

“I believe the Sect Leader has exceptional talent. What do you say about joining our White Lotus Sect?”

“What do you mean?”

“If you were to join the Water God Lineage, you would surpass other Dharma Protectors within ten years.”

“……!!”

It was an unexpected proposal.

The Sword Demon appeared notably shaken, letting out a soft sigh. This was hardly surprising; having faced Dokgo Jun’s prowess firsthand, he found Mountains appeal hard to resist. However, he soon lowered his sword and replied,

“I acknowledge that the Water God Lineage possesses remarkable martial arts. If they’re not exposed to the Twelve Principles of martial techniques, it’s likely no one in the world could contend.”

“That’s true.”

The Sword Demon looked confidently at Dokgo Jun and said,

“But as a member of my clan, I wish to elevate my own martial arts to ultimate supremacy rather than simply mastering someone else’s.”

“I see… That’s a pity. I consider your martial prowess to be among the best, second only to our Sect Leader.”

With a bitter response, Dokgo Jun continued,

“Now, please provide me with an answer. Will you side with our White Lotus Sect?”

“I will.”

“That’s what I hoped to hear.”

Dokgo Jun spun around gracefully then said to the Sword Demon,

“Next time you have another thought, do consider visiting the Water God Lineage! I’ll provide you with a fine gift.”

Whoosh!

Soon after, Dokgo Jun soared into the sky, moving at least ten times faster than the bearers who used to transport the Sect Leader’s palanquin at Huang Shan. It was clear he wasn’t merely walking on air but using a legendary technique of martial arts known as Sky Dancing Technique! Dokgo Jun’s internal power seemed to have transcended the human realm by several degrees.

Swish…

Once Dokgo Jun disappeared, the mist that had enveloped the area gradually dissipated as if a Water Dragon had passed through. The Sword Demon sheathed his sword and sighed,

“We’ve come through with our lives.”

“……”

“What are you waiting for? Let’s head back to our training now.”

Feeling downcast, I mumbled,

“Is it truly possible to defeat such a monster by practicing the Seizing the Sky Sword or Heavenly Crane Sword?”

At my question, the Sword Demon chuckled softly and replied,

“I believe it’s possible. I don’t think today’s loss was solely due to martial prowess, to be honest.”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s a matter of expertise. That fellow has spent years cultivating the ultimate martial arts while I have only learned the fundamentals you passed on a year ago. If I keep researching diligently, I might catch up.”

“I see!”

The Sword Demon was not disheartened at all. Instead, it seemed he discovered clues that could help him when feeling the gap in levels. Encouraged, I clenched my fist, and the Sword Demon looked somewhat troubled.

“Well… even if I catch up on martial arts, there’s no way to bridge the gap of unfathomable internal power.”

“It’s too freakish.”

“Well, if that’s the case, I might have to seek help from others to enhance my level.”

“Help from others? Who do you mean…?”

With the following words from the Sword Demon, I realized that our future plans would change dramatically.

“Let’s pay a visit to the Wudang Sect’s Ming Long-za.”