Chapter 560
Words could be expressed in countless unique ways.
The interpretation of words could vary with the situation, hence the importance of careful articulation.
Unfortunately,
A certain race in this world often misconstrued even the most eloquent language.
What?
The light in Chung Myungs eyes intensified.
Are you implying these youngsters are ridiculously weak?
did he possess some sort of verbal filter in his ears?
He surely heard the same thing, but how did he end up coming to that conclusion?
I didnt mean it like that
Then?
The difference between those who traveled to the North Sea and the rest of us
Thats exactly what I meant, too!
I said no, you bastard! Just because we are stronger doesnt mean they got weaker!
Oh, so Sasuk says hes pretty good? Incredible, our Dong-ryong has matured greatly. Hes even openly boasting now.
Ugh. Mymy stomach
Baek Cheon gripped his stomach as he staggered backward.
Ah, it isnt even like his face is white. He is just without blood.
This is too hard.
Yoon Jong and Jo Gul glanced at Baek Cheon with sorrowful eyes.
Chung Myung snorted, crossing his legs.
Actually its not so surprising.
Hm?
Its about that time.
He began to mumble words they couldnt decipher, resting his chin on his hand.
The others allowed him time to think, but alas, he did not seem to value the opportunity.
What? Stop thinking in silence! Speak! Use words!
Chung Myungs cheeks quivered slightly in irritation. But even in his direct gaze, Jo Gul remained defiant.
Why?
Forget about it.
Why bother explaining?
Its not like theyd understand.
Its because I dont understand either.
Jo Guls brows knitted together in confusion. Despite their varying experiences, it appeared that no one could comprehend why such a vast divide had been created.
I scrutinized their training once more, and it seemed impeccable. Truthfully, even Un Geom Sasuk isnt the sort whod allow them to slack off.
Indeed, the Sasuks have implemented nocturnal training to evade us. but it appears to be yielding no results.
Chung Myung spat out these words, a despondent expression on his face.
What? Are you trying to boast about your seniority, Sahyung?
it isnt like that, you brat!
Jo Gul bellowed with visible embarrassment.
You know as well as I do that its not that simple.
A smile graced Chung Myungs face at the grave tone of voice.
He could clearly discern why these kids, who would usually be content encouraging further training for the youth, had uttered such sentiments.
They are beginning to see the bigger picture.
Until now, to them, training meant self-development. It was about developing discipline and driving oneself forward.
Everyone knew about the incidents that occurred in the North Sea Ice Palace. Yet, that knowledge alone was not enough.
The case was not different in the North Sea.
Despite having suffered greatly due to the elders, without the involvement of the North Sea Ice Palace, Chung Myungs party would not have been able to thwart the Demonic Sect.
The Heavenly Demon might not have been resurrected, but after that, they might have needed to stay vigilant, monitoring the chaotic actions of the Demonic Sect, who were ravaging the North Sea while on the verge of running out of troops.
Alternatively, they would have to flee to the Central Plains.
Looking at the worried expressions of the youthful group, Chung Myung simply shrugged. Then Baek Cheon spoke up with a low voice.
Chung Myung.
Hmm?
What do you mean, the time has come?
As I said, its time to proceed further.
Proceed further?
I really mean it.
Baek Cheons eyes widened slightly at Chung Myungs words.
In practice?
Chung Myung gave a slight nod.
Its as Jo Gul sahyung said. The sahyungs havent done any of the intensive training we did on our way to the North Sea.
True.
Yoon Jong chimed in.
I nearly broke my back pulling the cart.
If youre getting tired from pulling a cart, you might as well train to be a dog or a cow! Then youd be the worlds strongest cow!
There is a distinct difference for one reason. Have you all ever experienced a true battle of life and death?
Baek Cheon asked, seemingly perplexed.
Are we not practicing the same martial arts of Mount Hua?
With a mere wooden sword?
I have no choice but to explain. Sasuk has experienced both. If you treat a battle like a mere sword dance and repeat it a thousand times, would you gain as much as you would from an encounter with the high priest?
That wouldnt be possible.
Baek Cheon stated it as if he hadnt given it much thought.
Those who hadnt witnessed the chaos firsthand could never comprehend it. There was a stark contrast between conceptualizing a high priest and actually confronting one.
How could they convey that lethal intent that was literally crushing their bodies?
Baek Cheon recalled that moment, his voice heavy with emotion.
Those who havent experienced it dont understand it.
Correct.
Chung Myung nodded in agreement.
Martial arts possess a mysterious aspect, some parts of which cant be logically explained. No matter how often I spar with a real sword, theres always a fundamental doubt tucked away in my heart.
Youre not going to kill us, are you?
Rightah. Did you seriously think I would harm you?
huh.
This man was more intimidating than the high priest.
Hmm. So, youre suggesting that practice wasnt sufficient?
Baek Cheon nodded as if he had finally comprehended.
Upon reflection.
In truth, aside from them, the disciples of Mount Hua had never experienced a real fight, much less a war.
In the martial arts tournament, all except for a few disciples from the Chung generation and Chung Myung were effortlessly defeated, not even given a chance to show their full potential. Only a small group of participants remained.
Though they did experience genuine combat during the Ten Thousand People Clan incident, it would be irrational to claim that they had become acclimated to warfare based on that event alone.
But, does the experience of battle really make a difference?
Its much like the game of Go.
eh?
Baek Cheon regarded Chung Myung with a look of disbelief.
When youre training, the steps are clear. You can demonstrate your skills freely. But what happens when actual stakes are involved?
the hands begin to tremble.
Yet, life is more precious than any stakes.
Chung Myung stated coldly.
Those who frequently wager on Go can drastically improve their abilities. However, it goes beyond simply being able to showcase these skills appropriately.
Hmm.
Jo Gul, who had been attentively listening, questioned Yoon Jong.
Isnt it adequate to ascend a cliff without a rope?
Isnt there usually a safety net underneath for protection?
Jo Gul sighed and agreed with a nod.
Everyone now had a clear understanding. After experiencing actual combat, they all felt it.
Its definitely different.
Um, a lot.
Chung Myung continued to speak with composure.
This is why the martial arts sect sends warriors of moderate skill to Kangho. If training is truly effective, then those who train diligently within the sect should surpass those who wander and are reputed to be strong. But in actuality, this is not the case.
It is known as the Kangho-trip.
Yes.
Yet, its odd Ive experienced difficulties before, but never felt I had made significant progress.
Sasuk.
Huh?
Sasuk has matured, I am telling you! matured!
When you brew it with quality ingredients and let it age, it tastes better! If you use inferior components, it will spoil! Back then, Sasuk couldnt even generate a single penny. We need to sell it!
Ugh
Jo Gul and Yoon Jong discreetly seized Baek Cheon, who was shivering.
Calm down now, sasuk.
Weve been overlooked for more than just a day or two.
Im doing this because its not a rarity, brat!
Why are you angry at me
Jo Gul, who was hit for no reason, moped.
However!
Baek Cheon addressed Chung Myung, saying,
Then, to enhance everyones skills, we must subject them to actual combat.
Yes.
being in the real world has its own set of risks.
Its still better than being late.
Chung Myung lowered his voice to speak.
If we retreat from fights out of fear, it could lead us to something we cannot avoid. When it becomes too late, our regrets will be pointless.
Everyone present understood what this unavoidable thing was.
The Demonic Sect.
To safeguard the Sahyungs and Sajaes, what would happen if the showdown with the Demonic Sect came while they were defending those within Mount Hua?
Could those who have never faced actual combat endure the fire of the Demonic Sect?
No matter how much they contemplated it, it seemed challenging.
I understand.
Baek Cheon nodded.
I will discuss this matter with the sect leader.
Yes.
Seeing Baek Cheons resolute face, Jo Gul clenched his fists.
But, Sahyung.
Hmm?
Engaging in a real battle means that all the Sasuk and Sahyungs will have to step into the Kangho, correct?
Yes.
Is that alright?
Yoon Jong obviously had his concerns.
This isnt something to take lightly.
Regardless of their abilities, arent these the prideful Sahyung and Sajaes renowned for their superior attitudes? And if so many of these individuals join the Kagho, wouldnt it create a significant effect?
Even if it is real, wouldnt they have to fight? Theyll likely start each fight?
Why are you so concerned? All they have to do is beat a bandit and shake them off
Shh! Quiet! The Green Forest King is here. He might hear us
I heard it.
See, he heard us huh?
Baek Cheon, startled, spun around. A pair of familiar eyes watched him through the small window.
I heard it.
Baek Cheon gave a light cough.
How should he respond to this
Thatthere is a window, so it isnt technically eavesdropping
Whats with this bandit talk? Were just looking at the past.
Right.
Indeed, there was no issue there.
But wasnt it a bit too convenient to switch between a bandit and a martial artist whenever it suited him?
Im So-Byeong entered the room, shouting at Chung Myung.
No! I was wondering where the person crafting the pill had disappeared to! What? You wish to fight bandits?
Hmm, can rice transform into corn merely by asserting so? It still needs to be cooked.
Then cook it! Cough! Cough! Cough! Ugh, m-my heart
Upon seeing Im So-Byeongs face pale significantly, Baek Cheon started to shudder.
.It doesnt appear to be an act. Are you sure you dont need a medical checkup?
No, I had a cursory look already. It seems serious.
Oh, is that the case?
Huh, its not quite at the third stage, but a little beyond. About three and a half now, I think?
This man was truly despicable.
Chung Myung.
Huh?
Before his condition deteriorates further, just prepare one pill.
Tsk, your incessant nagging might just be the death of me.
Chung Myung shot a glance at Im So-Byeong.
Alright Ill make that pill.
Yes, yes! Please, do make it! How could I abandon my bandits and stay here for too long?
Thats precisely my point.
Uh?
Do any unruly bandits reside nearby? Places where your rule isnt respected, and force may be needed?
You impudent child!
How dare you address the Green Forest King with such insolence!
There are statements you can make and statements you cant!
The disciples of Mount Hua panicked, attempting to stop the outspoken youth. But to their surprise, Im So-Byeong did not react as angrily as theyd feared.
Instead
Ah there might be some.
Uh?
There were?
Why would that be?
Will you deal with them?
H-hold on!
Baek Cheon voiced his fear.
Is this really alright? Youre still the Green Forest King; do you intend to attack the bandits?
They are bandits.
Indeed. They are bandits, after all. The world wont suffer just because a few of them are gone.
Baek Cheons face quivered in response.
These lunatic bastards.
No, why did bandits and Taoists mesh so well now? Why!
The idea is appealing. It deals with a few vexing issues for me!
Isnt it beneficial for your children to get trained?
No, its more about earning money.
Money?
Chung Myung gave Im So-Byeong a knowing smile.
How much would you pay?
Ill offer a discount. A cheap one.
Im So-Byeongs complexion turned ashen.
Money?
Yes.
You took my land and money then, not even leaving me the pill; what could I possibly offer you now?
The circumstances are different now. Hehe.
Chung Myung gave a bright laugh, adding,
Isnt that how deals usually work?
Im So-Byeong covered his mouth, remaining silent.
Tremble.
Euk?
Oh my!
He didnt cough this time, but blood began to trickle from his mouth.
A-are you alright?
Surely, hes not going to die like this?
Im So-Byeong, who had stopped the blood from flowing, spoke.
I
You?
will cure this disease. You damned people of Mount Hua.
Thud.
At those words, Im So-Byeong collapsed.
Like a patient no, as Baek Cheon looked, he saw the man fall and begin to convulse.
go and call Soso.
Yes, Sasuk.
And tell her to bring some stomach medicine on her way back.
Yes, Sasuk.
Baek Cheon felt a strange sympathy for Im So-Byeong.
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