Third-rate Martial Family Becomes the Best Under Heaven - Chapter 37

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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Third-rate Martial Arts Family, Greatest Under Heaven – Episode 037
Time flows like water, never reversing course, always moving in one direction—yet its speed varies depending on countless factors.
Concentration, for instance.
With every ounce of my focus poured into a single step, my perception of time had slowed compared to ordinary moments.
‘One step, yet containing a thousand.’
I take a step forward.
From the moment a person begins to toddle, they take hundreds of millions of steps throughout their lifetime—such is the nature of walking.
But this step was different.
‘I must transform one into a thousand.’
One and a thousand can never be equal. In terms of magnitude alone, the difference between these two numbers is literally a thousandfold.
However.
What if I could divide one into a thousand parts, creating one of those thousand divisions?
‘At my current level… it’s impossible.’
The reason was simple.
I had witnessed the divine technique of Cheon-oe-cheon with my own eyes and stolen glimpses of its mysteries.
But Eum Hu’s realm was far too lofty for me to grasp everything in a single glance.
‘However… yes, ten should be possible.’
I do not yet understand the true essence of the divine method’s inner energy circulation.
Even my brother could not have stolen it without having learned it through the wooden puppets in Jeongeum-ogwan.
But now that I understand the form itself.
‘I can create it. My own step.’
I had extensive experience observing the forms of countless martial arts and devising corresponding methods of inner energy circulation to match them.
I possessed the capacity to create pathways of inner power based on Hwa-cheon-i-won-gong, connecting acupoint to acupoint to support my movements.
‘One step containing ten? No, that feels too much like mere imitation. Let me call it the Vessel Thousand Step instead.’
Vessel Thousand Step (器千步)—a step that molds a vessel to contain a thousand.
It was a stepping technique I had created on the spot, weaving together the mysteries I had stolen from witnessing Eum Hu’s One Step Thousand and the insights I had gained.
The moment I completed that single step.
“…!”
I felt a sense of satisfaction seeing Eum Hu’s eyes widen considerably.
‘Eum Hu, you may admire even more if you wish.’
The achievement, talent, and capability I had just displayed.
It was a divine technique that would astound even the Cheonmu-sip-jon, those who stand beyond the heavens in Cheon-oe-cheon itself.
“Since Eum Hu has graciously imparted teachings to those who come after, I have merely displayed my humble skills as befits a junior disciple. Does it meet your expectations?”
“….”
In this moment, Eum Hu was genuinely astonished.
‘Her innate talent has surpassed even my expectations.’
One Step Thousand (一步千)—containing a thousand in a single step.
Here, the thousand could represent a thousand variations.
It could represent a thousand advances.
Or it could represent a thousand footfalls.
What mattered was condensing a thousand li into a single step.
That was the very essence and profound mystery of Ilbo-cheon, the secret technique of Seong-eum Ok-ryeong-mun.
Three steps forward. In merely three strides, I had woven together the three transformations of Change, Illusion, and Motion—three thousand variations.
This was akin to the quintessence of Eum Hu’s enlightenment, infused with her understanding of the transformations of all things and the passage of time itself.
‘Merely a fragment, yet this child has clearly perceived my enlightenment. And she has even embodied it.’
They say even a dog can recite poetry after three years at a village school, but a dog is still a dog.
Could a dog truly master the Thousand Character Classic?
Impossible.
And if it were not the Thousand Character Classic that even five-year-old children learn, but the Four Books and Three Classics that burden even adults?
The gap between the Cheonmu-sip-jon and ordinary martial artists was precisely that vast.
What then of the distance between them and an eight-year-old child?
“Little one. I have no choice but to concede.”
Moments before, Yang Hwi and Eum Hu had made a tacit wager.
Eum Hu wished to thoroughly control her disciple and raise her as a worthy successor befitting Seong-eum Ok-ryeong-mun.
Yang Hwi sought to remain at the Main Residence, emphasizing that despite being a disciple, she was of the secular world.
“Your talent, little one, is such that I find myself willing to set aside my own intentions to claim it.”
Eum Hu had demonstrated the divine technique Ihyeong-hwan-wi precisely to break Yang Hwi’s will.
Yet Yang Hwi had stood against Eum Hu and displayed her own talent, forcing Eum Hu herself to yield.
‘I have won victory against one of the Cheonmu-sip-jon.’
Yet even so, I felt no desire to be arrogant or boastful.
The only emotion I felt now was admiration—for Eum Hu, who had woven all things into three steps, my master.
I performed the fist salute with proper formality and respect toward Eum Hu, as one would toward a father.
“I am merely grateful that my master regards this disciple with such favor.”
I addressed her as master and referred to myself as disciple.
A thread of affection blossomed within Eum Hu’s heart.
Her admiration of the talent was deepened by such courteous bearing.
“Confident yet not arrogant. Truly, you lack nothing of what should be called a martial artist’s nature.”
“Having glimpsed the heavens, how could I hold my head high? I shall treasure this too as your teaching and engrave it upon my heart.”
The corners of Eum Hu’s mouth lifted slightly higher.
‘Indeed, I continue to feel it. This child speaks remarkably well.’
Sweet words, yet not honeyed flattery or false charm.
Not cunning flattery or servile praise, yet pleasant to the ear—simply enjoyable to hear.
Eum Hu’s heart opened a little further.
“Very well, little one. I shall grant you a command.”
“I receive your command, Master.”
“I shall grant you the right to descend from Gok-ryeol Mountain, where I dwell, whenever you wish. However.”
Yang Hwi gazed steadily at Eum Hu, waiting for what would come next.
“That right may only be exercised with both my permission and that of your senior sister Seolha.”
In other words, respect your master and do not look down upon your senior sister.
In effect, I could remain at the Main Residence and seek out Eum Hu only when instruction was needed.
“Your generosity knows no bounds, Master. I am truly grateful.”
Thus, teacher and disciple exchanged smiles as their eyes met for the first time.
Meanwhile.
Jegal Seon gazed at Yang Hwi with genuine admiration.
‘At merely eight years old, he possesses the qualities to be called a prodigy. No—he transcends that, bearing the caliber to discuss supremacy under heaven itself.’
It was said that Xiang Yu, the Hegemon-King of Western Chu, declared at age eight that he would master the arts to defeat ten thousand men.
In Jegal Seon’s assessment, the bearing Yang Hwi had just displayed rivaled that very legend.
A presence no ordinary person could ever manifest. Only one blessed with heaven-sent genius could display such a countenance.
‘Had I accepted when my brother asked me to take that child as my disciple… I would have brought shame upon myself.’
That child was far beyond what I could contain.
Who could dare stand before the Cheonmu-sip-jon and refuse to bend their will?
Though I am the young master of the great Jegal Family and take pride in that fact, I have never once bent Eum Hu’s will to my own.
And I felt no shame or humiliation in that truth.
Because it was only natural.
When Eum Hu displayed the Ihyeong-hwan-wi, I could only fall into awe and wonder, unable even to attempt grasping its mysteries with my eyes.
Because I could not see it, and I had no right to.
‘That child is different. Truly different. My brother—the Baek Family—has genuinely harbored a dragon.’
What heights will that child reach when he becomes a master of learning?
What of his prime years? His thirties? His forties and beyond?
Jegal Seon was certain, and he could declare it without hesitation.
‘Cheonmu-sip-jon… No. The greatest under heaven.’
The Cheonmu-sip-jon, deemed to have ascended beyond the heavens themselves, refers to the ten strongest under heaven.
Yet that child will transcend those ten to become the supreme one under heaven.
…provided he does not break before reaching that pinnacle.
‘Yang Hwi. I believe I have found a way to repay the debt I owe you.’
Upon returning to the Main Residence, Jegal Seon resolved to immediately begin intelligence operations centered on the Baek Manor and Yang Hwi.
He would spread the names of the Baek Family and its eldest son far and wide as that child desired, yet ensure others harbored no suspicion.
So that child would not break prematurely under the weight of attention.
‘…And beyond that.’
Jegal Seon gazed at his daughter, who had scurried over and was now patting Yang Hwi.
Though at that age, playing with friends naturally takes precedence over one’s father, and is far more enjoyable, seeing his child—who had clung to his embrace mere moments ago—behave thus stirred a pang of melancholy.
‘Still, whoever’s daughter she may be, she is truly lovely.’
No man, regardless of age, could help but be captivated by her.
‘When one finds a dragon, one must nurture it.’
A contented smile graced Jegal Seon’s face.

* * *
Seolha remained on Gok-ryeol Mountain with Eum Hu, while I returned to Baek Manor with Jegal Seon.
The moment I reported the events of the past fortnight, Baek Manor erupted into chaos, and a family council was immediately convened.
“So, Hwi.”
Baek Moo-ryang, who had even broken his seclusion upon hearing my news, continued with a voice still trembling.
“You’re telling me you’ve become a disciple of Pacheon Eum Hu, one of the Cheonmu-sip-jon?”
“Yes.”
Since returning to the Main Residence, this was precisely the thirty-seventh time I’d heard this question, so my tone had grown rather flat.
Yet Baek Moo-ryang, having heard the same answer exactly thirty-seven times, showed the identical reaction once more.
Which is to say, he was overjoyed beyond measure.
“Truly wonderful. Truly wonderful indeed!”
Months ago, Baek Moo-ryang had noticed my talent and felt a deep sense of inadequacy.
As the Family Head of Baek, there was nothing he could offer his son.
Yet this son of his, to whom he’d given nothing, brought back wealth and connections, and now had even found a master on his own.
And not just any master—one of the ten greatest martial experts under heaven!
“My congratulations, Family Head. And to you, Young Master Hwi. With this, we may now claim one of the Cheonmu-sip-jon, Pacheon Eum Hu herself, as our family’s backing.”
All those present burst into admiration upon hearing Han Supervisor’s words.
“In that case, we need not worry about conflict with Gyojin-bang. For now, we’ve been safe thanks to the Jegal Family’s presence, but future troubles were a concern.”
“Gwak Moon speaks true. Heheheh.”
“How would Gyojin-bang dare challenge the dignity of one of the Cheonmu-sip-jon? Truly reassuring.”
Laughter filled the council chamber.
Yet rather than be swept up in the mood, I observed those laughing before turning my gaze to Baek Moo-ryang.
He wore a smile, but there was something troubling in his expression.
‘It seems Father is thinking the same thing.’
I raised my hand, and Baek Moo-ryang’s attention turned toward me.
“Speak, Hwi.”
“Father, I believe it would be best to keep the fact that I’ve become the Master’s disciple a secret.”
“Why do you think so?”
“It’s simple. The losses outweigh the gains.”
I desired for Baek Manor to seize dominion over all of Wuzhou within ten years, transcending Ak-an County.
And for a martial family treading the white path to expand its influence, there must be proper justification.
‘We need fools who underestimate us and come charging in, so we can crush them and claim the spoils. If everyone cowers in fear and hides away, that becomes troublesome instead.’
Though it would be awkward to state such intentions openly.
So I offered a different reason instead.
“First, the Master may not tolerate the use of her name for prestige, and second, our family might draw the attention of major dark path factions.”
Upon hearing my opinion, Baek Moo-ryang stroked his chin and nodded.
“Your words are sound. This father also had reservations. What of your thoughts, Brother?”
Jegal Seon, who was attending the council due to his deep involvement in these matters, voiced his agreement.
“I too believe it would be troublesome in many ways if word spread that the Master has taken a disciple. Besides, we intend to keep Seolha’s discipleship hidden for some time as well.”
In truth, Jegal Seon harbored an even stronger desire for my talents to remain concealed for as long as possible.
Only then could the Jegal Family nurture talent with greater certainty.
“Since Elder Brother speaks thus, all matters related to Pacheon Eum Hu shall be kept in strictest confidence.”
“Understood.”
“We obey the Family Head’s command.”
“Then the next matter at hand….”
As Baek Moo-ryang shuffled through the papers, Yang Hwi raised his hand once more.
“Father. I have a request to make.”
“What might that be?”
“Would it be permissible for me to leave the family for about a month to travel abroad?”
“Hmm? You’ve only just returned from Gok-ryeol Mountain less than a day ago.”
“I don’t intend to depart immediately—I plan to rest for several days before setting out.”
“State your reasons.”
“Previously, during a meeting, I mentioned that the Main Residence must cultivate talented individuals. There is one such talent I observed during my time as a beggar whom I wish to bring back. Additionally….”
“Additionally?”
“I intend to stop by Nanchang to visit the Baek-ji Antique Bookstore and check on the progress of our contract. Should any profits have been generated, I will collect them. Therefore, I believe I require one escort.”
“Oho!”
Han Supervisor’s eyes instantly narrowed into golden slits as he curled his index and thumb into a circle.
“Family Head! Young Master Hwi’s reasons are all of great importance—please grant your permission! What are you doing, Gu Ak? Why don’t you volunteer as escort at once!”
“M-me, sir?”
Han Supervisor slapped Gu Ak’s back repeatedly as he stood bewildered.
“Money, man! Money! When Young Master Hwi—blessed with the fortune of a financial genius—ventures out and returns, money appears! Then you, Gu Ak, shall be liberated from all your tedious duties!”
“Ohhhhh!”
Gu Ak immediately clasped his fists in salute toward Baek Moo-ryang.
“Family Head! This humble Gu shall accompany Young Master Hwi and ensure his safe passage!”
With Gu Ak’s enthusiasm reaching such heights, Baek Moo-ryang found it difficult to object on grounds of concern for his son.
Besides, he would soon need to enter seclusion again.
“Very well. Hwi, but you must exercise caution.”
“Of course, Father.”
As Yang Hwi bowed his head, he briefly recalled a moment from his past life.
-Why do you wish to know about this younger brother’s past?
-It’s nothing—just begging for scraps before being kidnapped and raised as an assassin.
-Anyway, blast it! You’ve drunk all the wine alone again! Damn it all!
Chu Dal, Chu Dal. Written with the character for “pursue” and the character for “water rat”—Chu Dal.
I’ll go fetch this brother of mine.
Yang Hwi’s lips curved upward in a faint smile.

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Novels. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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