Chapter 228 – Treasured Sword

A soft hiss spread.

Strands of light, like shimmering heat waves, slowly dispersed from Radiant Demon Wing Leader Jeong Yeon-shin’s entire body. They rose like starlight over the hem of his pitch-black robe, crumbling delicately.

It was a scene that contrasted with Lightning Genius’s calm gaze.

Each supreme master possessed a unique aura, and the new Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s presence was both robust and mysterious.

To those seasoned in the martial world, he gave an impression of being unpredictable.

He had previously transmitted his voice without noticeably moving his lips.

Radiant Demon Wing Leader appeared as a profoundly reserved black-rank officiant. It meant that the tempestuous nature had only affected Do Jin and Xiahou Shan-shan.

‘Observing the promotion exam as a Squad Leader feels truly insignificant. Did Annihilation Team Leader see me this way too?’

Jeong Yeon-shin thought quietly. Was his presence needed here?

‘I should finish quickly and head to Shaanxi…’

His lips tightened slightly. Many people he had ties with were connected to Mount Zhongnan Sect. Not just his blood kin, Jeong Hye and Jeong Jung-san.

He had bonds with Mount Zhongnan Sword Immortal Zong Yeo-il, Grand Elder Yeo Il-shin, Sword Dragon Wei Zhi Myo-hwa, and the Mount Zhongnan disciples who fought alongside him against Tyrant Sword Sect. It felt as though a stone weighed on his heart.

A faint groan sounded.

Do Jin’s wrist, usually supple, had stiffened at that moment. Radiant Demon Wing Leader, who had been holding the blade between two fingers, flicked his index and middle fingers to the side.

It was a nonchalant gesture. A resonant hum rang out as the sword veered downward.

Do Jin nearly dropped his weapon!

He instinctively realized his condition.

The teachings of his prestigious sword clan, honed over years, had vanished in an instant.

A chill ran through his mind. It bordered on panic. The averting of a mishap was beside the point. Even if ordered to strike again, that devastating blow had been futilely countered.

For a swordsman, it was a profound shock. Perhaps it was somewhat fortunate that his opponent was a black-rank supreme master.

Radiant Demon Wing Leader Lightning Genius had become a figure Desolate Fortress now readily accepted.

‘His reputation is well-earned…’

Do Jin inwardly groaned. As a Law Enforcement Squad warrior, he had developed curiosity about a supreme master who broke through a Leader’s counter-technique.

He had only set it aside momentarily due to personal grievances.

Xiahou Shan-shan, who had been crouching, rose awkwardly. She quickly clasped her hands in a fist salute and raised them.

A deep exhale followed.

She released a breath steeped in internal energy. The air she had held for a short decisive clash flowed out with a faint energy wave.

Only now did she begin to breathe. After being startled by Do Jin’s sword strike, she had experienced Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s intervention up close.

Even she thought it was overwhelming.

‘To catch it with bare hands seizing the blade…!’

She had witnessed a technique nearly impossible without a vast disparity in skill. It was the art of snatching a swordsman’s strike with two fingers.

It required fully perceiving the opponent’s sword path, unraveling the energy wave in the strike with a single burst of force, and then withstanding the sword’s power with just the strength in one’s fingers.

The entire sequence occurred in an instant.

The new Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s protective aura did not seem as dense as Immortal Tree Spirit Leader’s Heart Wall Thousand Ice Deflection.

It meant he had absolute confidence in executing Empty Hand Seizes White Blade. Perhaps his courage was extraordinary.

Either way, it was more than enough to suppress the spirit of reasonably experienced warriors.

Xiahou Shan-shan’s lips curved into an awkward smile.

“Uh… Thank you, Radiant Demon Wing Leader.”

Her status as a blood kin of the Desolate Xiahou Clan held no weight before a black-rank. Nor did their age difference. It was a position far more venerable than her noble lineage.

Even if Xiahou Shan-shan had observed Lightning Genius’s Desolate Fortress trials as a white-rank warrior, she must not display an improper attitude.

She thought to herself. He was so endearing back then.

Did her thoughts show in her eyes? Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s lips tilted upward on one side. It was a slight frown, almost a pout.

“You should watch the sword properly. More important than the strike point is the enemy’s pattern.”

Jeong Yeon-shin spoke somewhat brusquely.

He had received thanks. Urging them to leave the dueling platform again became difficult.

He thought it fitting to offer brief advice as a black-rank. They would descend on their own.

A soft rustle sounded.

Xiahou Shan-shan gave a quick shake to her clasped hands. It was another expression of gratitude. Radiant Demon Wing Leader was a prodigy who had risen at an unprecedented pace.

To masters of other squads, he was a multifaceted enigma, and even the chance to exchange words with him was highly valued.

Her lips traced a gentle arc.

“I’ve heard bits and pieces that Radiant Demon Wing Leader possesses techniques not even taught to Lightning Genius’s lineage. Could what you just showed be…”

“Are you interested in my martial arts?”

“I was once. It was hard to master. More precisely, it was easy to learn but difficult to apply. You must teach it directly to Radiant Demon Wing’s subordinates… Surely, learning it firsthand would be somewhat different?”

Her tone carried a peculiar hint. So did the dark eyes observing Jeong Yeon-shin. It felt like probing a dilemma.

Fist Torrent Demon Xiahou Shan-shan hailed from a prestigious martial clan and belonged to the formidable Annihilation Team. She likely had no real intent to switch factions, yet she asked for a reason.

Perhaps a small lingering regret? Or mere light curiosity?

‘It’s not worth delving into deeply.’

Jeong Yeon-shin did not respond immediately. He gazed at her quietly before parting his lips slowly.

“Radiant Demon Wing’s gate does not open at any time. I don’t need more. It’s enough now.”

“Ah.”

Xiahou Shan-shan let out a small gasp.

Do Jin, who had been hesitantly lowering his sword, spoke.

“Thanks to Radiant Demon Wing Leader…”

“I said to go down.”

“Yes.”

He replied with the same discipline as the sword strike he had aimed at Xiahou Shan-shan.

The two then clasped their hands in salute once more and descended from the dueling platform.

Typically, promotion exam’s attention centered on the examinees, but due to the new Leader’s overwhelming mystique, most eyes lingered on the platform.

Only a few cast glances at Brilliant Wind Sword Do Jin.

A faint rustle followed.

Radiant Demon Wing Leader Jeong Yeon-shin adjusted a sleeve that had slipped downward.

Unlike before, his demeanor now carried a stern chill. The impassive face paired strikingly with the dark hem of his robe.

“Next.”

He said.

It was a sight that intimidated the examinees. A slight murmur arose.

Masters who had missed squad missions due to solo assignments stepped up with heavy strides.

“I am Seon Si-ryeong of Obeying Heaven Wing.”

“I am Jong Hui of Infinite Martial Squad.”

***

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Translated by Nine Heavens!

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***

The impact of Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s earlier display was significant.

Desolate Fortress’s promotion exam began proceeding at an unprecedented pace.

It was not Jeong Yeon-shin’s intent, but single-strike victories occurred frequently. Skilled warriors showcased their techniques at full strength and stepped down.

Even a single swift sword stroke carried an atmosphere that seemed to stifle breath.

“The Leader’s mood doesn’t seem at ease.”

“Right. His face is rigid. It’s a look I’ve never seen, even briefly.”

Below the dueling platform, amid the spectator stands, Lazy Flame Dragon and Zhuge Qing-ya conversed.

They were scions of the Eight Great Clans. Both shared the commonality of hailing from regional noble families and had joined Radiant Demon Wing after observing Lightning Genius Jeong Yeon-shin.

“It seems something troubling has happened, but it’s hard for someone like me to ask.”

“True to Zhuge Clan form, you’re free in your conduct. Fair point. This young master knows his place too, living among nameless disciples.”

Lazy Flame Dragon appeared unconcerned for his Leader. Was there some trust there?

Chewing poppy seeds, he cast a sly glance in one direction with half-lidded eyes. It was toward Radiant Demon Wing’s quarters.

“Those little brats with plenty of days left…”

Zhuge Qing-ya slightly lowered her eyes.

She brushed her black hair, tied with sky-blue silk, to the side of her neck, gazing blankly at Jeong Yeon-shin on the platform. She wore drab gray nameless robes.

As a guest warrior acknowledged by the Fortress Lord, Zhuge Qing-ya could have donned white-rank attire.

Yet she declined outright. It was to avoid standing apart. To align with the roots, the starting point had to match. She had rightfully requested and worn nameless garb.

Indeed, despite her short time since joining, she had won the hearts of the nameless disciples.

Unlike Lazy Flame Dragon, she did not swagger. Despite being a rare scion of a prestigious clan with high dignity and insight.

‘It seems Lazy Flame Dragon’s very presence aids them. Leader Jeong’s tacit approval plays a big role too…’

In short, it was comparative advantage.

While Radiant Demon Wing Leader was busy with his duties, she had already found her place in Radiant Demon Wing in her own way. Her role was clear.

As an expert in observation techniques, she could bolster Radiant Demon Wing’s strength in various ways. The risks from mechanical formations might now be negligible.

Nameless disciple Zhuge Qing-ya thought cautiously. Radiant Demon Wing already possessed strength akin to a mid-tier prominent sect.

‘With me, once the eyes of my clan, and April Bow Ghost Wei Ye-ryeong adjusting distances in the field, the blue-rank masters have truly refined their skills. Numbers aren’t lacking anymore. With Radiant Arts Bond added…’

The integrated supreme art of Radiant Demon Technique and Lightning Genius’s lineage was indeed refined. Even Zhuge Qing-ya, a direct descendant of the Eight Great Clans, rarely found something so impressive.

Radiant Arts Bond, created by Radiant Demon Wing Leader.

It drastically shortened training time.

Limited to warriors already adept in Radiant Demon Technique or Lightning Genius’s lineage, Radiant Demon Wing masters were those who had deeply mastered one or the other.

Their transformation shifted daily. It was a terrifying momentum. It approached a marvel rivaling Radiant Demon Wing Leader’s personal achievements.

A change unknown to the martial world. Soon, they would set out with many members—how would the martial world react?

‘Leader Jeong said he’s never been on a squad mission…’

Folding her thoughts, Zhuge Qing-ya spoke quietly.

“Sir Hwangbo seems untroubled. You’ve got two ranks to leap.”

“Me?”

Lazy Flame Dragon chuckled and nodded toward the platform.

“Not me, it’s that guy who’s the issue. Look, the one stepping up now. His demeanor’s all slippery.”

A tall, charming youth ascended the dueling platform with a friendly smile.

The sword at his waist was visibly an exceptional treasured blade, and the blue band around his head was pristine silk.

A golden dragon emblazoned across the center of his forehead gleamed ostentatiously. It was the Hero’s Band, which he boasted of wearing when Desolate Divine Hero first met Lightning Genius.

On the vast central dueling platform.

Hyeon Won-chang stepped up alongside his opponent. The promotion exam had been underway for a while.

Over two hours had passed. He was Radiant Demon Wing’s first examinee.

“I am Hyeon Won-chang of Radiant Demon Wing.”

Hyeon Won-chang spoke, offering a nod to Jeong Yeon-shin, then turned to his opponent.

“I am Kang Yoon-chan of the administrative office. I’ve seen Leader Jeong from afar a few times.”

A man with a scholarly air clasped his hands in return.

The black scabbard of his Desolate Fortress sword at his waist highlighted his unusually calm face.

A tranquil aura enveloped him fully. His white-rank robes felt like a scholar’s attire.

Yet his thick eyebrows and well-honed physique exuded a fierce wildness.

In a fleeting glance, one might think of a blend of martial and literary prowess. His energy wave was notably heavy.

‘He won’t be easy.’

Jeong Yeon-shin thought. Yet, as a neutral overseer, he did not show it.

For a brief moment, he imagined disrupting Kang Yoon-chan’s balance with an unseen gust.

Lately, alongside the stretching pains in his limbs, idle thoughts had multiplied.

‘I’m not my grandfather.’

Jeong Yeon-shin inwardly chastised himself.

Such a volatile temper was far from his nature. He might never resemble it in his lifetime.

He had to maintain the humble and calm disposition he’d held since childhood. Focusing diligently on his duties would ensure that.

A steady step sounded.

He retreated a few paces and spoke curtly.

“Begin.”

“Thanks for officiating.”

Kang Yoon-chan offered a respectful salute to Radiant Demon Wing Leader before turning. His eyes met Hyeon Won-chang’s.

“I’ve always envied you. I’m not the only one, surely.”

“What do you mean?”

Hyeon Won-chang asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Didn’t you meet a fine peer? To face the Desolate Fortress trials with the current Radiant Demon Wing Leader and join the same squad. Riding the tides of fortune is indeed a warrior’s skill. Young Hero Hyeon is truly exceptional.”

His calm face bore no sarcasm.

It wasn’t petty jealousy. He genuinely meant it. Talk of divine luck or fate was common in this world.

Hyeon Won-chang paid it little mind. Radiant Arts Bond, personally taught by Jeong Yeon-shin, was now on trial before hundreds.

Having failed to lift seven-tenths of his restriction, he had to perform at his best to avoid tarnishing Radiant Arts Bond and Jeong Yeon-shin’s name.

‘My senses are at their peak. Perfect.’

He half-listened to Kang Yoon-chan’s courteous preamble. Was it the administrative office’s trait? The man seemed talkative.

“Realizing that enduring such envy is a warrior’s virtue took time. I had many thoughts. Had I been there, I’d have grown stronger; my achievements might have differed; by gaining more learning, I could’ve supported Young Hero Hyeon differently—deluded notions, surely true, yet meaningless. In the end, your place is yours.”

Then it happened.

A heavy thud resounded!

Kang Yoon-chan’s neck snapped downward abruptly. An invisible energy wave struck through the air, slamming the back of his head. A weighty impact echoed.

The nape was the precise target. Kang Yoon-chan staggered, his stance lowered. It was as if an unseen ceiling had collapsed, nearly forcing him down.

A faint gust followed!

The energy’s aftermath flowed out. A breeze-like wind swept the dueling platform’s floor. Dust dispersed silently, spreading stillness.

Hyeon Won-chang glanced at his Leader.

Radiant Demon Wing Leader stood alone, arms crossed, eyes slanted downward. His usual aloof demeanor remained.

[TL Note- No Chapters Tomorrow. Break Time.]