#67. Hell's Regular Admission: The First Gate

I split the interior of the Dragon-Phoenix Conference in half and left, flashing a smile at Jong Byeok-gi's dazed face, the last thing I saw.

"With that guy—who has zero reputation—left all alone, it'll be hard for them to scheme against Tae-eul Gate."

Whether it was Hwa Jeong-san or Jong Byeok-gi, they were both scum to me in my previous life. And today's events hadn't erased my grudge against Hwa Jeong-san, either.

A gentleman's revenge is never too late, even if it takes ten years.

Anyway, I'd driven a wedge between those two bastards who always meshed so perfectly when it came to evil deeds. It would take them ages just to patch things up. In the meantime, all I had to do was steadily prepare Tae-eul Gate.

"Hm?"

I sensed a familiar presence and slowed my steps.

"Young Master Jin..."

Moyong Seol called out to me with a cautious expression. I replied gladly.

"Miss Seol. Do you need something?"

"Uh... well..."

Moyong Seol hung her head, tapping the ground with her foot. I couldn't help but smile at this side of her I'd never seen in my previous life.

"Feel free to speak comfortably. You're my guest, after all."

‍‍‌‌⁠​​⁠‌​​‍​​‍​‌​⁠‍‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠‌‍‌‍‌‌‌‍⁠​‌​‌​‌‍‌‌‌⁠‍​​‌‍⁠‌‌⁠⁠

"I... I wanted to apologize for yesterday."

"Yesterday?"

"Yes... I said something unnecessary."

"Hm?"

I racked my memory for any mistake she'd made toward me, but there was none—she'd just been herself. I tilted my head.

"What do you mean?"

"...I said you were pushing Hwa Jeong-san too hard... I spoke out of ignorance, without understanding how the jianghu works. I wanted to apologize."

Moyong Seol's face flushed bright red. So that's how she looked when she was shy—her cheeks glowing like that. I couldn't hold back my laughter.

"Hahaha, what... Of course that was something anyone could say."

"...Pardon?"

"Even if I had my reasons, I definitely pushed him too hard. I don't think your words were wrong at all."

"..."

"If anything, thanks to what you said, I didn't lose faith in the Dragon-Phoenix Conference. If they dismiss ideal morals just because of power dynamics, wouldn't that make us no different from the black path?"

Moyong Seol's mouth fell open in a daze. Her young face held such a variety of expressions. In my previous life's memories, all I had were her weak smiles and the sad look of holding back tears. Each of these new glimpses filled me with joy.

"Miss Seol. I like that honest side of you."

"Pardon? Wh-what do you...?"

She jumped like she'd been struck by lightning, her eyes wide as a rabbit's. Watching her expressions shift was pure delight. Was that why she always had that 'nation-toppling beauty' nickname trailing her? When had she lost this side of herself? If it was after Moyong Sang-won's death, then saving him meant I'd already received full payment.

"Ah... I meant I like your upright nature."

At my words, Moyong Seol looked somehow disappointed.

"Ah... Yes."

I still owed Moyong ‍‍‌‌⁠​​⁠‌​​‍​​‍​‌​⁠‍‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠‌‍‌‍‌‌‌‍⁠​‌​‌​‌‍‌‌‌⁠‍​​‌‍⁠‌‌⁠⁠Seol a great debt.

"Please don't feel guilty. Otherwise, I'd feel bad for changing you like this."

Her eyes shook violently. After holding that expression for a while, she snapped out of it and blushed again.

"Ah... And I heard you saved my father."

"Ahaha. You could've taken that a bit slower."

I scratched my head, embarrassed.

"I'm sorry. I should've thanked you sooner. I had no idea..."

Moyong Seol bowed deeply. I quickly lifted her up and met her eyes.

"Miss Seol. I was just returning a favor from long ago. If you do this, I feel ashamed."

"...Uh, um... your hand..."

"Oops, I grabbed it without thinking."

I reluctantly released her hand, which I'd held just a bit too firmly.

"Miss Seol. Meeting you means a lot to me. So I hope we can meet comfortably."

"Pardon? What do you...?"

"But if you feel sorry toward me or carry that burden, it won't be easy, right?"

"Y-yes."

"So treat me casually. It's better for me that way, too."

Moyong Seol, now red as a ripe persimmon, finally managed a reply.

"...Yes."

#

"How complete is it?"

The next day, I sought out Yu Ji-ryang with Jegal Cheongi. After a light greeting, Yu Ji-ryang led us straight to the site where the Geomunjinbeop was being installed.

With the boundaries set, completing the Geomunjinbeop and Giganjin-sik was the top priority to block external intruders.

As I'd suggested, the Geomunjinbeop was being built over a wider area than Tae-eul Gate's original land, with walls erected first. Father had bought up the surrounding alliance territory matching that size, then started construction by building the walls and installing the formation inside.

"Only about 30% so far."

"Really?"

I raised a question at the slower-than-expected progress, and Yu Ji-ryang chuckled wryly. He looked even more haggard than when he'd emerged from Ma-ryeong Plateau.

"Hm... It's slower than I thought."

"Why is that?"

"We might need to activate the formation a bit sooner."

"Is that so? ...That won't be a big issue."

"At 30%... isn't that too early to activate?"

"If we'd just installed the Geomunjinbeop, it'd be over 80% done by now... But this time, we're using a new method. Even at this stage, it should operate to some degree."

"A new method?"

Instead of answering, Yu Ji-ryang glanced at Jegal Cheongi, who unfurled a large sheet of paper to show us.

"It's my design: the Geomunjinbeop and Giganjin-sik fused into one."

"Combining the two? Is that even possible?"

This hadn't happened in my previous life with Jegal Cheongi. He'd focused solely on cost-effective Giganjin-sik research.

"Thanks to Brother Yu, we could embed the Giganjin-sik within the Geomunjinbeop."

At Cheongi's words, Yu Ji-ryang gave a bitter smile.

"It's more Young Master Cheongi's brilliance than my merit. Our sect's formation masters ‍‍‌‌⁠​​⁠‌​​‍​​‍​‌​⁠‍‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠‌‍‌‍‌‌‌‍⁠​‌​‌​‌‍‌‌‌⁠‍​​‌‍⁠‌‌⁠⁠were skeptical at first, but they had to concede after seeing his blueprints."

In short: the fused Giganjin-sik and Geomunjinbeop handled intruders automatically without human intervention. Those entering the formation might navigate the Geomunjinbeop but not the Giganjin-sik, and vice versa.

"Our sect is amazed by this new approach and seeking ways to refine it further."

Mosanpa, always one step behind the Jegal family. This was their chance to surpass them via Cheongi's mechanisms.

"It's all... thanks to Young Master Cheongi."

Yu Ji-ryang smiled wearily at him. Feeling proud, I patted Cheongi's head, and he rolled it like a puppy. Moments like this made one forget he was a once-in-a-generation genius.

"And thanks to you too, Brother Jin. It's broadened my view of the world."

"Doesn't it all benefit Tae-eul Gate in the end?"

"...Indeed. We're studying daily and improving the formation—days aren't long enough."

"Hm... Would keeping my old promise now be a nuisance?"

Yu Ji-ryang flinched. Cheongi, meanwhile, eyed me eagerly. I handed over the book I'd written detailing my experiences in the Muryangbulgolmokhonjin.

"In the final stage of the Muryangbulgolmokhonjin, I returned to the original path despite not being on it. These are my insights and records. I hope they're helpful."

Yu Ji-ryang's lips trembled as he took the book. Cheongi dove right in, eyes sparkling.

"Brother Yu, why not incorporate the Muryangbulgolmokhonjin's effects into our formation now?"

"Pardon?"

"It'd be even better, right?"

"Pardon?"

Yu Ji-ryang kept pretending not to hear.

#

I headed to Daehyeonjeon at Hong Moon-gi's summons. The previous night's celebratory drinks had dragged on; Hong Moon-gi, Gang Chaeseok, and Father all looked exhausted.

"I told you to prepare to soar, but you're all laid out flat."

At my words, Gang Chaeseok grumbled to Hong Moon-gi like a superior.

"Look at this, Sect Leader. See how that punk talks? Treats me like a dog he's raising."

Hong Moon-gi, knowing our dynamic, just chuckled. He got straight to business.

"Elder Brother Moyong Gang said he'll take exchange disciples. And he'll provide Cheongmyeonghwan for them."

"I see."

"Who do you think we should send? Two disciples."

"Two? Didn't he give three Cheongmyeonghwan?"

Hong Moon-gi smiled faintly.

"Shouldn't the great senior brother of the four disciples be included?"

"Uh..."

Despite my troubled look, he shook his head.

"Don't yield for your juniors. Sword Breaker will guide you personally. Passing this up makes no sense."

"No... I can't go."

"Hm? Why?"

"I have to take the Murim Academy regular admission exam."

"What?!"

"What the hell, kid!"

Jin Taesan and Gang Chaeseok shot to their feet. Even Hong Moon-gi looked stunned.

"The timing doesn't match, right?"

"I told you half a year ago. I have a plan for Tae-eul Gate's future."

#

The Dragon-Phoenix Conference left early that morning. No juniors clung to them begging for recommendation letters as they bid farewell to the sect leader and elders—just hostile glares.

Then Moyong Gang and the three selected disciples prepared to depart. Hong Moon-gi opposed the regular exam to the end, but relented with my argument that passing it would protect the juniors later in the Murim Alliance.

I'd expected the gold-silver-bronze brothers to go to the Moyong family, but in the end, Gang Yu-seong and two others were chosen. They insisted on following me for the exam, giving the sect leader a headache, apparently.

I'd assumed he'd forbid the brothers from taking it, but somehow they'd convinced him. I was curious how.

"Great Senior Brother... Am I really okay to go?"

Gang Yu-seong glanced nervously at the other juniors.

I'd recommended him myself. By allocation or timing, he was at a disadvantage. But he had talent and effort that overcame it perfectly—reaching Geomchi through self-study. What he'd become under Sword Breaker's early training was unimaginable.

"Yu-seong. Do you think going as an exchange disciple is a privilege?"

"...Isn't it?"

"No. It's about taking responsibility."

"Responsibility?"

"Yes. Going ahead in place of the uneducated juniors. That's the duty you're fulfilling."

The listening juniors nodded faintly.

"...Ah."

"So don't waste a single day—dedicate yourself to training. The juniors staying at Tae-eul Gate will learn from Sword Emperor's transmission."

"I'll cherish every moment, even risking my life."

"...No, don't go that far. You have sisters, remember."

As I spoke, Moyong Gang approached, leading Moyong Seol, Moyong Jaehwa, and Jong Byeok-gi—his broken arm splinted.

"Your juniors are better than you, great senior brother. At least the young ones aren't just thinking of gallivanting like you."

"Am I gallivanting? I'm doing my best, too."

"Tsk tsk. Work hard. The day those three I take grab you by the hair isn't far off."

Moyong Gang's playful grin ruined my composure. The sect's pivotal moment, shattered by his joke.

"One thing I'd like to ask."

"What?"

"If someone hits you during your travels, does it count as hitting the herb gatherer? Or your true self, Senior Moyong Gang?"

"Haha, look at this punk. Still haven't learned. Hong, Sect Leader!"

"Ah! No! Just curious!"

Moyong Gang smirked mischievously.

"As the herb gatherer."

"Oh ho! Really?"

"But if it pisses me off too much, I hit back as Moyong Gang."

"I heard you're sincere as a herb gatherer. Disappointing."

"Kuhuhu. Shame you can't come along."

He glanced at Moyong Seol before continuing.

"I have a question, too."

"What is it?"

"Got a fiancée promised in marriage?"

"...What's that out of nowhere?"

"Just asking. Did your father arrange one?"

"Senior, this is Tae-eul Gate. In Hebi, they say it's better to marry a cargo escort than a Tae-eul Gate warrior."

"None, then. Anyone you fancy?"

"Why keep asking that?"

I instinctively glanced at Moyong Seol. She was watching with sparkling eyes, then whipped away when our gazes met.

"Tsk tsk, none, huh. Who'd look at a wretch like you anyway."

"Senior? Where's your next trip?"

"Staying at the family for a while. Got kids to teach after so long. Kahaha."

His booming laugh turned serious.

"You remember the debt you owe me, right?"

"..."

It was the promise from when he'd blocked Jong Byeok-gi.

"I do. What do you want?"

"Not using it now. It'd tip things too far our way. But remember it. You're marked."

"...?"

Moyong Gang spoke cryptically, like some eccentric master. As he prepared to leave, I clasped my hands in a po-gwan to Moyong Seol and Moyong Jaehwa.

"Safe travels. Hope we meet again."

"...Ah, yes. See you next time."

Moyong Seol, still not fully over her guilt, returned the gesture with flushed cheeks.

"Brother Jin! We couldn't talk this time, but Moyong Jaehwa hopes to have a long chat next."

His eyes shone eagerly; I looked back with mixed emotions.

Come to think of it, I haven't told him anything.

His youth was marred by wandering. Long years of frustration and pain lay ahead, yet I'd been too busy to offer even a word.

I lowered my voice to a whisper.

"Young Master Jaehwa. Listen well."

"Yes?"

"Don't obsess over the sword."

"...???"

Moyong Jaehwa looked baffled. With Patriarch Moyong Gang glaring, that was all I could say.

"Not everyone peaks with the sword."

As Moyong Gang eyed us suspiciously, I clasped hands again.

"I hope so, too."

Moyong Jaehwa remained puzzled. Seeing the greetings end, Moyong Gang departed Tae-eul Gate, slapping the lagging Jong Byeok-gi's head for good measure.

#

I packed my things and headed to the training ground. Gang Chaeseok and a weary-faced Father stood there. He must not notice when he pulls all-nighters from work enthusiasm. What if he ruins his health...?

"Father, maybe some tonic?"

"...!"

Moved by my filial piety, Father lunged for a hug, but Gang Chaeseok stopped him as the gold-silver-bronze brothers arrived. They wore identical black uniforms and simple bundles neatly placed beside them.

"You got the uniforms made?"

Geum Pyo said.

"We're disciples of the Black Flame Dragon Hero, aren't we?"

"Ah... Just so you know, I don't like that nickname much."

The brothers tilted their heads in unison.

"It has 'dragon' in it. And you wield the Black Dragon Sword."

"...That's why. It's a good title, but it doesn't sit right."

"You're full of yourself."

"What'd you say, punk? Why follow me anyway? Tae-eul Gate has powerful arts now. Staying to train would be better. The Academy regular exam is no joke."

One mistake could cost your life. It's called Hell's Regular Admission for a reason.

"You said it yourself, senior brother: spilling blood for siblings proves a true Tae-eul Gate disciple."

"...Huh?? What nonsense is that?"

I'd never said that. My perfect memory wouldn't fail.

"And you said a Tae-eul Gate disciple gives their life for the sect."

"No, I never said that."

Ignoring my memory, the brothers nodded among themselves.

"And for martial arts, you—with your perfect memory—can teach us directly. Anyway, we've done everything you asked. Climbed Hwun Mountain five times daily, practiced the sword formation you taught."

"I said three."

"We figured five would make you unable to leave us behind."

Their bodies looked as sturdy as external art experts.

"We'll see. If it doesn't satisfy me, no dice."

"Shall we start now?"

"Yeah."

They rummaged in their bundles. Gang Chaeseok asked,

"Not taking them?"

"What was the sect leader thinking, letting these kids take the exam?"

"You don't know? They said other sects send dozens of warriors, so how could you go alone? They swore to get you into the Academy."

"..."

No, who said anything about getting me in...

"Take them. Their training isn't lacking."

"...What?"

"Watch."

Pointing, Gang Chaeseok revealed the brothers blindfolded with black cloth and ears plugged with white cotton.

"How can they form a sword array like that?"

I gaped. Gang Chaeseok tilted his head instead.

"You said they must sync perfectly without seeing, hearing, or speaking."

"No, I meant just match that well."

"Heh... Watch your words from now on. This'll be fun."

I watched dubiously.

"Beginning."

Geum Pyo struck the ground three times with his sword sheath. The three drew swords outward in unison.

Chaeng— They sheathed, swapped positions once each, then struck down hard. Returning to spots, they lunged forward, unfolding the formation, then clustered to guard backs.

The Baekho Geomjin—Jegal Cheongi's adaptation of the Alliance's standard White Tiger Sword Formation—unfolded flawlessly.

"They barely slept at first. Wooden swords left daily wounds. In two weeks, limbs synced; by month two, no words needed; month four, ears plugged. Never saw the blindfolds."

"..."

"No idea their motive, but that tenacity equals ten warriors."

Something tugged at my chest; I suppressed it.

"...Ten? Easily a hundred."

Finishing the Baekho Geomjin, they removed blindfolds, checked positions, and cheered.

"See, senior brother? Keep your promise."

"Got it. Pack up. Tell the sect leader."

"Be careful. Quit if it's too dangerous. Tae-eul Gate has many paths now."

"We'll bring back the admission plaque."

Looking at my fatigued father, I said,

"I'm off."

"...You damn punk."

‍‍‌‌⁠​​⁠‌​​‍​​‍​‌​⁠‍‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠‌‍‌‍‌‌‌‍⁠​‌​‌​‌‍‌‌‌⁠‍​​‌‍⁠‌‌⁠⁠

Father must've made a new enemy lately.

#

Leaving Tae-eul Gate with the gold-silver-bronze brothers, we reached the Murim Alliance branch in Hebi. Crowds swarmed nearby. Identical notices plastered one wall; young men with weapons spat curses at them.

"Damn lunatics!"

"This make any sense?!"

"Hiring or killing?!"

"No wonder only the Nine Great Clans and Five Great Families get in!"

"Tch! Shit!"

They checked and spat before leaving.

"..."

Clueless, the brothers tilted heads, advancing as spots opened.

Finally our turn. Geum Pyo asked with trembling eyes,

"This is a joke, right?"

Eunho laughed heartily.

"Haha, obviously a joke, bro. ...Right?"

Dongryong blinked, awaiting my answer.

"..."

I had nothing to say. The Murim Academy regular admission wasn't called Hell's Regular Admission for nothing.