Chapter 301: Diabolic Beast (4)
"Kiririk! You damn Taoist priest! Come back here right now!"
-Crash! Crash crash crash!
As Mok Gyeong-un disappeared beyond the wall he had pierced through, the furious diabolic beast Alyu began causing a commotion by repeatedly stomping the ground with its hooves.
As the ground shattered and it thrashed about wildly, the restraints attached to its four legs, which could be considered part of the dharma tools, automatically tightened, trying to calm Alyu down.
Normally, when it raged to this extent, the Demon-Subduing monks would chant the Demon-Subduing mantra to suppress the diabolic beast Alyu's evil nature and make it fall asleep.
However, coincidentally, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master had instructed the Demon-Subduing monks to temporarily leave their positions so they wouldn't hear Mok Gyeong-un chanting the incantations of his magical techniques, which turned out to be the root of the problem.
-Snap!
The restraints, unable to withstand the raging diabolic beast Alyu's strength, finally broke.
As the restraints on the front legs snapped, the diabolic beast Alyu couldn't hide its joy.
"Kirik! Kirik! This damned shackles has finally broken."
Since the front legs were freed, breaking the restraints on the hind legs was a piece of cake.
Eventually, the restraints on the hind legs also snapped after a few kicks.
-Snap!
As the restraints that had been binding all four legs were gone, the diabolic beast Alyu immediately charged towards the iron door to get out of the cave.
-Crash!
Although the iron door was engraved with gold-plated Demon-Subduing mantras, Alyu's strength was so immense that it dented the iron door outward with just a single impact.
Because of this, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master, who had been waiting for Mok Gyeong-un outside, could tell that something had gone wrong.
"Deoksu, go to the neighboring cavity right now and gather all the Demon-Subduing monks."
"Ah, yes, I understand!"
As Demon-Subduing monk Deoksu ran off, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master drew upon his dharmic power and began chanting the Demon-Subduing mantra towards the iron door.
"Om somani somani hum arihanna arihanna hum arihanna banaya hum banaya hum baabam baara hum batak."
****
At the same time.
Monk Dae-deok, the overseer of the Precepts Hall, headed towards the entrance of Shaolin Temple with the monks from the Precepts Hall in tow.
The grounds of Shaolin, boasting the largest scale among all the temples in the Central Plains, were so vast that it inevitably took quite some time just to reach there.
Moreover, as Shaolin was located halfway up Mount Song, the distance between the grounds was also great.
So if one were to walk, it would take nearly a quarter-hour just to get from the Arhat Pavilion to the entrance, but thanks to using the Light Body Technique at a moderate speed, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok arrived at the entrance within half a quarter-hour.
At the entrance of Shaolin, armored military officials and nearly a hundred soldiers were seen.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok greeted the officer with a long beard, who seemed to be the representative of the military officials, with his palms together.
"Amitabha. I am Dae-deok, the overseer of the Precepts Hall of Shaolin. What brings the imperial officials to this humble place?"
"If you're the overseer of the Precepts Hall, you must be quite a high-ranking monk in Shaolin."
The young monks of the Precepts Hall frowned at the arrogant tone of the military official.
Although the current imperial court followed the principles of Confucianism, Shaolin was a very old temple and had served as the national temple for generations thanks to its connection with the first emperor, Taizu, so it deserved to be treated with respect.
However, this military official's attitude was far from that.
"I am Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards. Although we didn't forcibly enter out of respect for Shaolin's ties with Emperor Taizu, we received information that there are traitors here in Shaolin."
"Amitabha. Traitors? What do you mean by that?"
At Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's words, Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards snorted and said,
"It's no use playing dumb. Do you know how many people we've heard from nearby that a large monstrous bird fell into Shaolin?"
"Oh my. The imperial official is truly putting this humble monk in a difficult position. This is simply a place where monks who have renounced the world cultivate the Buddhist way."
"Just a place to cultivate the Buddhist way? Ha! How can you say that in a place known as the orthodox school of martial arts in the world?"
"Amitabha."
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok simply chanted a Buddhist prayer with his palms together.
Then Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards frowned and raised his voice, saying,
"Could it be that Shaolin is trying to protect the traitors who helped the prisoners escape from the underground prison of the imperial palace? If that's the case, even if it's a temple with deep ties to Emperor Taizu, we will have no choice but to forcibly enter and search."
At those words, the young monks of the Precepts Hall uniformly protested.
"No. What kind of outrageous behavior is this?"
"Forcible suppression? No matter if you're an official, how can you do this to a place that worships the Buddha…"
"Enough!"
However, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, silenced them with a stern shout.
Then, as if he had no dissatisfaction at all, he bowed his head along with his palms together and spoke in a gentle voice to Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards.
"Amitabha. Although Shaolin is a place to cultivate the Buddhist way, how could we possibly protect traitors? I kindly request the official to withdraw his misunderstanding."
"Misunderstanding? Then bring the traitors here right now. If you do that, there will be no need to forcibly search Shaolin."
"Amitabha."
At Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards' words, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, chanted a Buddhist prayer as if he were in a difficult position.
However, contrary to his expression, his inner thoughts were completely different.
Rather, he was grateful that his wish had been fulfilled.
***
-Mortal? Mortal?
Cheong-ryeong called out to Mok Gyeong-un, who had become dazed while staring at the wall.
She thought there might be a problem, but realizing that Mok Gyeong-un's gaze was fixed on the stone wall of the meditation cave, she stopped calling out to him.
'Could it be that he fell into a state of enlightenment in that brief moment?'
The current phenomenon was the same as when one fell into a meditative state.
But he hadn't opened his Ghostly Eyes and deeply concentrated on the hand seals, yet he fell into a meditative state for the second time after the tombstone without any signs.
Seeing this, Cheong-ryeong found it strange.
His concentration was indeed stronger than hers when she was alive, but for such realizations to come in succession was an unusual phenomenon.
Even if this place was the birthplace of orthodox martial arts, Shaolin.
'Could it be…'
It was right at that moment.
A five-colored light was emitting from the top of Mok Gyeong-un's head as he had his eyes closed.
'Ah!'
At this, Cheong-ryeong couldn't hide her excitement.
***
'Grasping with a non-existent arm…'
An action that should have been impossible actually became possible.
Moreover, since the water had flowed down, it should have been approached with the concept of supporting rather than grasping, but he was even grasping it.
All of this was no different from nothingness (無) becoming existence (有) through willpower.
Strong willpower made all of this possible.
'Willpower…'
Because of this, Mok Gyeong-un gained a huge enlightenment different from before.
The various principles contained in that simple action turned his mind upside down, and they gradually became organized one by one.
The understanding of qi, which he had only vaguely perceived until now, was also the same.
In the end, qi was not something far away.
Everything that existed was qi, and qi was everything that existed.
'So this is how it was.'
Now he felt like he truly understood what qi was.
It was a truly mysterious thing.
Just by observing this process, everything that had been blocked became unblocked.
'Is this what a true qi master looks like?'
-Swish!
Then, Mok Gyeong-un saw the practitioner who had been staring at the stone wall with his eyes lowering the kasaya cloth covering his head.
His dark skin and curly beard, quite different from the people of the Central Plains, were revealed.
The moment he saw this, something flashed through Mok Gyeong-un's mind.
'Could it be?'
Curiosity arose in Mok Gyeong-un, and he tried to approach to see that face.
Then, the one who had lowered the kasaya spoke.
[If you have gained enough, now return to where you belong.]
'!?'
For a moment, Mok Gyeong-un faltered.
He was convinced that all these scenes unfolding were happening within an enlightenment.
However, that practitioner staring at the stone wall spoke as if he were aware of Mok Gyeong-un's presence.
Finding this strange, Mok Gyeong-un approached to see his face, and at that moment,
-Swish!
The cave where snowflakes had been fluttering returned to its original state as if nothing had happened.
Mok Gyeong-un frowned at the cave that had become silent as if nothing had occurred and the floor where water had pooled.
What was going on?
He had experienced countless visualizations, but none had been as vivid and immersive as this one.
Moreover, those last words still lingered in his mind.
'…I was merely observing.'
Why did those last words sound like they were spoken to him, not to the practicing monk who had cut off his own arm?
It was even confusing.
Then, Cheong-ryeong's voice reached Mok Gyeong-un's ears.
-Mortal!
At her excited voice, Mok Gyeong-un answered in puzzlement.
"What is it?"
-…Let me ask you directly. Did you break through the blocked wall?
She had already witnessed the five-colored light emanating from the top of Mok Gyeong-un's head and enveloping his entire body when he fell into the visualization.
So she was already convinced of it.
At her question, Mok Gyeong-un shrugged and opened his mouth to answer.
"The wall you're talking about…"
-Rumble rumble rumble!
At that moment, the entire cave shook, the ceiling cracked, and fragments crumbled down.
At this, Mok Gyeong-un turned his head from the stone wall of the meditation cave to look at the cave opening he had slid down from.
From there, fierce demonic energy and screams were rampant.
***
"Om somani somani hum arihanna arihanna hum…"
-Crunch!
The diabolic beast Alyu bit off the upper body of one of the Demon-Subduing monks who were chanting the Demon-Subduing mantra and wielding the dharma weapon, the Vajra Pestle.
As it chewed on the torn-off upper body, one of the Demon-Subduing monks, unable to contain his anger and losing his senses, rushed forward.
"Deok-myeo-eo-eo-eong!"
-Squish!
However, that demon-subduing monk was soon trampled by hooves, becoming unrecognizable.
In an instant, five demon-subduing monks lost their lives, and the eyes of the remaining demon-subduing monks were now filled with fear and terror.
As if sensing this, the magical beast Alyu roared with a voice full of exhilaration.
"Kiririririririk!"
For the evil and deluded, human negative emotions such as fear and terror were no different from nourishment.
Consuming humans in that state was the ultimate delicacy.
'Kirik! This is the best. Fear more! Fear even more!'
The magical beast Alyu was determined to pay back for everything he had suffered during the 99 days he was trapped.
Of course, he had no intention of fighting against the entire Shaolin.
His goal was to kill these damn demon-subduing monks to vent his anger and then leave Shaolin.
'The only regret is not being able to kill that bastard.'
It would have been very entertaining to see these bald monks and that bitch fight if he had managed to kill that bastard who was under the protection of that monster fox, but it was quite regrettable.
So, to alleviate this regret even a little, he had to kill these bald bastards in the cruelest way possible before leaving this place.
At that moment, something glared at the magical beast Alyu's red eyes.
Alyu soon lowered his head.
-Clang!
What flew was none other than the vajra pestle imbued with Dharma power.
The one who threw the vajra pestle was none other than the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master.
Just by looking at his appearance with his robe soaked in blood, one could tell that his injuries were quite severe.
"Haa… Haa… Everyone, get a hold of yourselves. We must keep that demon here until reinforcements arrive!"
At his shout, some of the demon-subduing monks gritted their teeth and tightly grasped their vajra pestles again.
Seeing this, the magical beast Alyu let out a chuckle.
Seeing the dying bastard trying to revive the morale with all his might, it seemed the leader was indeed a leader.
'So, if I kill you, old man, these bald bastards won't be able to do much anymore!'
-Bang!
The magical beast Alyu then kicked the ground and charged towards the injured Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master.
Surprised by this, some of the demon-subduing monks simultaneously threw their vajra pestles at the beast.
-Clang clang clang clang!
However, it was impossible to stop the magical beast Alyu, who couldn't be easily subdued even if over a hundred demon-subduing monks attacked, with just five vajra pestles.
At this, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master tried to confront the beast by personally drawing upon his Dharma power.
"Om somani somani hum ari… Cough."
The Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master, who was chanting the demon-subduing mantra, soon vomited a handful of blood.
In an instant, despair filled the eyes of the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master.
He had lived most of his life as a demon-subduing monk, but to think that his end would be at the hands of a demon, it was truly strange.
Was all of this ultimately karmic retribution?
As the magical beast Alyu approached closer, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master soon closed his eyes.
Although it was in vain, if this was death, what could he do?
He inwardly chanted the Buddha's name.
'Amita…'
-Kwaaang!
At that very moment, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master frowned and opened his eyes at the tremendous roaring sound that echoed in his ears.
'!!!!!!!!'
An astonishing scene unfolded before his eyes.
The head of the magical beast Alyu was pressed down, half-buried in the ground, and above its head, someone was standing with the corners of his mouth raised.
"Patron?"
It was none other than Mok Gyeong-un.
303: Chapter 302: Diabolic Beast (5)
The Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master was so startled that he couldn't close his mouth.
What on earth just happened?
The other Demon-Subduing monks were the same.
They witnessed what had just occurred with their own eyes, but they were so shocked that they were at a loss for words.
"Just now… What was that?"
"Wh-what in the world is this?"
Mok Gyeong-un, who suddenly appeared, leaped down from above onto the head of the diabolic beast Alyu.
From this point on, unbelievable things were already happening.
His weight couldn't have been that heavy, but Alyu toppled forward, and its head was soon buried in the cave floor.
At that moment, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master opened his mouth.
"Patron, where on earth have you been?"
"The cave walls were weaker than I thought. By the way, I wasn't gone for long, but it seems the situation has gotten a bit out of hand."
"Cough cough."
"But for something you said you had subdued once before, it looks like you're in quite a predicament, am I right?"
"Are you being sarcastic right now… Patron!"
Just as the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master was about to say something out of anger, he suddenly shouted in surprise.
That was because the tail of the diabolic beast Alyu, whose head was buried in the ground, suddenly flew towards Mok Gyeong-un like a whip.
The force was tremendous, but Mok Gyeong-un raised his arm in the direction the tail was flying.
-Whoosh!
With a sound like flesh being torn, the end of the tail wrapped around Mok Gyeong-un's wrist.
Seeing this, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master couldn't hide his bewilderment.
It was clear that the force of the flying tail seemed to be trying to send Mok Gyeong-un flying from above his head.
But the tail was wrapped around his wrist, so did it have another trick up its sleeve?
'What is this bastard?'
Of course, that wasn't the case.
The diabolic beast Alyu couldn't hide its inner confusion.
Although it didn't know what exactly had happened, Alyu, whose head was suddenly stepped on by Mok Gyeong-un, became furious and tried to quickly raise its head.
However, Alyu couldn't lift its head.
Thinking that he might have used some magical technique, Alyu first tried to shake off Mok Gyeong-un with its tail.
It naturally expected Mok Gyeong-un to be sent flying after being hit by its tail.
But that expectation was off the mark.
'What strength does this bastard have?'
The reason Alyu's tail was wrapped around Mok Gyeong-un's arm was because, despite receiving the impact, he endured it like a massive old tree that had taken root for hundreds of years.
-Tighten!
It was useless even when it concentrated its demonic power on its tail to try and sever his wrist.
Of course, pulling didn't work either.
What the hell is this bastard?
Suddenly, it felt completely different from before.
At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un's voice reached the diabolic beast Alyu's ears.
"This is my first time using the Thousand-Pound Weight, but it seems quite heavy for you. Seeing how you're stuck to the ground and can't even budge."
'You damn human bastard!'
-Grit!
The diabolic beast Alyu couldn't hold back its anger at Mok Gyeong-un's provocative words.
A mere human climbed on top of its head and made disparaging remarks, making it want to tear him to pieces right away.
The Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master, worried about Mok Gyeong-un's provocation, warned him.
"Cough cough. Patron. Don't provoke the demon too much. For now, just keep it tied up like that. Reinforcements will arrive soon. At that time, this humble monk and the Demon-Subduing monks will restrain it again with the restraints…"
-Grrrr!
Before he could even finish speaking.
The cave floor shook as if an earthquake had occurred.
It was a phenomenon caused not only by the tug-of-war between Mok Gyeong-un, who was using the Thousand-Pound Weight, and the diabolic beast Alyu, who was trying to get up by putting strength into its hooves.
"Huh?"
"Priest!"
At this, the nearby Demon-Subduing monks hurriedly supported the staggering Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master in front of Alyu's head and moved as far away as possible.
-Grrrr! Crackle crackle!
The floor shook even more violently and even began to crack.
Nevertheless, Mok Gyeong-un still remained motionless on top of the diabolic beast Alyu's head.
-Groan! Groan!
Then, the diabolic beast Alyu's demonic power surged to an extreme, and its red fur stood up like thorns, and a purple smoke of acid spewed out from there.
But that wasn't the end of it.
The diabolic beast Alyu's head swayed, and then it spewed out a purple smoke from its mouth.
As a result, the floor melted, and the terrible acid began to spread in all directions along the floor.
"Dodge it! Get out of the way!"
"H-how can we deal with this?"
The Demon-Subduing monks near the dented iron door might not know, but without mastering the Light Body Technique, there was no way they could avoid the smoke that would melt anything it touched in this brief moment.
But at that instant, Mok Gyeong-un quickly formed hand seals in a simplified manner.
-Pak! Pak! Pak!
Soldier (兵)! Fight (鬪)! Split (裂)! Formation (陳)!
They were the hand seals of the Nine Hand Seals.
In an instant, four pillars shot up in the direction the smoke was spreading, along with tremendous spirit power.
-Rumble!
Seeing this scene, the Demon-Subduing monks stuck to the end of the cave wall couldn't hide their astonishment.
As Demon-Subduing monks who had mastered dharmic powers, they could see things with their naked eyes that ordinary people couldn't, such as spirit power and demonic power.
But that wasn't the end of it.
Mok Gyeong-un put his sword fingers to his mouth and muttered softly.
"Four Peaks Linking Technique."
-Whoosh!
Surfaces were formed by the four pillars.
As the surfaces were formed, the purple smoke that had been spreading towards the Demon-Subduing monks was soon blocked by the wall of spirit power.
The smoke made of acid was blocked at a critical moment.
Seeing this scene, some of the young Demon-Subduing monks couldn't help but cheer involuntarily.
"Wow!"
"Gasp!"
But they soon closed their mouths as they noticed the looks from the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master and their senior monks.
However, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master himself couldn't hide his inner astonishment at Mok Gyeong-un's magical technique skills.
Although he didn't acknowledge magical techniques, he understood that they were also performed through the harmony of spirit power and technique formulas.
'Fast.'
But the speed at which the technique formula was completed was tremendous.
This was because the spirit power quickly took shape.
If it had been just a little slower, everyone in the cave would have melted in that smoke made of acid.
However, the astonishment was short-lived.
'Huh?'
-Grip!
At that moment, when Mok Gyeong-un made a gesture of clenching his hand, the pillars began to move and gradually narrow the distance.
Then, the smoke that had been blocked by the surface of spirit power was also pushed and gathered.
At this, the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master shouted in surprise.
"Patron! What are you doing? Stop it right now!"
It was a crazy act.
If the pillars narrowed, the smoke would inevitably gather in one direction.
The wall made of spirit power might be able to block that smoke infused with demonic power, but that patron with a mere human body couldn't.
He could melt and die from the acid.
"Patron!"
But inside the Four Peaks Linking Technique, as if his voice couldn't reach, Mok Gyeong-un couldn't hear his shout at all.
Rather, as if trying to finish it off inside,
-Swish!
He raised his fist on the opposite side that wasn't tied by the tail, and then,
-Bam!
He strongly struck down on the crown between the horns of the diabolic beast Alyu, who had barely lifted its body halfway up while spewing smoke.
"Kekekekek!"
As soon as he did that, the diabolic beast Alyu stopped spewing out the acidic smoke in pain and let out a roar of agony.
However, this scene couldn't be seen from the outside.
Because at some point, the four sides of the Four Peaks Linking Technique were obscured by the purple smoke.
It was impossible to know what was happening inside that smoke.
The only thing that could be guessed was,
-Bam! Bam! Bam!
The intense booming sounds that shook the cave floor.
The Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master and the Demon-Subduing monks could only watch this absentmindedly.
"Kiriririri!"
The diabolic beast Alyu, suffering from the continuous punches, released its tail that had been holding Mok Gyeong-un's wrist and moved its head in an attempt to somehow get him off its head.
-Whoosh! Bam!
"Get down! Get down right now!"
Mok Gyeong-un, who was standing while holding the horns of the diabolic beast Alyu, chuckled.
Then, he raised his fist once more and strongly struck down on the crown of the diabolic beast Alyu.
-Bam!
"Kekekek!"
-Crash!
The jaw of the diabolic beast Alyu, hit by the fist, finally fell to the ground.
It tried to endure it somehow with anger, but the diabolic beast Alyu was now on the verge of losing consciousness due to the repeated pain inflicted on its head.
Regardless, Mok Gyeong-un struck down on the diabolic beast Alyu's head once again.
-Bam!
The jaw of Alyu, whose head was hit, dug into the ground.
Not stopping there, Mok Gyeong-un continued to strike down on Alyu's head with a constant force.
-Bam! Bam! Bam!
With the repeated pain, Alyu finally cried out.
"Kiririk! St-stop! Stoooop!"
It was too painful, and there was no pride or anything.
However, Mok Gyeong-un paid no heed to this and kept striking down on the diabolic beast Alyu's head.
-Bam! Bam! Bam! Crunch!
No matter how much he struck with uniform force, if this continued, it would naturally break and collapse.
"Kekekekeke!"
The image of that past flashed through the diabolic beast Alyu's mind.
The miserable sight of its kin's heads being shattered and torn off by the Golden Nine-Tailed Fox.
Recalling this, the diabolic beast Alyu, who hadn't felt fear even when it was dragged by the Demon-Subduing monks of Shaolin, suddenly became terrified and pleaded like crazy.
"Kirik kirik! Sp-spare me! Please spare me!"
***
-Rumble rumble!
'!?'
Suddenly, an even greater number of warrior monks from the Arhat Pavilion rushed in and soon surrounded Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates who were waiting in the center of the courtyard – the expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong, Mong Mu-yak, Seop Chun, Ma Ra-hyeon, and Holy Fire Priestess, who was the most important for this mission.
'Why are they increasing the numbers even more?'
'Something's strange.'
Originally, they were surrounding them because of the Demonic Beast Heum-won, but the atmosphere was quite different.
The newly appeared warrior monks from the Arhat Pavilion had eyes full of wariness and were assuming the basic fighting stance, as if they were ready to fight at any moment.
Moreover, the formation in which they were surrounding them was clearly a battle formation.
Being in the middle of this, the air became heavy due to the energy of the formation, making it difficult to breathe.
At this, Seop Chun stepped forward and shouted.
"Our lord hasn't even returned yet, so what are you doing?"
"Are you trying to break the agreement made by the elder of Shaolin?"
Mong Mu-yak also supported this.
In response to their protest, Grand Monk Museong of the Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall, also stepped forward and said,
"Amitabha. There seems to be some misunderstanding. Please calm down and wait a moment."
After soothing them in this way, Grand Monk Museong turned his gaze to the warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion and spoke.
"The patron who went to the Demon-Subduing Cave hasn't returned yet, so why are the warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion surrounding them? Dismantle the formation immediately."
At the command of Grand Monk Museong, who was the eldest among them except for the Meditation Master of Shaolin, the warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion hesitated for a moment, then turned their heads in unison and looked at someone behind them.
It was none other than,
"Amitabha."
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, the overseer of the Precepts Hall.
Beside Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, there was a military official wearing armor.
He was Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards.
Seeing him standing arrogantly with his hands behind his back, Grand Monk Museong of the Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall, couldn't hide his bewilderment.
"Why is a military official here?"
In response to that question, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok stepped forward.
"Amitabha. Venerable Monk. This military official is the Commander of the Imperial Guards from the imperial palace in Kaifeng. He has come to our temple leading soldiers to pursue traitors, under the orders of His Majesty the Emperor."
"His Majesty the Emperor? Traitors?"
At Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's words, even the warrior monks who knew nothing about it were at a loss.
What does he mean by traitors?
On the other hand, Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates couldn't hide their dilemma.
'Damn it.'
The situation they had been most worried about had finally occurred.
They had been quite nervous because the demon beast Heum-won had been attacked by the Demon-Subduing monks and fell into the middle of Shaolin Temple, and as a result, they were stuck here.
But now, the pursuit from the imperial palace had finally reached this place.
'What should we do about this?'
It seemed that the warrior monks would pressure them as traitors, regardless of the agreement.
They were perplexed because their lord hadn't even arrived yet.
The warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion had already surrounded them, so they couldn't escape either.
The cheekbones of Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok twitched.
Although he tried his best not to show it, he couldn't help but feel excited because things were going better than he had hoped.
'Regardless of whether an agreement was made or not, now that we have the justification of them being traitors, we can act according to the rules. On top of that, if we can use this opportunity to retrieve the Nine Seals of Unobstructed Great Ability from the Virtue Gate, it will be killing two birds with one stone. Amitabha. All of this is the guidance of the Buddha. Hohoho.'
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok was inwardly satisfied, then raised one hand in a half-fold posture, pointed at them, and spoke.
"Amitabha. Disciples of Shaolin, listen. They are traitors of the imperial palace…"
-Thud!
Before he could even finish speaking.
Suddenly, from somewhere, the ground of the courtyard shook with a booming sound.
What on earth was going on?
At that moment, someone among the warrior monks shouted.
"Lo-look over there!"
At this, everyone in the courtyard, including Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok who had been interrupted while speaking, turned their gazes in that direction.
It was the path leading to the back garden of Shaolin.
From there, a huge monster with red fur all over its body and horns on its head, resembling a dragon, was seen walking with its massive body.
But someone was riding on top of its head, and…
"My lord!"
Seop Chun, who recognized him first, shouted with a look of joy.
It was none other than Mok Gyeong-un.
Seeing him appearing majestically while riding the diabolic beast (Alyu, which should have been trapped in the Demon-Subduing Cave, the expression of Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, immediately distorted.
304: Chapter 303: Domineering Steps (1)
-Thud! Thud!
Mok Gyeong-un, majestically appearing like a triumphant general while riding the diabolic beast Alyu, which should have been trapped in the Demon-Subduing Cave.
Seeing him like that, everyone in the courtyard couldn't hide their astonishment.
This was something that even Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates, who had pledged their loyalty to him, were doubtful of and couldn't be certain about.
'He really did it?'
The expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong stared at Mok Gyeong-un in a daze.
As a former member of Shaolin, he knew better than anyone the skills of the Demon-Subduing monks.
Yet Mok Gyeong-un had accomplished what even they couldn't do.
"Ha! He may be the lord I serve, but at times like this, it's truly incredible. Don't you think, Mu-yak?"
"..."
At Seop Chun's words, Mong Mu-yak clicked his tongue and nodded his head.
He had wondered what the fuss was about when they mentioned a demon or something.
But after seeing the diabolic beast Alyu, which was slightly larger than a two-story building, he wondered how on earth it was tamed.
The overwhelming presence emanating from the diabolic beast Alyu was on a different level from ordinary beasts.
It was a dangerous existence that couldn't be placed in the category of ferocious beasts or anything like that.
The masked Ma Ra-hyeon quietly said to them, who were excited.
"Now is not the time to rejoice over this. Since the pursuit has come from the imperial palace, that agreement is already as good as broken."
Along with those words, Ma Ra-hyeon glanced at Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards.
He also seemed shocked to see the monster for the first time and was momentarily at a loss for words.
'Things have gotten complicated.'
Although he had never conversed with him directly, he had heard rumors about that person.
Due to his extremely arrogant temperament, he wasn't selected for the Embroidered Uniform Guard, but his skills alone were considered among the top three in the Imperial Guards.
'Why did it have to be him?'
That Kang-hak was notorious for being very persistent.
With a strong desire for power, he would stop at nothing to arrest them, regardless of the means and methods, in order to achieve results.
"Amitabha. It is truly remarkable. Remarkable indeed."
Grand Monk Museong of the Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall, exclaimed in admiration.
Although he also valued discipline, considering the mistakes of the Demon-Subduing monks and the inability to impose discipline on laypeople, he had given them a chance.
But seeing such perfect control over the demon, he couldn't help but acknowledge it.
-Thud! Thud!
As the diabolic beast Alyu approached the Arhat Pavilion, Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards, who was standing next to Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, spoke while still unable to close his mouth in shock.
"…What on earth is that? Venerable Monk."
"Please calm down, Commander. That demon was captured by Shaolin because it was causing harm."
"You said it was captured? But who is that person riding on top of it?"
"As you can see, that person is not from Shaolin."
"I can tell that just by looking at his hair. Wait, could it be…"
"He is one of the traitors you mentioned, Commander."
"Then we must capture that person immediately!"
"Please give this humble monk a moment…"
"Monk, you clearly said that Shaolin had nothing to do with the traitors. But what difference is there between leaving the traitors alone like this and Shaolin protecting them? If this is how it's going to be, we have no choice but to search Shaolin."
At Commander Kang-hak's words, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok frowned.
He had brought this person in as a pretext to handle everything according to the rules, but he turned out to be a more troublesome patron than expected.
At that moment, Grand Monk Museong of the Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall, approached and said,
"Amitabha. You keep mentioning traitors, but what exactly do you mean by that?"
"Venerable Monk, they are traitors who helped prisoners escape from the imperial palace."
"Helped prisoners escape from the imperial palace?"
"It is as I said. Furious at this, His Majesty the Emperor has ordered the capture of the traitors. Venerable Monk, we must arrest them immediately."
"Oh my. Fellow Venerable Monk."
Grand Monk Museong couldn't hide his predicament.
He roughly grasped the main point.
However, it was an extremely ironic situation.
He had already given them a chance through his own words, and they had firmly seized that opportunity.
"Venerable Monk, do you not see that?"
-Thud! Thud!
Grand Monk Museong pointed with his hand at the diabolic beast Alyu, which had approached close to the courtyard, and Mok Gyeong-un, who was riding on its head.
"That patron has succeeded in controlling the demon. But how can we break an agreement made in the name of Shaolin?"
"Amitabha. Venerable Monk. We are not breaking the agreement."
"Not breaking it? What do you mean?"
"What you agreed to, Venerable Monk, was that if they showed that they could control the demon, you would also release that flying demon over there."
At Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's words, the expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong shouted angrily.
"Isn't that too far-fetched?"
"Far-fetched?"
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok snorted and looked at Ja Geum-jeong, saying,
"An expelled monk who broke the precepts as often as eating meals after drinking alcohol is now saying it's far-fetched? Did you think that even though Shaolin cultivates the Buddhist way and values compassion, it would protect traitors who harm the country?"
"Fellow Venerable Monk!"
At his words, Grand Monk Museong strongly reprimanded him.
In a situation where he had to speak cautiously, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok was now talking as if he represented Shaolin.
This was an extremely dangerous remark.
However, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, who couldn't miss this opportunity, didn't abandon his stubborn attitude despite the reprimand from Grand Monk Museong, who had a higher rank.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok spoke even louder so that everyone could hear.
"Right now, outside Shaolin, government troops from the imperial capital of Kaifeng have gathered. If the temple does not hand over the traitors, not only them but more imperial troops will come and conduct a search. Will you allow this?"
"!!!!!"
-Murmur murmur!
"Search the temple?"
"What on earth is that about?"
At Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's words, the monks of Shaolin in the courtyard became agitated.
It may be called a search, but if they didn't hand over those people, it was no different from saying that they were also in cahoots with them.
Shaolin had never knelt or bent to any external pressure or enemy.
But even for Shaolin, if a country deliberately sent troops, the situation would change.
No, it could be said to become complicated.
"Amitabha."
Grand Monk Museong's mind became complicated.
Until now, it was a problem that could be handled on his own.
However, with the involvement of the military official and the imperial palace, the matter had become too big.
This was close to the level where all the priests, including the Meditation Master of Shaolin, had to gather and hold a meeting.
At that moment, Mong Mu-yak, one of Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates, stepped forward and shouted.
"Venerable Monk! The Demon-Subduing monks of Shaolin attacked this monstrous bird we were riding, causing it to fall here, and we almost died. Even though the monks of Buddhism nearly committed murder, our lord showed understanding despite the lack of a proper apology. But how can the great Shaolin, the most senior, so easily break the agreement made?"
"That's right. Shaolin is a place for Buddhist disciples who have cut ties with the secular world, so are you trying not to let us go just to appease the government troops?"
Seop Chun supported Mong Mu-yak in this way.
At their words, which were somewhat logical, Grand Monk Museong couldn't hide his predicament.
There was nothing wrong with what they said.
However, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok and Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards were different.
Commander Kang-hak shouted in a voice filled with anger.
"You bastards! You sneaked into the imperial palace and helped a vicious prisoner escape, committing the crime of treason, and now you dare to mention government troops?"
-Shing!
Kang-hak half-drew his sword from his waist.
At this, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok hurriedly stopped him.
"Amitabha. Commander, please calm down."
"Calm down? Whose side is Shaolin on? You clearly said that Shaolin had nothing to do with the traitors, but now it seems that's not the case at all."
'Troublesome patron indeed.'
He had intended to use him as a mere pawn, but he kept pouring fuel on the fire.
He understood his intention to push them and easily catch those people, but it was problematic for him to intervene in this way.
Feeling that this wouldn't do, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok spoke in a loud voice.
"Warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion, listen. As the overseer of the Precepts Hall of Shaolin, I command you. Subdue and restrain them immediately!"
At his command, the warrior monks of the Arhat Pavilion hesitated.
If they were indeed traitors, it would be right to subdue them, but since the opinion of Grand Monk Museong, who had a higher rank than Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, differed, it was difficult for them to act recklessly.
As a result, the overseer of the Arhat Pavilion, the leader of the warrior monks, finally opened his mouth.
"Venerable Monk. The agreement regarding controlling the demon or not is a separate matter from this. If they are truly traitors, Shaolin could be in danger."
"Oh my."
Unfortunately, the opinion of the overseer of the Arhat Pavilion was the same as that of Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, the overseer of the Precepts Hall.
From the perspective of the overseer of the Arhat Pavilion, the intention was to handle the matter within their own capacity and not create a situation where imperial troops would gather.
At that moment, someone who had crossed the pavilion intervened.
"Amitabha. That shouldn't be said. How can Shaolin break an agreement it made out of fear of a search by imperial troops?"
It was Grand Monk Gong-jeon, the overseer of the Sutra Pavilion.
At this, the overseer of the Arhat Pavilion replied with a perplexed expression.
"Amitabha. Venerable Monk. That's not what I meant. If Shaolin is falsely accused of protecting traitors…"
"When heaven and earth have witnessed it and we are upright, why should we fear such a thing? You said a military official came from the imperial palace? Shaolin is a temple that cultivates the Buddhist way. If you must arrest them as traitors, do it outside, not in Shaolin."
At Grand Monk Gong-jeon's words, Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards said as if it were absurd.
"Now that I see it, it seems Shaolin has properly colluded with the traitors. Protecting prisoners who helped a vicious criminal escape, you must be out of your minds."
"Amitabha. Why is the military official pushing us in such a way?"
"Shaolin is supposed to be a place that values cooperation and justice, but even after seeing the evildoers who committed treason, you say you'll just let them go without knowing. How is this pushing you? Anyway, I understand Shaolin's intention well. In Shaolin, no longer…"
-Flinch!
Suddenly, Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards couldn't finish his words.
That was because of the eerie presence felt from behind.
"Since you called us evildoers, I should do as you wish."
'!?'
The expression of Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, who was next to Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards, froze.
The owner of this voice was none other than Mok Gyeong-un.
When did he come behind them?
They didn't even sense him approaching.
-Grab!
"Ugh!"
At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un grabbed the back of Commander Kang-hak's neck.
As someone who had risen to the position of Commander of the Imperial Guards, Kang-hak, who had reached the pinnacle-stage of the Peak Realm, tried to resist and break free.
However,
-Tighten!
"Urk!"
He instinctively sensed it.
The strength gripping the back of his neck was so strong that if he resisted even slightly, it felt like his neck would be torn off.
Mok Gyeong-un grinned at him and said,
"Like an evildoer, I should take you hostage and leave this place."
"How dare you!"
At that moment, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok hurriedly turned his body and unleashed the Dragon Claw Hand towards Mok Gyeong-un, who was gripping the back of Kang-hak's neck, in an attempt to save him.
Each of the Seventy-two Unique Arts of Shaolin was close to being a supreme technique, but…
-Bam bam bam bam bam!
Mok Gyeong-un lightly blocked his Dragon Claw Hand with one hand.
He wasn't using any special technique but was matching the moves of the Dragon Claw Hand, and at some point, Mok Gyeong-un's hand movements resembled the Dragon Claw Hand.
At this, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok couldn't hide his astonishment.
In the midst of exchanging techniques, Mok Gyeong-un was copying his own technique.
How could there be such a cunning person?
'In that case!'
Feeling that this wouldn't do, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok unleashed a fierce palm strike towards Mok Gyeong-un.
It was the most domineering and powerful technique of the Shaolin Bronze Sand Palm, a palm strike that pushed the opponent with profound internal energy.
In response, Mok Gyeong-un also unleashed the same palm technique.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok smiled contentedly at Mok Gyeong-un's response.
'I'll subdue him with internal energy.'
Having cultivated the divine technique of Shaolin, the True Sutra of Marrow Washing, he possessed vast and profound internal energy.
Therefore, he was confident that he would not lose to anyone in terms of internal energy.
Moreover, no matter how much this young patron in his mid-twenties had reached a high level, there was no way he could defeat him in internal energy…
-Bang!
'Impossible!?'
-Slide!
The moment their palms collided, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's body was pushed back more than ten steps.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok couldn't hide his perplexity as he looked at his trembling hand.
Unlike himself, who was pushed back, Mok Gyeong-un didn't budge a single step despite holding Commander Kang-hak of the Imperial Guards.
'!!!!!!'
Seeing this scene, the eyes of the warrior monks of Shaolin widened.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, one of the top three masters of Shaolin known as the Three Supreme Monks of Shaolin, was pushed back in an internal energy clash against a young master whose name wasn't even known.
'How could this be?'
305: Chapter 304: Domineering Steps (2)
The Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, one of the Three Supreme Monks of Shaolin.
He held the third-highest monastic rank at Shaolin, but in reality, he was only a year or two apart from those above him in terms of internal energy cultivation.
Having mastered the Bone Marrow Cleansing Scripture and the Mahayana Heavenly God Technique, it was no exaggeration to say that among the orthodox warriors, none could match his internal energy except for the Six Heavens and Eight Stars masters.
Yet, such a man was overwhelmed in internal energy by a newcomer whose name was not even known, someone who appeared to be in his mid-twenties at most.
'Oh my. How astonishing.'
'He overwhelmed Dae-deok in inner strength?'
From the perspective of the other two Supreme Monks of Shaolin, the Sutra Pavilion Grand Monk Gong-jeon and the Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall Grand Monk Museong, they couldn't help but inwardly marvel at this.
They had predicted to some extent that Mok Gyeong-un was no ordinary master, but who would have guessed that in terms of internal energy, the purest and most robust inner force of Shaolin would prevail against a formidable expert?
-Sssssss!
At that moment, a haze rose from the hands and shoulders of Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok.
This phenomenon occurred when dispelling the opponent's energy.
'Not only is his inner strength formidable, but his energy is also bizarre.'
The moment it made contact, a portion of his internal energy scattered.
If it weren't for the pure internal energy of Shaolin, this phenomenon would have been even more severe.
-Clench!
Dae-deok unconsciously bit his lip tightly.
Although he had cultivated the Buddhist path for a long time, his temperament was more sensitive compared to other high-ranking monks, making it difficult for him to tolerate this.
'How can such humiliation be possible?'
It was utterly shameful in front of Shaolin's disciples.
However, as an elder, he had too much pride to openly express this, so Dae-deok tried his best to manage his expression and spoke.
"Amitabha. The internal energy of the young patron is truly extraordinary."
"For a venerable monk who has cultivated internal energy for such a long time, your inner strength is quite weak."
"....."
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Dae-deok's earlobes trembled.
The young man was deliberately provoking him.
It seemed he was doing so because he had already judged himself to have the upper hand in internal energy.
This infuriated Dae-deok inwardly, but he maintained his composure.
'Phew.'
Being inferior in internal energy did not necessarily mean complete defeat, but if they were to face each other one-on-one again, it was undeniable that the probability of losing was significantly higher.
Therefore, Dae-deok believed that driving the situation, rather than a direct confrontation, was the only answer.
"Patron. I am well aware that your martial arts are extraordinary. However, no matter how exceptional they may be, this is not something that can be tolerated at the moment. Release the military officer at once."
"Ah. You mean this person?"
Mok Gyeong-un pointed with his eyes at Commander Kang-hak, whose neck was grasped by his hand.
"That's right."
"Well. Why should I do that?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's response, Dae-deok inwardly exclaimed with delight.
Yes. He was grateful that he came out like that.
If he faithfully played the role of the villain, their side could take the opposite approach.
Dae-deok assumed the stance of the Small Golden Strong Acid Hand and raised his voice towards Mok Gyeong-un.
"Amitabha. I had my doubts since you were called a traitor, but are you really going to take a hostage and do as you please like this?"
-Murmur murmur!
At Dae-deok's outcry, the reaction of the warrior monks of Arhat Pavilion, who were watching, changed drastically.
Until now, they were at a loss as to what to do when opinions differed among the Supreme Monks of Shaolin with higher ranks.
However, it was different in the case of taking a hostage right in the heart of Shaolin.
-Rumble rumble!
The surrounding warrior monks moved in unison.
Then, eighteen warrior monks surrounded Mok Gyeong-un, forming the Eighteen Arhats Formation, and aimed their staffs at him.
"Patron. Release the hostage at once!"
As one of the warrior monks shouted, Dae-deok barely managed to suppress the twitching of his lips.
It was going as intended.
The monks of Shaolin were disciples of Buddha, so they always contemplated right and wrong.
This was a lifelong study and a common issue for all, whether they were young or old monks.
However, if they were given a clear justification for righteousness, they changed.
'Patron....You absolutely cannot escape from here.'
Confronting him alone was one thing, but confronting Shaolin was different.
Even if he was a transcendent master who had surpassed the wall, if Shaolin decided to take action, it would be difficult to guarantee victory, let alone be careless.
At that moment.
-Clench!
"Ugh."
Mok Gyeong-un tightly grasped Commander Kang-hak's neck and spoke.
"It seems you don't understand the meaning of a hostage. If you act like this, more force will inevitably be applied to the hand grasping the neck."
"How dare you!"
At Mok Gyeong-un's threat, anger surged in the eyes of the surrounding Arhat warrior monks.
To them, taking a hostage was an act of cowardice itself.
At that moment, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok spoke in a loud voice.
"If the patron is going to act in such a cowardly manner, this humble monk has no choice. Arhat warrior monks, surround them immediately."
"Yes!!!!"
At Dae-deok's command, the waiting Arhat warrior monks shouted in unison and surrounded Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates: Mong Mu-yak, Seop Chun, Ma Ra-hyeon, the expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong, and the Holy Fire Priestess.
By their side was the Demonic Beast Heum-won, so 64 Arhat warrior monks lined up and formed an encirclement.
"Dae-deok! What are you doing now?"
Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall Grand Monk Museong pressured him with a similar response, threatening his fellow monks.
Dae-deok snorted and said.
"When that wicked patron has even taken a hostage, how long are you going to let yourself be dragged around with agreements and whatnot? Master, please come to your senses!"
"Master!"
"Demon-Subduing Monks, subdue those monsters without harming the Arhat warrior monks!"
Dae-deok ignored Museong's reprimand and issued orders to the Demon-Subduing Monks.
However, unlike the Arhat warrior monks who acted as intended, none of the Demon-Subduing Monks moved.
Dae-deok raised his voice at this.
"Why are you just standing there?"
Then, someone staggered out from among the Demon-Subduing Monks.
His monk's robe was stained with blood from his injuries. He was none other than the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master.
"Amitabha. Cough cough. We humble monks cannot do that."
"What?"
"Cough….I apologize, but that patron has successfully fulfilled the agreement with the Muscle Tendon Scripture Hall Master."
"Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master! At this point, what does that have to do with….."
"It matters. Cough cough. That patron saved the lives of us Demon-Subduing Monks, including myself, from the rampaging monsters. How can we, who have already received his grace, break the agreement, let alone repay him?"
"Ha!"
At the Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master's refusal, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok was dumbfounded.
If those Demon-Subduing Monks did not help, it would become difficult to subdue the monsters, and sacrifices could occur.
'Demon-Subduing Pavilion Master, why be so stubborn at a time like this?'
Faced with his refusal, Dae-deok, who was in a predicament, clenched his teeth.
It was too late to turn the situation around anyway.
If it was a path to uphold the rules and preserve Shaolin's honor, it had to be done even if some sacrifices were involved.
'No matter how stubborn he is, he will have no choice but to step in when the warrior monks are in danger.'
With that, Dae-deok ordered the Arhat warrior monks.
"Arhat warrior monks, quickly those traitors….."
Before he could even finish his words.
"Amitabha! Everyone, stop!"
At that moment, Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall Grand Monk Museong shouted in a lion's roar-like voice.
At his resounding voice filled with internal energy that reverberated like an echo, the warrior monks, without exception, frowned.
Ma Ra-hyeon inwardly clicked his tongue at Museong's startling shout.
'They say he is the best among the Three Supreme Monks of Shaolin, and his internal energy is indeed remarkable.'
What was even more surprising was that although it was a sound infused with internal energy, no one was injured.
This meant that Museong had reached the realm of mastery in controlling his true energy.
Startled by Museong's sudden shout, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok opened his mouth.
"Venerable Monk, why..."
"Dae-deok, be quiet."
"....."
At his stern voice, Dae-deok closed his mouth with a stiffened face.
Museong, who had acknowledged his position when he took on the role of hall master and rose to the rank of Precepts Hall Master, always called him 'Venerable Monk' despite his higher rank.
However, calling him by his Dharma name like this implied how displeased he was at the moment.
It wasn't just him who sensed this.
All the monks of Shaolin in the hall also seemed to have felt Museong's emotions, as their gazes focused on him.
Then, Museong clasped his hands together and opened his mouth, looking at Mok Gyeong-un.
"Amitabha. First, I apologize to the patrons."
'!!!!!!'
Surprised by this, Dae-deok tried to stop him.
"Venerable Monk….."
"I told you to be quiet, Dae-deok."
"....."
With the second warning, Dae-deok finally closed his mouth and clasped his hands together.
Even though he was the next-in-line abbot and held the highest rank, he couldn't stubbornly insist when Museong came out so strongly.
As he closed his mouth, Museong continued.
"Even though we had an agreement with the patrons, this situation arose entirely due to this humble monk's lack of virtue."
"Venerable Monk!"
At those words, sighs erupted from here and there.
Even if they had an agreement, if they were traitors who broke out a prisoner from the imperial palace, there was no need for him to lower himself to that extent.
However, with the highest-ranking Museong coming out like this, no matter how respected they were, it was difficult for them to accept it.
At that moment.
"Hmph. Is Shaolin really trying to protect the traitors…."
-Clench!
"Argh!"
As Commander Kang-hak tried to spit out his anger, Mok Gyeong-un grasped his neck, preventing him from speaking.
In that state, Mok Gyeong-un smiled and said.
"Thank you for saying that. Then, according to the agreement, will you let us go with the monsters?"
"Amitabha. Patron."
"Yes."
"I apologize, but that is no longer possible."
"Why is that?"
"This humble monk is the elder of Shaolin and a disciple of Shaolin. Now that the situation has come to this, I can no longer let the patrons go. This is due to the difference in our positions, so please do not resent this humble monk even if you blame me."
'Well, of course.'
I wondered if he would really let them go now that the situation had come to this, but Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok inwardly exclaimed with delight at Museong's changed stance.
No matter how upright Museong was, he couldn't stubbornly insist on being righteous and noble by himself in this situation.
If he independently let them go, not only would it put them at odds with the imperial palace, but it would also give them a pretext for a search.
Furthermore, if the rumor spread in the orthodox martial arts world that they had released traitors, Shaolin's reputation would hit rock bottom.
"Well, in the end, you share the same opinion as that venerable monk over there."
As soon as those words ended, a voice transmission reached Mok Gyeong-un's ears.
-Amitabha. That is not the case.
Mok Gyeong-un's eyes gleamed at the voice transmission.
Come to think of it, Hang Yeo-ryang, the Summoning Sound Valley Master who taught him this technique, seemed to have mentioned that Shaolin was the only place in the orthodox martial arts world where this was possible.
Then, Museong spoke.
-Do not be surprised, Patron. This is this humble monk conveying his voice so that only the patron can hear it.
-I am aware of that.
Mok Gyeong-un replied to this through voice transmission.
At that, Museong responded with surprise, although he did not show it outwardly.
-The patron continues to astound this humble monk in many ways.
306: Chapter 305: Domineering Steps (3)
-The patron continues to astound this humble monk in many ways.
-How can such a small talent be astonishing? But why are you sending me a voice transmission?
-It is to convey this humble monk's intentions.
-Your intentions, Venerable Monk?
-If it were this humble monk's personal opinion, I would like to keep the agreement regardless of what the patrons did outside. However, now that the imperial military officer has come here and the patron has taken him hostage, if we let you go, Shaolin may be put in a precarious position.
-Is it because of your standing?
-How could a monk who has renounced the world think of standing? The imperial officials will surely use this as a pretext to pressure the main temple. If the monks who have left the secular world continue to face secular pressure, how can they focus on cultivating the Buddhist path?
At Museong's voice transmission, Mok Gyeong-un looked at him with surprise.
Unlike the Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok, he seemed to have a deep Buddhist faith without any selfish motives.
-Then what do you want to do? Do you want us to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of the monks?
-How could this humble monk force such a thing?
-Then what?
-I simply wish to give you an opportunity, believing in the patron's martial prowess.
-Opportunity?
At Mok Gyeong-un's question, Museong opened his mouth instead of using voice transmission.
"When a conflict with the secular world occurs, Shaolin has overcome it with a simple yet long-standing tradition."
"A long-standing tradition?"
"That's right. No matter how different our positions may be, it is difficult to completely ignore the agreement we made. Since Shaolin is also a disciple of Buddha and a martial artist who hones martial arts, we intend to compete based on the martial arts code."
"...…"
"Listen, Arhat warrior monks. Deploy the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation at once!"
"Yes!!!!"
As soon as that command was given.
-Rumble rumble!
The 108 warrior monks, including those who had already deployed the Eighteen Arhats Formation, deployed a formation around Mok Gyeong-un with tremendous spirit.
When the 108 Arhat warrior monks lined up and assumed their stances, their majesty was like witnessing an army of thousands.
What was even more remarkable was that they had only formed a formation, yet their energy doubled and filled the entire hall.
'...Impressive.'
This was all too clear in the eyes of Mok Gyeong-un, who had opened his Ghost Eyes.
One by one, ordinary energies converged into a single entity called a formation, becoming so formidable.
Therefore, he couldn't help but admire it.
At that moment, the expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong shouted in an angry voice.
"Master! No matter what, isn't this going too far? What do you mean by competing based on the martial arts code? Isn't the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation Shaolin's strongest force?"
The reason Ja Geum-jeong was so agitated was simple.
The Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation was Shaolin's most powerful formation designed to subdue multiple enemies or transcendent masters of the True Grandmaster level.
It symbolized Shaolin, and among those who had officially faced it, no one had ever broken the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation.
"Amitabha. That's right. The Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation can indeed be considered Shaolin's strongest force."
"Master, this is….."
"Shh!"
At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un raised his finger to his lips, gesturing Ja Geum-jeong to be quiet.
Ja Geum-jeong frowned and closed his mouth mid-sentence.
Has his master gone crazy?
Isn't he afraid of being surrounded by the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation?
While he was puzzled, Mok Gyeong-un spoke, looking at Museong, who was standing at a distance.
"If you say it's according to the martial arts code, do you mean we should compete?"
"That's right. However, I'm not asking you to break it."
"If you're not asking me to break it?"
"Presenting the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation, which can be considered Shaolin's strongest force, to the patron is to express our reverence for the patron's outstanding martial prowess."
Is it reverence? Or is it for a definitive outcome?
Mok Gyeong-un chuckled and said.
"Well, let's say that's the case. So, what do you want to do? If not to break it?"
"In the past, after an unpleasant incident, Shaolin further enhanced the formation of the Hundred and Eight Arhats, making it much more perfect than before."
"...…"
"If you can endure this Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation for just a moment, Shaolin will consider it fate and comply, safely sending the patrons on their way. Of course, if it is not feasible with just the patron alone, you are welcome to join forces with your companions."
"One moment..."
"However, if you cannot endure it for a moment, this humble monk will have to hand you over to the imperial palace as traitors, even if the patrons resent me. If we do this, will the military officer from the imperial palace believe that Shaolin is not harboring them?"
"Phew…phew….."
At Museong's proposal, Commander Kang-hak, who was being held hostage by Mok Gyeong-un, reluctantly nodded his head as if agreeing.
However, his inner thoughts were completely different.
'Isn't the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation of Shaolin known for its undefeated record and Shaolin's strongest force?'
This was a well-known fact among all martial artists.
As far as he knew, even the Six Heavens and Eight Stars masters, who were considered the pinnacle of the current martial arts world, could not recklessly challenge Shaolin's Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation.
It was literally one of Shaolin's legends.
'No matter how strong this damn bastard is, it's impossible to last a moment against Shaolin's Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation.'
He was confident about this.
Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok's thoughts were no different from those of the Guard Commander.
Although that outrageously arrogant patron's inner strength surpassed his own, the power of the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation was on a different level.
In the distant past, they had unofficially suffered a humiliating incident, but the perfection of the formation now was incomparable to that time.
'He talked as if he were being compassionate, but the master has given him an even more inescapable task. Hohoho.'
Dae-deok looked at Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall Grand Monk Museong with a satisfied expression.
On the other hand, Mok Gyeong-un's subordinates had grim expressions.
Even if they were allowed to join forces and given a time limit of a moment, could they really withstand the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation?
No matter how strong Mok Gyeong-un's martial prowess had become, they lacked confidence in this particular task.
At that moment.
"If we are to proceed with your proposal, I should return the hostage to you. Please take him."
-Smack!
Mok Gyeong-un lifted Commander Kang-hak, whose neck he was grasping, and threw him towards Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok as if throwing an object.
'What?'
At his sudden action, Dae-deok inwardly clicked his tongue.
Judging by the way he was flying, it seemed that he had deliberately infused inner strength into the throw.
However, he couldn't show himself being pushed back like before, so he hurriedly spread out his soft palm technique to catch the flying Commander Kang-hak.
The moment he caught him,
-Crash!
'Ugh.'
Dae-deok's expression momentarily twisted in pain.
It was a technique of the Physical Transmission Scripture.
He tried to disperse Commander Kang-hak's force, but instead, that force penetrated and entered, nearly pushing him back again.
-Gulp!
However, thanks to forcefully enduring it, blood rose to his throat as if he had suffered internal injuries.
At this, Dae-deok glared at Mok Gyeong-un with anger-filled eyes.
'This bastard!'
Regardless of his reaction, Mok Gyeong-un shrugged his shoulders as if he didn't care at all and turned his head to speak to Museong.
"But Venerable Monk, may I also make a proposal to you, no, to Shaolin?"
"A proposal?"
"No matter how I think about it, this seems to only consider Shaolin's convenience. Even if we are in a disadvantageous position."
"....So you're saying you'll reject this humble monk's proposal?"
"No. That's not it."
"Then what kind of proposal do you intend to make?"
"It's nothing much. I want us to receive compensation for nearly falling to our deaths due to Shaolin's mistake. Honestly, an apology alone seems insufficient for a matter involving people's lives."
"Compensation? How do you mean compensation?"
"I heard that Shaolin has a very precious spiritual medicine. I think it was called the Great Restoration Pill?"
'!!!!!!!'
At those words, the monks of Shaolin stirred.
Of course, Mok Gyeong-un paid no heed to this and continued speaking.
"If we pass the master's proposal, how about giving each of us one as compensation for the harm done to me and my companions?"
At Mok Gyeong-un's words, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok intervened with a fierce expression instead of Museong.
"The young patron must not be in his right mind to make such a request when you should be grateful for even being given a chance."
The spiritual medicine Mok Gyeong-un had just mentioned was made from Shaolin's secret method.
It took a long time to make just one because the manufacturing method was so difficult, and the reason it was famous was that if an ordinary person took the Great Restoration Pill, they would live a long life without illness, and if a martial artist took it, they would gain a full cycle of inner strength.
Therefore, even in the martial arts world, Shaolin's spiritual medicine, the Great Restoration Pill, was regarded as the supreme spiritual medicine.
"What's there to be in the right mind about? If Shaolin hadn't dropped us, this situation wouldn't have happened at all, so shouldn't you agree to even greater demands?"
"Ha! The patron truly prefers punishment over….."
"Enough!"
Museong reprimanded Dae-deok.
As Dae-deok closed his mouth, Museong clasped his hands together and spoke to Mok Gyeong-un.
"Amitabha. Patron. I apologize to the patron, but the number of Great Restoration Pills is not that many, and moreover, they can only be given out after being approved in a meeting presided over by the abbot."
"Are you refusing on the pretext of procedure?"
"How could that be? However, I believe there is certainly some truth to the compensation the patron speaks of. So, even if not the Great Restoration Pill, I think I can give you the Small Restoration Pill within my authority."
"M-Master!"
At those words, not only Dae-deok but even the Sutra Pavilion Grand Monk Gong-jeon, who was favorable to them, looked at Museong in surprise.
That was because the Small Restoration Pill was also a spiritual medicine that Shaolin prided itself on.
In the case of the Great Restoration Pill, the manufacturing method was so complicated and time-consuming that Shaolin created a substitute spiritual medicine.
That was none other than the Small Restoration Pill.
This Small Restoration Pill was also a precious spiritual medicine that could grant ten years' worth of inner strength with a single pill.
"Master, this is….."
-Swish!
As Gong-jeon tried to say that they should be cautious, Museong shook his head with a resolute face.
His thoughts remained unchanged.
He had already broken his agreement to prevent external pressure by making an enemy of the imperial palace.
At this point, he had a strong desire to compensate them with something, and just then, Mok Gyeong-un made this bold request, so he considered it a good opportunity.
"Of course, please keep in mind that this proposal stems from the patrons being able to endure the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation for a moment."
"Alright. With this, it seems the balance has been somewhat restored."
"I will not accept the Small Restoration Pill."
At that moment, someone intervened and shouted loudly.
It was the expelled monk Ja Geum-jeong.
At this, Gong-jeon spoke in a gentle voice, indicating that it was alright.
"Amitabha. It's you, Deokmun. If you're worried about burdening Shaolin, you don't need to….."
"No. Master. Instead of that, I want to receive something else."
"Something else?"
"If we endure the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation for a moment, instead of the Small Restoration Pill, please allow me to strike the Precepts Hall Master over there with full force, just once, no more, no less."
'!?'
At his words, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok was dumbfounded.
He wondered what that expelled fellow would dare to demand, but he impudently asked to be allowed to hit him?
It was so absurd that he was about to say something,
"How dare you….."
"Hohohoho. Even if he was expelled, there is something called old ties, so can't we grant Deokmun's request to this extent?"
Sutra Pavilion Grand Monk Gong-jeon took the initiative.
At this, Reverse Muscle Scripture Hall Grand Monk Museong nodded with a faint smile.
What was so difficult about allowing him to strike just once, not even the Small Restoration Pill?
Moreover, Precepts Hall Master Dae-deok had a significant influence on that child becoming a expelled monk, so he could fully understand that level of venting.
"Now, before we begin, bring an incense stick that lasts for a moment."
"Yes!"
At Museong's command, some of the warrior monks who were not part of the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation clasped their hands together and were about to go and fetch it.
At that moment, Mok Gyeong-un waved his hand and spoke in a meaningful voice.
"Shaolin will have to erect a tombstone due to another misjudgment."
"What do you mean by….."
It was at that very moment.
Mok Gyeong-un suddenly stomped his foot on the ground.
-Kwaaang! Crackle crackle!
At that instant, with a tremendous roar, the ground of Arhat Pavilion's plaza cracked, centered around Mok Gyeong-un, and the vibration spread in all directions.
Along with the vibration that shook the ground, the moment it reached the soles of the Arhat warrior monks who were surrounding him in the Hundred and Eight Arhats Formation,
-Tremble tremble!
They all convulsed as if they had been struck by a shock, and then,
-Thud! Thud! Thud!
Without exception, they simultaneously collapsed to the ground.
'!!!!!!!!!!!'