By noon, the entrance to Yi Jeong Martial Academy was packed with people. It was time for the announcement of the successful applicants. As the sun reached its zenith, casting the shortest shadow, the massive doors creaked open, and a middle-aged martial artist strode out with dignified steps.

It was the academy’s head, Dagger Sword Lord Yoo Sun-yeop. He stepped up to the platform prepared for the occasion, looked around at the crowd, and, with a powerful voice infused with inner strength, began to speak.

“As head of this academy, I am truly moved by the sincerity of all those …