Chapter 348 - 318 Let’s Do It Together
Nakagiya Oto’s words had cast a shadow over Koda Shinmei’s expression, his heart filled with melancholy.
In ancient times, it was said that mastering the literary and martial arts to serve the Emperor’s Family was the best path for a martial artist. However, in modern society, martial artists no longer have many prospects: they become soldiers, security guards, bodyguards, or slowly blend into show biz, hardly ever coming to prominence.
Instead, in the Underworld where strength is revered, those with high Combat Power are more easily respected and gain status; many organizations and groups offer high regards to those exceptionally skilled in martial arts.
Thus, there is actually a deep connection between the Martial Arts World and the Underworld. For instance, Koda Shinmei, as a representative of Gangrou Style Karate in the Island Country Martial Arts World, held a high reputation, but he was also a martial arts instructor for the Guandong Association.
It was easy to understand: how much money could one earn by running a Martial Arts Hall? The reputation in the Martial Arts World could not be converted into real wealth, unlike becoming the martial arts instructor for the Guandong Association. Teaching some students every year and occasionally fighting a few matches for the Guandong Association could earn him more in one year than he could make from a lifetime of running a Martial Arts Hall.
But having accepted their favors and entered this Jianghu, it was unrealistic to hope for a peaceful life thereafter.
Li San once said to Wu: "To die in the ring one day would be a decent outcome." Koda Shinmei naturally shared this understanding, and as Watanabe Ryosuke’s former teacher, Nakagiya Oto had long anticipated that his disciple might face such an end.
Nakagiya Oto quickly regained his composure and looked at Koda Shinmei, "Did you come today just to say this?"
"Lord Nakagi,"
The usually silent Ozeki Nobuyoshi stepped forward, speaking respectfully, "The man who killed Watanabe-san has now openly challenged the Guandong Association and is about to compete in martial arts with Xiaoze Wutian."
Nakagiya Oto shifted his gaze, his look towards Ozeki Nobuyoshi was palpable, regarding the leader who commanded tens of thousands in the underworld.