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Thud, thud, thud!

The cavalry thundered across the plains, creating quite a ruckus. Following a massive victory, our forces advanced to lay siege to Luoyang Castle. We had about 50,000 troops at the ready, but the enemy was left in tatters, barely having any defenders left. Mangnyang smirked as he learned that the defending forces in Luoyang were less than 10,000.

“Good. Let’s solidify the siege.”

At the gathering of commanders, Lee Kwang asked Mangnyang a question. “Isn’t it better to launch an assault immediately?”

I glanced at Lee Kwang. He seemed hesitant, but he had played a crucial role in this battle. Without his and Jin So-cheong’s powerful skills slashing through the enemy lines, our troops would have been wiped out. On top of that, Lee Kwang’s military reputation was so immense that even the top warriors in the tent couldn’t meet his gaze.

“The siege is already in place, and the siege weapons are ready. Are we really going to let this golden opportunity slip by with only a few thousand defensive troops?”

Smiling, Mangnyang replied, “What matters more than the defenses of Luoyang itself are the ultimate guardians lurking in the Imperial Palace. We can’t afford to ignore them.”

“There’s a power of tens of thousands on our side. Do you really think whatever’s in the palace is a threat to us?”

“Absolutely. We’ll definitely face a setback.”

Lee Kwang, hearing Mangnyang’s unhesitating answer, let out a sigh. He had heard about the existence of the otherworldly beings from General Hwang Yeon but seemed unable to grasp their true might. That’s understandable, since in this lifetime, he hadn’t personally fought against them. Mangnyang continued to speak slowly.

“The reason we could easily win at the plains battle is that the greatest strategist of the Emperor hasn’t joined the fray. He’s likely torn between protecting the Emperor until the end or surrendering to us. If we attack recklessly, we could provoke him.”

“Who is he?”

“It’s Zhuge Bu, the Grand Astronomer of the Imperial Palace. I believe you’ve heard at least his name before.”

Lee Kwang’s eyebrows twitched. “You mean the one said to be the best genius in the Central Plains for a hundred years?”

“Yes. He’s currently responsible for the formation techniques of the Imperial Palace.”

Lee Kwang seemed to be thinking for a moment. Probably comparing the power disparities between us and the enemy if Zhuge Bu joined the battle in his mind. Then Lee Kwang asked again, “So let’s say Zhuge Bu solidifies the palace’s defense with his techniques. What’s the point if we occupy everywhere else?”

“That’s not it.”

Everyone was shocked by Mangnyang’s follow-up. “Zhuge Bu can immediately extend the palace’s protective barrier over all of Luoyang if he performs a special ceremony. That means any troops that enter will either be wiped out or taken captive.”

……!!

“No way!”

“Are you saying that’s possible?”

Whispers filled the tent. The generals, aware that powerful techniques existed, never considered that an individual could lay down a barrier over an entire castle. As their anxiety began bubbling up, Mangnyang slowly calmed the atmosphere.

“But don’t worry. If he surrenders, everything ends. There will undoubtedly be changes regardless.”

“Our supplies are limited, and rapid action is crucial. How long do you plan on waiting?”

“Three days!”

Mangnyang waved the Seven Fires, Seven Golds Line.

“If there’s no change in three days, we’ll proceed with the assault immediately. Until then, prepare for everything.”

After discussing the treatment of the injured and prisoners, along with negotiations with nearby warlords, the military strategy meeting concluded. The commanders seemed to have returned to their tasks without further questions, convinced of Mangnyang’s reasoning. After the meeting, Lee Kwang spoke up.

“Leader of Bancheon Alliance, I’d like to hear your thoughts.”

Mangnyang smiled.

“What thoughts are you referring to? If you had shared during the strategy meeting, I would have answered right away.”

“There are things one cannot say during the strategy meeting.”

With a bitter smile, Lee Kwang added, “Are you planning to support General Hwang Yeon as Emperor?”

There were just four of us in the tent: me, Mangnyang, Jin So-cheong, and Lee Kwang—only those who were relevant enough for this conversation. Jin So-cheong, who was organizing the documents nearby, looked at Lee Kwang with surprise. A moment later, Mangnyang spoke without hesitation.

“Not directly. The imperial family is scattered across regions, and there are clear lines of succession. There are also those supported by Confucians as legitimate candidates.”

“Not directly… You really love to twist your words, don’t you?”

Lee Kwang replied casually, but the implication behind his tone was quite profound. In other words, Mangnyang indirectly revealed his intent to elevate Hwang Yeon to be Emperor, only awaiting the right moment. It seemed certain that Mangnyang was contemplating a coup.

“My apologies. It’s just a habit.”

Lee Kwang stared at Mangnyang silently. “You have no hesitations.”

“I believe General Lee Kwang would act similarly.”

Lee Kwang lapsed into silence.

“Don’t try to pin me down through me.”

Lee Kwang seemed to be clenching his fist. It wasn’t out of anger or pain, but more a manifestation of resolve.

“Understood.”

Lee Kwang left the tent first, followed closely by Jin So-cheong. I couldn’t believe the tempestuous atmosphere we had just experienced. I never expected that the cold, indifferent, and resilient Lee Kwang could utter such foolish words, and I couldn’t fully grasp the implications of Mangnyang’s earlier statements. I turned to Mangnyang with a question.

“Why did Lee Kwang ask that?”

Even I felt it was an odd question to bring up in this situation. If I felt discomfort, how might the others feel? Besides, it seemed strange to voice such a question outright when I could have asked Mangnyang privately. Mangnyang chuckled lightly.

“Of course, someone like Lee Kwang wouldn’t ask without knowing. He once commanded the Imperial Guards and endured the palace’s political struggles for decades; he knows better than anyone about power. The step of General Huang voluntarily stepping down is no longer feasible, and if he doesn’t become Emperor, his kin will likely perish.”

“That makes sense.”

“But the clash of ideals has left him unable to make a decision based solely on patriotism or conservatism. He’s using me to explore a way forward.”

“…..”

“Don’t make such a pitiful face. You of all people know that Lee Kwang isn’t an absolute paragon.”

Mangnyang’s teasing made it hard for me to maintain my composure. I never expected to see the rock-solid Lee Kwang have such a shaky moment. The notion of rebellion seemed to have profoundly affected him.

‘Am I the odd one here?’

Is it really such a big deal for the owner of the Imperial Palace to change? I really couldn’t feel it.

And maybe I, who doesn’t feel this, am the fool or lunatic.

While I was lost in thought, Mangnyang spoke up.

“However, I’m worried. Everything is progressing too smoothly.”

“What do you mean?”

“That Alchemist is definitely scheming something else. If we focus solely on the current situation, we won’t notice his moves. We have to be vigilant and proceed carefully.”

“Hmm.”

Mangnyang looked particularly troubled by the presence of this Alchemist. After all, it was he who was effectively in control of the Imperial Palace. I regretted not rushing at the Alchemist to gauge his skills earlier.

After a moment of thought, I asked Mangnyang, “Are you really sure Zhuge Bu is going to defect?”

“I am.”

“How can you be so sure?”

This part was unclear enough that I had to ask multiple times. According to Mangnyang, Zhuge Bu was allegedly the ultimate power of the palace, so it seemed improbable for someone like him to surrender so easily. Mangnyang gave a wry smile.

“Because he’s the world’s greatest genius.”

“……?”

What a surprising statement.

“He’s not a fool. He wouldn’t make the wrong move.”

That sounded more like a lament than a belief. I wanted to inquire about why Mangnyang felt that way, but somehow he didn’t seem in the mood to elaborate further. Thus, I had no choice but to scratch my head and leave the tent.

Vwoooooo –

And the palace’s “next move” approached much sooner than expected.

‘What is this energy?!’

That very evening—an ominous presence loomed as powerful energies clashed. I hurried out after abruptly waking from sleep, and the night was already ablaze with sparks.

“Whoa!”

I found eight masters locked in a standoff in the hall. Six identifiably mysterious figures in black faced off against the two heroes of our side, Jin So-cheong and Lee Kwang.

Bang!!

As Lee Kwang swung his spear, one of the black-clad figures effortlessly countered with a sword. Lee Kwang mixed his techniques with a thrust, morphing into the Absolute Slash, yet the black-clad figure gracefully deflected his attack. As Lee Kwang’s power transferred to the ground, the figure retreated three steps.

As shadows faded, light spilled out. In an ephemeral moment, Lee Kwang and the black figure were seen exchanging techniques, their martial arts intertwining. There were so many of them that those who understood little would struggle to comprehend their battle.

“Hah!”

Bam!

The black-clad figures swiftly retreated while unleashing an explosive energy, sending swirling sword flames whirling like a tornado. Lee Kwang, avoiding additional strikes, calmly dispelled the sword flames. After eleven seconds of clashes, both sides created some distance.

As I observed their conflict, I was astounded. ‘Lee Kwang can actually match that level of skill?!’

Lee Kwang was renowned among the martial arts heroes, his skills exceptional. Even the Dharma Guardian of the Wind Spirit Sect couldn’t easily defeat him, and many top masters quaked in fear of Azure Dragon Lee Kwang. But I just witnessed a masterful exchange showcasing that the black figure indeed stared right through Lee Kwang’s intricate techniques.

This meant one undeniable fact.

That black figure was a Peak Sword Master!

All six of the black-clad figures exuded a similar or even greater level of energy.

Lee Kwang let his spear droop and said, “I didn’t expect you to come.”

Lee Kwang spoke as if he knew the identity of the black swordsman. The black swordsman who crossed swords with him remained silent for a moment before responding to Lee Kwang.

“Step aside. We haven’t come to fight you.”

“That’s not happening.”

Lee Kwang’s cold words made my body shiver. “A renowned master of the Martial World wouldn’t come for a mere assassination, would they? I need to protect my friend’s honor.”

“……”

Peak Sword Master! He was the leader of the Twin Gate Sect, the most respected martial arts group in Luoyang. He had enough skill to defeat the elder of the Huashan Sect in thirty seconds, and most importantly, I had shared a drink with him when I was attempting to ascend to the Golden Eagle Guards during my past life.

But if this black figure was the Peak Sword Master, was he genuinely here to assassinate our leaders?

This thought struck me, and I quickly glanced at the allies behind me. There were indeed six warriors.

‘No way.’

And the words that followed from the Peak Sword Master confirmed my fears. “Step aside. All the leaders of the Twin Gate Sect are here. No matter how strong you are, you can’t stop us.”

That’s right.

What confronts Lee Kwang and Jin So-cheong are the finest experts representing the martial world of Luoyang. The sect leaders from the Twin Gate Sect had all come clad in black, charging forward. This meant that all six Peak Experts were indeed enemies. No matter how illustrious Azure Dragon Lee Kwang was, he couldn’t recklessly engage with them.

As I approached to stand alongside Lee Kwang, he glanced at me before turning back to face the enemies. Then he said to Jin So-cheong, “I’ll take care of this old hag. Just hold out alongside Baek Woong for now.”

“It’s going to be tough.”

“Well… it can’t be helped.”

Lee Kwang’s gaze homed in on the black figure standing last in line, arms crossed — the one wearing a silver fox mask. This figure was the smallest, possessing energy like anyone else.

But Lee Kwang clearly regarded the one in the silver mask as his formidable opponent.

Suddenly, the black figure in the silver fox mask stepped forward and said, “Lee Kwang, aren’t you a bit too full of yourself? Your master couldn’t settle this after six years, so why do you think you can?”

Lee Kwang exhaled in irritation. “That’s ridiculous. Your Fire Spirit Technique’s Absolute Slash has insane attack power, and trouble is obvious, but now I can take on someone at least as good as my master, so you should be prepared.”

“Hahah… Is that so? Then come follow me.”

Zip!

All of a sudden, the figure in the silver fox mask flew upward, cleaving the void like a skilled fighter. Lee Kwang stared grimly at the back of the fox-masked figure and immediately launched into pursuit without a word, following with lightning speed.

Bam!

“……”

As both masters disappeared from view, an awkward silence instantly fell over the area.

Now it was 5 to 2.

I felt completely dazed, finding myself in a situation where I had to fight the leaders of the Twin Gate Sect alongside Jin So-cheong during this late hour.

‘Why didn’t Lee Kwang call for the troops?’

If troops were summoned, they could definitely overpower the Peak Experts. It seemed odd that no soldiers had come out thus far.

But soon, I realized the reason myself.

It was all due to the silver fox mask. His martial skills were so monstrous that rushing in recklessly could result in mass slaughter among our troops. And only Lee Kwang had the wherewithal to restrain him, so Lee Kwang had opted for a one-on-one duel to draw him away from the others.

Now Jin So-cheong grasped his spear and said to me, “As fellow Thunder God Clan members, I look forward to working with you.”

“Same here.”

As we exchanged polite words, one of the black figures gruffly interjected, “Why are we bothering with pleasantries? We’re about to send you off from this world.”

Jin So-cheong turned his gaze to the figure. “Who are you?”

“Why should I tell you?”

“Since we’re both the strongest, it’s reasonable to make introductions before we battle.”

Jin So-cheong’s words flowed like water. Implicitly suggesting that we’d be prepared to slaughter if necessary, the black figure had no choice but to concede.

“I’m the Lord of Iron Blood Gate.”

With that, he lifted off his mask. My stomach churned as I recognized the face before me. ‘Ah, so it’s you…’

Back when I first challenged the Iron Blood Gate, he had ambushed and pressured me with the help of the Ghost Shadow Swordsman Jin Pyeong, leading to my near-fatal incident. I couldn’t help but grit my teeth at the thought of that bitter grudge. No matter how it was spun, that fight had been taken to the next level with the Lord’s tacit approval.

The Lord of Iron Blood Gate spoke, “I’m sorry, but this is neither a spar nor a duel. We five will completely wipe you out.”

Whoosh!!!

A tremendous energy erupted from the opponents. The top Peak Experts of the martial world simultaneously accumulated their power, and an immense sense of oppression surged forward. As I felt this energy, I gritted my teeth.

‘Shit… I need to get out of here.’

As soon as the assault began, I knew it was hopeless with a direct confrontation. While there might be one or two of them I could handle, no way could I withstand a charge from five Peak Experts at once. Even with Jin So-cheong alongside me, we were trapped.

How had it come to this?

Being on the brink of storming the capital Luoyang, I couldn’t simply accept dying in vain. I couldn’t die regretting everything I had set in motion.

So if they came for a fight, I was ready to unleash the Absolute Slash and escape. If I charged a strong blow infused with internal power, I could take advantage of their moment of stiffness to slip away. I cautiously exchanged looks with Jin So-cheong, signaling.

Let’s run!

But whether they understood my gaze or not, Jin So-cheong smiled brightly and said, “That sounds wonderful.”

Everyone was taken aback by Jin So-cheong’s remark.

“I also want to finish this quickly and rush to assist my master.”

Bang!

As Jin So-cheong charged at the leaders of the Twin Gate Sect first, he initiated a preemptive attack.

 

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