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“This place is a total mess!”

When Lee Kwang and the mysterious Silver Mask vanished, I didn’t even need to track their trail. The closer I went in that direction, the more immense Qi erupted explosively, and the waves of energy could be felt from afar. I realized just how terrifying their power had become and sighed.

“Do we really have to go into that chaos?”

“If Lee Kwang loses, we’re done for,” I replied with determination. “That Fox Mask belongs to Han Baek-ryeong, the leader of the Han Clan, and she’s probably a Dharma Guardian of the White Lotus Sect.”

This was knowledge I had gleaned from my past life. Han Baek-ryeong, the master of the Fire Spirit Techniques and also the leader of the Han Clan, couldn’t be anything less than a Dharma Guardian of the White Lotus Sect. The Fire Spirit Techniques were currently under the White Lotus Sect’s jurisdiction. That’s why Lee Kwang and Jin So-cheong had tensed up upon seeing her; as the heirs of the Thunder God Lineage, they could sense the danger.

I fully understood the prowess of a Dharma Guardian after witnessing a battle between her and the Wind Spirit Sect’s Dharma Guardian. Though I hadn’t seen how Lee Kwang and the Dharma Guardian’s duel transpired, I was certain that the odds were not in her favor. So, I had to assist Lee Kwang no matter what.

Thud!

As I ran, I could hear their fierce battle from the peak of Mount Jangha. Without a second thought, Miho and I began using our Light Body Techniques to leap upwards. It was quite a tall hill, yet we reached the summit in no time.

Crash!

“Ha!”

Lee Kwang’s ultimate move was unleashed. The technique, imbued with the power of wind and thunder, sliced through the air, and amidst this chaos, it swirled like a weeping willow, dividing its path. It was a ferocious attack that only a master of spear techniques like Lee Kwang could execute.

However, Han Baek-ryeong, positioned defensively, smirked as she swung her arms. Suddenly, it was as if a flame-wrought illusion danced wildly, her body disintegrating into fire. But that was merely an illusion crafted from Qi; her true essence was already unleashing a massive scorching wave.

Boom!

It all happened in an instant. Just a single palm strike hit the ground, but it felt like the entire Mount Jangha shook violently, tremors rippling outward. With the amplitude came an explosion of grand flames, spreading out as if dozens of palms had struck.

“…!!”

This was a battle of peerless masters!

Feeling that he could no longer continue to attack, Lee Kwang took a step back, looking somewhat exhausted as he addressed Han Baek-ryeong, “Are you messing around? Why don’t you fight properly?”

“Hehe, what do you mean?”

“Do you think I don’t know that the essence of the Fire Spirit Techniques is the Twin Sword Technique, and that the True Night Sky Wolf Sword is the mightiest sword art?”

Han Baek-ryeong replied to Lee Kwang, “Since your precious mask has shattered, I’ll answer that question.”

Indeed, they had already fought for a while. Lee Kwang was drenched in sweat, and Han Baek-ryeong’s Silver Fox Mask had cracked, revealing her right eye.

Han Baek-ryeong discarded the mask onto the ground, unveiling the stunning visage of a black-haired beauty to the world. Her graceful appearance resembled that of a doll.

“I have no reason to fight for my life in this situation.”

“……”

Lee Kwang seemed to have foreseen this, sealing his lips tight. He then turned to Miho and me who had just arrived.

“Stay alert.”

Though it was a brief statement, it carried Lee Kwang’s determination not to fully trust Han Baek-ryeong’s words. It seemed she sensed this too, and questioned with a look of discomfort, “You really don’t want to decide this against me, do you?”

“What could possibly stop me?”

In an instant, Han Baek-ryeong’s eyes glimmered with a fierce light. It was unmistakably killing intent.

“Don’t flaunt your bravado, Lee Kwang. I’m merely measuring which side is better.”

“Measuring… If that’s how you’re going to put it, then why don’t you share your circumstances? I thought that’s precisely why we came here?”

“I guess a seasoned player from the Imperial Family would know no shame.”

“I’ll gladly accept that as a compliment.”

Han Baek-ryeong regarded Lee Kwang with a disapproving look, but he remained unfazed. It seemed to me that she perceived Lee Kwang as an annoying junior, which was quite remarkable. It implied that even a Dharma Guardian with unmatched power wouldn’t dare to treat Lee Kwang flippantly.

Finally, Han Baek-ryeong spoke up.

“Currently, a so-called alchemist claiming to be one has infected all the disciples of the Twin Gate Sect with a strange disease. The clan leaders of the Twin Gate Sect, including myself, were compelled to meet him because, upon eliminating the higher-ups of the Huang Yeon Army, he promised to cure us.”

“A strange disease… what kind of strange disease?”

“It’s a disease where inexplicable tumors grow on a person’s body, turning their limbs black. It doesn’t seem painful, but that’s what makes it even scarier. It seems like something unknown is gradually transforming them, and witnessing the aftermath firsthand is horrifying.”

Lee Kwang nodded slightly and replied, “For a disease like that, you seem too calm. Does that mean the Han Clan is unaffected?”

“Of course not. I’ve just seen something similar before.”

Han Baek-ryeong answered uncomfortably, “It was similar to the disease that our Young Master suffered from. Almost identical.”

“……!!”

Lee Kwang flinched, surprised.

“So the rumors that the White Lotus Sect is delaying their expansion into the Central Plains because of the Young Master’s critical condition were true.”

“Well, it’s not like that disease will manifest widely right away, and it’s not contagious. I suspect it will clear up as soon as we take down the alchemist.”

I managed to grasp the situation by listening to their conversation. The other clan leaders of the Twin Gate Sect were thoroughly perplexed by the unknown origins of the disease; that’s why they had come ferociously to assassinate someone. In contrast, Han Baek-ryeong seemed to have a good enough understanding of what the disease was.

After thinking for a while, Lee Kwang said, “Indeed. So you tested my strength, huh?”

“Yes. It’s true that you’re the top expert of the Thunder God Lineage, and we need to see if you possess the ability to breach the barrier of the Imperial Palace.”

“What if I reject that proposal…?”

“Then I’d have no choice but to strike you down with all my might and present the head of the one called Huang Yeon and Mang-nyang to the alchemist.”

Silently…

Out of nowhere, Han Baek-ryeong’s dual swords had appeared in her hands. Just by wielding them, an invisible aura of tremendous pressure radiated. It was an immense formless Qi that presented a stark contrast to what I had previously experienced; it was indeed a force capable of splitting heaven and earth in two. Even Lee Kwang had nearly recoiled back.

Han Baek-ryeong meant business.

Here, she was forcing a choice—join forces with her or face a Life and Death Decision!

Lee Kwang responded, “You don’t trust the alchemist’s promise.”

“How could I possibly trust something like that? It’s not a plague or poison but a kind of curse. There’s no guarantee that he will keep his promise.”

“I suppose that makes sense. I understand the situation properly now.”

Lee Kwang, after pondering, turned to me and asked, “Who is that woman over there?”

“She’s Miho’s elder sister. She came to aid us.”

“Oh, I see. How fortuitous. What’s the situation?”

“The enemies are all wiped out. However, Jin So-cheong has exhausted herself and had to rest.”

“Good work.”

Lee Kwang smiled broadly but then turned serious again as he looked back at Han Baek-ryeong.

“I’ll accept your proposal, but we won’t throw ourselves into the tiger’s jaws without a clear plan.”

“I have a plan.”

With her arms crossed, Han Baek-ryeong replied decisively.

“The conclusion is simply to slay that alchemist. He is deeply entrenched within the Imperial Palace, and before reaching him, we must breach Zhuge Bu’s barrier. I can’t guarantee that I can do it alone, but with your assistance, I believe we have a fair chance.”

“… That’s something we must discuss with our military strategist. I’m not well-versed in navigating Zhuge Bu.”

“Right. I’ve also heard that his plans are formidable.”

“Let’s go. Follow me.”

I responded to Lee Kwang’s call.

“I’ll lead the way with my methods.”

“Hmm, sounds good.”

Whizz!

Moments later, Han Baek-ryeong and Lee Kwang sped away into the distance. Miho and I were left behind, surveying the devastation left on the peak of Mount Jangha. Miho, stunned by the catastrophic scene, remarked, “Those people possess strength that’s absolutely impossible for us to comprehend. How can they be human and that powerful?”

“Of course. They are among the few strongest beings in the world.”

“Hmm… And what do you plan on doing?”

“For now, I need to hear from Mang-nyang. If he says it’s hopeless, then we’ll really be out of options.”

“Baek Woong, you have a lot of faith in Mang-nyang.”

“Absolutely!”

Miho scrutinized me for a moment with a strange look before suddenly pulling me into a tight embrace from behind. I was taken aback at first, but then Miho leaned in to whisper softly in my ear.

“Don’t make it too obvious. This maiden is quite jealous.”

“……”

It was hard to tell if she was joking or being serious.

Soon, Miho and I returned to the tent using the Golden Lamp technique, reaching out to Mang-nyang before Lee Kwang and Han Baek-ryeong arrived. Mang-nyang appeared to be dressed in military uniform, having been briefed on the situation. He was preparing to interrogate Jang Bong, the leader of the Zhang Clan, who was still under the effects of an enchantment.

“Mang-nyang.”

“Ah, Baek Woong. Where have you been?”

I briefly explained the events that had transpired.

“… So Lee Kwang and Han Baek-ryeong will arrive shortly. And this fellow, Jang Bong, is under Miho’s enchantment, so we can extract information without further torture.”

“Hmm, this is troublesome.”

With a sigh, Mang-nyang’s expression became solemn. “I didn’t expect it would come to a confrontation with him…”

“Is Zhuge Bu really that frightening?”

“The Treasure of the Central Plains.”

Mang-nyang spoke bitterly, “It’s the first title of its kind granted by the Great Ming since its founding, a name set apart from all others. This man stands apart from everyone else, perfect in every regard.”

I began to dislike how unconfident Mang-nyang seemed. To me, he was always the passionate warrior who upheld justice with fiery spirit. But seeing him lose confidence even before encountering someone was disheartening. So I patted him on the shoulder, saying, “Don’t be too discouraged. I see you as a tremendous genius and our hope. What’s so big about the Treasure of the Central Plains to make you melancholy?”

“Hmm…?”

“You’re the greatest strategist in the world!”

Mang-nyang stared at me blankly for a moment before bursting into joyful laughter.

“Hahaha!! Indeed! If I am the greatest, then can I surpass the Treasure of the Central Plains?”

“Isn’t that obvious?”

“Got it. I’ll definitely give it my all.”

Shortly after, Lee Kwang and Han Baek-ryeong arrived.

“Where’s So-cheong?”

Lee Kwang asked as soon as he returned, searching for Jin So-cheong, who was currently recuperating in her tent, consuming Thousand-Year Snow Ginseng while meditating in a cross-legged position. Upon seeing her almost finished digestion of the ginseng, Lee Kwang looked surprised.

“What is this?!”

I sent him a message using the Secret Transmission technique.

[ I got her to eat the Thousand-Year Snow Ginseng. ]

“Huh?!”

[ I told her to recover her energy… ]

Lee Kwang looked at me with genuine astonishment. Then he tightly grasped my hand and said, “… Thank you! I won’t forget this grace.”

“No problem.”

“Han Baek-ryeong. Please wait a moment. I want to discuss this after So-cheong wakes up.”

Han Baek-ryeong, who entered the tent with us, seemed impressed. “This child truly possesses talent as great as Jin Seong’s.”

“I don’t know who Jin Seong is, but So-cheong is definitely more exceptional.”

“What did you just say?!”

Instantly, a tense Qi filled the air. I was stunned by their reaction.

“Please calm down, both of you…”

“Hmph!”

Seeing their irritation, I was utterly perplexed. Why were these legendary masters engaging in a childish rivalry over their successors? But then again, considering it was about raising children, I could somewhat understand.

By the time Jin So-cheong recovered her power, about half a moment had passed. As she stabilized her internal energy, a glimmer of light reflected in her eyes, showing that she had reached a higher realm. Soon after, everyone involved gathered in Mang-nyang’s tent.

Mang-nyang waved the Seven Fires, Seven Golds Line in front of Han Baek-ryeong. “My apologies, but could you go over the situation again in detail?”

“Sure,” Han Baek-ryeong replied, taking a moment to collect herself before continuing, “We heard that your Huang Yeon Army won against the Imperial Family’s guards. The clan leaders of the Twin Gate Sect gathered for a meeting regarding our future. Suddenly, a bizarre individual claiming to be an alchemist appeared, stating he had infected all but us with that strange disease. He threatened that if we didn’t bring the heads of the Huang Yeon or Huang Yeon Army’s higher-ups, he would fail to cure the disease.”

“You mentioned that the strange disease resembles the one suffered by the Young Master of the White Lotus Sect, right?”

“Correct. I can’t say for sure it’s identical, but the symptoms are very similar.”

“And you think it’s a form of curse…”

Mang-nyang pondered before turning to me, “Baek Woong. I’m sorry, but could you infiltrate Luoyang and quickly capture one of the infected?”

“Can I handle it alone?”

“For now, it should be fine. Zhuge Bu is focused on guarding the palace, so with the Invisibility Technique and Light Body Technique, you should be able to manage.”

As soon as Mang-nyang finished speaking, I dashed out of the tent, activated the Golden Lamp technique, and set off towards the Han Clan. Upon arriving, I saw people wandering around in a daze, as if they had lost their minds.

Horrifyingly, just as Han Baek-ryeong had described, their skin was darkening as though decaying, slowly being consumed. Tumors sprouted in various places, leaking vile fluids.

Avoiding their gazes, I used the Invisibility Technique and Stealth Technique to observe the situation discreetly. I searched for someone who looked relatively okay, and sure enough, a man named Han Jin-seong appeared to be hardly affected by the strange disease.

“Ugh…”

However, it seemed he was in excruciating pain, only feeling the disease’s effects in his limb tips. It was as though he was trying to resist using his mental strength, but beads of sweat streamed down his entire body. I approached Han Jin-seong and asked, “Are you okay?”

“Y-You are…?”

“I’m Baek Woong of the Huang Yeon Army. A clan leader has joined us to help defeat the enemy’s mastermind.”

“That’s great news… cough!”

“……”

I stared at Han Jin-seong, who was now vomiting blood, with a puzzled expression.

‘Why was Han Jin-seong less affected while the others seemed to have turned into something otherworldly?’

Why was there this disparity? I pondered, but there was nothing I could do about it right now. I considered using the Golden Lamp technique to bring him back with us, but I doubted Han Jin-seong had the mental stamina to withstand the horrific scenery the technique would show him. I could kill him at worst, so I reluctantly said, “I’m sorry, but bear with it a little longer. It will clear up once we take down the alchemist.”

“Ugh… Just a moment…”

As I turned to leave, Han Jin-seong coughed up blood and warned, “There are bizarre beings lurking around here. Please be cautious and spread the word…”

“Bizarre beings?”

“Yes… They appear like men with serpentine features… crawling around with tridents or large swords…”

“What? And no one’s saying anything about it?”

“Look at the streets… The dense fog makes it impossible to see anything…”

I quickly glanced outside. Just as he said, the Imperial Capital was shrouded in a colossal fog that obscured even the immediate area. However, from the outside, it seemed that no fog was visible, which puzzled me as to why this phenomenon occurred.

And just as Han Jin-seong remarked, I could hear hissing sounds as serpentine beings moved in small groups around everywhere. People couldn’t even muster the courage to make eye contact with them and were hiding in corners.

‘Serpentine beings… those guys must be an otherworldly race as well.’

I had fought against the serpentine beings before. They weren’t particularly exceptional in martial arts, but their natural physical abilities were so formidable that even tall experts struggled against them. The alchemist had likely summoned this fog and the serpentine beings by some kind of sorcery.

“Got it. Hang in there.”

I first stepped into the Han Clan’s room and withdrew the Divine Sword, Yongyeon Sword, placing it inside my Wooden Armor. Then, I grabbed a wandering infected individual before using the Golden Lamp technique to return to our main tent. Han Baek-ryeong looked startled when I suddenly appeared.

“What’s this?”

“Mang-nyang. This is the infected individual.”

As I presented the infected individual to Mang-nyang, he closely inspected them from head to toe. After a brief moment of silence spent examining the infected one, Mang-nyang finally spoke.

“I’ve never seen or heard of anything like this in any literature.”

“Didn’t I tell you? This isn’t your ordinary strange disease.”

“……”

I informed Mang-nyang about the current situation in Luoyang. Upon hearing this far, he suddenly spoke with an air of resignation.

“There’s no way around it. Unless we breach Zhuge Bu’s defenses, we can’t kill the alchemist. So let’s make a frontal assault.”

“How?”

Mang-nyang chuckled as he glanced at me.

“Very easy.”

With a sizzle!

A little while later, I found myself at the top floor of the Inner Imperial Pavilion, holding the Golden Lamp. This place was Zhuge Bu’s office. Sitting there with a book, Zhuge Bu looked at me with surprise. I opened my Wooden Armor and released the figures inside.

“…!!”

Zhuge Bu was startled.

Suddenly, as my Wooden Armor opened, Han Baek-ryeong, Jin So-cheong, Lee Kwang, Mang-nyang, and Miho all appeared simultaneously. I grinned at Zhuge Bu and said, “Well, hello there, nice to see you.”

With both the Wooden Armor and the Golden Lamp in play, the combo effect was unleashed.

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