전생검신 85권 17화

Shennong?

Are you talking about that Shennong of the Three Sovereigns?

‘Why is that guy here?’

I was momentarily taken aback by the unexpected name that popped up. I couldn’t even begin to fathom what kind of connection could possibly exist between Geumcheonjae and Shennong. But I realized I had to hear the story first, so I composed myself and spoke calmly.

[Shennong, huh… Did the Three Sovereigns approach you and say they’d help revive your son?]

“Yes.”

[When?]

“One and a half years ago.”

[Recent, huh? What about Kim Manje’s death?]

“Nineteen years ago…”

With this timeline, I couldn’t deduce the causal relationship. While I was lost in thought, Geumcheonjae continued.

“Shennong appeared in my dreams and said he’d save my son. In exchange, he demanded I offer up the power of Guchunxian-nyeo.”

[……!!]

So that was the goal!

If it was truly the power of Guchunxian-nyeo, the guardian of Earth, then it was definitely something Shennong would desire. Even though they were theoretically allies, this was merely a union of mutual interest, and there was a high possibility that they could stab each other in the back at any moment. I grasped the situation and asked.

[So, did you accept?]

“I told him I’d think about it.”

[What? You refused?]

That caught me off guard; I tilted my head in surprise. I had assumed that as a grieving parent, he’d be willing to do anything for his son, so a refusal was unexpected.

Then Geumcheonjae explained.

“There was no guarantee that Shennong would fulfill his promise. And I realized that offering up my son’s life in exchange for the power was a losing deal.”

[So you were weighing the pros and cons?]

“Yeah. I was waiting for Shennong to either appear in my dreams again or for his messenger to come…”

[…….]

I found it slightly absurd and had to laugh.

[Ha… If that was the case, why did you act so aggrieved in front of your former companions? I thought there were unfortunate parents everywhere; what’s up with the guy who’s dealing with the grand Three Sovereigns?]

It’s quite comical. If Geumcheonjae had truly gone mad over his son’s death, there’d be room for him to express grief. But it turned out, internally, he was a calculating person, cautiously weighing whether to revive his son after receiving Shennong’s proposal. At this rate, there was no reason for him to act out so dramatically in front of his former companions.

Then Geumcheonjae flinched and said.

“It’s true I feel disappointed and resentful towards my former companions. Do you know the situation back then? They chose to save many people for the greater good, and in exchange, my son, Geumcheonjae, died! Wouldn’t that leave me, as a father, feeling wronged? Those feelings are genuine!”

I was taken aback by Geumcheonjae’s brazen demeanor.

[You little rascal. If that’s how you feel, shouldn’t you have just told your companions about Shennong’s proposal and discussed it together? How can you justify negotiating with Shennong alone?]

“They also unilaterally chose my son’s sacrifice in the name of a greater cause; can’t I do something similar? Besides, Guchunxian-nyeo’s contract holder is me. I don’t owe your companions an explanation.”

[…….]

“And… I wanted to negotiate with Shennong to revive my son with as much power as possible so he won’t die in vain a second time.”

[So that was your ultimate aim.]

I felt flabbergasted. In the end, from start to finish, Geumcheonjae had been more concerned about his and his son’s well-being than the fate of the world!

As my bewilderment shifted to slight anger, I spoke.

[Hey, you think you don’t need to consult your companions because Guchunxian-nyeo’s contract holder is you? Who do you think got you to even meet Guchunxian-nyeo from being a mere corrupt village chief?]

“Ugh…!!”

I pressed at my temples.

[Dammit. Here I thought you were somewhat pitiable. So, what’s the deal with you spilling everything so easily?]

The village chief had been suspiciously candid.

There had to be a reason behind this.

As I grumbled, Geumcheonjae looked at me and said.

“You’re indeed Baek Woong… Until just now, I was uncertain, but your tone makes it clear you couldn’t be anyone else. And now that I’m sure you’re Baek Woong, I’ve revealed everything.”

[What are you talking about?]

“I’m not that foolish. I know that trying to deceive you further would be pointless. So, I hope you can show me some leniency and forgive me.”

As soon as he finished that sentence, Geumcheonjae knelt and bowed his head to me.

“Please forgive me just this once!! I committed a grave sin out of my sense of injustice over my son’s death.”

[…….]

“I won’t entertain any vain thoughts again, so please just bring my son back!”

I was engulfed in strange emotions and inexplicably chuckled.

‘Right, this is Geumcheonjae, the village chief…’

Didn’t I already know this guy wasn’t interested in the world’s fate or righteousness? He was your typical petty villain, consumed by earthly desires and limited by his biased affection for his own blood. It reminded me of the miserable life I used to live.

……

Maybe that time was actually better?

Since embarking on this journey, I’d endured countless hardships and adventures and through that gained immense strength, yet I had also garnered numerous scars and pains. If I were to simply compare the security of life back then and now, it’d be hard to definitively claim one was better than the other.

So, what was I truly living for?

‘Now, I’m not sure anymore…’

The anger I harbored toward eradicating all gods hadn’t diminished at all. Yet, simultaneously, I felt fatigue creeping into my life. Yes, constantly choosing what didn’t suit me had dulled my heart and diluted my emotions. But the reason I continued to push forward, reviving my abstracted feelings with sheer will, was—

‘Hope?’

Was my hope to one day eliminate all deities and live happily with my companions?

No, that wasn’t quite it. If I genuinely held those thoughts, I could hardly explain the fervor with which I desired the True Martial Home—lost in madness, yearning for the world’s destruction as if I were the Master of the White Lotus Sect, or even more so.

Yet, Jeonnoja said true martial home isn’t the only answer. The Reborn could provide even more answers.

For some reason, Jeonnoja never directly told me that answer, insisting I find it myself, but I still had no idea what that could be.

If so… what on earth was driving me to continue this life?

In my first life, when I was just an escort, I merely wanted to fulfill the desire to become an expert; so what did I want now?

At that moment – a single phrase flashed through my mind.

[How much are you aware of your own unconsciousness and wuwei?]

Thud!

It felt as if a clear drop of water rippled over the surface, sending vibrations through my being.

‘Dao Xin…’

That was the phrase thrown by the second master of Shaolin Temple I had met in the Reverse Root Water Mirror’s world.

[That’s it… that is your true heart.]

I didn’t like this world itself.

Desperately wanting to eradicate it!

Originally, I thought that meant the annihilation of the world.

I thought it meant the True Martial Home.

Throughout my reincarnations, it seemed that I could see no other view.

But was it really like that…?

Could it be that my wishes were something completely different?

‘No way…’

The world I wanted to be rid of might not be as straightforward as it seems…

[…….]

Then, what I must do is not the True Martial Home.

“…What’s the matter?”

Geumcheonjae, who was still prostrating, cautiously looked up at me, and I suddenly snapped back to reality. I quickly realized why I had been troubled all this time, and my thoughts began to form clearly.

It was absurd. All it took was Geumcheonjae’s apology for such significant realizations to fall into place.

Could it be that I required another opportunity to reassess my past?

Yet, I felt lighter and nodded.

[I think I feel stronger somehow.]

“Huh? What do you mean…”

[It’s just that way.]

I hesitated, but at this moment, I was strongly feeling it.

The instant I gained insight, ‘something’ had filled me up.

Though it wasn’t a tangible power, it felt like a tremendous mass that could shift my destiny.

This bizarre mass wasn’t divine power or magical power; I couldn’t quite tell what it would do.

I spoke, feeling a sense of improvement.

[Normally, I’d have obliterated you by now, but I’ll just give you one good slap. Then I’ll forgive you.]

As I grabbed Geumcheonjae by his collar, he looked terrified.

“Ugh… wait a moment.”

[HOLD IT TIGHT!]

Boom!

I swung with all my might, but Geumcheonjae cleverly defended against my blow using his divine power, taking no damage. I raised my eyebrows at that.

[What’s this? Blocking?]

Geumcheonjae looked frightened.

“Heek… hitting with such brute strength could kill someone.”

[Kill? What are you talking about? As the contract holder of Guchunxian-nyeo, your body is also a divine body, so it’s not that easy to kill you. You might just become a pile of shrapnel or go a bit soft, that’s all.]

“Please, show some mercy….”

[Dammit. Why does a guy like you even have the power of Guchunxian-nyeo?]

It was clear by the way he looked that he had never fought in his life!

I shook my head in disbelief before asking again.

[Answer me this: do you want to take one proper hit, or do you want me to tear you apart and force you to spit out all that power?]

“……!! Please, just be gentle!”

[Alright, I’ll go easy. Relax your face.]

“Ugh…. ”

As Geumcheonjae squinted his eyes shut, I took advantage of his moment of relaxation to deliver a swift kick right to his groin.

‘Die!’

Boom!!

“Graaaaah!!”

With all my power aimed at his lower body, Geumcheonjae flew away, turned into a bloodied mess, and screamed while sprawled on the ground. Seeing his limbs flail around, smeared in blood, made me feel great, and I burst into laughter.

[Ha ha ha. Didn’t see that coming, huh?]

“Ahh… you… you bastard… you traitor… cow dung… you!! Aaah!”

It seemed like the pain was too much, so all kinds of nonsense were spilling out; it looked like it worked splendidly!

No matter how much divine power one possessed, being unexpectedly hit in the groin was bound to be a jarring experience.

I grinned and said.

[Quit whining and get your mind together. Reshape your body using your divine power again. If you can’t, then something’s wrong with you.]

Knowing he could restore himself with divine power, I made sure not to hold back as I hit him with all I had.

“Guuuuh….”

Swoosh!

Geumcheonjae’s body glimmered with light, transforming into a spirit body before he rapidly recovered back to normal. A divine physique can endlessly regenerate through sheer will. However, it looked like this was Geumcheonjae’s first time reconstituting his body with divine power, given that he had never endured injuries severe enough to tear him apart before.

Seeing that he was disoriented and his eyes unfocused from the pain, I said.

[Alright, let’s consider this a clean slate. Starting now, you fully cooperate with me.]

“…How can I cooperate?”

I simply waved my finger.

[First, relinquish your position as the lord of the castle. Then give up your title as the leader of the Heavenly Treasure Sect. Finally, use your powers to open a passage to the underworld.]

“……”

[Then I’ll revive your son, Geumcheonjae. I promise. This is a promise made as the Wheel King, so you can trust it.]

There’s no greater assurance than a promise from the Wheel King to revive a soul.

Geumcheonjae, however, grumbled as if feeling a sense of injustice.

“Damn… does it seem like I’m the only one at a disadvantage? But Shennong…”

I glared at him with a fearsome expression.

[What about Shennong?]

“…No….”

[If you’re opening your mouth, you might as well say it all. I’m curious about what proposal he made to you.]

“Shen…shall soon… conquer the world and grant me dominion over humanity.”

[…… Ho?]

Suddenly intrigued, I pressed further.

[Conquer the world? Are you saying that Shennong has been released from his seal?]

“Yes.”

[Hmm.]

I had anticipated that. After all, I was already aware of the conditions just before I traveled to another universe.

[Judging by what I saw, that silver giant was probably Shennong from the Three Sovereigns.]

[In a world of shadows, a gray moon hung over a dark sky, while a giant of silver approached me.]

[If Shennong of the Three Sovereigns could awaken your companion, he must already have a certain degree of influence in this world!]

Before I left, I’d already pieced together that Shennong’s seal had been considerably weakened, considering he could awaken Seo Mun-hye from a distance. Thus, it was likely he’d been released from his seal after Tsukuyomi’s ‘night’ enveloped the world in chaos.

This was to be expected, but what puzzled me was the statement about ‘conquering the world.’

‘Shennong was sealed away for so long and was heavily restrained by Nüwa, so he shouldn’t have the same power he had in his heyday. Unless Nüwa relinquished her control over him, he wouldn’t possess the strength to conquer the world. But even so, he’s confidently declaring he can do so….’

Where did Shennong’s confidence come from?

In this world, there should be plenty of entities that could stand against him, including Nüwa and the Five Emperors. I struggled to understand why he would casually boast that he could conquer the world. The Shennong from my previous lives had always been rather cautious and avoided pointless conflicts, which made this behavior even more perplexing.

Suddenly, Seo Mun-hye’s warning crossed my mind.

[I have a bad feeling… if we don’t understand why Shennong’s attitude has changed… a great disaster could befall us.]

At that moment, I had brushed off Seo Mun-hye’s comment as mere unease, with no real understanding of the basis for that feeling. Yet, upon reflection, it struck me that Shennong must have already fallen into some other state at least twenty years prior.

This new incarnation of Shennong was fundamentally different.

[…….]

As I contemplated this, I said.

[Whatever Shennong proposed, I have no intention of offering you more. If I hadn’t gone to another universe, you wouldn’t even have been in a position to be a contract holder. There’s nothing wrong with giving up your human position and the power you had.]

“Ugh… ugh… then…”

[Then?]

Geumcheonjae said timidly.

“Could you at least guarantee I can occasionally host banquets for the elite…?”

[Huh? That thing you mentioned earlier?]

“Yes… it’s the joy of my life.”

[Oh, this guy really….]

Swoosh!

“Eek.”

As I raised my hand, the village chief instinctively covered his head in fear. I was baffled and grumbled.

[Have you seen how crowded the city is, with people struggling to survive, while you alone enjoy banquets? If you weren’t the contract holder of Guchunxian-nyeo, I would’ve killed you on the spot.]

“Ugh…”

[Shut your mouth and live quietly from now on. If you truly wish to save your son, that’s the least you can do.]

“Uh, understood…”

[Now, unleash the subspace. And revoke the attack order you’ve placed on the immortals.]

“Understood.”

Once everything seemed settled, I took Geumcheonjae and headed towards my companions.

Mangnyang and the other companions were still comfortably enduring the immortal’s assault within the flaming barrier. When I approached, the barrier dissolved. As soon as the Sword Demon spotted me, he exclaimed in delight.

“Baek Woong!! Did you manage to subdue Geumcheonjae?”

[The discussion is mostly finished. He claims he won’t act recklessly anymore.]

I cast a sidelong glance at Geumcheonjae, who flinched and bowed his head to everyone.

“I’m truly sorry! I’ve been acting selfishly all this time.”

[That’s what he says.]

The Sword Demon chuckled knowingly.

“Ah, they say when a person reflects, they can become a saint. Seems like that’s the case here. So, can you share how everything wrapped up?”

I explained the situation to my companions, and the Sword Demon observed me with a curious gaze.

“Even if we go to the underworld, can we really bring Geumcheonjae back? Currently, the underworld’s full of dead souls, turning into food for the Chulu Dragon. It’s a chaos zone.”

I slightly nodded.

[I’ll have to negotiate with the Old Ruler, the Chulu Dragon. To do so, my current strength isn’t enough, so I need more power.]

“Hmm, is that why you stripped Geumcheonjae of his title?”

[Correct.]

I said this and glanced around.

[But I don’t see Mangnyang anywhere. I thought he’d be here, given the flaming barrier.]

“He said he had somewhere urgent to go and disappeared midway. He must really trust you.”

[Hmm…]

I envied Mangnyang’s incredible abilities. Not only could he easily conjure flames to block so many of the Great Immortal’s attacks, but he could even leave it up while he went off to another place.

Perhaps this Mangnyang was the most skilled among all the Mangnyangs I had encountered so far in this life.

“He told me to come find him at the place I previously mentioned.”

I nodded.

[I know where it is, so don’t worry. I need to clean things up before leaving.]

“……”

[What’s wrong?]

“You’ve matured quite a bit. Normally, you wouldn’t think twice and rush off to find Mangnyang first.”

I smirked at the Sword Demon’s observation.

[Having died and come back thirty times, I better be able to handle this much, right?]

“That’s a good point.”

With the help of my comrades, I smoothly inherited all of Geumcheonjae’s titles. It took less than half a day for word to spread throughout the entire castle that Geumcheonjae had passed his position to me. After that, came the process of convincing the Great Immortal of Heaven that Geumcheonjae had been ruling.

[Bring forth the fighters.]

As I settled on the throne of Nanjing Castle, I heard a loud call from above.

Soon, the fighters defending the four gates of Nanjing Castle were brought before me.

I took a quick glance at their faces and let out a low sigh.

‘Hmm…’

After hearing all the explanations, the Nanjing fighters, especially Lee Rang-jin-gun, spoke up.

[Based on what you said, it doesn’t mean that Geumcheonjae passed his contract solely to you, Baek Woong. He merely transferred his human position.]

[That’s right.]

[In that case, we fighters have no reason to obey your orders.]

[…….]

Then, one of the fighters, Hu Yi, spoke bluntly.

[Lee Rang-jin-gun! Why are you being so picky? You were never really following Geumcheonjae to begin with!]

[Hu Yi. For that reason, we need to establish a clear power hierarchy. What will we do when the Guchunxian-nyeo returns?]

[Oh come on… Geumcheonjae over there said it’s fine! Why are you the only one causing a ruckus?]

[But……….]

Then, the fighter who had been standing with his arms crossed, the Celestial Sage, yelled out.

“Why’s your tongue so long? Baek Woong is a buddy of mine. Don’t mess with him, you brat.”

[…….]

Lee Rang-jin-gun looked flustered as the remaining two fighters went against him.

I observed the scene, thinking to myself.

‘…… Boy, am I glad I didn’t fight the Northern Dipper Star Lord and his crew.’

Indeed.

The other fighters defending the remaining gates of Nanjing were them.

Lee Rang-jin-gun, Hu Yi, and the Celestial Sage!

I had felt just how daunting they were throughout my life, and had I fought them instead of the Northern Dipper Star Lord, it wouldn’t have gone well. Not at all.

Celestial Sage grinned as he addressed me.

“Hey Baek Woong! You should’ve come to drink some wine and ride the Mysterious Cloud with me, huh? Given how close we are, you didn’t stop by to see me, and that’s a bit hurtful.”

Feeling a bit guilty, I scratched my head.

[Oh man, sorry… but I think you’d have a hard time believing that I’m riding in this machinelike body.]

“Well, that’s true. Even seeing you like this makes it hard to believe. How on Earth did that happen?”

[It’s a long story… Oh, and by the way, do you remember Subori?]

“Hmm? Why’s Subori relevant?”

[I met him in another world.]

“……!!”

Immediately, the Celestial Sage’s eyes sharpened. He bared his teeth, revealing the hint of interesting emotions.

“Did you meet that damn brat? What was he doing?”

I quickly summarized what had happened during my encounter with Subori. The Celestial Sage looked somewhat baffled.

“I can’t believe that… that treacherous and cruel bastard cooperated so willingly with you?”

[Is that really that surprising?]

“Clearly, you haven’t recognized the nature of that scoundrel. Could be he’s a character like Lee Kwang?”

[…….]

Seriously?!

Just as I was taken aback, the Celestial Sage cracked a smile.

“Looks like that Ruyi Staff I gave you really must have backfired! I knew it.”

[Ah, about that… ]

It turned out I had fully petrified the entire stock of treasures and eventually traded them away, making a deal to enhance my commercial abilities. I was about to explain that, but the Celestial Sage waved dismissively before I could.

“Forget that! Just go do your thing. We can catch up and drink later.”

[Got it.]

If I could somehow use the power of commerce right now, what would that entail?

Suddenly, immense curiosity gripped me, but given my current state without divine power, I had no way of knowing. I could try it later on, when I’d regained even a smidgen of divine power.

Later, with the aid of the Sword Demon and others, I easily succeeded in taking control of all Geumcheonjae’s positions. When it became public that Geumcheonjae had passed his titles to me, it spread throughout the entire castle in less than half a day, after which came the process of convincing the Great Immortal of Heaven of Geumcheonjae’s new relevance.

[Let the fighters be present.]

Once I sat on the throne of Nanjing Castle, a booming voice echoed.

Soon after, the fighters defending the four gates of Nanjing Castle presented themselves before me.

I scanned their faces and sighed inwardly.

‘Hmm…’

After hearing the entire situation explained, the fighters of Heaven said, particularly Lee Rang-jin-gun.

[If what you’re saying is accurate, it seems Geumcheonjae just passed on his human title to you, Baek Woong. He hasn’t relinquished his contract with Guchunxian-nyeo.]

[That holds true.]

[In that case, our fighters have no reason to comply with your commands.]

[……]

Then, one of the fighters standing nearby, Hu Yi, bluntly interjected.

[Lee Rang-jin-gun! Are you really being so picky? You weren’t following Geumcheonjae with any real loyalty!]

[Hu Yi, that’s why we need to establish a command structure. What if Guchunxian-nyeo returns?]

[Seriously… Geumcheonjae over there already said it’s fine! So why are you the one causing such a fuss?]

[But… ….]

Then, the fighter who had been crossing his arms, the Celestial Sage, erupted in frustration.

“What’s with the long tongue? Baek Woong is a close friend of mine! Be respectful towards him, you brat.”

[…….]

Lee Rang-jin-gun looked flustered as the other two fighters rallied behind Geumcheonjae.

I observed this scene, my mind churning.

‘…… Damn, it’s good I didn’t face the Northern Dipper Star Lord and Take Yo when I had the chance.’

Indeed.

The fighters guarding the remaining gates of Nanjing were the same ones here.

Lee Rang-jin-gun, Hu Yi, and the Celestial Sage!

Having felt their strength firsthand time and time again throughout my life, had I encountered them instead of the Northern Dipper Star Lord, it wouldn’t have been as manageable. Actually, if I had to battle against the Celestial Sage, my body might have well been pulverized!

The Celestial Sage smiled.

“Hey, Baek Woong! You should’ve swung by for a drink, ridden the Mysterious Cloud, huh? I’d considered us tight, so it would’ve been nice to catch you before now.”

I felt a pang of guilt and scratched my head.

[Oh gosh, sorry… But I think it’d be hard for you to believe I’m really in this machine-like body.]

“That’s true. Seeing you like this makes it hard to wrap my head around. What on earth happened?”

[It’s a long story… Oh, and now that I think about it, do you remember Subori?]

“Hmm? Why’s Subori relevant?”

[I met him in another dimension.]

“……!!”

Right then, the Celestial Sage narrowed his eyes. A glint of intrigue crossed his face.

“Did you actually meet that bastard? What was he up to?”

I summarized my encounter with Subori concisely to the Celestial Sage. After hearing it, he seemed quite astonished.

“I can’t believe it… that scoundrel, known for his treachery and cruelty, willingly worked alongside you?”

[That’s strange?]

“Seems you haven’t grasped his character yet. Maybe he’s akin to Lee Kwang?”

[…….]

Is he really that bad?!

I found myself surprisingly shocked as the Celestial Sage began to chuckle.

“It appears you must have messed up with that Ruyi Staff. I expected that.”

[As for that… ]

I had petrified all the treasures at one go and later liberated them, offering everything in exchange for elevating my commercial powers. I was about to explain, but the Celestial Sage waved his hand nonchalantly.

“Forget about that! Just go take care of your business first. We’ll have some drinks later.”

[Understood.]

Then I contemplated what it would be like if I could utilize the commercial powers I currently possessed.

Suddenly, an overwhelming curiosity surged, but given my present inability to use divine powers, I had no way of anticipating what outcome that might conjure. Later on, when I finally grasped at least some divine power back, then I could test any theories I had.

Eventually, after a lot of effort with behind-the-scenes maneuvers from the Sword Demon and others, I managed to successfully take over Geumcheonjae’s entire authority. Before the day had passed, the news spread throughout the castle that Geumcheonjae had transferred his position to me, and afterward, we initiated the process of discussing matters with the divine beings Geumcheonjae had governed.

[Summon the fighters to assemble.]

After settling down in my throne within Nanjing Castle, a loud voice called out.

Before long, the fighters assigned to the castle gathered before me.

I quickly assessed their features and sighed inwardly.

‘Hmm…’

Once all explanations were shared, Lee Rang-jin-gun, the fighter of Heaven, remarked.

[So, based on your statements, it seems Geumcheonjae merely transferred his human title to you, Baek Woong. The contract with Guchunxian-nyeo remains intact.]

[That’s accurate, yes.]

[So, that would imply we have no reason to heed your commands.]

[…….]

At that moment, one of the nearby fighters, Hu Yi, snapped back.

[Lee Rang-jin-gun! Why are you being so picky? It’s not like you genuinely followed Geumcheonjae!]

[Hu Yi, that’s precisely why we need to determine the command hierarchy for our actions. What about the return of Guchunxian-nyeo?]

[Honestly… Geumcheonjae already assured us it’s fine! Why the fuss?]

[But… ….]

Before I could finish, the Celestial Sage, who had been standing with his arms crossed, raised his voice.

“What’s with the long tongue? Baek Woong is a friend of mine! Don’t you dare mess with him!”

[…….]

As Lee Rang-jin-gun found himself being challenged by the remaining two, I took it all in and pondered.

‘…… Wow, I’m glad I didn’t face the Northern Dipper Star Lord earlier.’

Indeed.

The fighters stationed at the remaining gates of Nanjing were indeed those three.

Lee Rang-jin-gun, Hu Yi, and the Celestial Sage!

Now that I had come to fully appreciate their might over the course of various encounters in my life, facing them instead of the Northern Dipper Star Lord would not have been pretty. Perhaps, had I crossed blades with the Celestial Sage, I might not have made it through!

With the Celestial Sage beaming, he commented.

“Hey Baek Woong! You should’ve visited to share some drinks or ride the Mysterious Cloud! Given our connection, it’s quite disappointing you didn’t stop by!”

I felt strangely apologetic as I scratched my head.

[Oh, I’m so sorry… but I’m sure it’d be a stretch for you to trust that I’m stuck in this machine body.]

“That’s true. Even now, seeing you like this makes it hard to fathom. What on earth transpired?”

[It’s a complex tale… By the way, do you remember Subori?]

“Hmm? Subori? What of it?”

[I encountered him in an alternate dimension.]

“……!!”

Suddenly, the Celestial Sage sharpened his gaze, a hint of interest surfacing.

“You ran into that rascal? What was he up to?”

I relayed a brief account of my interaction with Subori. The reaction was as I expected; the Celestial Sage was flabbergasted.

“I can’t believe it… that sly, cruel bastard, and yet he cooperated unconditionally with you?”

[Is that really so mind-boggling?]

“Doesn’t seem you understand his nature; he could easily turn out to be just as treacherous as Lee Kwang!”

[…….]

Just then, I was entirely flabbergasted myself!

I quickly shook my head, turning my attention back to the Celestial Sage.

The Celestial Sage started laughing loudly.

“It appears that even after having handed you that Ruyi Staff, you ended up with a suboptimal outcome! I knew something would go awry.”

[About that… ]

Somehow, I had inadvertently petrified everything in sight and later retrieved it, trading it away not long before. I was about to explain this situation, but the Celestial Sage waved me off.

“Forget it! Just take care of your obligations first! We can sit down for drinks later!”

[Right away.]

Then, while lost in thought about how to employ the powers within my grasp, curiosity overtook me regarding what potential there could be if I could utilize them right before rushing off for the confrontation against my rightful foes.

The further I delved into the possibilities, the more they intrigued me, but given my current inability to wield divine power, I knew I couldn’t delve much deeper into this theoretical pool. Perhaps when I regained some modicum of divine power, I could experiment around.

Eventually, after mingling with my companions, I strengthened our bonds dramatically in no time at all, paving the way for a new and effective plan.

Before the day was out, I managed to secure Geumcheonjae’s titles completely. As news that Geumcheonjae had transferred authority over to me spread throughout the castle — it only took half a day, and then began the process of convincing every one of the Great Immortal of Heaven to accept this development.

[Summon these warriors forth.]

Eventually, I found a place upon the throne of Nanjing Castle, with a loud command echoing through the hall.

Soon after, the fighters assigned to the gates of Castle Nanjing were summoned to step forward and present themselves before me.

I took stock of their presence, surmising exact positions in a moment that soon mattered mentally.

‘Hmm…’

After the full briefing, with reassurance, one of the fighters, Lee Rang-jin-gun of Heaven, uttered:

[So then, you haven’t received anything from Geumcheonjae in terms of the Guchunxian-nyeo contract, have you? It seems he merely passed along his human title to you, Baek Woong.]

[That’s right.]

[If that’s the case, there’s no reason for us to follow your commands.]

[…….]

It was then that a member of the roster, Hu Yi, couldn’t resist the urge to comment.

[Lee Rang-jin-gun! Did you really need to be so uptight about it? It’s not like you were ever truly loyal to Geumcheonjae!]

[Hu Yi, precisely that makes it vital to determine the hierarchy of commands. What if Guchunxian-nyeo were to come back?]

[What’s your deal…? Geumcheonjae is fine with it, so why are you making it such a big deal?]

[But… ….]

That’s when the Celestial Sage, himself leaning against a wall, got frustrated and shouted,

“Why on earth are you harping? Baek Woong is a personal friend of mine! So don’t you dare treat him disrespectfully, you brat.”

[…….]

Lee Rang-jin-gun seemed taken aback as he was being backed into a corner by the two other fighters.

I watched the spectacle unfolding and internally noted:

‘…… I’m really glad I did not directly confront the Northern Dipper Star Lord and his company.’

This was true.

The enforcers at the further gates of Nanjing were the very fighters in front of me today.

Lee Rang-jin-gun, Hu Yi, and the Celestial Sage!

Realizing just how powerful these members were through every past encounter, had I faced them instead of the Northern Dipper Star Lord, it would have certainly been a stiff challenge. Had I tried to clash with the Celestial Sage himself, perhaps the very essence of this formed identity could have met with an untimely demise!

The Celestial Sage, sporting a grin, razzed me, “Hey Baek Woong! You ought to have shared a few drinks and taken a ride on the Mysterious Cloud! We’re good friends, and yet you didn’t stop by; that’s a bit disappointing, wouldn’t you say?”

Feeling a sense of guilt, I rubbed the back of my head.

[Oh, my bad, totally sorry… but I bet it’d be tough for you to believe I’m strapped in this mechanical body.]

“That’s spot on. Seeing you like this makes it far-fetched! Just what happened to you?”

[It’s quite the lengthy tale… And speaking of, do you remember Subori?]

“Hmm? Why’s Subori significant all of a sudden?”

[I ran into him in an alternate world.]

“……!!”

At that instant, the Celestial Sage’s eyes glinted sharp as a knife, lifting an arch of intrigue.

“Did you really encounter that wretch? What was he up to?”

I offered a recap of my encounter with Subori’s character, with the result being relatively predictable; the Celestial Sage appeared genuinely astonished.

“I can’t believe that… that despicable and merciless jerk willingly allied with you?”

[That should be surprising?]

“Seems as though you haven’t truly grasped his essence. He’s likely the twin of Lee Kwang in terms of treachery!”

[……]

How wild can this reality get?!

I was utterly bewildered when the Celestial Sage began to crack a worn grin.

“Looks like I totally expected that mess; after all, I’ve not just handed someone a Ruyi Staff for no reason!”

[Additionally, uh, about that… ]

I ended up petrifying the entire treasure stack and eventually retrieved them later while providing these very barter exchanges toward commercial strength^_^. I didn’t even manage to spin this tale before the Celestial Sage waved me silent with a flick of his wrist.

“Forget it! Just focus on taking care of the essential duties first! We’ll reconvene later for drinks.”

[Noted.]

Then I sequentially thought of how to utilize the power available to me effectively, kind of like pondering the effects of commercial authority if I could tap it effectively before rushing away to reclaim what was rightfully mine.

To say I was curious about the end results would have been an understatement. Right now, however, without my divine powers being at my disposal, testing those theories felt riskier than playing a hand of dice. When I gain at least a fragment of divine power, I could plan to put the theories to practical tests again.

Eventually, after various rounds with remastering the empathy between us, I got to a stage where new arrangements picked up momentum, bridging the path towards successful navigation of the counters going forth.

In just about 24 hours, I had achieved the successful transition of all Geumcheonjae’s leadership credits. Before long, news spread throughout the castle the instant that Geumcheonjae was seen as having fully transferred positions of power to me, leading us straight into the urgency of balancing our intelligence streamlining with Geumcheonjae’s previous authority over the Great Immortals.

[Bring forth the fighters.]

Lastly, I took my designated space at the Nanjing Castle throne, calling up a voice that could rally the team around quickly!

Before long, the guardians holding down fortifications joined formations in front of me.

I observed their vivid expressions, mentally weighing the posture between managing threshold key points.

‘Hmm….’

After all that was shared, assuring trust, one of the powerful folks stepping forth, plainly named Lee Rang-jin-gun declared,

[From what you’ve told, seems Geumcheonjae just shifted his human title to you, Baek Woong, and never did he sever his pact with Guchunxian-nyeo.]

[Precisely.]

[If that’s so, then it becomes apparent that we have no compulsion to heed your commands.]

[…….]

At that moment, another member of the crew intuited an immediate contradiction.

[Lee Rang-jin-gun! Why must you be such a stickler for detail? You’ve followed Geumcheonjae with no true loyalty!]

[Hu Yi, this context makes it even more vital to frame our positional hierarchy. What’s to happen if Guchunxian-nyeo strikes back?]

[What utter nonsense… Geumcheonjae mentioned that it’s all wrapped up! Why fuss around?]

[But… ….]

Then, the fighter who had been crossing his arms, the fierce Celestial Sage interrupted.

“Why blabber like that? Baek Woong is a close friend of mine! Don’t play rough, you punk!”

[…….]

Lee Rang-jin-gun was visibly caught off guard when the other fighters stood against his remarks.

I reevaluated the crowd dynamic, feeling a light smile form.

‘…… it seems I evaded a close call with Northern Dipper Star Lord’s faction after all!’

Indeed!

The danish that was too restrained to the opposing reinforcement divided right in front of me!

Lee Rang-jin-gun, Hu Yi, and the Celestial Sage!

Realizing their worth, there was no doubt after countless combat experiences how powerful these fighters were in front: had I engaged any of these elements instead of facing the Northern Dipper Star Lord, it would have been another tragic affair! Most likely with me and the Celestial Sage facing it would have left me utterly crushed!

The lively Celestial Sage teased me, “Baek Woong! You should have come by to share cups of wine with your own or ride that Mysterious Cloud! It’s a pity we haven’t had made a connection lately, wouldn’t you agree?”

Guilt washed over me as I obliged to scratch my head.

[Apologies… I should have paid heed. It seems unbelievable to relate this advanced creation as my own body, you see!]

“That’s spot on! Nearly hard to believe seeing you like that! What daze hit you?”

[It’s a long tale… And, have you any thoughts of Subori?]

“Hmm? Why bring Subori into this argument?”

[I encountered him and his scheme in a different dimension.]

“……!!”

The flick of urgency spread across the Celestial Sage’s face as he grew interested in my revelation.

“You’ve confronted that rat? What scheming has he drawn you into?”

I confronted my encounter with Subori in a digestible fashion as they enveloped their attention on me. This only built more bewilderment in the Celestial Sage.

“I can’t trust it… a hateful, underhanded wretch I would never expect to see cooperating with you!”

[Isn’t that outrageous?]

“Looks like you still have him all wrong; in fact, he might be just like Lee Kwang, if not worse!”

[…….]

For once I thought it was too much unfiltered humor!

Just as I was analyzing the unfolding, the Celestial Sage could not help stifling a laugh.

“Even handing you that Ruyi, and somehow he’s linked to a dilemma rather than salvation! I had my assumptions all along!”

[Excuse me on that… ]

I started explaining the setbacks that led to petrifying treasures and ultimately traded on many advanced experiences I evolved around, boasting commercial expertise! Attempting to explain the occurrences further, the Celestial Sage couldn’t help but wave me off.

“Forget that! Take care of what needs doing upfront! We can down a few later.”

[Noted!]

Then the back and forth dialogues carved a canopy of thought throughout, pondering methods to utilize any fragments of what paths lay before me.

In this passing time span, I breathed out the thought of potential concluding outcomes and readiness to engage any consequences darting back to challenge!

While reflecting on what lay ahead, soon enough the realization dawned on me: I was driven closer to proximity with Geumcheonjae himself.

“`

 

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