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00440 암천향(暗天鄕) ————————————————————————=

Life number 22 has officially kicked off.

I pushed through the bone-crushing pain of my spirit being shattered. Unlike the time when I got hit by those nine fancy arrows, this pain faded quickly—though it was intense for a moment, overall, I could handle it.

‘What a surprise…’

I figured I’d risk dying while trying to break the barrier, but I never expected that Pesky Buddha to crash the party. This death wasn’t really my mistake; I just faced an unpredictable ambush.

Pesky Buddha—a fight-ready monk.

Looks like a monkey.

Riding on clouds and swinging a massive stick.

‘Is he from the Monster Sage clan?’

Anyway, it’s clear that a new enemy has shown up. And I realized it’s practically impossible to destroy the barrier with the help of the Celestial Realm immortals. If I tried to break it, some other Pesky or Divine Spirit would jump in to stop me!

Even if I borrowed the power of Yeodong-bin, the same result would likely occur. There’s also a chance that Yeodong-bin might injure himself using the Invincible Sword.

I recalled the terrifying might of the Red Bow that Ye had launched. And I reached a conclusion.

“If the Sect Leader could unleash the possibility of chaos and fully unleash Primordial Spirit’s power, we might break through…?”

But I wasn’t sure. The power of the Red Bow increased exponentially with each shot. The Sect Leader’s prowess and the Heart of Heaven’s Abundance were certainly superhuman, but in comparison to genuine martial prowess, they could fall a bit short. It’d have to be a chaotic form to effectively break through.

More importantly, I lacked the confidence to approach the current Sect Leader and rejoin the White Lotus Sect. While the Master of the White Lotus Sect had his own sense of justice and was trying to practice True Martial Home, the issue was the balance of the world.

The Martial World right now is balanced among three major forces!

The White Lotus Sect is focused on the Imperial Palace, the Imperial Palace is eyeing the White Lotus Sect, and the Twelve Joules are observing both with keen interest.

If even one side crumbles, the balance will turn upside down, leading to a major tragedy. Especially since the White Lotus Sect and the Imperial Palace are discreetly checking each other, it would be utterly reckless for me to extend a hand to the Sect Leader. Giving them the Black and White Lotus would be like releasing the shackles placed upon the Sect Leader, so that was definitely off the table. For now, it seemed best to leave the White Lotus Sect alone.

‘This time… I should seek some advice.’

Hitting a practical wall, I realized that only after I put in enough effort could I seek help from a strategist. I understood what Zhuge Clan was getting at fully. I might find some answer by floundering through this, but I certainly didn’t need to struggle that much.

First, I needed to secure the Heavenly Secret and the Golden Lamp and then head to Dongyoung to mine some Obsidian. After that, I went straight to the Zhuge Clan. The sooner I seek advice, the better.

Pa-at!

I arrived at a village near Jangryeong Valley. As I approached the valley slowly, I noticed a formation spread out before me.

‘Oh right!’

Zhuge Sa, known as the Lord of Jangryeong Valley and Guangsheng, had another pseudonym in the Martial World: Gui Guo Zi. He possessed remarkable knowledge of formations, and when I came with Mangnyang, it was him who put in the effort to break through this. Memories flooded back from when Mangnyang and I visited Zhuge Sa.

[One step forward and the formation will activate.]

[What formation is this?]

[This is the formation of Heavenly Soul Unification. Really, the audacity…]

[Audacity? Such an evil formation?]

[Not so much evil as malicious. Even if caught, you won’t die, but you’ll suffer a hell of a lot and end up crying and fleeing. It’s basically a formation intended to humiliate.]

Regardless, back then, Mangnyang managed to break through the Heavenly Soul Unification’s formation with just footwork, and since I couldn’t memorize his method, I ended up breaking the core of the formation. Just recalling that moment, I could remember the characteristics of the Heavenly Soul Unification’s formation Mangnyang described.

[This Heavenly Soul Unification formation is made from the core principles of formation technique. Even a master might find themselves getting snagged instantly if trying to leap over it with their skills, but if followed in the correct sequence, even a woman or child could bypass it. Still, it’s tightly woven, so you wouldn’t do it with just casual knowledge of formations.]

“……”

So, according to that, it means only someone well-versed in formations could unravel this classic formation using superior mystical methods. I knew a bit about formations myself, but I wasn’t anywhere near capable enough. I thought about blasting my way through, then shook my head.

‘Seems like I have no choice. I’ll have to draw some suspicion, but I’ll just have to use the Golden Lamp.’

If I used the Golden Lamp and teleport directly into the hall of the Lord of Jangryeong Valley, the formation wouldn’t matter. After all, Zhuge Sa wouldn’t lay down a formation in his living quarters.

The reason I hadn’t gone right for the Golden Lamp was to avoid arousing Zhuge Sa’s suspicion as much as possible. I knew very well that if Zhuge Sa started suspecting me, it would be endless. But since I couldn’t pass through the Heavenly Soul Unification’s formation in style, I’d have to rouse some suspicion regardless. I could bring Mangnyang, but I questioned if that was necessary, so I just pressed on.

Upon entering the Lord’s chambers, I found Zhuge Sa decapitating someone with his sword.

Pusshh…

With the sound of a piercing strike, silver sword light burst through with sprays of blood. The victim’s head dropped to the floor with a thud.

“……”

Zhuge Sa, despite being caught red-handed at the murder scene, didn’t flinch and greeted me happily. He held a blood-stained longsword.

“Oh? Who are you? Want to try solving my riddle?”

The headless guy must’ve aimed to solve Zhuge Sa’s riddle and score some gold bars, but it looks like he failed. I noticed the corpse just standing there, perfectly decapitated, and it hit me that Zhuge Sa’s swordsmanship was quite powerful.

‘As expected, this guy’s training in martial arts.’

There are no rules saying sorcerers or demon sorcerers can’t train in martial arts. Especially Zhuge Sa showed insane power when he once kicked Zhuge Bu’s head off with a single strike, so I had a strong feeling he was trained in martial arts—real first-class martial arts, not a shabby third-rate style.

Clearing my throat, I said,

“Is this Zhuge Sa, Lord of Jangryeong Valley?”

“Didn’t you already come to know? But who are you?”

This guy didn’t even ask me “how” I got in. That was a subtle sign he was already on to me. Whatever side we were on, I was still a suspicious character, and he wanted to know who I was first. I felt tense, opening my mouth.

“I am Baek Woong.”

“I see… Baek Woong… So what?”

“……”

Seeing Zhuge Sa’s blank gaze directed towards me sent shivers down my spine. He appeared naïve at a glance—but considering how long I had dealt with him, I knew this was the kind of vibe he’d give off right before exploding with madness. Zhuge Sa might generally be rational, but sometimes he could be wicked and brutal to the point of losing control.

I looked straight at Zhuge Sa and spoke.

“Lord of Jangryeong Valley, why don’t you give me a riddle? Just know, I have no need for any gold bars!”

I could hand him the Obsidian right away and pass on Zhuge Sa’s memories, but that would mean I wouldn’t know the answer to his riddle. Since I was attempting for the first time, it’d be in my best interest to understand the question and the answer first.

“Oh ho. The little one’s got audacity. Hehe…”

Chuckling, Zhuge Sa said,

“Then, what do you want in exchange for the riddle?”

“I want you to accept this Obsidian.”

I displayed the obsidian glowing on my palm for him. Upon seeing it, Zhuge Sa’s eyes lit up.

“That’s a gem processed by sorcery. Are you a mage? A sorcerer?”

However, denying it would be pointless to this guy. So I bluntly replied,

“Not quite. Just so you know, this Obsidian has the ability to transmit memories.”

“Definitely a mage, it seems. And a sorcerer, too.”

“Leave it to your imagination.”

After long experience, I knew trying to outsmart Zhuge Sa would turn out like a monkey trying to show off before a human. So, I decided to go all in.

“Zhuge Sa, do you accept this gamble?”

Zhuge Sa laughed heartily.

“Ha ha ha… Of course! You don’t look like you are in your right mind either, so let’s play!”

“Sounds good.”

“If you lose, your life is mine.”

“I understand.”

Of course, I couldn’t genuinely perceive that laugh as cheerful. It was clear his madness approached its peak. I crossed my arms and said,

“Go on, give me a riddle.”

“Hmm… Let’s see… What riddle can I give you…”

After a moment of contemplation, Zhuge Sa grinned and suddenly asked,

“What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs in the afternoon, and three legs in the evening?”

“……”

What the—?

I was briefly caught off guard by Zhuge Sa’s riddle. It was much stranger than I had expected.

‘Oh no… This—didn’t I hear the answer from Mangnyang before?’

Faint memories surfaced. But with so much clutter in my memory and feeling flustered, I couldn’t clearly recall.

What was it? I should’ve dropped by Mangnyang first!

However, I quickly masked my panic and replied,

“It’s you, Zhuge Sa!”

“Oh ho. That’s close, but… why?”

I clenched my fist.

“If I fought you, tomorrow morning, you’d crawl on four legs, in the afternoon, you’d have to stand on two legs since you shouldn’t die, and in the evening, one of your limbs would be incapacitated, hence three legs!”

How’s that for an answer?!

“……”

“……”

“Are you an idiot?”

Zhuge Sa remarked in shock, turning away like the wind escaped him.

“Dude, get lost. I don’t kill kids.”

“Did I get it right or not?”

“It’s fifty-fifty, but you’re really dumb. So I can’t admit it.”

Saying this, Zhuge Sa turned away, trying to re-enter. But I chased after him, refusing to let him ignore me.

“Zhuge Sa, aren’t you even a bit curious about who I am?”

“A tad curious, but since you’ve already broken through my formation, you must be some considerable player, right? No idea which Martial World faction you belong to, but it’s best to leave when I’m not on guard.”

Zhuge Sa tried to assert his superiority, but I showed no signs of backing down and threw the Obsidian.

“Take it!”

“Hell no.”

Zhuge Sa rejected it, and the Obsidian rolled on the ground.

Kiri ki ring…

As the Obsidian rolled across the floor, Zhuge Sa glared at me with cold eyes.

“Are you really an idiot? It’s crystal clear you’re a mage, and given that you’re presenting me a sorcerously processed gem, what makes you think I’d accept it? You think I don’t know the risks and powers involved?”

That was the expected reaction. I figured that the ones who routinely received Obsidian didn’t carry much caution towards sorcery. Zhuge Sa obviously knew the dangers and power of the magic side—there was no way he’d accept the Obsidian.

I had no choice but to pull out my trump card. I dropped the act and shouted the information that would force him to stay put.

“Heretical Sect Leader Zhuge Sa! How long do you have left on your contract with the Fengshen War? You must be looking to gain recognition as a rogue leader, working to build the Demon King’s Divine Temple, should you be lazing about like this?”

He paused.

At that moment, Zhuge Sa froze as if time had stopped. Then, with a chilling look in his eyes, he directed his gaze at me.

“Who are you?”

This was different. The mixture of madness that previously clouded his reason was now replaced with cold clarity and murderous intent. I chuckled and confidently replied,

“I am Baek Woong! Like you, I’m a Heretical Sect Leader.”

“Ha ha… ha ha ha…”

Zhuge Sa erupted into manic laughter. I felt a surge of concern that he might go on the offensive with his forbidden tactics, but I maintained my calm, looking him directly in the face.

“If you want to know the full story, pick up that Obsidian! Then we can chat further.”

“……”

Zhuge Sa, who had been silent, suddenly revealed a sinister smile.

“Shall I play along just this once?”

Moments later, Zhuge Sa bent down and picked up the Obsidian. As soon as the transmission of memories began, he wore a face of shock. Once the memory transfer completed, he looked completely dumbfounded, an expression uncharacteristic of him.

Then, his expression transformed from disbelief to sheer bafflement. Silent but visibly shifting expressions, Zhuge Sa finally spoke,

“Are you a total idiot? Even feeding you’s a struggle?”

“……”

“…Ha, this is hilarious.”

Zhuge Sa sported a complex expression and then wordlessly retreated into his room. I stood there, waiting for him to return.

After a long wait, Zhuge Sa emerged from his quarters and said,

“Baek Woong, I think I should head to Hyun now. You guide me to Hyun.”

“Wait!”

As Zhuge Sa strode closer, I halted him, then said,

“If you’re going to use the Soul Exchange Technique, I won’t sit idly by! I’ve reached the realm of the Sixth Essence, so even if you try your sorcery, I can resist.”

“Sure, sure~ Just hurry and use the Golden Lamp, you dolt!”

“Alright.”

Zhuge Sa spoke curtly, but I felt the need for a good warning. If Zhuge Sa attempted another Soul Exchange, it would complicate things sharply. I had previously felt the sting of the full power of the Soul Exchange firsthand, and I could still remember it vividly.

Pa-at!

I finally arrived at Mangnyang in Jinrang Valley alongside Zhuge Sa. I also handed over the Obsidian to Mangnyang to transfer the memories.

“……”

Eyes met between Mangnyang and Zhuge Sa. Zhuge Sa sighed exasperatedly.

“Hyun, how did you get entangled with such a fool? We…”

“Hmm… I’m quite conflicted myself…”

Mangnyang, having just received the memory, looked utterly confused. After sorting through his thoughts, he spoke.

“We have no choice but to follow him, uncle.”

Hearing Mangnyang’s words, Zhuge Sa’s eyes lit up.

“Why, what’s going on?”

“You used to deny me even in death.”

“Well, if we’re going to be together in the same faction, it’s better to get along.”

“Ha ha ha…”

Mangnyang stumbled over his words, and Zhuge Sa laughed, as if charmed by Mangnyang. It seemed that Mangnyang, having read Zhuge Sa’s past from the previous life, had begun to somewhat acknowledge him.

In that moment, I felt Zhuge Sa’s disposition shift. He looked at me as if granting favor.

“Alrighty then~ I’m not the type to die for someone like you, but Baek Woong, you should definitely feel deeply indebted to me. Someone soft-hearted like you deserves to be squeezed dry.”

“……”

I felt as though my past deeds that once seemed heroic had turned into a liability. No matter how I thought about it, what was the point of expressing those feelings? As I grumbled internally, Zhuge Sa imposed Martial Authority upon me.

“Well then, let’s get going, master.”

“Uh? Oh, sure.”

I was caught off guard. Did that guy just call me master?

But before I could even process it, Zhuge Sa immediately commanded me.

“From now on, move and gather all the treasures!”

“Gather them up?”

“Hehe. I’m convinced that your last life’s Hyun knows the answers. Also, I figured out what that is earlier.”

“What?”

Zhuge Sa cackled.

“There’s only one way to do this.”

 

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