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I felt a sense of alienation as I looked at the scene before me, marveling at Mangnyang’s cunning scheme.

General Hwang Yeon had mastered martial arts, but he barely scraped by at the first-class level, now nothing more than an old man whose family was on the brink of collapse and death. Yet here he was, facing the formidable mastermind and peak expert, Deung Gwak, who couldn’t hide his flustered expression upon seeing Hwang Yeon. It was clear from his face that he wasn’t just pretending; he truly found Hwang Yeon challenging.

Han Baek-ryeong, upon seeing Hwang Yeon, quickly showed her respect.

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen the hero of the nation, General Hwang.”

Han Baek-ryeong as well?! My surprise deepened as Hwang Yeon sat down, seemingly unfazed by it all.

“I imagine my sudden appearance has startled you all.”

“…”

“May I say a few words?”

“Please do.”

Both Deung Gwak and Han Baek-ryeong replied almost simultaneously. But there was no hint of embarrassment or surprise on their faces; they seemed entirely at ease with the situation. Watching this, I recalled what Mangnyang had told me yesterday.

[Baek Woong. You need not worry; General Hwang Yeon is quite the figure. So, there’s no need for concern.]

[How can I not worry? If Han Baek-ryeong or Deung Gwak takes it the wrong way…]

[That worry itself is needless.]

[…?]

[In your past life, when I, Mangnyang, had Hwang Yeon at hand, I could incite rebellion or uprising at will. Just like Cao Cao when he got the emperor.]

Yesterday, I didn’t fully grasp Mangnyang’s words. But seeing the two flustered now, I couldn’t help but believe it.

The very symbolism of Hwang Yeon could easily overshadow any high-ranking official from Luoyang!

The reason I need not worry about a show of force is that Hwang Yeon’s symbolism makes it so no one would dare act rashly against him. Who would be reckless enough to challenge someone capable of influencing the world? Especially not someone like Deung Gwak or Han Baek-ryeong, who rely on their intellect.

Moreover, both treated Hwang Yeon with utmost caution. They genuinely respected him beyond mere tactics.

As I marveled internally, Hwang Yeon quietly spoke up.

“What do you think of the Great Ming Empire?”

That was an abrupt, but clearly relevant question to our current topic. Deung Gwak pondered for a moment before responding.

“It is the center of the world.”

Shifting glances to Han Baek-ryeong, she spoke in a somewhat cold tone.

“The emperor’s country.”

There was a clear difference in their tones. For Deung Gwak, the Great Ming Empire was something that needed to be protected; for Han Baek-ryeong, it was merely a matter of rulers. Hwang Yeon, however, smiled faintly and said,

“Both are correct. But I’d like to add one more thing.”

“What is it…?”

“It’s the territory of the people that constitutes the Great Ming Empire.”

“…”

Both wore vague expressions. Hwang Yeon’s definition wasn’t wrong, but it had a different nuance from their views. Moreover, it depicted something different from the usual loyalty.

Deung Gwak interjected,

“Are you saying that the common people are the foundation of the nation?”

“While it is said that farmers are the foundation of the world, that’s not exactly what I mean. What we must safeguard with our status as members of the Great Ming Empire is not the imperial sovereignty but the people.”

“You comprehend my thoughts, General.”

Deung Gwak’s face lit up with joy, but Hwang Yeon continued with a rather subdued demeanor.

“However, after I was kidnapped by the Golden Eagle Guards to Great Thunder Valley, my thoughts changed.”

“……!!”

“What I witnessed there were unspeakable otherworldly monsters and wicked beings. In their presence, the morals and wisdom possessed by us humans became meaningless… They were completely detached from our common sense and values, and we were faced with a more fundamental issue.”

Bang!

Hwang Yeon’s fist struck the table solidly. All gazes turned toward him as he fixed them with a fiery stare and proclaimed.

“Survival!”

“Survival…?”

“What we face isn’t merely the issue of a corrupted emperor or corrupt officials; it’s a matter of survival for us all. Furthermore, that survival encompasses the people who form the foundation of our nation.”

“……”

Deung Gwak sighed as if he’d realized something, while Han Baek-ryeong’s face set in a hard line. She crossed her arms, contemplating Hwang Yeon’s words before questioning him.

“Do you really believe the otherworldly races will massacre the humans in the capital?”

“It’s worse than that. If left unchecked, soon all humans will be cast into despair.”

“Hmm…”

“Han Baek-ryeong, you are a master of the White Lotus Sect, so you might not quite grasp my words. But can you guarantee that the darkness consuming the imperial palace won’t infiltrate the White Lotus Sect as well? After all, the White Lotus Sect is human too.”

Han Baek-ryeong made no retort. However, judging by the grim expression on her face, it seemed Hwang Yeon struck a chord with her concern.

Deung Gwak then addressed her firmly.

“All Elder’s words ring true. If we don’t take action while we still can, we’ll end up unable to control it at all.”

“You speak well. But you, too, have been overly focused on the political powers rather than the people’s issues.”

Han Baek-ryeong shot back, but Deung Gwak did not argue back. Instead, he replied confidently.

“Ultimately, it’s enough if we can protect everyone, right? What’s wrong with exerting our strength now to prevent future dangers?”

That wasn’t an incorrect statement.

“… Hmm…

Han Baek-ryeong sighed deeply, her expression contemplative. Watching her, doubt crept into my mind about whether this discussion was progressing well, so I sent a secret transmission to the Sword Demon.

[Is this really okay?]

[Of course! No problem at all. In fact, I’m thankful that the Elder is handling things so well.]

[Is that so?]

[The atmosphere of the meeting, which seemed like it would spiral into chaos, has revitalized, and Han Baek-ryeong is genuinely listening. No one but General Hwang Yeon could accomplish such a feat. Han Baek-ryeong respects the words of the national hero thus.]

As the Sword Demon had said, Han Baek-ryeong, after giving it some thought, put down her long pipe and declared.

“Alright then. The Fire Spirit Techniques will cooperate as well.”

“A sound decision.”

Then, glancing at me and the Sword Demon, she added.

“You two must also explain how you managed to bring General Hwang Yeon here.”

Since this was a natural question, the Sword Demon calmly took the lead in explaining. He detailed their rescues from Great Thunder Valley, the Moon Beasts there, and how they made their way here. His logical storytelling kept both Deung Gwak and Han Baek-ryeong listening attentively without any signs of dissatisfaction.

Han Baek-ryeong shot a sharp look towards Deung Gwak and said,

“… Well, whatever. So, what’s your plan for the uprising? Are you planning to raise an army to storm the Imperial Palace? Or do you intend to select experts and assassinate the emperor? Now that we’re on the same ship, let’s hear your plan.”

As Han Baek-ryeong queried, Deung Gwak answered calmly.

“First, we’ll deal with the Duke of Guanzhong and the Golden Eagle Guards, then install a new emperor. We will need the Fire Spirit Techniques for the assault on the Imperial Palace.”

“I don’t wish to dive in blindly without knowing the enemy’s capabilities. Speak of what strength they possess.”

“Of course.”

After extensive discussions, Han Baek-ryeong finally seemed to agree to the Fire Spirit Techniques engaging in the fight. Deung Gwak clasped his hands and said.

“Let’s execute our plan tomorrow.”

“You’re rushing it, aren’t you?”

“When it comes to critical matters, the longer you ponder, the greater the risk of leaks. With the strength of your Fire Spirit Techniques, it’s best to strike as soon as possible.”

“Understood.”

The meeting wrapped up quickly. General Hwang Yeon said he had something to discuss with Deung Gwak and followed him, likely to talk about post-processing. Since Hwang Yeon was certainly not one to betray anyone, and I doubted Deung Gwak would act recklessly, I let him go for now.

We emerged alongside Han Baek-ryeong, who led us towards the Han Clan’s stronghold.

Upon arriving at the headquarters of the Han Clan, Han Baek-ryeong addressed the Sword Demon.

“Sword Demon, you and your subordinates will be at the forefront of tomorrow’s battle.”

The Sword Demon replied curtly.

“Sect Master, I have a question.”

“What is it?”

“Are you not bringing in any other martial artists from the White Lotus Sect or the main branch for this operation?”

Han Baek-ryeong snorted and let her pipe dangle.

“That’s none of your business.”

“It’s important. I don’t want to die without understanding the situation.”

“Hmph… Such arrogance.”

She spat this out and continued.

“I’ve already reported to the Sect Master. So tomorrow, you can expect just one support to arrive, so do not worry.”

“How strong is this person?”

“Didn’t I tell you not to worry?”

With Han Baek-ryeong’s frantic tone, even the Sword Demon couldn’t push her further. She pleasantly added, like using both a whip and a carrot.

“Sword Demon, while I know you submitted to our Fire Spirit Techniques for your ambitions, I hold your skills and talents in high regard. If you perform well in this battle and put in your efforts, I will elevate you to the position of a section leader within a year.”

To become a section leader means being just below the Elders of the Fire Spirit Techniques, effectively serving as the operational commander. Han Baek-ryeong’s offer was akin to a radical promotion within the sect. Achieving such a position typically takes decades for those who have honed their martial arts since childhood.

Hearing this, I asked Han Baek-ryeong,

“Do you trust Deung Gwak?”

“Heh! That’s a foolish question. Discussing trust in this relationship is meaningless.”

Han Baek-ryeong chuckled slightly.

“There’s nothing more to say. Make sure you all arrive before the hour of the rabbit tomorrow.”

“Understood.”

“Like General Hwang Yeon, if you have any preparations to make, feel free to do so.”

It seemed she held the choice to bring General Hwang Yeon highly, not just for herself but to affirm her commitment to the operation as well. We left the Han Clan and met Mangnyang, who was waiting at a nearby inn.

Mangnyang, sipping tea, stated.

“No need to summon the Shadowless Sword Master. Just the three of us should suffice.”

“That’s probably for the best, right?”

“We need to keep our strength as hidden as possible. Besides, if Han Baek-ryeong has reported to the Sect Master and is expecting a new ally, then she is likely considering a tenfold chance of success, meaning that ally will undoubtedly be at least a Dharma Guardian level.”

“That’s likely.”

The Sword Demon nodded as Mangnyang continued.

“What’s important is not breaking into the Imperial Palace. Tomorrow’s goal is something else.”

“What is it?”

“We must capture the Alchemist at all costs!”

Mangnyang’s eyes shone with fierce determination.

“In all my past lives, I could never catch that person to hear the specifics. The strength of the Imperial Palace was such that we were always too rushed to deal with it. But now with Zhuge Yulong and Zhuge Bu, the twin pillars underpinning the imperial palace, missing, we might have a chance.”

“I’ve heard that person is a powerful great Demon Sorcerer. If he tries to escape using magic…”

“I will stop that.”

Mangnyang declared confidently.

“Compared to previous incidents, this is no issue at all. Once we capture the Alchemist, we’ll know what sinister plot he had in mind for the Imperial Palace, and how he came to create the Portrait Immortal. This is a golden opportunity; let’s secure it before Han Baek-ryeong or Deung Gwak meddles.”

“Understood.”

As the next day dawned, we gathered at the hour of the rabbit with the masters of the Fire Spirit Techniques led by Han Baek-ryeong. They had brought only the cream of the crop through Yuleong, all of considerable skill and near Elder level. The thirty elite of the Fire Spirit Techniques’ strength was palpable.

Han Baek-ryeong led her group to the designated meeting place with Deung Gwak. Waiting there were Deung Gwak and over a hundred masked figures, who appeared notably less skilled than the elite of the Fire Spirit Techniques. This prompted Han Baek-ryeong to admonish him.

“Hmph. One can surely see why you’ve been cooped up in the Imperial Palace all this time.”

“Say what you will. We are scholars by nature, not suited to fighting.”

“What nonsense, with skills like that?”

“The preparations for the aftermath are all set, so I rely on you.”

Boom!

In an instant, over a hundred figures surged into the Imperial Palace’s inner sanctum as if they had arranged it beforehand, with the guards either thoroughly distracted or deliberately overlooking the situation. Upon reaching the inner palace, Deung Gwak announced,

“We’ll strike the Duke of Guanzhong as planned.”

“Understood.”

“As soon as we neutralize him, we’ll regroup.”

The scholars seemed to be headed towards the long-established hideout of the Duke of Guanzhong. The role of the Fire Spirit Techniques would be to subdue the Golden Eagle Guards and simultaneously storm the Imperial Palace to capture the emperor. Han Baek-ryeong glanced over her forces before instructing,

“The Golden Eagle Guards should be dealt with by my elite and Elders. Leave none alive.”

“Understood.”

“You two, follow me. We’re heading for the Imperial Palace.”

Bang!

As most of the Fire Spirit’s strength dove into the secret base of the Golden Eagle Guards, Han Baek-ryeong was left fighting through the entrance of the Imperial Palace with just the two of us. I could see that she was taking this position because she knew the extent of our strength.

Surely, with a Dharma Guardian, taking down the current defenses of the Imperial Palace should be a piece of cake…

Upon arrival at the palace, Han Baek-ryeong wasted no time thinking of intricate plans or sneaking about, immediately drawing her twin swords towards the main gate.

“Hah!”

The Ultimate Dragon King’s Sword!

The vision and signature martial art of the Fire Spirit Techniques shot forth alongside Han Baek-ryeong’s absolutely potent internal power. The sword formed into dragon’s head shape, carrying her intentions with it, struck the already imposing gate standing three spans tall, erupting in a brilliant display.

Crash!

It was as though a cannon had just hit the main gate of the Imperial Palace; it exploded into splinters. Nearby guards were thrown into complete chaos, but I knew this wasn’t Han Baek-ryeong’s genuine strength. If she truly unleashed her might, she could easily demolish ten times more.

Clank clank!

As we stepped inside the Palace, it was evident that guards were already rushing in from every direction, but she held her twin swords silently, wearing a palpable intensity.

“Just like flies.”

Then the Sword Demon quickly urged Han Baek-ryeong.

“Are you planning to kill them all? Please hold back on your prowess…”

“Regardless, they’re all treasonous scum! There’s no need to show restraint when taking them down.”

Han Baek-ryeong’s words weren’t just bragging or playful banter. Should she unleash the Twelve Ultimate Dragon King’s Slash through the Heavenly Spirit Pill, in the blink of an eye, half the grounds of the Imperial Palace would be reduced to rubble, and anyone caught in her fierce Qi would be turned to pulp. Even if tens of thousands of soldiers stood against her, they’d be insignificant to one like her.

“Those soldiers did nothing wrong! They’re only following orders!”

“Hmph.”

Han Baek-ryeong scoffed playfully and replied,

“If that’s what you think, I dare you to take their place! Then I’ll acknowledge your belief.”

“Alright.”

Bang!

With premonition, Han Baek-ryeong soared through the internal structure in a whirlwind, seeking to annihilate everything in the palace. It seemed she intended to let the Sword Demon handle the legwork. I looked at her worriedly and urged the Sword Demon,

“We can’t follow her reckless notions. Let’s hurry to the palace!”

“You go ahead alone.”

“What are you talking about? There are tens of thousands of troops stationed in the palace. Without the Heavenly Spirit Pill, it’s unrealistic for any one person to deal with them.

Even if the Sword Demon reached a high level of martial arts cultivation, it wouldn’t change the fact that a human could only exert limited physical strength and abilities. As he was now, the Sword Demon could take on a thousand or two thousand armed elite troops, but beyond that, it would turn the battle into a contest of stamina and endurance.

From my countless experiences, I understood this well.

Even though I had fed him the Black and White Lotus and Sacred Lotus to amplify his internal power, tackling several tens of thousands alone was not an option unless he were a Dharma Guardian. Then the Sword Demon declared,

“If I ignore her rampage, she’ll ignore me in the future. She despises those unwilling to keep their promises. I’ll do what I can while I still can.”

“But that’s…”

“Don’t worry. I also don’t think I can defeat thousands. I only need to hold on until you and Han Baek-ryeong deal with the emperor and capture the Alchemist. Besides, we also have Mangnyang, right?”

“……”

“Consider this a bargaining chip to prevent the slaughter of thousands among the palace guards.”

“… Understood.”

As arrows began to rain down from all directions, the Sword Demon’s sword carved beautifully in circles, effortlessly deflecting the oncoming attacks, creating a barrier of spiral flows that neutralized thousands of arrows and leaving the archers aghast.

“What?!”

As troops clad in armor began to charge in from all sides, I was just about to unleash my internal power for a strike when the Sword Demon called out.

“No need to waste energy here! I can handle this. You go on.”

Worry clouded my mind, but with him speaking so resolutely, I had no choice but to relent. I swiftly switched to the Shadowless Thunderbolt Technique and shouted.

“Step aside!”

Bam!

“Kyaaa!”

The power of the Seven Star Thunderbolt Technique was simple yet mighty. In an instant, the onslaught of soldiers was shattered, with hundreds knocked unconscious or sent flying. Thankfully, I managed to restrain myself, or otherwise, I would have killed at least a hundred.

My urgency increased. Regardless of how heightened the Sword Demon had become, I still couldn’t guarantee victory against such numbers! The only way forward was to suppress the Palace as swiftly as possible.

Upon reaching the inner Palace, I stumbled upon piles of corpses, having been utterly wrecked. It seemed Han Baek-ryeong spared none who dared to stand in her way. However, while the entrance was largely filled with humans, as we pushed through a hundred players, there lay an uncanny number of otherworldly monsters among the bodies.

What?! They have so many otherworldly creatures…

As I ventured further, I found Han Baek-ryeong incinerating yet another mass of bodies, her flames soaring as she cleared out yet another wave of foes.

She glanced at me and said, “This is indeed a lair of evil, just as Deung Gwak said. We’re now in a realm devoid of humanity.”

“I see.”

Just as Han Baek-ryeong asserted, every enemy she had obliterated bore twisted visages, being nothing short of demons.

Could the Alchemist have transformed all the humans in the palace into these beasts…?

I felt a hint of bitterness. I knew I had given him enough time; there was no escaping this reality. The Alchemist had boldly planted seeds of the otherworldly in Bai Hwang and was using grafting procedures, which I had sensed long ago. Predictably, he would resort to atrocious acts for his safety, considering Zhuge Yulong and Zhuge Bu were missing.

I suggested, “Let’s head to the Throne Room. The emperor and the Alchemist are bound to be there.”

Although I could go alone, the enemy’s strength might be formidable, so it was safer to bring Han Baek-ryeong along.

“You’re well informed.”

“I did my research.”

“Lead the way.”

“Yes.”

I brought Han Baek-ryeong to the Throne Room, a spot I had visited several times before. There, the Alchemist and the emperor lay in waiting. The emperor glowered at Han Baek-ryeong.

“Head of the Han Clan…? Why are you attacking us?”

“I have no interest in puppets.”

Han Baek-ryeong’s resolute words seemed to throw the emperor into a panic.

“W-What?!”

Han Baek-ryeong fixated her gaze on the Alchemist, her eyes smoldering with contempt.

“I shall eradicate the trash here, one and all!”

At that, the Alchemist burst into maniacal laughter.

“Kuhahaha!! You simple-minded fool who borrowed the power from your ‘father’s’ throne… You wield that power without knowing the cost. Your choice is madly foolish, and you shall regret it for eternity!”

Crash!

As we launched our assaults, we had no reason to wait. But it seemed he had prepared some defense, creating an immensely powerful barrier that, while cracking, still held firm against our ceaseless onslaught. Just as we threatened to shatter the Alchemist’s protective barrier…

Crack!

“Gyaah!”

Suddenly, the Alchemist seized the neck of the nearby Emperor, breaking it without a second thought. With the emperor lifeless, the Alchemist proclaimed in a frenzied voice,

“I am the undying one… the one who shall become the ultimate sage, the all-knowing being, Saint Germain! Offering the sacrifices to Dark Heaven Village…”

Boom!

“And my soul shall summon the darkness!!”

The self-proclaimed Saint Germain’s body exploded into a mass of blood, and from within, pulsating red tentacles reached out like grasping roots.

At the same time, from the Emperor’s remains, tentacles began to wildly extend, intertwining with the others. Witnessing this hideous scene, Han Baek-ryeong looked entirely stunned, caught between hesitation and the urge to attack.

Who could blame her? Even the battle-hardened Han Baek-ryeong had never imagined such a deranged sight. Gradually, the tentacles branched out, piercing the ceiling and reaching for the sky. As they continued to expand, Han Baek-ryeong readied her Heavenly Spirit Pill to attack them.

Boom!

“What the—?!”

Han Baek-ryeong gasped in shock. She poured all her strength into the Ultimate Dragon King’s Slash, yet the batch of tentacles only slightly charred before regenerating instantly. This posed a true danger; I urged Han Baek-ryeong,

“We need to retreat!”

Quickly, I guided Han Baek-ryeong to flee as the tentacles began exponentially consuming the inner palace, entrenching themselves into the ground. Having seen something akin to this before, I muttered,

“The Guardian…”

The Guardian of the Moon Sovereign, the embodiment of Izanagi no Mikoto!

What was unfolding before us bore a striking resemblance to that figure. However, I couldn’t pinpoint what forbidden ritual had been enacted; it seemed the Alchemist had summoned powerful otherworldly powers. Observing how the tentacles reached out dominatingly, Han Baek-ryeong questioned,

“What in the world is that?”

“I’ll bring the Sword Demon back!”

I hurried back to where the Sword Demon had held his ground against the swarming army. Indeed, he was managing rather effortlessly against thousands. I joined him to clear out soldiers with my Ground-impact Technique, calling out,

“The situation has changed!”

“Seems that way. Let’s go.”

Together, we pushed through the encirclement once more, retreating to a quieter location where Mangnyang emerged from behind a secluded building. He had been lurking about, using spells to assist the Sword Demon.

“We’ve failed.”

I scratched my head, feeling sheepish.

“I apologize. The fiend conjured this madness as a last defense, taking his own soul alongside the Emperor to summon that!”

“……”

Mangnyang gazed at the horrifying tree-like forms stretching into the sky.

“First, we need to bring Deung Gwak.”

“Do you think we can deal with that monster?”

“I’m unsure…”

With a sigh, Mangnyang pondered,

“It will depend on how strong the ally from the White Lotus Sect turns out to be.”

 

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