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“The White Lotus Sect is launching!”

This was the most extraordinary event I had ever encountered. Until the emergence of the Nine Lotus Sect in my first life, the White Lotus Sect had remained quietly hidden without any remarkable incidents. While no one dared to dispute that the White Lotus Sect was the most powerful force in the martial world, it was their non-interference in Jianghu matters that maintained the current order.

“Wait, what? Are you telling me they decided to confront the Ming court?”

As I stuttered, Mangnyang shook his head.

“No, not at all. The tension in Jianghu is still palpable.”

“Then what is going on?”

“About three months ago, for the first time, experts from the White Lotus Sect appeared in Qinghai. Until then, they were presumed to be in Xinjing, but soon after, they also appeared in Guangzhou and Fujian.”

“But Guangzhou and Fujian are totally unrelated to Xinjing, right?”

“Exactly. And those who referred to themselves as White Lotus Members immediately bought a large building to establish the Central Plains Branch of the White Lotus Sect. Although they haven’t made any overt activities or displays of force yet, it’s unprecedented for the White Lotus Sect to openly declare its ambitions in the Central Plains, which has left the martial world in a state of high tension.”

“…”

In short, it meant that the White Lotus sect simply purchased a building and built a branch. However, even that was enough to cause thousands of martial forces to become highly tense; the power and status of the White Lotus Sect were enormous. It was common knowledge that the internal power levels of the White Lotus Members were significant, so nobody would dare to provoke them. I cautiously asked,

“Doesn’t the Ming court dislike the White Lotus Sect? Why don’t they take action?”

“That’s the stranger part. Until now, the White Lotus Sect has been evaluated as having enough strength to dominate the Central Plains, but because of the enmity between the Hongwu Emperor and the Master of the White Lotus Sect, they haven’t shown their face in the Central Plains. Yet, in this situation, the government remains utterly silent, and when martial artists petition, they only echo the sentiment, ‘Let the matters of Jianghu be resolved within Jianghu’.”

“That can’t be…”

As I replied with skepticism, Mangnyang continued,

“According to your thoughts, this situation is a golden opportunity for the Ming court to strike the White Lotus Sect with a million troops. Yet, both the imperial family and the entire administration remain silent about the White Lotus Sect’s actions.”

“Isn’t it the calm before the storm?”

Mangnyang chuckled lightly.

“Some believe that, but I disagree. The optimal strategy is to strike when the enemy is at its weakest. If the White Lotus Sect manages to subjugate and absorb the factions of the Central Plains martial world, they will become a previously unimaginable force beyond control, including the bureaucrats. I see the current behavior of the officials as more of a phenomenon than a scheme.”

“A phenomenon?”

“I suspect that the White Lotus Sect has employed some tactic that keeps forces like the Golden Eagle Guard and Dongchang from moving recklessly. In fact, our Bancheon Alliance has found our activities much easier since the White Lotus Sect emerged, as the Golden Eagle Guard has become sluggish.”

“Hmm… So you were able to come to Goryeo because you felt relaxed?”

“Indeed, and the current martial world is no different from a powder keg. Once it ignites, a massacre will ensue regardless of friend or foe, so I fled temporarily to avoid the danger.”

Thanks to Mangnyang’s explanation, I was able to grasp the overall situation. After thinking for a moment, I asked him,

“So what do you plan to do from now on?”

“If nothing special happens, I plan to return to the Central Plains with you and continue Bancheon Alliance activities. This is an opportune moment, and if you, Baek Woong, help, we can achieve great success.”

“… I have a slight problem.”

“What is it?”

I explained to Mangnyang that I was currently learning medical techniques and that my ten-year appointment with the Nine-Tailed Fox was nearing its end. After listening to me till the end, he sighed.

“If I had known this beforehand, I would have provided you information about the divine being earlier.”

“The Nine-Tailed Fox holds immense power. She’s a Great Demon capable of wiping out elite members of the Twelve Joules.”

“It seems likely. If she’s a Heavenly Fox and was beside Queen Mother of the West, she must be a noble being akin to an Upper Immortal of the Celestial Realm. If such a being has fallen and been exiled to the earth, she must possess extraordinary strength.”

“Is there no way around this?”

“Hmm…”

After pondering, Mangnyang asked,

“I heard you received a mirror called Eight Trigrams from the Nine-Tailed Fox to cultivate; have you been following that advice?”

“Of course! Since there’s nothing to lose, I meditate on the mirror each morning and evening.”

“Let’s see it.”

As Mangnyang formed a curious hand sign, a faint orange circle appeared in the air. This circle reached near my heart and slowly absorbed. While Mangnyang was deep in thought with closed eyes, he spoke.

“Just as I thought. Your potential in sorcery has significantly increased.”

“What do you mean?”

“Exactly what I said. Thanks to the continuous absorption of the magical powers of the Three Divine Tools of Dongyoung over the past nine years, your Upper Dantian has reacted and is slightly opened. You have essentially cultivated divine ability naturally.”

“Divine ability?”

“The Nine-Tailed Fox has gifted you a very precious treasure. You will now be able to learn the basics of sorcery.”

“……!!”

I could hardly believe it. I had been practicing without much thought using the Eight Trigrams, and I never imagined it was training that would help me acquire sorcery! As I pulled the Eight Trigrams from my pocket to show him, Mangnyang gasped.

“It truly is the authentic Three Divine Tools. The rumors of the Nine-Tailed Fox enchanting the Heavenly Emperor must be true.”

“Are you saying I can actually use sorcery?”

Mangnyang nodded as if it were obvious.

“Of course. Not only martial artists practice, but sorcerers also consistently refine their skills to enhance their capabilities. By carrying the finest sacred texts onto the Dongyoung ground and meditating on them every day, you have undergone an extraordinary practice that is akin to my own divine sword training.”

“Oh wow…!!”

“Since we have come this far, allow me to teach you some sorcery. You should be able to learn quickly!”

“Thank you!”

I felt as if I had stumbled upon an unexpected treasure. Despite the master sorcerer Mangnyang declaring that I had ‘no talent,’ I had given up on sorcery altogether; but now, unexpectedly, a path had opened! The thought of being able to use sorcery made me internally giddy as I thrummed with excitement.

Mangnyang, still astonished, said,

“Even so, the Nine-Tailed Fox seems to hold a considerable fondness for you. Generally, beings of divine caliber that have fallen to the earth are usually evil and wicked, with the Nine-Tailed Fox being the prime example. Yet, while sparing your life, she held conversations and even offered you her treasure… that’s an unbelievable act of kindness.”

“Is it really that remarkable?”

I didn’t think the Nine-Tailed Fox was that bad. I hadn’t felt any malicious intent while we talked. But Mangnyang firmly replied,

“I can assure you, you are living due to the blessing of the Queen Mother of the West in this life. The Nine-Tailed Fox holds deep feelings of guilt and longing for her, which are transmitted into favor towards you. If in your next reincarnation you cross paths with the Nine-Tailed Fox, you shouldn’t expect the same luck.”

“So it’s because of the Queen Mother’s blessing…”

“Rumor has it that the Nine-Tailed Fox has killed thousands of humans on Dongyoung soil. She’s undoubtedly a formidable Great Demon.”

Mangnyang sighed and continued,

“Ah, you can’t come to the Central Plains for a while.”

“It’s awkward to go because of the Nine-Tailed Fox. She will undoubtedly seek me out.”

“I think you should calmly persuade her. If you do, she won’t kill you. Killing someone blessed by the Queen Mother of the West would be akin to denying herself.”

“That’s what I should do.”

“But remember, she is unlikely to ever forgive ‘betrayal.’ Keep that in mind during your discussions for a desirable outcome.”

Thus, I learned basic sorcery from Mangnyang for half a year. When I asked him whether he wouldn’t return to the Central Plains, he replied that it wouldn’t be too late to come back once the White Lotus Sect stirred things up. Moreover, the emergence of the White Lotus Sect was effectively restraining the Golden Eagle Guard, allowing the Bancheon Alliance to act like fish in water.

Even though I was learning the basics, my speed of learning sorcery was remarkably fast. I managed to learn five spells in just half a year, which astonished Mangnyang to no end.

“As expected, you’ve inherited the divine powers of the Eight Trigrams. At this rate, you’ll soon be able to step into intermediate spells.”

“So I can use barriers now?”

“Simple ones should be okay…”

“How about the Earth Shrinking technique?”

“That advanced technique is still beyond you. Such skills are so formidable that even renowned sorcerers would only manage to learn them after decades of effort.”

With my arms crossed, I replied calmly,

“Mangnyang, it’s about time the Nine-Tailed Fox arrives. So, if I end up dying, who should I take as my sorcery master in the next reincarnation?”

“Hmm…”

Mangnyang furrowed his brow thoughtfully.

“My master, Cheon Woo-jin, is at a level too high for you to aspire to. If you truly wish to learn sorcery, I would recommend seeking out the Maoshan Sect or the Secret School. With your potential, they would likely be pleased to take you in.”

“Thank you for the advice.”

“But don’t speak so casually of dying. How could I bear to watch my friend perish?”

“No way…”

“I will also meet the Nine-Tailed Fox.”

I was shocked and shouted,

“That’s too dangerous! The Nine-Tailed Fox is incredibly powerful!”

“Don’t worry. I have a plan.”

“Hmm.”

I had no choice but to trust Mangnyang. While waiting for the Nine-Tailed Fox to arrive, I went through the routine of studying medical techniques from the Hua Clan and sorcery from Mangnyang. As another half a year passed, it was a bright moonlit night.

[ Baek Woong! Come out in front of the Four Guardian Gates.]

From somewhere, a thunderous voice echoed. Unlike regular speech, this was a form of sorcery used to send one’s will over long distances. I guessed that the Nine-Tailed Fox had come and called for Mangnyang.

After making my preparations, I headed to the Four Guardian Gates. The Four Guardian Gates referred to the four huge gates surrounding Gaegyeong, and from this position, it was also known as East Gate.

Thud!

After dodging past the guard sentinel using Light Body Technique, I made it to a quiet alley just outside the East Gate. Then I heard a familiar voice.

“It’s been ten years. How have you been?”

Turning around, there stood Miho, embodying the form of an alluring lady, just like the breathtaking beauty I’d seen in the Western Capital. Her noticeably large bosom swayed, catching my attention momentarily. She seemed to find it amusing to tease me and cackled.

“Ahaha! Are you still a virgin?”

I replied curtly,

“Mind your own business. Besides, can you tell I’m a virgin just by looking?”

“Of course! Don’t underestimate me. The scent is different.”

“……”

So there really is a virgin scent…

As I stood there blankly, feeling somewhat enlightened, she suddenly twirled and transformed into the cute and charming form of a young girl. Then, with a bright smile, she said,

“Do you prefer this appearance?”

“Cut it out with the teasing, let’s just get to the point.”

“Ahahaha…”

What a riot. Miho laughed heartily for a while before finally saying,

“So, have you been diligently honing your powers during the time apart?”

“To be honest, my martial arts haven’t improved much. But I’ve learned medicine, and thanks to the Eight Trigrams, I’ve also been able to learn sorcery.”

“Oh… Sorcery, you say? You must have had a teacher.”

Miho narrowed her eyes and said,

“Alright, I might not be very pleased about it, but let’s see the sorcery you’ve learned. Show me what you’ve got.”

“Before that, I want to ask something.”

“What is it?”

“What’s your reason for wanting to obtain the Seven Luminaries’ divine being? Are you planning to return to the celestial realm?”

Upon my question, Miho looked surprised, as if taken aback. Unlike her previous demeanor, she was noticeably flustered, stammering her words.

“W-why should you know that?”

I answered nonchalantly,

“Just curious. You’re in a position here on earth that’s arguably as powerful as that of the Heavenly Emperor; why go back to the celestial realm when you can enjoy everything here?”

“Hmm… Seems Baek Woong, you don’t understand what heaven is like.”

“Well, I don’t know, which is why I’m asking.”

Miho didn’t seem displeased, so she readily replied to my question.

“The celestial realm is not a material world as humans would imagine it. It’s half a realm where spiritual entities roam freely. Thus, those who exist in the celestial world achieve a sense of fulfillment that far surpasses any pleasure found in the material realm.”

As she finished speaking, Miho smiled bitterly.

“As a former demon, how much bliss can I really derive from human pleasures? Luxurious wealth, delicious food, and physical pleasures are all secondary. The spiritual fulfillment gained in the celestial realm is incomparable.”

“Hmm. So what exactly do you want to do once you get to the celestial realm?”

“I want to apologize once more to Queen Mother of the West and serve her again. I’ve been longing for that during all this time.”

“I see.”

“Now, enough chit-chat. Show me your sorcery!”

“Understood.”

One by one, I unfolded the Folding Earth Technique, Fire Charm, Concealment Technique, Cow Steps, and Shadow Skill. Presenting all five of the basic sorcery techniques I knew, Miho appeared impressed.

“Oh… I see. You’ve been working hard.”

“Is it enough to pass?”

“Not at all.”

“……”

“Hmph… Do you think of invading the Twelve Joules with only basic techniques?”

Miho whined, though she didn’t seem genuinely angry. As I stood there in confusion, she waved her hands in frustration.

“Enough already. Just live your life.”

“Really?”

“After all, I have no intention of forcibly taking the divine being from the Twelve Joules. You’d only be in the way, so leave.”

This was the best scenario for me, but I couldn’t shake the odd feeling. It was as if she were telling me I was of no use! Yet, from the perspective of a Great Demon like the Nine-Tailed Fox, my strength likely seemed insufficient.

“What will happen to the Eight Trigrams?”

“You can keep that; it’s unnecessary for me anyway.”

“Thank you.”

Miho’s expression shifted to one that was slightly icy. I sensed a killing aura.

“Hmph… You’ll regret this…”

In a sudden motion, I embraced Miho. Since she was in the form of a young girl, it startled her as I pulled her into an embrace. But I held her tightly with a beaming smile and said,

“Thank you.”

Whether human or demon, I wanted to convey my gratitude to Miho.

After a moment, Miho, struggling with her small hands, pushed me away. Her face was as red as a tomato. As she glanced away awkwardly, she didn’t seem like the captivating demon I had known. She finally said with a haughty attitude,

“Hmph… It’s only because you carry the essence of Queen Mother of the West. Don’t get mistaken into thinking I like you.”

“Got it.”

Turning her head, Miho spoke,

“By the way, the Twelve Joules’ base is in the Gomi basin of Mount Changbai. Keep that in mind.”

“Understood. But why mention this suddenly?”

“Just thought you should know, idiot.”

Miho, clearly annoyed, turned her back and walked away, adding,

“Your friend is quite lucky. From now on, tell him not to meddle in needless affairs, Baek Woong.”

“Safe travels.”

“Hmph…”

With a swish, Miho disappeared. As she left, I heard the sound of something dropping from the air somewhere, like a human form hitting the ground. With a loud thud it landed nearby, so I dashed over to find a fainted Mangnyang lying under a tree.

I panicked and shook him awake.

“Snap out of it!”

“Ugh…”

As I looked closely, I noticed Mangnyang’s Guardian Warriors were also collapsed nearby—each one was out cold. After a moment, Mangnyang finally regained consciousness and scratched his head.

“How embarrassing. I was prepared to help but ended up overpowered by the Nine-Tailed Fox.”

“What do you mean? The Nine-Tailed Fox just stayed there, and in that time, you all got caught unawares?”

“Seems so. I didn’t even realize what was happening. Indeed, that Nine-Tailed Fox is a Great Demon.”

At that moment, a chill ran down my spine. ‘Could it be that killing intent I just felt?’ I had never sensed such a feeling previously. Did I narrowly avoid having my life cut short in that moment? Even though the Nine-Tailed Fox had spoken as if she would spare me, she might have considered ending my life in that instant. That sudden shift in her demeanor could likely be attributed to my act of gratitude in embracing her.

Mangnyang dusted himself off and said,

“Let’s head back to the Central Plains.”

“… No.”

“What do you mean?”

I firmly stated,

“I plan to stay here and learn more about medical techniques.”

Mangnyang seemed baffled.

“What do you mean? The movements of the White Lotus Sect are becoming increasingly aggressive. If it goes on like this, they’ll dominate the Jianghu within half a year! Are you prepared to just watch?”

“From my perspective, that doesn’t concern me. Anyway, the White Lotus Sect isn’t looking to harm me. Plus, as they grow stronger, the Golden Eagle Guard will dwindle, so there isn’t much for me to do in the Central Plains right now.”

“That’s true, but…”

“I feel like if I don’t learn medical techniques in this life, I might miss out for good. So I want to maximize my medical learning.”

Mangnyang reluctantly agreed,

“I suppose I have no choice. I’ll respect your desire. If something major happens, I’ll contact you.”

“Understood.”

So Mangnyang and his Guardian Warriors left for Goryeo the following day. I watched as their ship slowly departed.

Swish—

While seeing Mangnyang off at a nearby port in Gaegyeong, Hwa Seong-myeong asked,

“Are you really set on this? Surely if you go to the Central Plains Martial World, you could achieve great things. You’re willing to give that all up for the path of medical techniques?”

Hwa Seong-myeong was already aware of my prior experiences and his relation with Mangnyang. I nodded at his words.

“Yes, I am. I despise the thought of learning just halfway. I want to learn as much as I can while I’m able.”

Hwa Seong-myeong seemed to be touched by what I said, his voice slightly shaky as he responded,

“Alright…!! We can do this!”

“Isn’t it about time I considered independence from the Jeong Clan?”

“Coincidentally, I was thinking the same. The naturalization of our clan is already complete, and we have enough wealth; there’s no need to lean on the Jeong family any longer. Plus, now that you aim to become an independent physician, you should talk to the clan leader.”

So, Hwa Seong-myeong and I approached Jeong Cheol-wook to inform him we wanted to end our roles as esteemed guests and guardian warriors. After listening to our situation, Jeong Cheol-wook sighed.

“Elder Hwa and Warrior Baek Woong, you were the best among our clan’s esteemed guests. I truly wish I didn’t have to let you go, but do you really wish to leave?”

“I apologize, but I wish to pursue the path of a physician.”

Jeong Cheol-wook spoke earnestly,

“Elder Hwa, I shall grant you the position of royal physician. And to Warrior Baek Woong, I will offer the title of general. How about that?”

The royal physician title referred to a specialist serving royalty, also known as the court physician. This essentially meant he was at the pinnacle for a physician in Goryeo. The title of general indicated that I would occupy a substantial position in the military of Goryeo, holding substantial authority. Either title was extraordinarily significant for an esteemed guest, and Jeong Cheol-wook had the power to grant such offers.

However, Elder Hwa shook his head.

“I appreciate it, but I will repay your kindness in other ways.”

“Hmm… If your will is this strong, I have no choice.”

Looking at me, Jeong Cheol-wook said,

“I feel I have not properly repaid Baek Woong for his service. Before you leave, is there anything I can do for you?”

“Well, that would be…”

I pondered for a moment over the unexpected offer. After gathering my thoughts, I replied,

“I would like to meet with the leaders of the Twelve Joules and engage in sparring with them.”

“Spar with the leaders? Isn’t that something you could just request?”

“There’s a difference between doing so as a wild person and sparring with the Crown’s witness.”

Jeong Cheol-wook smiled broadly.

“Ah! I understand now. Then I shall arrange for a spar.”

“Thank you.”

“Seeing my face, they will likely refrain from any rash actions.”

I was already aware of how intense and challenging dueling could be. The respect for honor in Jianghu and Goryeo wasn’t really different; if I naively requested a duel, I could face a life-threatening situation.

But since it would be under the name of Jeong Cheol-wook, I could contend much more safely. I thought to myself.

‘I have been neglecting my martial arts practice for too long. I need to feel a higher level of martial knowledge.’

From just simple gradual progress, it felt like it would take too long to reach the peak. I gained more experience in real combat, and given this opportunity in Goryeo, I wanted to spar against the top peak experts from the Twelve Joules. An opportunity to challenge even just a dozen peak experts in a secure environment is one I would not encounter again.

 

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