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0098 ———————————————-

Dark Heaven Village

The next day, I set off with Miho. The journey to Mount Muni with her wasn’t too far. We had just boarded a boat and landed on the island when we could already see the entrance to our target, Mount Muni.

Miho said, “I can feel a strong energy here. Is it the Dharma Guardian?”

I focused my energy and looked towards the peak. There indeed seemed to be a human figure there. It felt like they were sensing us as well. That must be the ‘Guardian’ Miho was talking about.

As we moved further in, suddenly, a voice echoed in my mind.

[Stop right there, devotees. You are not permitted to approach the Star-Observing Altar any closer.]

Miho huffed and shouted back. She had already summoned her nine tails.

[Who do you think you are to make that call? I absolutely must see what’s sealed at the Star-Observing Altar.]

[The one blocking your path is called Seosan.]

[And?]

[I already know you’re the evil nine-tailed fox. However, the instant you stepped into this barrier, I had the absolute upper hand.]

With that, Seosan sent another message.

[If you take ten more steps forward, I won’t spare you. Leave this island now.]

Miho looked furious.

“That damn bastard?”

She was so mad that her appearance twisted into that of a monstrous fox. Seeing Miho like this for the first time made me think something serious was going to happen. But quickly, I grabbed her shoulder.

“No way. Let’s get out of here. This isn’t good.”

“Let go! I will chew that bastard’s liver!”

“Calm down. You’ll die. I’m sure of it.”

As I tried to reason with her, Miho shot me a glance.

“Who do you think you are to be so sure?”

“If, as you say, this is the seal of the Seven Luminaries and the Guardian is someone chosen from the Twelve Joules’ clan… how powerful do you think this Seosan is? Besides, if there’s a barrier on this island, we are at a disadvantage fighting them at their base.”

“……”

It looked like Miho regained her composure, her eyes becoming clearer.

“What an odd fellow. You seem dull and foolish, yet you sense the boundary of death better than any maiden… Well, you’re right.”

“Haha…”

I chuckled wryly. After having died many times myself during reckless charges, I had become quite adept at sensing dangerous situations. Suddenly, Miho turned around.

“Are those bastards already coming after us?”

Following her gaze to the seaside behind us, I noticed a small boat appearing as a dot on the horizon.

But then I felt an overwhelming aura coming from that small boat, and I couldn’t help but mutter under my breath. Focusing my energy, I could also see the figure.

“The Dharma Guardian…!!”

Indeed, the figure wearing the Black Tiger mask was standing alone on the small boat, arms crossed. Nearby, a dedicated ferryman was rowing. It seemed he was coming alone, as I couldn’t see any other members of the Wind Spirit Sect.

At this speed, they would arrive in about a meal’s time.

I quickly asked Miho, “Can I also use Divine Speech?”

“Why?”

“I’ve got something to say to that Seosan.”

“Got it.”

When Miho placed her hand on my back, a white light flowed out. She was indirectly allowing me to use Divine Speech. I directed it towards Seosan, who was seated atop a small hill.

[The Dharma Guardian of the Central Plains is coming to this island. His goal is also to obtain the Seven Luminaries, so please help us.]

Seosan fell silent for a moment, seemingly stunned by the sudden news. Then he replied,

[I cannot trust the words of you devotees.]

[You might be able to stop a nine-tailed fox with this barrier, but do you really think you can face the Dharma Guardian alone? I don’t believe you have that level of power.]

[……]

It seemed Seosan was wavering. I desperately tried to persuade him.

[Once that person lands, it’ll be too late. Please, let us inside.]

[The Dharma Guardian should be stopped by Bin Seung.]

Crash!!

Suddenly, an invisible barrier seemed to arise around the island. It looked like Seosan had fortified the barrier to create a substantial physical defense. He had evidently let us to the island’s outskirts in order to warn us. He must have strengthened the barrier now to counter the Dharma Guardian as well.

Then, the Dharma Guardian on the small boat let out a Lion’s Roar.

[Ha ha ha!! You think something like this could stop me? How amusing!]

Whoooosh –

The Dharma Guardian raised one hand. Suddenly, a massive whirlwind erupted from his palm, transforming into a storm almost immediately. The Dharma Guardian levitated above the small boat as he casually created several tornadoes.

My eyes widened at the sight from afar.

Leaping Void!!

‘Is he a monster?!’

With humans having a hard time even facing the Heavenly Sovereign, the legendary height of Light Body Technique was unfolding before my eyes. The Dharma Guardian soared into the sky, and then, reaching out with the other hand, he conjured another whirlwind.

His energy truly appeared unlimited. Moving just a bucket of natural water would require immense internal power, yet he was casually manipulating the sea to create tornadoes—frighteningly otherworldly level.

That is what they called the Heavenly Spirit Pill’s ultimate level of internal power!

Boom –!!

Two tornadoes circled the Dharma Guardian as he crossed his arms, gradually expanding their range. He swung his arm.

Crash!

[Kuh…!!]

The barrier shattered dramatically, and Seosan coughed out painfully. The Dharma Guardian’s single strike had effortlessly broken the barrier. In shock, Seosan then spoke to us.

[En, come in…]

“Alright.”

Miho and I hurriedly dashed up to the peak of Mount Muni where Seosan was located. It was possible because he didn’t stop us.

‘Thank goodness.’

Watching the Dharma Guardian unleash his legendary technique sent shivers down my spine. I realized he was relaxed enough that he could soar with the Water Floating Technique. The Dharma Guardian had clearly regarded us as trapped mice and was savoring the hunt.

Arriving atop the mountain, we could finally meet Seosan. He appeared to be a monk in his forties, supported by a young monk in his twenties.

Miho glared at Seosan sternly before asking, “Is the seal of the Seven Luminaries really here?”

Seosan wiped away blood from his mouth and answered strained, “Bin Seung does not know… I was only following the orders of the Master of the Twelve Joules to guard the Star-Observing Altar.”

“Hmph, I don’t believe you.”

Although Miho sounded dismissive, a moment later, the sound of the Dharma Guardian’s strike echoed loudly across the island once more. Perhaps startled by the noise, Miho spoke up.

“Hey, monk! I’ll lend my strength to stop that Dharma Guardian. But in return, I want whatever is sealed at the Star-Observing Altar.”

“… That’s not acceptable. That would be the same as letting the Dharma Guardian in.”

Miho chuckled.

“How could you not let us in from the start? At this rate, we’ll be annihilated, and you expect that?”

“……”

“There’s no time. Quickly tell me about the ceremony. With that, I can harness my power to create the ultimate illusion to stop him.”

“Understood.”

A moment later, Seosan and Miho combined their powers to cast the barrier, causing the Dharma Guardian who had landed on the coast to hesitate. He seemed to realize that a stronger barrier was now blocking him.

He let out a booming Lion’s Roar.

[Hahaha! Do you think something like this can stop me? How amusing!]

He gathered the energy of the wind again to attempt to break through the barrier. From his actions, I could definitely see what school he belonged to.

‘Wind Spirit Sect!’

Rival to the Thunder God Lineage, and one branch of the Dharma Protectors of the White Lotus Sect! The Dharma Guardian was undoubtedly the leader of the Wind Spirit Sect, surpassing the human’s power level entirely. The thought that a human could so effortlessly manipulate the air among natural spirits was unfathomable.

Miho looked at the pale Seosan and said, “Tell me where the Seven Luminaries are. If I can use their power, I will be able to repel a character like that.”

“Even if I tell you… Bin Seung truly does not know. This Star-Observing Altar is merely an altar that has endured for thousands of years… If you still doubt it, you can search for yourself.”

“What a ridiculous claim!”

Miho dashed inside the Star-Observing Altar. I glanced at Miho, then infused Seosan with energy, pulling out needles to stabilize him. Seosan stopped coughing up blood and sat cross-legged again, replying, “Much better. You have exceptional medical skills.”

I could tell his energy had returned to normal. Generally, the internal injuries he sustained could have cost him at least five years of his life, but I had stabilized him using Hua’s 108 Needles. The young monk beside him clasped his hands in gratitude.

Feeling shy, I asked, “Did you think I would harm you?”

“I didn’t think a devotee like you would.” He continued, “I don’t know what your circumstances are, but it wouldn’t be wise walking around with that nine-tailed fox.”

“……”

Seosan seemed to possess insight into human nature. He also appeared to be a high monk with exceptional powers. Of course, he couldn’t compare with a great demon like Miho, but he likely had the highest level of magical power among humans.

Seosan turned to the young monk beside him.

“Yu Jeong, I’ll lift your gold seal. Assist with the barrier.”

“I understand.”

Crack!

The young monk extended his hand. The barrier strengthened, and I was taken aback by the power of the young monk named Yu Jeong.

‘Is he not several times more powerful than his master?’

He could be considered an embodiment of magical power. To see a human possess such magical skills was extraordinary, usually reserved for the Illusory God Cheon Woo-jin. Now, I understood why Seosan had let us inside without hesitation. If necessary, the young monk, Yu Jeong, would likely think about subduing Miho.

As Seosan utilized his internal martial arts technique, he addressed me, “What is your name, devotee?”

“Baek Woong.”

“… I see! Yet, a renowned martial artist and physician journeys alongside such an evil creature.”

It seemed he was already aware of who I was. I awkwardly replied, “There’s a reason for that. But it’s not something bad, so please understand.”

“Hm… Listen well. Thanks to Yu Jeong’s help, we’ll be able to hold off that Dharma Guardian for just one half a moment. But beyond that will be impossible. To resolve this, we must conduct a ceremony at the Star-Observing Altar.”

“A ceremony?”

“Yes.”

Seosan spoke solemnly.

“The Dangun built a fortress on the hills of Mount Muni overlooking the Sea of Blood and made an altar known as the Heavenly Sacrifice Altar. If we perform a heavenly sacrifice here, we can defeat the Dharma Guardian.”

“How do we conduct the sacrifice?”

“… That is the issue.”

His following words made me realize the gravity of the situation.

“It seems that fox suspects us, but that’s not the case. We are merely acting as guardians of the Star-Observing Altar, and there are no Seven Luminaries here. What should we sacrifice for the heavenly offering?”

Do the Seven Luminaries really not exist here?

Confused, I asked, “Seosan, you and Yu Jeong possess tremendous magical powers. Are you telling me you would station such beings in a remote place without the Seven Luminaries?”

Seosan and Yu Jeong’s powers could be compared to those of the leaders of Haedong Milcheon. In fact, Yu Jeong surpassed even the Heavenly Pillar of Haedong Milcheon. No wonder Miho was convinced this place was the seal of the Seven Luminaries. The stronger the guardians, the more extraordinary the treasures inside.

At my question, Seosan became angered.

“Do not speak such nonsense. This Star-Observing Altar has always been revered throughout Han ethnicity’s history, beyond territorial or national logic. It is a sacred place to communicate with the heavens and was a place of wonder where Dangun held heavenly sacrifices. This location cannot be easily compromised.”

“Uh-huh.”

I contemplated for a moment and then asked, “What could be used as an offering?”

“Anything is possible, but it must hold sufficient value.”

“Can a law book also be offered?”

“What kind of law book?”

“This one.”

I pulled out the replica of the Eight Trigrams I had kept with me. Though it was just a replica, it definitely possessed some level of magical power. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have been able to enhance my magical abilities. After examining the Eight Trigrams, Seosan stated, “That should suffice. However, it won’t be able to repel that person.”

“Then?”

“We will be able to extend the barrier for about six moments.”

That won’t be enough. Since Mount Muni is on an island, there’s nowhere to run compared to the mainland. The Dharma Guardian would surely be able to wait for several moments, if not days or months.

‘Is there anything else I can offer?’

I thought for a long while but couldn’t come up with anything else, continuing to contemplate.

At that moment, Miho returned from examining the Star-Observing Altar.

Miho spoke dejectedly, “There’s really nothing. Damn it!”

“Bin Seung said so.”

“What are we going to do, monk? What exactly do you plan to do!!”

“That Dharma Guardian is overly agitated over being entangled with you two.”

“What did you say…!!”

As Miho was about to lose her temper, I hurriedly calmed her down. Miho appeared calm but had a low boiling point, making her unpredictable. Once Miho had settled, the young monk named Yu Jeong spoke, “Under these circumstances, our only option is to perform a heavenly sacrifice at the Star-Observing Altar to strengthen the barrier. If the nine-tailed fox possesses any law books, please lend them to us.”

“Hmph, do you think I would have something like that?”

“Then we have no choice but to use the law book you lent me.”

“What?”

Miho turned to me sharply. I felt embarrassed, holding up the replica of the Eight Trigrams. Realizing the situation, Miho got mad.

“Oh, what the hell! Do you think that’s an ordinary treasure? Even if it’s a replica, it’s among the top law books in Dongyoung. And you want to use it just for this measly barrier at the Star-Observing Altar?”

“But there’s no other choice. Are we staying here to die?”

“Grrr…”

Miho narrowed her brows, contemplating something before replying, “Fine! I’ll use my Eight Foot Jade as well.”

“But it’s a replica.”

“Don’t mess around, or you’ll die.”

“Sorry.”

Moments later, three spellcasters, including Miho, ascended the Star-Observing Altar. They placed the Eight Trigrams and the Eight Foot Jade in the center of the altar, then began chanting spells to draw upon their power. I wanted to help, but my meager abilities would likely hinder them, so I could only watch.

Buzzing, buzzing…

The Star-Observing Altar began emitting a bluish hue in reaction to the energy. It transformed beyond a mere stone altar into something that radiated divine energy. As I observed, feeling this ritual enter its climax, I sensed something unusual.

“……!!”

I quickly readied my spear, scanning the surroundings. I then thrust toward the northern direction.

Whoosh…

The mysterious figure easily dodged that attack.

The figure chuckled and said, “Haha, as I heard, you are quite capable. But you still have a long way to go.”

“The Dharma Guardian…!!”

My vision darkened in despair. To think he could break through the barrier and reach here! Yet the three spellcasters atop the altar didn’t warn about the Dharma Guardian. It was as if they were too focused on the ritual to say anything.

I sensed something and tightened my grip on the spear. Looking closer, I realized he didn’t radiate overwhelming strength. So I said, “This is an illusion.”

“Haha, correct. I split off twenty percent of my power and placed it within the barrier. This barrier can only stop living beings, so there’s little I can do about this.”

“And the illusion can easily be shattered if attacked. Don’t get cocky.”

I growled back.

What the Dharma Guardian had created wasn’t a mere spell-type clone. It was a phantasm that could only be conjured by possessing extraordinary internal power. Using this technique, masters could distract their opponents or launch additional attacks. The true concern was how his clone could wander this far when the main body wasn’t present, but that matter was irrelevant at the moment.

As I focused on him, the Dharma Guardian’s illusion chuckled.

“Even with twenty percent of my power, it should suffice. Now, let’s see you try to stop me, Baek Woong.”

And so, the battle commenced.

 

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