793——————==

True Martial Home

I went to the Zhuge Clan with Mangnyang. As soon as Zhuge Sa saw that Mangnyang had come along, he casually remarked, “You came because you weren’t okay with bringing in the Western powers, right?”

“That would be what a sane person might think…”

Mangnyang sighed and replied, “I really wonder if we need to resort to such extreme measures, Uncle.”

“Right? I wish you’d help out a bit more with the Bancheon Alliance, but that Baek Woong kid’s apparently saying that’s not happening in this life? So this is our only way to keep the Imperial Palace in check.”

“When a massive event’s whirlwind collides, countless figures and secrets are bound to be revealed in the chaos.”

“Exactly. If we’re going to ignore the singularity and train, we might as well harvest some extra income while we’re at it. Time’s not on our side as it is.”

“…But what about the ordinary humans who will become casualties of the Western invasion, and the righteous people in the Central Plains?”

“Well… being weak is their fault?”

Zhuge Sa showed no change in expression at Mangnyang’s words. Then, Mangnyang clenched his teeth and said, “It can’t be the only way. It would be better to move the White Lotus Sect and Twelve Joules instead.”

“What do you mean? Baek Woong has been making efforts to move things along in his previous life.”

Zhuge Sa continued, incredulous, “What was the result? We’ve confirmed multiple times that both the Master of the White Lotus Sect and the Master of the Twelve Joules aren’t easy nuts to crack, with Baek Woong failing every time. Plus, if we drag their powers into this, the Celestial Realm will intervene immediately, whether they like it or not. They’re connected to the Celestial Realm, and the Celestial Realm keeps an eye on them. So it’s pointless to attempt to move them directly until Baek Woong gains enough power to suppress both leaders.”

“……”

“Also, as long as they’re greedy for the Seven Luminaries, the area of conflict will only expand. They’re hegemonic figures that can never be exploited unless fully suppressed.”

“The Western powers are also hegemonic figures. In fact, they’re even greedier than those.”

“Exactly. They’re easier to exploit, which is something we both already know.”

“…Ugh.”

Mangnyang bit his lip in frustration. It seems Zhuge Sa’s strategies are undeniably effective. Feeling puzzled, I turned to Mangnyang.

“Mangnyang, shouldn’t someone like Zhuge Yulong, who leads the Imperial Palace forces, be capable of holding his own against the West? Why the opposition…?”

“If Wu Yulong were to face an invasion by the Western powers, he’d undoubtedly end up producing magic soldiers. If there’s such a disparity in firearm technology, we can’t fight conventionally. Plus, he’s going to mobilize every bit of magic knowledge he knows to gain the upper hand in war. Who knows who’d win, but the damage will fall on whom?”

“Ah….”

“Additionally, since the West is saturated with magic, they could call their mages from the homeland to summon monsters through human sacrifices. Then we’d have no choice but to summon our own as well.”

Magic soldiers don’t just get created out of thin air. It requires advanced magical techniques, alchemy, and countless offerings and sacrifices.

‘So Zhuge Yulong plans to sacrifice countless ordinary people to fight against the West!’

Only then did I understand why Mangnyang was so vehemently opposed. Sure, employing Zhuge Sa’s plan might delay the Imperial Palace’s immediate plans, but it would likely lead to countless ordinary citizens of the Great Ming Empire being sacrificial pawns instead. Nothing would change at all.

Then Zhuge Sa spoke up.

“Someone whose face and name you don’t even know will perish in droves, sure. But at the very least, plans for the Philosopher’s Stone and Portrait Immortal will be temporarily halted. Plus, Zhuge Yulong will have to shelve his ambitions and reluctantly pass plans down to the next generation using the military techniques meant for generals. Without lifting a finger, we’d buy ourselves at least 50 years while not having to take the front line ourselves. I think it’s the best plan.”

“Don’t kid yourself. That’s a despicable scheme. If you tread on the lives of innocent third parties while they are none the wiser, what good does the great cause Baek Woong has upheld until now do?”

“Then what good is that great cause going to do when the singularity approaches?”

Zhuge Sa spoke irritably.

“Think about it. Right now, because of that Baek Woong idiot’s judgment, we’ve temporarily suspended searching for the Life Sea and are putting all our eggs in the basket of pursuing the Absolute Realm, which may or may not work out. Yet the Law of Cause and Effect of the singularity means that his reborn self — his archenemy — could come knocking any day now. We jumped into this game entrusting ourselves to the infinite rebirth ability, but now we’re facing a crisis that could put that rebirth at risk.”

“……”

“I can’t even imagine how terrifying the Law of Cause and Effect that predicts Mangnyang’s misfortunes is. At the very least, it’d have to be strong enough to ruin infinite rebirth for him, which is probably why he says that, right?”

“…That might be true.”

“That’s why no matter what my tendencies are, I have no choice but to craft effective strategies for Baek Woong as a strategist. There’s no reason for us to ignore the idea of a great cause at this point.”

“Then I’ll give up on ascending to the Celestial Realm and become the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance.”

“Haah, why are you saying that? You know that’s not the point. Just because you give up on ascending to the Celestial Realm doesn’t solve this issue. Regardless, climbing to the Celestial Realm and learning the Corpse Dissolution Technique is not a choice but a necessity. Sooner or later, you’ll need that power based on the nature of the Corpse Dissolution Technique. Similarly, my schemes are also ones that must be executed sooner or later. We can’t keep delaying your ascent indefinitely.”

Zhuge Sa’s remarks caused some uncertainty in Mangnyang. With his mouth firmly shut and deep in thought, I anxiously glanced back and forth between the two.

It was then that—

“I’ve heard your tale.”

The Sword Demon, Jin So-cheong, and Miho walked in from outside. They had been listening to the conversation all along. The Sword Demon stepped forward, saying, “So then, it looks like someone else other than Mangnyang can form the Bancheon Alliance and take action.”

Zhuge Sa blinked for a second, then turned to the Sword Demon and asked, “You would do that?”

“That’s right.”

“Indeed, with your brains, experience, and organizational skills, you could handle things just as well as Hyun… but no.”

Zhuge Sa crossed his arms.

“You should be focused on researching the Heavenly Unrestrained Technique you acquired in the 24th round with Baek Woong, deciphering the method to deal with the Master of the Twelve Joules. Having you work on organizational tasks would be a waste.”

“Then I’ll research the Heavenly Unrestrained Technique.”

Jin So-cheong stepped forward. Zhuge Sa’s eyes lit up with interest as Jin So-cheong continued, “Wouldn’t it be enough? If I take up the role of advancing alongside Baek Woong while researching the Heavenly Unrestrained Technique, then that covers both bases.”

“That may be true, but…”

“If we were in a situation where only Zhuge Sa and Mangnyang were beside Baek Woong, it could’ve been unavoidable, but now we are here too. Trust in our capabilities a little more and let us take over.”

Jin So-cheong declared emphatically.

“The Central Plains is our valuable homeland. No matter how brilliant the strategy, we simply cannot allow foreign powers to invade it!”

“……”

Zhuge Sa briefly wore a look of disbelief. Then, slapping his forehead, he muttered, “…Patriotism, love for country and race, perhaps I misjudged. You’ve consumed the memories of someone same reincarnated 24 times, so I would have thought you’d be a bit jaded about human moralities and all their cycles… But then again, since the humans are imperfectly manifesting the magic of obsidian, I guess that makes sense? And considering you have no experience fighting against foreign powers…”

Muttering to himself, Zhuge Sa nodded as if resigning.

“Fine. Since it’s a solid alternative, I can accept it, Jin So-cheong.”

“Thank you.”

“It’s nothing. Then, from now on, Sword Demon, you’re the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance.”

“Got it.”

The Sword Demon replied. He then said, “Alright then, Zhuge Sa, you’ll be giving me plenty of strategies as the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance.”

“I plan to.”

“Then first, what kind of approach will the Bancheon Alliance take against the White Lotus Sect and the Twelve Joules?”

“Ignoring them!”

Zhuge Sa said firmly.

“The White Lotus Sect and Twelve Joules didn’t make any significant moves while Hyun was active as Leader of the Bancheon Alliance. Unless there’s some special bait like the Seven Luminaries, they stay thoroughly reactive. If we don’t poke them, they won’t come crawling out into the light.”

“But the Wind Spirit Sect of the White Lotus Sect is closely tied to the Imperial Palace. I believe we can’t afford to ignore them going forward.”

“I have a plan for that. No need for direct involvement. They can be eliminated more easily than you’d think, so don’t worry about it.”

“That’s reassuring to hear.”

“Sword Demon, keep this in mind. Now that you’ve taken up the burden of being the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance, your role is critically important. You need to buy Baek Woong as much training time as possible!”

“I know.”

With this, it felt like our roles among companions had been concretely allocated for this life. As the conversation began to wrap up, Zhuge Sa stated, “And Baek Woong. I think it’s time we discussed the most important topic…”

“What is it?”

“Who will you take as your master and how do you plan on training in martial arts?”

All eyes turned towards me at Zhuge Sa’s question. I hesitated, feeling the pressure, and Zhuge Sa continued, “This isn’t something myself or Hyun can strategize on. Your will and instincts are the most critical in the martial arts realm.”

“Um…”

I see.

Up until now, no one had relaxed their stiff demeanor because we hadn’t talked about this. I had to definitively determine how I’d train to grow stronger. His assertion of it being the most crucial topic was no exaggeration.

After a moment’s thought, I spoke up.

“…Taking Yeodong-bin as my master won’t work, since he has no foundational techniques at all and doesn’t even want to teach. He thinks just embedding the Heavenly Escape Sword Technique in his body is enough. Plus, even if I try salvaging Lee Cheong-un now, I won’t be capable of practicing the Thunder Spirit technique anyway, and it will just perpetuate a state of stagnation. Even honing the Thunder God lineage martial arts won’t lead to a level of swordsmanship other than proficiency.”

The only real option would be to learn the spear or fists of the Thunder God lineage from scratch, but without the talent for it, it would take centuries to reach the peak.

“Are you saying you plan to wait for Jin So-cheong to become stronger and then take him as your master? That wouldn’t take long, though.”

“……”

That would be a bit humiliating, but it’s an option…

Yet, I shook my head and replied, “No. The person I’ll be taking as a master has already been decided.”

“Oh? Who would that be?”

I revealed my choice.

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Sa frowned and said, “Isn’t that a bit cliché? Plus, there’s no guarantee they will lead you into the Absolute Realm.”

“No. I just have this feeling.”

“Well, if you think so, then it appears you’ve given it some thought, so there’s no need for concern.”

Zhuge Sa seemed to lose interest.

We wrapped up discussions and exited the place. I then moved alongside Mangnyang back to the village of Master Mangnyang. The moment I entered after hiding the Heavenly Secret nearby, I was hit by a wave of familiarity.

[A curious one, indeed.]

Master Mangnyang sat with his front paws gathered in the middle of the path, staring at me. Just like that, he looked like an ordinary black cat, but it’s hard to believe he’s an incredible deity. I spoke curtly, “What’s so curious about it?”

[Destruction approaches, yet both you and that destruction are reluctant to meet.]

“……?”

[Perhaps greed has overtaken you.]

What’s that supposed to mean?

Master Mangnyang slowly wandered over to the ground, where chicken feed was scattered, and sniffed the soil. Turning back to me, he said, [Among countless branches, there’s only one answer… intriguing.]

“……”

[Let’s watch which path you’ll choose…]

Suuuu

I woke up with a frown.

‘Still sounds like that incomprehensible creature…no, cat talk…’

In the end, most of what Master Mangnyang says is only understandable after a lapse of time. I realized that trying to decipher what he said would only lead to confusion, so I decided to let it go as cat talk. But feeling irritated, I shouted out, “Damn it, you bratty cat!!”

Meow~

“……”

A cat’s meow echoed from the edge of the village, startling me enough that I pressed myself against the wall. While I stood frozen in surprise, Mangnyang looked at me strangely, “Baek Woong, what are you doing over there? That’s just the village cat.”

“…Oh, I see.”

I definitely was not startled. Nope…

Eventually, Mangnyang and I began the ceremony to summon the Great Immortal using our magic. After checking the offerings we had prepared once more, I called upon the Great Immortal.

Pa-at!!

[You have summoned me…?]

“Indeed.”

I presented the Twin Broadsword, Black and White Lotus, and Gold Bar as offerings to the Great Immortal. As the Great Immortal glanced at the offerings, I said, “Great Immortal, I wish to forge a connection with you to gain enlightenment in martial arts!”

Originally, I had a connection but lost it due to Jeon Wook. So, I had to go through this hassle deliberately. However, the response was somewhat uncomfortable.

[Hmmm… The pure enlightenment of martial arts can only be acquired alone, just as it feels like trying to unjustly rush ahead with worldly treasures.]

“……”

[Your offerings may meet the requirements, but I am not particularly inclined, so I shall take my leave.]

You have a point there…

But I desperately responded, “You’re right, but I lack talent and need an exceptional master! I’ve gathered these offerings in hopes of a blessing from an immortal!”

[There are outstanding masters in the mortal realm as well. It may be challenging to find one that fits your level, but there should at least be four or five out there, so go seek them out….]

Oh no!

Did I unintentionally irritate them by outright asking to be a master?!

This was a situation reminiscent of the past, but the reaction was entirely different this time, and I felt flustered. However, I calmly voiced my feelings.

“…Do you know how it feels to have trained for over a hundred years yet failed to reach the absolute level, facing dozens of setbacks?”

[……?]

The other party wore a baffled expression.

“Others easily surpass levels to become the best, yet I’m stuck in place for repeated failures simply due to a lack of innate talent!!”

[……]

The expression showed they had no clue.

“If I had talent, I wouldn’t even be asking for help! But since I lack it, shouldn’t you empathize with my desire to escape this situation, even if it means relying on others?”

I shouted with passion, “Should I just give up and die because I lack talent? But it’s far easier to die than to grow stronger, so naturally, I’m willing to bet my life to seek the help of a master!!”

[Umm….]

“I’ve said all I needed to!”

It seemed the other party was in deep thought.

Then, with a sigh, they spoke.

[Ah, I see now… the heart of the talentless… I didn’t grasp it.]

The Great Immortal continued, [My training still needs improvement… I failed to empathize with your feelings. Your desperation shows sincerity rather than deceit, so I shall accept your will and forge a connection that allows you to cultivate your martial arts…. I will assist in raising your prowess.]

Got it!

I let out a deep sigh of relief as I said, “Thank you, Jang Sam-bong, Immortal.”