* * *
"As a warrior rather than an official, I am curious. My own talents were once considered a rare martial gift in the world, at least in my place of origin."
A subtle aroma of tea filled the finely polished guest chamber.
Sunlight streamed in like rippling waves, casting a white glow beneath the window frame, while the distinguished scent of Longjing tea wafted through the air.
"You said seventeen, didn't you? I once pondered a question when I heard the old tales of the First Heavenly Demon and Mount Wudang's Zhang Sanfeng. It seems applicable to you as well. How did you become so powerful at such a young age?"
"Just by living..."
"Yes, such an answer is why someone like you stands before me now. But when that bastard from the Zhuge Clan's defensive energy was shattered, I was truly astonished. I have some expertise in energy perception, and when I focused on my upper dantian, the energy burst was both exquisite and terrifying. It seeped into his internal energy barrier as if fitting into a puzzle. It happened so quickly that I'm not sure if I truly sensed it properly..."
The air in the chamber was utterly still.
The expressions of the black-clad figures of Desolate Fortress gathered around the round table were peculiar, as was the look on the face of the Assistant Governor-General, Kang Su-hwi, who, for some reason, seemed preoccupied with praising his subordinate.
The Assistant Governor-General spoke solely of facts, blending them with his insight and experience.
His tone had a way of blurring the line between composed praise and overwhelming flattery, his deep voice lending weight to his words.
He was a high-ranking official of the imperial family in Beijing.
A man from an entirely different world.
Jung Yeonshin absently nodded, lost in thought about Heon Wonchang.
If he had gone to the Forbidden City instead of Desolate Fortress, would he have risen even higher? No, that wouldn't do. That would mean there would be no Radiant Demon Squad in Desolate Fortress, wouldn't it?
Perhaps it was the dull, lingering pain from his internal and external wounds, but his mind was wandering.
"Perhaps I was too roundabout."
The Assistant Governor-General, who had been quietly observing Radiant Demon Squad's leader, smiled faintly.
It was a smile that did not quite match his youthful appearance, which seemed around thirty. There was a seasoned, almost aged quality to it. His actual age was likely far greater.
"...I will have all the noble clans gathered here killed. I intend to eradicate the martial artists of Shaanxi. My first plan has been blocked, so I must proceed with the second."
He spoke abruptly.
This was the main topic.
Jung Yeonshin's collar, which had been shifting slightly with his breathing, stilled.
The clothing he wore now was not that of Desolate Fortress' squad leader. His long robe, inherited from Ma Jin, had been reduced to rags during the battle.
Because of that, he had received a plain black robe from the Gongya Clan, devoid of any insignia.
The 'Desolate' character was missing. The clan's tailor had fled during the chaos, and Gongya Jung, the young lord, had personally apologized.
Jung Yeonshin didn't care much.
He had another set of clothes from his uncle, but the 'Desolate' character on it was too large for him to comfortably wear.
Again, thoughts of Heon Wonchang surfaced.
'Eradicate the martial world of Shaanxi?'
Glancing sideways, he saw that his two seniors showed no great reaction.
Ak Surim forced a grin despite her drunken state, while Jin Myungjo maintained his usual composed demeanor, his eyes slightly lowered in cool indifference.
Jung Yeonshin chose to remain silent for the moment.
"Martial artists are of no benefit to the world. They do not create anything, they only plunder and destroy. They don't even pay tribute. They are nothing more than beasts roaming the land, treating commoners as mere scenery or firewood."
His words came out in a low growl, brimming with the commanding presence of a high-ranking military official.
"I once had a young servant who tended to me before retiring to his hometown. Despite his lack of education, he was inherently good-hearted. I still remember how his face lit up when I paid him generously. He said his home was in Shaanxi. Ten years ago, he opened an inn, only to be caught up in a fight between martial artists and killed. Yes, he is long dead now."
As he spoke, the Assistant Governor-General's expression grew colder, as if he were becoming immersed in his own words.
"Martial artists."
From outside the martial world, he discussed its hidden facets, his fingers tapping the table with increasing intensity.
"They are the primary culprits in disrupting the country's stability. During times of famine, it's even worse. They don't contribute to farming, yet they use their martial skills to fill their own starving bellies, to avoid death, preying on the weak as self-proclaimed strongmen, indulging in plunder. They act this way because they are human. This world, where lawless men trained in murder roam freely, makes such chaos inevitable."
He chewed his words as if swallowing bitterness.
"The martial world is a land filled with romanticized garbage. Only a rare few uphold true righteousness, but their numbers are so insignificant and their light so faint that they do not even enter my vision. I plan to erase them. I have spent ten years preparing to annihilate Shaanxi's martial world. I have meticulously uncovered the unresolved crimes buried by their so-called protective energy techniques."
Swish.
Suddenly, he pulled out a luxurious, jade-colored scroll from his sleeve.
It was a thick document. He extended his arm and handed it directly to Jung Yeonshin.
"I swear on my clan, my office, and my honor that every word in here is true. This is the result of interrogating Shaanxi's provincial governor, circuit inspector, and military commander. The viceroy of Shaanxi is my own sister."
Perhaps due to his status as the one who killed Zhuge Cheonsang, he seemed to disregard the hierarchy among the black-clad ranks.
"..."
Jung Yeonshin hesitated to accept it. If this was a request from the Assistant Governor-General, it would surely count as a merit far beyond any typical mission within Desolate Fortress.
Taking it immediately felt disrespectful to Jin Myungjo and Ak Surim.
What should he do? His thoughts were entirely focused on this dilemma. His heart's radiant core loosened slightly.
At that moment, a pitch-black sleeve brushed against the edge of the scroll, subtly infused with a trace of energy.
The document rolled toward Jung Yeonshin.
Along with Jin Myungjo's cold, cutting voice.
"You severed Zhuge Cheonsang's head. Do not hesitate."
After offering his advice, he rose from his seat. He left with a brief remark about his difficulty moving.
Flutter—
The flowing black fabric trailed behind him, evoking the image of Supreme Demon of Sacred Blood. His figure was profoundly solitary.
Even as he walked out, his movements remained impeccably composed. Jung Yeonshin, feeling the weight of his senior's presence, felt his heart swell slightly.
"I—I have to keep watching over our Lightning Genius."
Ak Surim, thoroughly intoxicated, smirked as she tilted her head.
She was said to be enduring pain equivalent to Muscle-Tearing and Bone-Dislocation Technique.
Jung Yeonshin could not bring himself to tell her to disperse the intoxication with her inner energy.
Slowly, he unrolled the document.
Revealing a report written in a refined, classical script.
[Great Hui Clan.
A group residing in the Mountain Muryang of Shen Prefecture, known for their acts of plunder.
They train in both sword and fist techniques, possessing immense grip strength.
There are rumors that, when unable to procure food from villages, they resort to cannibalism. Tracking the movements of the clan head, Hui Hu-ryung, from Taiyuan Prefecture, has confirmed these rumors as fact.
Although suspicions were raised in the past, the clan head managed to suppress unfavorable circumstances by personally slaying a Blood Master Swordsman who had been roaming near Shen Prefecture.
Their manor has a long history, making their voice particularly influential in the martial world of Shaanxi.]
[Ziqiao Martial Hall.
A group that takes in disciples in Zezhou, Shaanxi, in exchange for silver.
Fully grown disciples have been disappearing periodically, but the martial hall claims to have sent them to Beijing to take the military examination.
The hall masters are highly skilled in martial arts and hold a strong reputation. They have maintained security in the village against violent drifters, earning a good reputation in the surrounding areas.
This year, four children of merchants from Taiyuan Prefecture and three daughters of landlords from Pyongyang Prefecture, who were accepted as disciples, have vanished.
None of them have been found in Beijing.
It is suspected that they are involved in human trafficking with Heavenly Extreme Sect, one of the Thirteen Celestial Demons.
Supporting evidence is attached in the enclosed documents. Among the 'surviving disciples' of Heavenly Extreme Sect, there are individuals from Shaanxi.
Those who failed to become disciples are believed to have been slaughtered.
Initially, they only targeted children from impoverished families who had invested most of their wealth into entrance fees. However, due to poor harvests, they seem to have expanded their selection criteria.
It is presumed that they attended the Shaanxi Martial Tournament to take in those who failed to become disciples of Zhuge Clan's leader.]
Rustle, rustle.
Jung Yeonshin turned the pages of the document one by one. The contents of the report were largely similar.
It detailed the appearances, martial arts, and crimes of the influential martial figures. The latter pages contained illustrations and ledgers as evidence.
"There was work to be done."
Jung Yeonshin murmured slowly.
"I am aware that you need time to recover, but please lend your aid. A day like today, when they all gather, will not come again. However, if we act rashly and they manage to escape using their superior lightness techniques, we would merely be increasing the number of Green Forest bandits. This requires exceptional mobility and overwhelming martial prowess."
The Assistant Governor-General's voice echoed in his ears.
"I do not intend to tarnish your name by offering compensation. Just listen. Though, from your expression, I believe I already have your answer."
"…"
"When a purple-rank individual is decided in Desolate Fortress, the Emperor and the Lord of Desolate Fortress exchange letters through sacred means. It is a matter of utmost prestige. During this process, the Emperor considers the opinions of his highest officials regarding how well the candidate's character and martial aptitude align with the nation's affairs. Since I have personally interacted with you, the Emperor will surely ask me. But, of course, this may be an unnecessary concern for you…"
"I have finished reading. These individuals are all prominent figures in their regions. How do you plan to handle the repercussions of their extermination?"
Jung Yeonshin rolled the scroll back up and handed it over as he asked.
The Assistant Governor-General's lips curved into a smooth arc.
"I have more evidence. When we deliver judgment upon their corpses, we will make sure the truth is known."
* * *
The leader of the Gongya Clan had yet to regain consciousness.
He had suffered a devastating defeat at the hands of the late Zhuge Clan's leader. It was nothing short of miraculous that he had not died instantly.
"I did not expect to be summoned to such a meeting in the middle of the banquet."
The Grand Young Lady, Gongya Jung, spoke.
She had no choice but to act as the clan leader in his stead. That was why she now sat at the head of a spacious room, flanked by the elders of her clan.
As the rightful heir to the Gongya Martial Bloodline, she was responsible for handling the esteemed guests before her.
Seated in front of her were the martial nobility of Shaanxi, each one exuding a formidable aura that enveloped their entire bodies.
The gathering was taking place in a lakeside pavilion, a secluded villa belonging to the Gongya Clan.
It was some distance from the main estate, as the nobles had requested a more private setting, wary of the Desolate Fortress' black-robed warriors' advanced sensory skills. They had something of great importance to discuss.
"We cannot afford to waste time idly, can we?"
A towering figure responded with a cryptic grin.
Hui Hu-ryung, the Mountain-Crushing Cloud-Slicing Sword.
A woman with a massive greatsword strapped to her back.
Despite the peak of winter's harsh cold, she wore only a simple hemp robe, exposing the formidable muscles of her arms.
Threads of translucent energy rippled along her sinews, a testament to her status as the leader of the Great Hui Clan, renowned throughout Shaanxi.
Even the intensity of her gaze toward Gongya Jung was anything but ordinary.
"Hui Clan's leader speaks the truth. With the stars of this banquet gone, what reason do we have to linger?"
Seated beside Hui Hu-ryung were three identical-looking swordsmen, each with long limbs.
They were the masters of Ziqiao Martial Hall. Ever since the leaders of Gao Family Sword Sect, Axe-Collector Sect, and Gui Clan had been slain by Zhuge Clan's leader and Chivalrous Slayer, they had taken up leadership of the martial nobility.
Their piercing eyes gleamed, and even without drawing their swords, they exuded an overwhelming aura of sword energy, making their dominance undeniable.
Both factions were far beyond Gongya Jung's ability to handle alone.
When her father had drawn his sword to challenge Zhuge Clan's leader, the clan elders had become part of the formation to support him.
That was why those now seated at her sides bore such grim expressions.
'This is my burden to bear.'
The Grand Young Lady thought to herself.
At that moment, one of the masters of Ziqiao Martial Hall spoke.
"Forge a connection between us and the Radiant Demon Squad's leader. He treats the Shaanxi nobility as if we are beneath notice, but that is irrelevant. We wish to learn from him."
"You mean a duel?"
"Precisely."
"The Radiant Demon Squad's leader is currently unable to move freely. The leader of the Blood Preservation Squad and the vice-leader of the Divine Sword Order are in the same condition. It would be best to visit Yangyang, where Desolate Fortress is based, after spring."
With narrowed eyes, Gongya Jung spoke.
Immediately after, the crimson hem of her robe flared as she rose to her feet.
The intense atmosphere of the hall wavered for a moment. Such a display was unbecoming in a gathering filled with elite martial figures.
"There is no need to issue an expulsion order, for you will not leave. Instead, we shall."
Boom!
With that, Gongya Jung led eight of her household members and exited the hall.
The surge of energy from their lightness techniques spread in all directions, threatening to shatter the firmly set threshold.
Fwoosh!
And shatter it did. Their movements were more akin to an escape than a departure.
How would the martial nobles react to such an abrupt flight? Any predator with power would instinctively give chase.
As the nobles rose to their feet, Hui Hu-ryung frowned.
"How suspicious. It's not as if we threatened them with our blades…"
"What are they trying to make of innocent people?"
"They are attempting to frame us under the watchful eyes of the government and Desolate Fortress!"
Two of the masters of Ziqiao Martial Hall launched off the ground, dashing toward the shattered threshold left behind by Gongya Jung.
Their pursuit revealed terrifying speed, their powerful energy sending shockwaves through the hall.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
Explosions erupted from the flank. Sounds no human body could produce.
The martial nobles' expressions shifted as they caught sight of dozens of pitch-black spheres flying through the air.
Anyone with even a modicum of knowledge in the martial world would recognize them.
Thunder Bombs.
"Disciples, continue the chase! The Gongya rats must be colluding with the Assistant Governor-General!"
"Follow Hui Clan's leader's orders!"
Four figures shot toward the barrage of Thunder Bombs—Hui Hu-ryung and the masters of Ziqiao Martial Hall.
The most dominant figures of Shaanxi, second only to Hwangbo Clan's reign over Shandong.
Each was near the level of a supreme master, capable of redirecting explosive projectiles with Harmonious Balance Technique.
Then, suddenly, their eyes widened as they reached toward the bombs with their blades.
The martial nobles behind them reacted similarly.
Fwoosh!
The wilderness was bathed in a dawn-like radiance.
A lone black-robed figure shot skyward, his form expanding rapidly, engulfing the surroundings in a pale luminescence.
Like a star rising into the heavens, his ascent was overwhelming.
Jung Yeonshin, the leader of Radiant Demon Squad, had entered the battlefield.
His outstretched hand whipped up a violent current of Dragon Fist Wind, drawing in and expelling massive streams of energy.
In mere moments, his energy seized control of dozens of Thunder Bombs.
And in that instant, Lightning Genius' legendary technique, Full Sky Flower Rain, revealed itself.
Rumble—
A storm of Thunder Bombs merged with the supreme sword art, creating an unpredictable, unparalleled display.
The martial nobles' swords slashed at nothing but empty air.
"Radiant Demon Squad's leader!"
"Could he be…?!"
Their cries, enhanced by Lip Synchronization Technique, were soon drowned by the deafening chorus of explosions.
The pitch-black Full Sky Flower Rain left no witnesses.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
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