Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors
With Ming Long-zi and the Shaolin Master right before him, Jin So-cheong showed no sign of agitation. This meant he was not at a level where he would get overly emotional about the strength of his enemies. The peerless masters before him seemed to pick up on that fact, their interest piqued.
“What an impressive fellow. Is every member of the Thunder God Lineage like this?”
Ming Long-zi muttered, prompting a chuckle from Jin So-cheong.
“Not quite. Let’s not jump to conclusions.”
Standing beside them, the Shaolin Master interjected,
“It seems this involves the Wudang Sect and the Thunder God Lineage, so I shall stand back for now.”
Swish
As he spoke, his form gracefully shifted toward the entrance, appearing to withdraw but actually positioning himself strategically to block any escape routes if things went south. Even for a Shaolin Master, a martial artist is still a martial artist in this world.
Ming Long-zi turned to me, asking,
“Is it true you can wield the Gul-gong Sword and Cheon-chuk Sword?”
It seemed the earlier three had been discussing not just casually but using Thousand-Mile Voice Technique to converse with Ming Long-zi from afar. I nodded.
“They confirmed with their own eyes.”
As Ming Long-zi turned to Cheongpungja, who stood in a defensive posture, he stated,
“That’s right, Master. This Baek Woong fellow has grasped the Wudang Sect’s secret techniques.”
“Hmm…”
Ming Long-zi let out a low hum before stating,
“Then accept the conditions! What are you waiting for?”
At that, Cheongpungja showed hesitation.
“Master, the Thunder God Lineage has currently been designated as a public enemy in the Jianghu, having recently annihilated the Huashan Sect. Moreover, there is a strong possibility they are affiliated with the White Lotus Sect. Engaging in negotiations with such demonic forces would tarnish our sect’s honor.”
Upon hearing Cheongpungja’s words, Ming Long-zi laughed coldly.
“Hmph… Very well. Then, you little brat.”
“Are you talking about me?”
“Yeah.”
I couldn’t help but feel baffled; despite having the appearance of a child barely in his teens, he was calling me a brat! However, I couldn’t voice those thoughts in front of someone wielding such power, so I focused on his words.
“Do you have a rebuttal to Cheongpungja’s point?”
“Of course.”
I calmly delivered my well-prepared answer,
“Firstly, being labeled a public enemy stems from the annihilation of several sects we allegedly carried out. However, this Blood Incident was certainly not our doing, and even if it were, there was no need to arouse suspicion before a sect conflict.”
Cheongpungja shouted in frustration,
“That’s just circumstantial! The martial arts of your Thunder God Lineage were evidence left on the victims!”
“Do you know nothing about the White Lotus Sect? You claim we are one of them, yet you are utterly ignorant of what that sect entails.”
“What do you mean?”
“There are four major lineages within the White Lotus Sect: Thunder God Lineage, Water God Lineage, Fire God Lineage, and Wind God Lineage. The Thunder God Lineage was expelled from the White Lotus Sect half a century ago, dispersing thereafter. For over a millennium, however, we were all together. Thus, the four major lineages share considerable foundational skills, and we can perform basic natural qi techniques.”
Whoosh
As soon as I finished speaking, I raised a gust of wind with my hand. Though it was not strong enough to cause any real damage, it was indeed a clear demonstration of Wind Spirit Qi. After receiving an explanation from Lee Kwang, I had taken some time to practice and mastered this technique in a short period.
Seeing the Wudang Sect’s disciples react with admiration, I continued,
“This is Wind Spirit Qi. Any expert of the Thunder God Lineage can execute basic Wind Spirit Qi, while an adept level expert of the Wind God Lineage can wield Thunder Spirit Qi with ease.”
“Hmm.”
“Whose words have led you to conclude we are marauders? The Thunder God Lineage wasn’t even well-known in the Jianghu before the Blood Incident. Who can say with such certainty that our martial arts were responsible for it?”
“……”
Upon hearing this, Cheongpungja seemed to be at a loss for words as his expression hardened. Not letting up, I pressed on,
“The reason we have been labeled public enemies is down to the Wind God Lineage’s actions. We merely defended ourselves against their preemptive assault. The destruction of the Huashan Sect was because it was a stronghold of the Wind God Lineage.”
“Did you honestly think I would believe such a story?”
“Why wouldn’t you?”
“The Huashan Sect has been allied with the Nine Great Sects for over a decade, and Yong Jung-il, known as The Dragon-Slaying Sword, has made a name for himself among orthodox sects. Their disciples testified that his martial arts connected with Huashan Sect’s techniques, which have been verified by the elders. None of that can be dismissed simply by your words!”
I smirked.
“But I bet you harbor doubts about the extraordinary martial arts of the Huashan Sect. You must have seen firsthand the astonishing techniques they wielded that seemed impossible for mere orthodox arts. Additionally, I assume you are aware that there are some unidentified martial arts as well.”
This point had been highlighted to me by Mangyang.
“……”
Just as Mangyang predicted, Cheongpungja looked troubled. I had struck a nerve regarding the unease lurking in his heart. I stated firmly,
“Listen carefully. The Wind God Lineage also has a history of over a millennium. Their martial arts surpass those of Huashan Sect’s core orthodox techniques, so blending Wind God Lineage‘s insights with their own isn’t difficult. You who study under them should understand that much.”
Furthermore, we can corroborate this with the White Lotus Sect’s leader. It could be verified whether the Huashan Sect was aligned with the Wind God Lineage or not.
“Is that… really true?”
“It is.”
That last part had a sprinkle of bravado. I had no idea whether the White Lotus Sect leader would actually corroborate this information, but from the leader’s perspective, with Mangyang searching for a cure for his “mysterious illness,” I suspected they would see our side as critical in any dealings with the Wind God Lineage. It wasn’t entirely a lie; it just had some boastfulness mixed in.
At that point, Ming Long-zi, who had been silently listening from the side, chimed in.
“So you’re saying you only acted in preemptive defense and that the Huashan Sect and Wind God Lineage should rightfully be the ones labeled public enemies?”
“Indeed.”
I asserted without hesitation.
“We negotiated with the White Lotus Sect before the recent sect conflict. Under the condition that we achieve certain objectives within ten years, we secured the guarantee of the independence of the Thunder God Lineage in the Central Plains. This qualifies us to contest the White Lotus Sect.”
“What is that condition?”
“I’m afraid I cannot reveal it until you accept our terms.”
After pondering for a good while, Ming Long-zi finally said,
“Let’s accept the conditions.”
“Master.”
“Truth be told, the designation of public enemy is quite hollow right now, as you already know. If White Lotus Sect is intertwined, holding onto a mere title would be foolish. A time when strength will dictate survival is fast approaching.”
Despite Ming Long-zi having a child’s appearance, wisdom emanated from his words. Perhaps sensing this, Cheongpungja held his tongue and nodded, saying,
“I shall follow Master’s lead.”
A smile broke across Ming Long-zi’s face.
“Now then, you must grant us one condition.”
“What is it?”
“You’ll need to stay with us in the Wudang Sect immediately and pass on your techniques. That way, the balance is maintained!”
I almost agreed but was struck by a sudden thought of Mangyang. With Mangyang’s days numbered, I needed to use my medical skills to tend to him and help extend his life. Spending time in the Wudang Sect would only complicate things.
“I can’t do it right now. I promise to pass on what I know later.”
“That simply won’t do.”
Ming Long-zi shot me a cold stare.
“While your sect may be in a hurry, there’s no telling when you’ll return here. It’s better for you to stay here and share your methods first.”
“How can the Wudang Sect not trust its own guests?”
“Enough with the nonsense. This is technically not even in the scope of negotiations, yet we’ve made many concessions, haven’t we? It feels like you’re the ones trying to pull a fast one on us!”
His point wasn’t without merit. Pausing in my thoughts, Jin So-cheong stepped forward from the side, saying,
“I can swear on my honor as a martial artist that my master will surely keep his promise.”
“Sure, he’ll try. But when will that happen?”
“My master will come back within three years to share his techniques with the Wudang Sect.”
“Such convenient words! What if three years pass?”
Jin So-cheong replied firmly, “Then I, Jin So-cheong, will personally come to the Wudang Sect and offer up my life.”
“……!!”
What on earth is happening?!
I was shocked and sent a mental message to Jin So-cheong.
[What are you saying, Older Brother?!]
[I heard Mangyang’s days are numbered. Isn’t this enough time to knock out the essentials?]
[No, but why put your life on the line?!]
[They won’t believe it unless I do. This is for the best.]
[But…]
[Don’t worry. This is our best choice.]
While we exchanged thoughts telepathically, Ming Long-zi appeared deep in contemplation. He then shifted to resting his chin on his hand, saying,
“You’re Jin So-cheong, right? You truly are a once-in-a-century genius. I have never encountered anyone with such a talent before.”
“Too much praise.”
“Yet you’re willing to wager your life? Is that sincere?”
“A man does not speak with a forked tongue.”
“… Fine, I will believe you.”
Thus, we brokered a pact with the Wudang Sect. Our terms were that the Wudang Sect would inform the Zheng Tian Alliance of the truth while striving for coexistence, and in return, I would return to share my techniques within three years. Ming Long-zi wanted me to remain right now, but he seemed to consider the busy schedule of the Thunder God Lineage.
After the negotiations concluded, we prepared to leave when the Shaolin Master addressed Jin So-cheong.
“Aren’t you the son of General Jin Cheon-hwi?”
He paused.
At those words, Jin So-cheong halted in his tracks, softly responding,
“Why do you ask?”
“I have received immense help from General Jin Cheon-hwi. Due to his brilliant strategies, I was spared my life several times. And your resemblance to him when he was younger…”
“……”
The Shaolin Master was practically sure of his guess. Jin So-cheong stood silently for a moment before finally replying,
“That is a matter you shouldn’t discuss unless you are a comrade of the Thunder God Lineage.”
“Very well then…”
The Shaolin Master smiled gently, bringing his palms together.
“Nam-Mu Amitabha.”
We departed from the Wudang Sect, using the Cloud Ride to return to the Thunder God Lineage. Upon our arrival, the Alliance Leader greeted us warmly.
“Welcome back, Masters!”
“And the others?”
“They’re in individual training.”
A moment later, we joined Lee Kwang and Mangyang in a meeting room where we recounted what had transpired. After listening intently, Lee Kwang grinned, clearly pleased.
“Well done, Baek Woong. You’ve managed to relieve us from our burdens.”
“Thank you.”
Lee Kwang’s smile revealed just how crucial this negotiation was. Without the Wudang Sect’s mediation, I could only imagine how bloody our confrontations with the Zheng Tian Alliance could become. Mangyang appeared to have regained some color during the time apart and took a sip of warm tea, saying,
“We should find a suitable moment to head back to the Azure Dragon Martial Arts School. They’ll be sending someone from the Zheng Tian Alliance when the time is right.”
“I plan to do just that.”
Lee Kwang gazed at Mangyang, speaking thoughtfully,
“It’s about to become crucial. What will your moves be after the negotiations with the Zheng Tian Alliance commence?”
“I believe the Thunder God Lineage’s Lightning Three Sovereigns might already be lurking near the Azure Dragon Martial Arts School.”
“What makes you think that?”
“They likely share our perspective. Having assessed the power of the Thunder God Lineage, they’re probably waiting for the right moment to join forces.”
Mangyang fluttered his Ohhwa Chilgeum.
“The concern is that even after they join, we may not have completed the ultimate technique of the Thunder God Lineage…”
“We’ll have to endure and wait at least ten years for other masters of the Thunder God Lineage to arrive.”
“……”
Mangyang gazed attentively at Lee Kwang before asking,
“Allow me to inquire, if the White Lotus Sect leader permits a retaliation against the Wind God Lineage, would you propose that the Thunder God Lineage take their place?”
Mangyang’s question carried weight, making both me and Jin So-cheong glimmer with tension. It seemed they had contemplated such a scenario too. Then, Lee Kwang replied, his tone firm as if dispensing final judgment,
“Out of the question!”
“Must we really go as far as eliminating the White Lotus Sect leader to appease you?”
“Let’s not get carried away. The Wind God Lineage alone could not defeat the Thunder God Lineage in their prime. My master’s skill was easily twice that of anyone from Dragon Rising. White Lotus Sect was only able to expel them from the Thunder God Lineage because the latter was weak at that time.”
Lee Kwang clenched his fists tightly.
“The root of all evil is the White Lotus Sect! Unless they are dealt with, the Thunder God Lineage will never have a future.”
“What do you think led to the expulsion of the Thunder God Lineage?”
I felt Mangyang was taking a rather bold approach. Given that Lee Kwang once nearly killed Mangyang, urging such a candid discussion could provoke trouble! I worried Lee Kwang might unleash that fury again, but strangely, he responded calmly.
“Well, I can’t say for sure.”
“Can’t say for sure?”
“Right. In fact, my master—the Thunder God Lineage’s Law Protector and the sect leader—had always been friendly with the White Lotus Sect leader. But one day, out of nowhere, my master suffered grave injuries and was banished. The very same day, the Thunder God Lineage was scattered.”
“Hmm…”
“Why the White Lotus Sect expelled the Thunder God Lineage is now entirely beyond me. Because of this, many cultivators of the Thunder God Lineage have perished, losing their entire lives to it. The White Lotus Sect must pay for the sins of their actions.”
“Understood. We must deliver punishment against the White Lotus Sect.”
Mangyang replied eagerly.
“But now I have a favor to ask of you all. Since our matters have been resolved, we too must assist with your Bancheon Alliance concerns.”
“What is it you want us to assist with?”
“Assassination!”
Lee Kwang fell silent for a moment. Then, as if silently agreeing, he asked again,
“Who are we assassinating?”
Mangyang’s eyes gleamed sharply, though they had an exhausted hint.
“The Gold Yewi Grand Commander, Zhuge Fu, and the Alchemist!”
“……!!”
“I need you to kill these three.”
After hearing Mangyang‘s plan, Lee Kwang sighed, his expression contemplative. He didn’t seem hesitant about whether it was feasible, instead reviewing the most effective course to take. True to that, Lee Kwang produced precise words of judgment.
“At least one year would be necessary. If you give me two years, there’s an 80% probability of success.”
“We need it done in one year.”
“Must we rush?”
“Yes. We are strengthened, but so will they be. It might already be out of hand.”
“Hmm… I’ll consider it.”
Despite the gathering ending with Lee Kwang and Mangyang, I approached Mangyang with urgency.
“Mangyang, what are you thinking?! Isn’t Zhuge Fu your brother?”
That’s right.
Zhuge Fu, known for his legendary martial skills and sorcerous powers, is also Mangyang’s brother! It’s no surprise I looked shocked—how could anyone be so bold?
Mangyang responded solemnly.
“… I don’t wish to kill Zhuge Fu, but it has become unavoidable.”
“What do you mean?”
“In the event that my uncle, Zhuge Sa, were still alive, even if I had to die, I could have collaborated with you against him. However, the power of the Thunder God Lineage alone cannot contend with Zhuge Fu, who stands alongside the Imperial Palace. It would be wise to eliminate him before his strength fully develops.”
After coughing, Mangyang added,
“One other thing… they’ve likely already started working on a new Progenitor. Using the same method twice will not work. This time, we must kill him for good to avoid lingering issues.”
“Are you being overly cautious? Both Zhuge Fu and the Alchemist are weaker than the Law Protectors of the White Lotus Sect.”
In my eyes, the greatest obstacle now was the White Lotus Sect. Sure, we didn’t necessarily need to fight them, but their overwhelming power could easily crush the Imperial Palace. Thus, I thought there was little to worry about concerning the Imperial Palace. Yet, surprisingly, Mangyang held concerns about it.
Sitting down, he continued,
“… You too are aware that the Wind God Lineage is collaborating with the Imperial Palace.”
“Indeed. The Dragon People they showcased from the Huashan Mountain were likely the Alchemist’s creations.”
“The fear of the Imperial Palace relies not on its individual members’ strengths, but rather their ability to turn the tides using the powers of the foreign malevolent spirits, the Evil Gods. And having Zhuge Fu with them serves as proof.”
“What do you mean?”
“I previously mentioned this, but Zhuge Fu is extremely clever. He’ll align himself with whoever holds the winning card. What does that imply?”
My expression froze.
Mangyang sighed deeply.
“Zhuge Fu has already realized that White Lotus Sect has the winning maneuver against us, and thus he intends to assist the Imperial Palace in overcoming us.”
