Chapter 810
I frowned at the name that was familiar yet distinctly different.
’Why is that name suddenly coming up?’
Gyecheonmun.
It is one of the sects that exists in the Sacheon region.
Once a somewhat famous place, it had quite a few disciples and was recognized locally, but…
’That’s as far as it goes.’
Unfortunately, there were issues that prevented it from making a significant name for itself in Sacheon.
The problem was that in Sacheon, both the Tang Clan and Amipa were present.
The Tang Clan, previously known as the Four Great Families, and the Amipa, a former Gupa family, have established themselves in Sacheon.
Just this fact was problematic for Gyecheonmun to exert its influence.
But…
’Something has changed.’
In my past life, something unusual had occurred.
That was right.
’Gyecheonmun discovered the secret vault of Geumcheon Yeon-ga.’
To be precise, it was an individual who was the head of Gyecheonmun that found the secret notes of Geumcheon Yeon-ga.
The details of how much opportunity was gained from the notes greatly elevated the realm of the Munju beyond what was widely recognized. Not just the Munju, but even the disciples began to strengthen and started to assert their influence.
Up to that point, it was good. It didn’t seem like a bad outcome since they soared high with the opportunity.
The issue was…
’Gyecheonmun is a sect of the Sapa line.’
It’s unclear whether they were already a Sapa or if they transitioned to it after gaining their opportunity.
With my limited information, I can’t pinpoint that, but from what I know, Gyecheonmun was indeed a Sapa.
’Right after the appearance of the Heavenly Demon, they were absorbed into the Demonic Cult.’
The head of Gyecheonmun entered the Demonic Cult and became a Mine, subsequently aiding in the invasion of Sacheon.
Having long-established roots in Sacheon, they were intimately familiar with the terrain.
This gave Cheon Yu-rang a significant advantage in strategizing their operations.
’Hmm.’
I pondered and questioned.
’Why all of a sudden?’
Why was this seemingly out-of-the-blue mention of Gyecheonmun occurring now?
Moreover, why would it be connected to the Demonic Cult?
’It can’t be, right?’
It’s true there was a deep connection in my previous life…
’But it shouldn’t be now, right?’
Not at this moment.
It came earlier than when the Heavenly Demon emerged in my previous life. Above all…
’There’s no way they could have obtained anything from the notes.’
The secret vault of Geumcheon Yeon-ga was already after I had visited.
To be honest, it wasn’t even a matter of chance. Even if the head of Gyecheonmun had gone there, nothing would have changed.
’What’s going on?’
Why is Gyecheonmun suddenly mentioned out of nowhere here?
What an incomprehensible situation.
“Did you say Gyecheonmun?”
“That’s correct.”
So I asked again, but the response remained the same.
Gyecheonmun is linked to the Demonic Cult.
I received that information. It was something Mukyeon had said.
’What happened?’
This part baffled me.
What in the world is going on?
Moreover…
“…So, why are you telling me this since morning…?”
What’s the reason for calling me to discuss this specific issue?
Are you casting doubt on me as you inquire? That’s likely not true.
’He’s not someone who would make such a foolish inquiry.’
If he had chosen another means to approach it, it would have made sense, but he is definitely not the kind to handle it this way.
Why, then? As I contemplated the reasoning, Mukyeon spoke.
“Since there’s a problem related to the Demonic Cult, it seems appropriate to send the relevant issue to Seongryongdae.”
“Do you mean it’s a mission?”
“Exactly.”
Only after hearing those words did I grasp the situation.
If Gyecheonmun is linked to the Demonic Cult, then it makes sense to hand this over to Seongryongdae.
Given that Seongryongdae was born out of the situation with the Demonic Cult… this is indeed the right course of action.
“If the conditions allow it, you don’t have to accept it.”
“…Hmm.”
Mukyeon’s afterthought sank in deeply.
If you’re not willing to accept the mission, then it doesn’t matter.
That was a stipulation made when Seongryongdae was established. So if it’s desired, it is plausible.
’It’s about Gyecheonmun.’
There was something lingering in what I had just heard.
Of all names, Gyecheonmun needed to come up.
While it’s slightly before the emergence of the Heavenly Demon in my past life, it’s quite peculiar that the Demonic Cult and Gyecheonmun are being connected now.
“Mukyeon, my advisor.”
“Speak freely.”
“What happens if I accept the mission?”
“It’s quite simple.”
As he spoke, Mukyeon pulled a letter from his cloak and placed it on the table.
“You merely need to gather your personnel and depart within today as soon as you provide the information.”
“By today?”
“It doesn’t have to be today, but… judging by the urgency, the sooner the better.”
“…Hmm.”
“If the Seongryongdae leader determines that the information aligns with the structure of Gyecheonmun.”
Tap, tap.
Mukyeon tapped the letter with his fingertips as he spoke.
“You can simply mark them for termination.”
“… ”
I nodded at his chilling tone.
If the details are accurate, then eliminate them all. Those words felt hauntingly low and sinister.
Eliminate the adversary.
Even if the directive sounds brutal, it’s not unreasonable.
It’s not like we’re pursuing a no-kill ideology because we’re a righteous sect. Our opponents are a Sapa and are connected with the Demonic Cult.
If the information aligns, then it’s indeed justifiable to eliminate them.
’Hmm.’
I sensed something peculiar in Mukyeon’s eyes and voice.
’Is he probing me?’
In connection with the Demonic Cult…
But if matched with the information, the order is to kill them.
Is this his way of expressing doubt in me? A fleeting suspicion crossed my mind.
’It can’t be, right?’
If he’s harboring suspicions, then it’s not entirely without connection.
So what to do?
’Should I ignore it?’
Since it probably wouldn’t matter, can’t I just say I won’t do it?
Yet, even while thinking that, my hands moved.
I grabbed the letter on the table and then told Mukyeon,
“Alright.”
“… ”
As I accepted it, Mukyeon’s calm gaze turned toward me.
“However, I’ll be departing tomorrow, not today.”
“Understood.”
Though he mentioned a sense of urgency, he didn’t follow up on my choice to leave tomorrow.
Was it a trust in my self-sufficiency, or was there another implication?
’Is it because he wants to make up for the last mistake?’
Our previous conversation had a few shaky moments, which he likely recalled.
I noted that Mukyeon wasn’t revealing anything this time either.
’Tsk.’
It’s regrettable, but it can’t be helped.
I lightly nodded my head and turned to head out the door.
– Gyecheonmun (계천문):
– A sect located in the eastern region of Sacheon.
– The total number of members is around eighty, including the head.
– The head is Daehwan (계천문주) of Gyecheonmun.
– The measured realm was said to be peak-level, but recent information suggests it has reached the Flower Realm.
– The combat style is characterized by using groups for sword immobilization rather than solo combat.
Sarak.
– Originally active under the checks and balances of the Tang Clan and Amipa, they seem to have emerged due to the absence of the Tang Clan.
– Based on information from the Flying Dragon Faction, it appears they have been in contact with unidentified individuals.
– Among the identified individuals, it is speculated that Gwiakchang, known to have killed the Tao King is present.
“…Huh?”
I paused briefly while reading the phrases inscribed on the letter.
Gyecheonmun is in contact with a special individual, and there’s mention of Gwiakchang.
So it seems they could be engaging with the Demonic Cult… as noted.
’This sounds like nonsense.’
There’s some confusion about how it came to be.
Gwiakchang, meaning Tangdeok, must be a definite falsehood.
’That guy is still in Hanam.’
I managed to keep that massive figure hidden, eliminating any signs of life. There’s no way he’s suddenly in Sacheon…
’Maybe there was a mix-up with another guy.’
This indicates it’s likely a false lead. Ah, unless that isn’t it…
’Gyecheonmun is probably doing something pointless.’
They might be up to something, making it one of these three possibilities.
’What could it be?’
Regardless of what it is, it’s irritating.
Even if they aren’t connected to the Demonic Cult, there’s still an uncomfortable feeling lurking.
That’s also why I’ve decided to see it firsthand.
’From here on out…’
The letter contained additional details that described the overall force in depth.
’Oh.’
It was packed with information on confirmed disciples.
Not only their characteristics and names, but also their levels and combat methods. There were details on their tendencies and characteristics while fighting.
As I looked over this, I couldn’t help but express my admiration.
’Look at that information power.’
Is this what it’s like to be at the center of the righteous sect? The details were far more intricate than my expectations.
So it’s honestly a bit amusing.
’With this level of information power, why are they making such a scene?’
No matter how lousy Gyecheonmun might be, gathering this much information doesn’t seem probable.
Which implies that the information wasn’t collected swiftly.
They must have been gathering it for some time. And…
’I bet there’s even more information out there.’
There’s likely more information from other forces within the faction.
I wonder how much could be out there and how accurate it might be.
’Is all of it managed by the Flying Dragon Faction? Or is it more open?’
I know the importance of information all too well.
Regardless of strength, if the information is sparse, there’s hardly anything one can do, which makes this aspect particularly intriguing.
’I suspect the Flying Dragon Faction isn’t the sole operator.’
Although the Flying Dragon Faction indeed has ability and handles tasks neatly…
’Still, that can’t be it.’
It would raise too many issues to simply denote it as mere information collected by the Flying Dragon Faction.
While they may be able, they lack depth.
They might offer some assistance, but crediting everything to them seems dubious.
’It may also cover more open sources.’
That’s what would seem accurate… but regardless of the outcome, the key point is.
’The information power of the Murim Alliance is absolutely not low.’
That’s the part that shines through.
’No way.’
As I pondered this, I frowned.
’Are they trying to show this?’
To articulate that the information power is absolutely not deficient in the Alliance.
Did Mukyeon choose this approach to demonstrate that? However, I swiftly dismissed that idea from my mind.
’That seems a little too far.’
There are simply too many aspects that don’t fit.
While it’s hard to claim it’s purely coincidence, there’s still too little certainty.
I folded the letter and tucked it back into my pocket.
I checked through everything I needed. It’ll take a bit longer to memorize, but it shouldn’t take long.
I’m actually better at memorization than I thought.
After placing the letter away, I faced front and said,
“You all have been working hard since morning.”
Their responses came pouring in.
Immediately after discussing with Mukyeon, I stepped straight into Seongryongdae.
The members had already gathered.
“Did everyone manage to rest well for the day?”
I noticed their reactions but received no answers. I wasn’t concerned.
“Squad Leader.”
“Yes, Acting Leader.”
The one who answered my call was Dang So-yeol.
Perhaps it was because I picked her just yesterday, but she wore the armband on her shoulder.
It signified her status as the squad leader.
In the back, I saw Wi Seol-ah and Namgung Bi-ah, likely recovered from their treatments.
Wi Seol-ah wore an uneasy expression, while Namgung Bi-ah looked apathetic.
Though their expressions were different, they likely accepted the outcome.
Thus, they stood there waiting.
“Have all personnel assembled?”
As I glanced around, Dang So-yeol’s expression changed slightly.
“…Ah. I’ll check.”
Upon hearing her response, I frowned deeply.
“Didn’t you check beforehand? You’re the squad leader. You should be working until the leaders are established.”
As I expressed my feelings, Dang So-yeol’s eyes widened slightly.
“I’m sorry.”
“Let’s do better.”
“Yes….”
Instead of offering excuses, she immediately apologized. It was not bad behavior.
“Next. Have you decided on the squad as I said?”
When I questioned the warriors grouped beside us, they hesitated for a moment.
Immediately after, someone stepped forward.
“S-Squad member Song…”
“Song Ho-jeong. Is that you?”
“…Y-Yes.”
“I’ve confirmed it. Make sure to fetch your armband later.”
“I understand….”
Song Ho-jeong. From what I know, he was from the Red Dragon Faction. His realm was around peak-level at proficiency.
He was known for using a sword…
’Didn’t he say he was a team leader in the Red Dragon Faction?’
I roughly recalled that.
“Alright, now that the squad leaders are set for both sides, let’s get right to the main point…”
Creak. Leaning back in my chair, I crossed my legs.
“I’ve received a mission. We need to contact the sects in Sacheon and eliminate them if any problem arises.”
“A mission? G-You mean already?”
“Right. Already.”
The expressions of the members turned to surprise upon hearing this.
A mission to Sacheon so soon after being established, and they hadn’t even properly trained or engaged in activities yet.
“I heard it relates to Gwiakchang…”
“G-Gwiakchang?”
“That Sapa guy who killed the Tao King…?”
Once I mentioned his alias, a sense of tension began to ripple through the area.
He killed the Tao King and almost turned his son, Bisungdo, into a corpse. That’s a clear sign of a formidable individual.
However, now there are whispers of some scheme occurring in Sacheon, so it’s no wonder everyone felt uneasy.
“Given the work at hand, we will proceed; however, I can’t take everyone with me… I’ll select a few to go, so those who wish to join, raise your hands.”
“…”
“…”
I saw hesitant gestures upon making my request.
“Stop dawdling and raise your hands quickly. After all, not many will be going.”
As soon as I made the remark, a few members quickly raised their hands.
Namgung Bi-ah, Wi Seol-ah, and of course, Dang So-yeol were among them.
Besides those three…
‘Eight in total, counting the members in the advisory group?’
That was the extent of volunteers. Among those drawn from the Alliance…
‘Just a couple more.’
Most didn’t raise their hands at all.
Seeing that, I couldn’t help but chuckle slightly.
“Now that I’ve confirmed, let’s say… five from those who raised their hands. The rest will come from those who didn’t.”
“What does that—!”
“Acting Leader…!”
“What’s wrong?”
When complaints began to arise, I grew irritated and addressed them.
“When did I ever say I’d take those who raised their hands? I asked for those who wanted to go to raise their hands.”
“…But that…”
“Ah, quit whining. Or should I start by cutting out your tongues if you can’t stop complaining?”
“… ”
As I lightly wielded my aura, their mouths promptly shut.
It appears a bit of this is necessary for them to grasp the situation.
Tsk.
I clicked my tongue briefly and waved my hand.
“Now that the selection process is settled, let’s move on to other matters.”
As I spoke, I sensed movements from behind.
Thump. A few individuals entered through the door.
There were precisely five of them.
The unexpected appearance of these individuals cast lingering questions across the other members’ faces.
“This is the last additional group member. Be sure to get along.”
These were the individuals I’d requested Mukyeon to bring over.
Whatever the situation might entail…
Even if their identities were somewhat ambiguous…
They were the ones I had to forcibly bring in under conditions.
My site has received a lot of DMCA notices, lol. From now on, I will update the MTL on https://darkmtl.com/.
The site is fast and lightweight because there are no ads yet. However, the theme is different from Cybor-TL, so take some time to familiarize yourself.
Support me by donating at least $10, and you'll have the right to request any novel from Novelpia (excluding 19+ content) using a newly developed tool.