Chapter 636 – Chaotic Times (6)

“……”

For a moment, everything in the snowfield froze.

Not only the Divine Sword Group masters’ breath but even the snow ground that had been faintly trembling in response to the Enter The Divine Sword inheritance.

Even the snowfall that had been pouring down like rain from the moment Lord Yu Xiong’s Transcendent Martial Art was activated was gradually stopping.

Literary Star was such a person.

A sense of oppression that seemed to block breathing was constantly felt.

An appearance with hair neatly arranged like a Beijing scholar covering one eye. He was even wearing thin scholar robes as if spring had already arrived.

“It’s been a long time.”

Literary Star smiled gently at Jeong Yeon-shin while gripping Lord Yang Cheon in one hand. While wrapping tremendous power waves around his entire body like a tsunami.

The contemporary greatest external artist’s characteristic blue-green internal energy barrier was making his already massive fist swell even larger.

A truly surreal sight. This was why he could grasp one of the imperial house’s three great masters with one hand.

“Oh my…”

Lord Yang Cheon’s lips, who had slightly turned his head toward Literary Star’s face, rose faintly.

“…I’ve been caught by the most monster-like bastard in the demon realm.”

The heat of Heaven Steel Light Armor ‘Demonstration of Extinction’ that Literary Star had trained was still terrible. At this moment, white smoke was rising in streams like mist from Lord Yang Cheon’s entire body.

Hisssss—

Protective energy burned protective energy.

Sounds like dried reed leaves burning continued in succession, and Lord Yang Cheon let out a voice tinged with laughter from within the thickly rising smoke.

“Listen here, Literary Star.”

“Lord Yang Cheon, it’s truly been a long time. Have you been well?”

“I can’t have my movement blocked like this… couldn’t you grab me differently?”

“I’m sorry.”

“I mean grab me more strongly. When I return home, I’ll brew some medicinal herbs to drink. Compared to your monster-like past, your grip strength has become completely weak.”

“……?”

“Oh, how nice. Yes, this is you.”

Lord Yang Cheon spoke while slightly furrowing his brow as if he had entered very hot bath water.

It was while rope-tightening sounds flowed from Literary Star’s grip with creaking noises.

Literary Star’s lips rose faintly.

“…Though I was guessing from afar what was happening, has the Ming imperial house truly fallen to that level?”

“That doesn’t mean I cease to be a Zhu of the Ming Dynasty’s state. Hurry and attend to your business.”

“You should be fortunate I didn’t come alone.”

Immediately, rumbling sounds fell long like thunder from above the audience.

Rumble!

Clearly the aftermath of thunder arts. Instantly, Wi Ji-geuk, Cheon So-so, and Ultimate Martial Hall Leader Geum Cheong-won who had been surrounding Jeong Yeon-shin reacted slightly.

“Lord Jeong, it’s the one we faced at Black Capital. That Northern King of thunder and lightning energy cultivation…”

“Great King Vajra.”

“We almost killed each other.”

The three squad leaders.

Each spoke while flowing propelling light waves beneath their feet. To counter any possible surprise attack.

Jeong Yeon-shin shook his head.

“Now the seniors’ internal injuries are much heavier than mine. Please don’t strike.”

At the same time, he slowly lifted Enter The Divine Sword.

Rustle.

Movement to wear it at his waist. The Divine Sword Group Leader’s symbol was gently inserted into the purple belt with black trim.

The moment an old goal was achieved.

Now it was a nation’s divine sword that no one could deny.

The history and symbolism embedded in one blade entered Jeong Yeon-shin, and the radiance that brightly filled the vicinity temporarily blurred Jeong Yeon-shin’s vision.

—Can someone like me live if I eat World Tree fruit?

—Though there’s some sense that the efficacy has been distorted, yes. You should be able to sufficiently achieve what you desire.

—Can it be obtained?

—It depends on what you do.

It was an old conversation. For a moment, Desolate Fortress Lord’s faint breath seemed to tickle his ears.

‘I wonder if she’s well.’

If they reunited now, what should he request as a Divine Sword Group Leader who had accomplished merit?

It was different from that day when he had only thought of the fruit. Because Jeong Yeon-shin was endlessly pondering even unconsciously.

Meanwhile.

Rumble—

The wall of light cluster that had trapped the Divine Sword Group base in a circle while gradually narrowing and crushing even barracks, ‘Heaven Heart Flood Single Feather,’ had left faint burns even on Literary Star’s skin.

Thus, in addition to Lord Yu Xiong of the imperial house’s three great masters who had already activated Transcendent Martial Art, there was also Lord Yang Cheon whose body was intact in Literary Star’s grip.

“Since you’ve grasped Enter The Divine Sword, you’ve seized all of the Ming Dynasty’s power. This has truly worked out well.”

“Come to think of it, you said you requested audience with our nation’s Divine Sword Group Leader. Literary Star, what exactly are you scheming now?”

“It would be better if Lord Yang Cheon doesn’t know.”

It was a three-way battle.

A hair-trigger situation. The Divine Sword Group base had become greatly perilous. Because natural disasters were continuously visiting the snowfield that had been peaceful for several days.

Ultimate Martial Hall Leader Geum Cheong-won had somehow come to stand beside Divine Sword Group Leader Jeong Yeon-shin.

The man most skilled in defensive martial arts throughout Desolate Fortress. He alternately looked up and toward the cliff ahead while clicking his tongue.

“How chaotic. Since the various strongmen’s positions are all different, it’s truly a chaotic era.”

If Six Star Lord Literary Star and Great King Vajra began rampaging without distinguishing friend from foe, a truly earth-shaking melee would unfold.

This was why the black ranks arrayed in a circle as if serving as Jeong Yeon-shin’s dharma protectors each drew weapons or urged Jin Myeong-jo to strike with his demon sword.

“…It’s not time yet.”

“If the Divine Sword Vice-Leader says so, then it is. A friend who has transcended bloodline limitations wouldn’t postpone matters because he’s overwhelmed by power.”

“Transcended bloodline limitations…?”

Before Desolate Jeok Family’s Jeok Lee-seo’s question could even form on one side, the wall of light cluster shuddered with a thud. Soon it began to scatter into pieces like a lie.

It was along with another thunder sound that rang belatedly from the distant sky.

Rumble!

Because thunder ultimate technique had been applied to Lord Yu Xiong who had earlier driven down explosive force made of light.

[The young general’s troubles are great. He could have avoided it.]

A very lofty woman’s voice.

Whether Great King Vajra had ambushed with full power from the start, or Lord Yu Xiong had deliberately withdrawn his Transcendent Martial Art, was unclear.

“Don’t look unkindly on Lord Yu Xiong.”

Divine Beggar Zhu Guang, who had somehow appeared behind Ma Yeon-jeok, lay sprawled on the snow and spoke.

“The ultimate technique’s name is Light Spear. Originally in the form of a massive spear, it’s right for fatal attacks to enter the moment one unleashes life-saving ultimate technique. In his own way, he prolonged time quite long because he didn’t want to gain shame.”

But it seemed to be a meaningless story to Literary Star. Because he immediately shrugged his massive shoulders and asked those facing him.

“Can I consider the preparations for dialogue finished?”

Step.

Jeong Yeon-shin took one step forward.

In faded purple robes, with the gray hilt of Enter The Divine Sword that had similarly faded to ash-like color over long years.

He was alone.

The owner of two divine weapons that had become even more worn through the Black Capital great battle.

Ma Yeon-jeok and Yong Hye-myeong no longer stood alongside Jeong Yeon-shin. Positioned somewhat behind, they had just silently taken their places as mere background of the snowfield.

It would be so going forward too.

‘Those two’s internal and external injuries are no ordinary matter. They’ve also left the Gates empty too long.’

Now Jeong Yeon-shin had to advance alone. Originally, a Divine Sword Group Leader was such an existence.

Literary Star looked down at him slightly and smiled.

“Perfect.”

“……?”

“Now that you have everything complete, I am curious. What answer will you find?”

“Did you come as Black Capital’s representative?”

“I am the demon realm’s representative.”

Literary Star discussed a nation with a very composed face. For a moment, the hardships experienced in the demon realm flashed through Jeong Yeon-shin’s mind.

‘Monster.’

At the same time, Jeong Yeon-shin glanced at Lord Yang Cheon who was silently held by Literary Star.

His appearance had an old fishing rod leisurely slung over his shoulder though it was unclear when he had raised his arm, and he was looking at Jeong Yeon-shin with complex eyes.

—All of this is merely courtesy for your efforts and achievements. Please understand the position where it’s difficult to form friendship with the ‘Northern Emperor.’

Lord Yang Cheon’s quiet sound transmission penetrated his ears. It was a technique that accelerated rapidly like some true words, conveying his meaning in the blink of an eye.

In contrast, Jeong Yeon-shin asked aloud.

“What do you mean?”

—I mean I might someday appear before you like an assassin. Not just me but Yu Xiong, Qiao Quan, even the Three Direction Great Generals and some major sects. Know that ultimately the Ming Dynasty is a deeply stagnant well.

“……”

—A clan whose upper energy centers have been carved with a history of defeats for generations due to the World Tree. Therefore, most Zhu warriors are ghosts bound to the character Ming. Only His Former Majesty was an emperor who transcended everything. When he was alive, all noble clan jianghu people had to prepare for Gates and train martial arts… but hasn’t the era changed for you too?

“What do you mean by history of defeats?”

—So I apologize in advance. It would be best for both of us not to meet again. Just accept congratulations today. I’m truly grateful. Your efforts were truly great.

Protective secret technique Traceless Dragon Form.

Whoosh!

Lord Yang Cheon who shot up from Literary Star’s grip as if slipping in an instant. Incredibly, friction seemed to have disappeared from his protective energy, and Jeong Yeon-shin perceived this as an extreme form-shifting cultivated for a very long time.

Lightness skill swimming through the sky like a dragon while shouldering a fishing rod.

Jeong Yeon-shin watched that scene intently then shook his hand once.

Thud!

Instantly accelerating once more by bursting circular shock waves after rising to the clouds. Because Jeong Yeon-shin had struck a distance palm strike beneath Lord Yang Cheon’s feet.

“……!”

Small surprise was felt even below. Six Star Lord Literary Star’s voice tinged with laughter followed then.

“Since he didn’t fail to catch him but chose not to grab him, you’ve impressed two facts with one technique. The Northern Emperor still has no reason to be hostile to the Ming Dynasty. In the world’s political situation, it’s not the Ming imperial house but the Divine Sword Group that holds the sword hilt… Well done.”

Having had no particular thoughts, Jeong Yeon-shin calmly spoke the truth.

“I just added light waves because I was worried that dignified person might be caught by your crude hands.”

“A good choice. Against the Ming Dynasty that evaluates people’s dignity and propriety to wield like an axe, you’ve secured both justification and practical benefit with just one distance palm technique. If you just keep a decent strategist nearby, you’ll be able to enjoy much freedom through this matter.”

Very meaningful words.

Immediately, Desolate Jeok Family Head Blood King, who had been alternately observing Jeong Yeon-shin, Seventh Apostle, Jin Myeong-jo, and Jeok Lee-seo with interest on one side, widened his eyes.

‘Strategist…?’

Jeong Yeon-shin slowly caressed Enter The Divine Sword’s hilt. To become accustomed to the feel.

“Just state your business.”

“Though it’s a long journey, I came hoping you’d stop by Black Capital. Right now, before returning to the Central Plains, I hope you’ll go with me.”

Literary Star extended his hand elegantly like a scholar toward the bottom of the cliff. A gesture as if introducing something. At his massive fingertip spread a dark great city.

The demon realm’s capital that could only be tremendously far from the base.

The place the Divine Sword Group had made into a battlefield earlier.

“It’s a bit different from that day.”

Literary Star continued with a small smile.

“Elite martial army forces that the late Southern Emperor personally raised are stationed in the city. Thirty thousand in total.”

“Go there together? Do you want to die?”

Suddenly jet-black hair swept past Jeong Yeon-shin’s cheek as it advanced. Along with an indescribably fragrant flesh scent. Jeong Yeon-shin grasped Seventh Apostle’s shoulder just before she struck at Literary Star.

The hem of the borrowed black robe wrinkled thinly, and the micro explosive force that had been about to burst from Seventh Apostle’s entire body also stopped simultaneously.

Rustle.

Thus returning Seventh Apostle’s position intact. Jeong Yeon-shin’s whisper struck Seventh Apostle’s earlobe as she smoothly spun back.

“He’s not your opponent. Are you crazy?”

“Yeah.”

Soon turning his head forward silently again, Jeong Yeon-shin questioned Literary Star.

“Only thirty thousand?”

Suddenly Literary Star’s smile deepened strangely.

“There are also the late Northern Blade’s belongings, waiting for a new master. Books that should go to the Tyrant Hero who won in mortal combat.”

“Forget it.”

Ma Yeon-jeok spat from over Jeong Yeon-shin’s shoulder. At this moment, he had his hands behind his back as if everything had been entrusted to his grandson.

“Most importantly, there are Northern Kings who need to settle matters. Though it’s quite a long way to Black Capital, won’t you stop by considering the affection from fighting? Even more so for the Central Plains’ people’s livelihood.”

Central Plains.

A land where all sorts of sects repeated founding and destruction on vast earth, and imperial house, Thirteen Heavens, Nine Sects and Eight Families and other major sects created the principle of the strong surviving.

A place whose current appearance was hard to guess at this moment.

The demon realm’s Northern Kings were positions that corresponded to such major sect leaders.

People whose individual temperaments and ultimate techniques were hard to fathom. Perhaps Jeong Yeon-shin really should become the ‘Northern Emperor.’ By embracing all Northern Kings.

Suddenly Jeong Yeon-shin recalled words he had once spoken to a divine being.

—Under heaven.

Literary Star spoke.

“Aisin-Gioro Black Return is keeping the Remaining Thunder Sword. Fortunately he didn’t break it, but he wanted to have a brief conversation with you.”

“By force?”

“That’s something we’ll know when we go. Won’t you embark on a journey just to Black Capital with me? The trip won’t be boring.”

Jeong Yeon-shin was briefly silent, then slowly took a step.

“Lead the way.”

He said.

At the same time, the Divine Sword Group followed.

* * *

It was quite a long way from the snowfield cliff to Black Capital. Various exotic sceneries had to unfold.

Demon realm inns ‘Sha’ vibrating with metallic and bloody smells, towers of corpses rising here and there as if to touch the sky, common people who engaged in fighting over trivial matters while digging up dried seeds from the ground to eat, Yao tribe jianghu people who sat around them shouting excitedly then awkwardly took fighting stances as soon as they saw Jeong Yeon-shin…

“How do they know my face?”

“It’s the Bright Spirit Cave. Like Heaven Steel Light Armor, southern fugitives can also learn it.”

They passed all sorts of scenes.

And before they knew it, it was Black Capital Old Palace.

“……”

Jeong Yeon-shin glanced around at the surrounding peerless masters. The old site of the completely ruined palace had long been filled with terrible oppression.

People surrounding Jeong Yeon-shin in various poses. It was a place where the only somewhat easy face was the one-armed Western Region monk.

‘Literary Star, Lu Ban Heavenly Emperor, Gao Yao Holy Sword Master, Vajra, Dragon Sound Sasa King, Aisin-Gioro Black Return, Dharma King… is that Pure Affection…?’

He’d pretend not to see one person.

Anyway, for some reason he didn’t feel it was dangerous. Even though with such strength they could kill anyone under heaven.

“If you want revenge, I’ll accept it.”

Jeong Yeon-shin spoke quietly while resting his arm on Enter The Divine Sword’s hilt. It was a posture where he didn’t feel the need to draw his sword.