Chapter 174

Chapter 174
Chapter: 174

Chapter Title: Misjudgment (2)

—

“Great Elder.”

Following his morning meal, the North Heaven Sword Demon, who had been leisurely drinking tea, softly set his porcelain cup on the table.

“Enter.”

The entrance swung open, and Jang Cheonbi—a military strategist in his mid-thirties who had accompanied the North Heaven Sword Demon to this front—stepped inside, his features alight with anticipation.

“Judging by your expression, the gears have started turning.”

“Correct. The offensive commenced just a few moments ago.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon let out a deep, resonant chuckle at the sound of Jang Cheonbi’s exhilarated tone.

“Does it bring you that much joy?”

“It isn’t joy so much as the comfort of knowing the conclusion is near. We have been pursuing those wretches for more than four months now.”

“True enough. It is high time we brought this to a close.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon was also feeling the fatigue of this protracted military operation.

“Furthermore, the relief forces from the Qingcheng Sect and the Tang Clan have made their appearance. They are advancing stealthily rather than linking up with the Emei Sect immediately, suggesting they intend to launch a pincer attack on Huicheon from the rear.”

“And what of Huicheon? Have they initiated any defensive measures?”

“That is the anomaly.”

Jang Cheonbi knit his brows, his expression radiating genuine bewilderment.

“Explain.”

“They must be aware of the approaching Qingcheng Sect and Tang Clan units, yet there is absolutely no sign of tactical preparation on their end.”

“That seems improbable. Could they be setting a snare, baiting the enemy by appearing vulnerable until they are fully committed?”

“I considered that possibility and observed them with great care, but there is no evidence to support it.”

As Jang Cheonbi shook his head with absolute certainty, the North Heaven Sword Demon’s face clouded with concern.

“If the Qingcheng Sect and Tang Clan strike them from behind, Huicheon will be trapped between two hammers and could be wiped out instantly. That is not the result we are looking for. While breaking Huicheon is our main goal, those orthodox sects must also suffer enough damage to cripple their future recovery.”

“Precisely. For the benefit of our cult, we must navigate them toward a path of total mutual annihilation.”

“What is your recommendation?”

“We must eliminate one of the incoming factors—either the Qingcheng Sect or the Tang Clan. That is the only way to preserve the balance of power.”

“Which target do you propose?”

Jang Cheonbi responded without a second of hesitation, as if the choice were obvious.

“The Qingcheng Sect.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon, who had anticipated a moment of deliberation, cast a curious glance at Jang Cheonbi’s swift conviction.

“On what grounds?”

“The Qingcheng Sect brings greater numbers, but the Tang Clan holds the edge in raw lethality. Most importantly, the Tang Clan is a pack of wolves. They are the sort to ensure everyone dies with them if they fall. Given the lethal nature of their toxins and projectile arts, I believe striking the Qingcheng Sect will result in fewer casualties for our cult.”

“I am well aware of how treacherous those Tang Clan dogs can be. My assessment matches yours. Their venoms are far too unpredictable. A single lapse in judgment could cost us dearly.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon picked up his teacup once more and delivered his command in a heavy, low-pitched voice.

“Launch an assault on the Qingcheng Sect reinforcements. Make the necessary arrangements and transmit the orders.”

“As you command.”

Jang Cheonbi exited the chamber in a hurry to execute the directive.

◇◇◇◆◇◇◇
“Phoenix Ridge is just ahead of us.”

The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader nodded at the report from the scout provided by Jong Yo, who was following a short distance behind.

“Signal the troops to prepare themselves.”

After giving the hushed order, the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader moved toward the front where the Black Slaughter Sect held the vanguard.

“Hey, Sect Leader.”

At the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader’s call, Bi Dong, the Black Slaughter Sect Leader, turned around with a look of irritation.

“What do you want?”

“I am told we are approaching Phoenix Ridge.”

“That is correct. That peak over there, currently masked by the mist—Phoenix Ridge lies just below it.”

Bi Dong gestured toward the mountain peak.

“How about a brief interval for rest? The men are exhausted from marching since daybreak.”

“Hmph, whining about weariness after such a short trek?”

Bi Dong let out a mocking sneer.

“A brutal conflict is imminent. A moment of respite would serve us well.”

Bi Dong surveyed the surroundings at the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader’s suggestion. It was true that everyone appeared drained. Even the disciples of his own Black Slaughter Sect, while trying to remain stoic, were breathing with difficulty.

Bi Dong looked over at Cho Seo-ga, the Moon Seal Manor Leader, seeking his silent input. When Cho Seo-ga gave a subtle nod, Bi Dong spoke as though he were granting a grand mercy.

“Half a gak. We cannot afford any further delay.”

“That is sufficient. You have my thanks.”

The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader expressed her appreciation and moved back.

Bi Dong watched the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader and her group with a disdainful snort.

‘Nothing but cannon fodder.’

The majority of the battalions sent to Phoenix Ridge consisted of the Ten Thousand Poison Valley, Red Flame Clan, Phantom Spirit House, and other factions that had been instrumental in the early rise of Huicheon. Now, having lost much of their strength and status, they were pushed to the periphery of power. More importantly, the high command of Huicheon viewed them with suspicion.

‘The reports indicate the enemy’s primary strength is grouped at Phoenix Ridge. When the clash begins, ensure those groups are placed in the front lines.’

The instructions given by Tae Bo just before the operation began replayed in his mind.

Bi Dong’s eyes drifted back to the Moon Seal Manor Leader.

Cho Seo-ga was the only other person present who fully understood the reality: Phoenix Ridge was a stage designed to expend the lives of the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader’s followers.

Catching his gaze in that moment, Cho Seo-ga offered a knowing look.

They had already reached a secret understanding to shove the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader’s subordinates into the fire and retreat if the tide turned against them.

“Sect Leader.”

“What is it?”

“A gift from Moon Seal Manor.”

“Haha! I wondered what you were lugging around—it is spirits.”

Bi Dong gave a dry laugh at the ceramic bottle held by his subordinate.

Looking around, he saw that alcohol was already being poured and distributed throughout the ranks. He saw no harm in it. A bit of drink before a massacre could serve to steady the nerves.

“I didn’t take you for the hospitable type.”

Bi Dong glanced at the Moon Seal Manor Leader’s rugged face, accepted the cup from his follower, and paused just as he was about to drink, a sudden thought occurring to him.

“This wine… you are certain it originated from Moon Seal Manor?”

“Pardon? Yes, it certainly did.”

“It wasn’t provided by the Ten Thousand Poison Valley or any other faction, was it?”

“No, it was prepared specifically by the Moon Seal Manor.”

“Very well.”

Bi Dong nodded and swallowed the liquid in a single gulp.

“It doesn’t live up to the presentation. It has strength, but the texture is too thick and…”

His critique of the surprisingly poor flavor was cut short as his expression suddenly froze.

Beneath the trail of burning liquid moving down his throat, he detected an alien presence.

Something entirely distinct from the alcohol began to invade his internal systems immediately.

‘A toxin?’

Bi Dong’s eyes grew wide with terror.

He desperately tried to circulate his internal energy to suppress the poison spreading through his veins. However, the venom was far more aggressive than anything he had ever encountered.

“Kuaaagh!”

“Aaaagh!”

The disciples of the Black Slaughter Sect who had partaken in the wine began clutching their throats and chests, collapsing in agonizing spasms. Realizing that only his own men were falling in screams despite the Moon Seal Manor’s wine being shared by many, Bi Dong bared his teeth in fury.

“M-Moon Seal Manor… for what reason?”

His voice was a mixture of rage and sheer disbelief.

“Sect Leader, indeed. You are holding out quite impressively.”

Turning his head, he saw the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader standing nearby with a mocking grin.

“Y-You traitorous bitch…”

“Do not overexert yourself. That is a poison far beyond your ability to manage.”

The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader ridiculed Bi Dong’s frantic attempt to use his inner power, then offered a radiant smile to the approaching Moon Seal Manor Leader.

“Thanks to your assistance, Manor Leader, this proceeded without a hitch.”

“Think nothing of it. We were merely the ones delivering the beverages.”

Cho Seo-ga laughed, playfully shaking the bottle in his hand.

“Y-You backstabbers…”

Bi Dong glared with murderous intent at Cho Seo-ga but could only cough up a spray of dark, clotted blood.

“Backstabbers? That is a bit dramatic. Moon Seal Manor was never truly allied with you to begin with.”

Faced with Cho Seo-ga’s frigid stare, Bi Dong finally grasped the truth—he and the rest of the Huicheon leadership had walked straight into a trap laid by the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader.

Shaking with the weight of his humiliation, Bi Dong suddenly threw himself forward in a final assault. The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader and Cho Seo-ga, who had been waiting for this final outburst, struck him simultaneously.

Even in perfect health, he could not have survived a combined attack from both of them; in his poisoned state, death was a certainty. Resisting to the end, Bi Dong swung his arms wildly, but his vision blurred as the toxin took hold, and he slumped to the ground.

“Your subordinates are waiting for you in the afterlife. Be gone.”

The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader drove her hand into Bi Dong’s ribcage, tore his heart from his chest, and let out a shout.

Bi Dong fell over, dead before he could even utter a final cry.

“Arrogant maggot.”

Thinking back on how Bi Dong had looked down on her forces while hiding under the protection of the leadership, the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader squeezed her hand, crushing the heart within it.

“We must move quickly. We are at risk of an attack if we linger.”

Cho Seo-ga was certain that Emei Sect scouts were nearby, watching the events unfold. The Blood Slaughter Faction Leader was equally aware of the danger.

“Agreed. We depart immediately.”

The forces under the Blood Slaughter Faction Leader confirmed that the Black Slaughter Sect disciples were all deceased and began a massive withdrawal.

The news of her sudden betrayal traveled swiftly to the commanders waiting at Phoenix Ridge—and to the Emei Sect.

◇◇◇◆◇◇◇
“How much further must we travel?”

Jeong Hye, the Emei Sect disciple acting as a guide for the Qingcheng Sect relief force led by Do Hyun, answered with respect.

“Once we pass that ancient pine tree ahead, there is a hidden path. Following it will lead us to our destination shortly.”

“And how long until we reach the front?”

“Within two gak.”

“That is soon. We have a small window of time.”

Do Hyun gave a nod, and Jin Hyun, standing at his side, pointed toward the exhausted disciples.

“A brief rest would be beneficial, senior brother.”

“I was thinking the same. Tae Mu.”

A thick-set, middle-aged man hurried toward them at Do Hyun’s summons.

“Yes, senior uncle.”

“Let the men rest for a moment.”

“As you wish.”

“But maintain a strict watch, just to be safe.”

“I understand. I was already in the process of…”

Tae Mu’s pleasant tone died away as his face suddenly became rigid.

“Senior uncle.”

At Tae Mu’s hushed warning, Do Hyun and Jin Hyun turned at the same time.

A group of warriors was rounding the very pine tree Jeong Hye had just pointed out.

“Are these acquaintances of yours?”

Do Hyun asked, but Jeong Hye shook her head in confusion.

“I have no idea. I have never seen them.”

A low groan escaped Do Hyun’s lips.

“Then they are foes. Everyone, to arms!”

At Do Hyun’s command, the Qingcheng Sect disciples, who had been preparing to sit, drew their blades in a single, metallic chime.

“I expected you to be swift, but you are later than I anticipated. I was beginning to grow weary of waiting.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon cast a freezing smile over the assembled Qingcheng Sect disciples.

‘Huicheon possesses a master of this caliber?’

Cold sweat began to form on Do Hyun’s back as he attempted to gauge the strength of the North Heaven Sword Demon. The man’s presence was staggering—comparable to standing alone against a violent ocean gale.

“Who stands before us?”

Do Hyun asked, attempting to project a sense of calm he did not feel.

“The North Heaven Sword Demon.”

“Ah.”

Both Do Hyun and Jin Hyun let out a sharp intake of breath at the name.

The reputation of the North Heaven Sword Demon resonated throughout the world of martial arts; his notoriety from the conflicts in Jiangnan had been blown into legend, with some rumors depicting him as a monstrous entity with three heads and six arms.

“I was unaware that the Heavenly Demon Cult had formed an alliance with Huicheon.”

“It is no alliance. It is simply that this struggle is becoming far too one-sided for my liking.”

Do Hyun immediately understood the objective of the North Heaven Sword Demon—and the Heavenly Demon Cult.

“You seek a double suicide of the factions.”

“You are quite perceptive for a monk.”

“It will not go as smoothly as you envision.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon grinned with genuine amusement at Do Hyun’s freezing glare.

“Is that so? The conclusion is already written, but you intend to struggle regardless, don’t you? Enough talk—come and face me.”

The North Heaven Sword Demon unsheathed his blade with absolute confidence.

The very air around him shifted the moment his hand gripped the hilt.

Do Hyun’s expression grew grim as he looked past the leader to the Heavenly Demon Cult warriors waiting for the signal to strike.

The North Heaven Sword Demon was terrifying enough on his own, but the killing intent radiating from his followers was equally formidable.

‘Immeasurable Buddha!’

Do Hyun closed his eyes for a split second, reciting a silent prayer, before snapping them open with resolve.

“Attack!”