Reincarnation Sword God

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Heavenly Realm

Black Prince Nara Suyuan was a sturdy man with distinct features. He appeared to be in his late thirties, his solid build and skeleton clearly indicating he was a martial artist. The slightly tanned skin typical of the Southern Barbarian people also left an impression.

However, what amazed me even more than his appearance was his aura.

Nara Suyuan’s energy was incredibly strong. He was in no way inferior to Dongbang Mu-gyeol with just his energy alone; it felt as if mountainous power was latent within him. He was known for his expertise in the fist, so once he unleashed his martial arts, it would surely display tremendous might. He was undoubtedly an extraordinary master hard to find in the world.

‘I didn’t expect to find such a powerful martial artist in the Southern Barbarians…’

By any measure, he was on par with the peak masters of the current martial world. As I marveled internally, Dongbang Mu-gyeol spoke something in the Southern Barbarian language.

“&@ㅛ$#@%#& …”

“#*%&@%&?”

“^%$#%…”

“……”

Aw, this is frustrating. I can’t understand a word.

I wished I had prepared something to comprehend the Southern Barbarian language; as it stood, I had no knowledge of it whatsoever. Even if Dongbang Mu-gyeol was cracking jokes, I had no means to know. While Dongbang Mu-gyeol and Nara Suyuan seemed to be having an intense conversation, mostly Nara Suyuan was indifferent while Dongbang Mu-gyeol appeared desperate.

Then suddenly, Nara Suyuan looked at me and said,

“Are you from the Council of the White Lotus Sect?”

Central Plains language!

I felt a surge of relief, but also a hint of wariness. I couldn’t fathom why he was addressing me in fluent Central Plains language out of the blue. I replied slowly,

“That is correct.”

“Does this mean the White Lotus Sect takes such an interest in our affairs?”

I thought for a moment before responding,

“How could someone like me dare to fathom the profound intentions of the leader? I am merely a Messenger.”

Nara Suyuan replied with a wry smile,

“A shrewd answer. I find it hard to believe the rumors of your sect holding back.”

“If I have disturbed the spirit of your country, I apologize.”

“Not at all. May we both get what we desire.”

After our conversation ended, we followed the Royal Guard towards a specific direction. We twisted and turned through the vast palace gardens until we reached a hill overlooking the city. The fresh breeze lingered in this garden where red-cloaked beings stood.

‘Three of them?’

The three figures in red cloaks wore peculiar masks and enveloped themselves in an ominous air. Rather than simply wearing cloaks, their apparel seemed to wrap their bodies like a shroud. Dongbang Mu-gyeol, noticing them, cautiously sent me a telepathic message.

[Stop having random thoughts. Those are the Zhuyong Tribe, capable of communicating mentally.]

[What?]

[From now on, they’ll be able to read our thoughts that we share via telepathy.]

[……!!]

I was taken aback.

‘They can eavesdrop on thoughts?’

From Dongbang Mu-gyeol’s tone, it seemed even trivial musings would be discerned by the Zhuyong Tribe. If that were the case, they must possess extraordinary mental abilities. As I concentrated on calming my mind using the Lightning Method, one of the three members of the tribe standing in the middle spoke,

“A human I haven’t seen before. Who are you?”

As all eyes turned to me, I cleared my throat and replied,

“I am Yeodong-bin, a Messenger from the leader of the White Lotus Sect, here in the Southern Barbarian lands.”

“Yeodong-bin…? That’s a title for a great immortal, is it not? A pseudonym?”

“……”

“Why have you come to our trading spot?”

“This transaction is crucial for the future of my sect. Naturally, I couldn’t leave it exclusively to Dongbang Mu-gyeol, so I wish to participate as a messenger for the Council.”

Upon hearing my answer, the Zhuyong Tribe member appeared to be rolling his eyes behind the mask. He glanced at his companions before continuing,

“You’re quite an unusual human. Your thoughts are unreadable. It’s not a technique to create a barrier; how is this possible?”

As he spoke, Dongbang Mu-gyeol looked at me with wide eyes, astonished. I couldn’t tell if the Zhuyong Tribe’s failure to read my mind was due to deception or truth, but I decided to play it cool.

“It might just be that your abilities are lacking.”

The Zhuyong Tribe member fell silent for a moment before saying,

“That could also be true.”

As he rolled his eyes in contemplation, he continued,

“Did you bring what we requested?”

“It’s here.”

Then, Dongbang Mu-gyeol stepped forward with the two pairs of Black and White Lotus he had, presenting them to the Zhuyong Tribe. After receiving the lotuses, they took a long while to scrutinize them, and then, in an uncomfortable and peculiar tone, they asked,

“… This isn’t the sacred lotus Nara Suyuan gave. What is this?”

It was a disconcerting tone, as if the being weren’t human, almost offensive and eerie. Seeing Dongbang Mu-gyeol’s tense expression, it seemed he couldn’t find the words to reply. I had no choice but to intervene.

“That’s an upgraded sacred lotus. Consuming both the black and white lotuses will dramatically enhance your internal energy and grant resistance against curses. It’s a sensitive matter for my sect, so please do not disclose this.”

“……”

The Zhuyong Tribe settled their emotions and said,

“Does that mean the effects are even better?”

“I believe it should have good resistance against curses.”

“… You aren’t just some nobody. You seem to accurately discern the elixir’s real effects…”

Muttering to themselves, the Zhuyong Tribe finally said,

“Very well. We will begin interpreting the ancient texts you requested.”

“How long will it take?”

“Three days will suffice.”

After the conversation ended, the three members of the Zhuyong Tribe quickly departed. They were likely headed to the library within Nara Suyuan’s palace. As I glanced at their retreating figures, Dongbang Mu-gyeol let out a sigh.

“I apologize. I was too nervous to speak.”

“A scatterbrain like you getting nervous?”

“Damn… Don’t mock me. They came out with quite a mild attitude. At first, I thought their mental abilities would drain my energy.”

Complaining, Dongbang Mu-gyeol genuinely appeared wary of the Zhuyong Tribe. Meanwhile, Baek Won-sangma, who stood behind him, had completely stiffened, his expression unchanged. I couldn’t really feel it, but for an ordinary human, it seemed the mental abilities of the Zhuyong Tribe were considerably daunting.

I addressed Dongbang Mu-gyeol.

“Just a reminder, that newly enhanced sacred lotus is classified. If it becomes known that you leaked this secret to them, both you and I will face severe punishment from the sect.”

“Urgh…”

Dongbang Mu-gyeol looked somewhat guilty, then sent me a telepathic message.

[Quit the pressure and let’s talk practical alternatives.]

[What alternatives?]

[Help me get rid of those two monkeys at an appropriate time.]

[……]

It seemed Dongbang Mu-gyeol was contemplating eliminating Baek Won-sangma, who was hired as his guard. Even so, it wasn’t a trivial thought to execute someone who had followed them all the way to a distant land; I found myself quite baffled. Regardless of what was said, it showed that Dongbang Mu-gyeol was still a martial artist of the demonic path.

[That’s not something to discuss now. We’ll find the right time later.]

[Got it.]

Following the Royal Guard, we eventually arrived at the palace accommodations. Apparently, since this was the royal palace of the largest empire of the Southern Barbarians, the accommodations were quite grand and opulent. Though I had never seen such architecture in my life, it indeed was a refined space that allowed one to rest peacefully. I lay back enjoying the touch of fine silks, thinking,

‘Things are progressing smoothly. However, it seems I took quite a few risks to get here.’

Although Dongbang Mu-gyeol contemplated getting rid of Baek Won-sangma, in reality, I needed to eliminate Dongbang Mu-gyeol too. If he returned to the White Lotus Sect alive, my identity would be exposed, potentially leading them to track me down. To keep my lie from being discovered, I must prevent Dongbang Mu-gyeol from returning to the sect.

However, there were issues with killing him. Although Dongbang Mu-gyeol held no formal status in the sect, he was engaged in a top-secret mission entrusted by the leader. If he were to go a long time without contact, the White Lotus Sect would undoubtedly dispatch someone to look into the matter in the Southern Barbarians. Eventually, they would uncover the truth for sure.

“……”

But there was a way. Although it seemed like a dilemma, it was truly a puzzle that could be unraveled. I considered a viable plan but sighed over another matter.

“Cheh, the Zhuyong Tribe seems to be keeping a close watch on me…”

The last glance I’d caught from them was overtly suspicious. If the Zhuyong Tribe were wary of me, I might not be able to gain the right to inspect the Tower of Muwang, which was originally Dongbang Mu-gyeol’s privilege. I had come all this way primarily to see the Tower of Muwang, so that would be a loss.

After contemplating for a while, I suddenly jumped off the bed.

“Let’s move.”

My instincts told me that to increase the odds, I needed to take some action. First, I pulled out the Obsidian from the pouch at my waist and processed just enough for my needs.

I quickly headed towards where Nara Suyuan was, but the Royal Guards denied me entry, stating that he was unavailable due to personal matters. Unable to meet Nara Suyuan, I promptly requested to be taken to the library.

The ancient library existing in the Southern Barbarian lands. There, the three members of the Zhuyong Tribe were quietly seated, reading ancient books. I approached them and said,

“I have something to discuss.”

The apparent leader of the Zhuyong Tribe rose from his seat.

“If you disrupt our work like this, it’ll take longer.”

“I apologize. However, I have something to discuss unrelated to what we talked about earlier.”

“Speak.”

I took a deep breath and approached him. Then, I showed him the back of my hand, which had been wrapped in bandages. As the grayish pattern gleamed upon exposing it, the Zhuyong Tribe members looked significantly surprised.

“……!!”

“What is this?!”

With a grin at their startled expressions, I declared,

“This is the right to use the Tower of Muwang one time. Are you not the brethren of the prophet of Astana?”

Then, the member standing in the middle mentally transmitted words like a prophet rather than speaking through a human voice.

[Only the king of our tribe can grant such a right. Have you met our king?]

“I don’t know if he’s a king, but he indeed granted me this right.”

[You must be joking. Is it possible for the king to grant such rights to a mere human…?]

The Zhuyong Tribe members wore expressions of disbelief. From their tone, I could tell they looked down on humans as inferior beings. They might engage in transactions, but there was a strong sense of superiority in believing themselves vastly superior.

The member standing on the left queried,

[Why didn’t you speak about this before?]

I shrugged.

“We are not complete allies. We’re merely mutually cautious acquaintances.”

[Understood. So what do you want from us?]

“That is…”

I stated my conditions to the Zhuyong Tribe. They seemed to be exchanging thoughts telepathically and then responded,

[Those two conditions are simple enough. Providing them isn’t a problem; however, the lack of a reason to fulfill them is troublesome.]

I replied cleverly,

“I happen to have more of the Black and White Lotus I just provided. I can offer an extra pair for each one. And considering my endeavor to exercise royal rights, I wonder about the implications if you do not assist me from your position.”

[Hmm… A negotiator, are you? I find that interesting.]

The center member of the Zhuyong Tribe rolled his eyes.

[We accept your proposal.]

“Thank you.”

[Should you betray us, you’ll deeply regret it.]

After concluding the additional negotiations with the Zhuyong Tribe, I returned to my room.

The next day, I visited Nara Suyuan early in the morning. This time, he seemed to be in a good mood and graciously agreed to meet me. It appeared that the Southern Barbarian court did not hold daily audiences, allowing for ample personal time for the king.

“It’s quite curious that a senior from the council wishes to see me so eagerly. What is it about?”

I gazed intently at the Southern Barbarian’s greatest warlord and emperor, Nara Suyuan. Staring at a hero known as the Black Prince for a considerable while, I slowly replied,

“I heard from Dongbang Mu-gyeol that you have frequent exchanges with the nations of the West.”

“Indeed. Their technology is advanced, so rejecting it is not an option. It’s been immensely helpful.”

“Actually, I am interested in Western firearms and products. I came to inquire about how advanced their technologies truly are.”

Nara Suyuan burst into hearty laughter.

“Hahaha!! You dare to ask about national secrets? Such matters, they pertain deeply to military affairs, and you presume to inquire of a king like me?”

Although he seemed jovial on the surface, I detected a hint of anger surfacing in his tone. I quickly sensed his emotional state and added,

“Our White Lotus Sect targets the Ming Empire as a potential great threat.”

“……”

Nara Suyuan’s expression shifted to one of scrutiny. I continued,

“And what I’ve recently learned is that the Ming Empire has allied with a nefarious cult and is performing human sacrifice rituals. Ultimately, they harbor ambitions to open gates to dominate throughout the world. Are you aware of this, Your Majesty?”

Nara Suyuan released a hum of contemplation.

“Hmm… I have not heard of it. But it does sound too outrageous.”

“How can you trust such claims?”

“If you gaze into this Obsidian, you will find the truth in my words.”

“……?”

As I presented the Obsidian, the Royal Guards suddenly blocked my path. Other guards swarmed in, lining up and aiming their firearms at me.

Chwa-chwa-chwa-chak

Their movement was swift and orderly, indicating they were well-trained elite soldiers.

As the tension escalated in an instant, Nara Suyuan waved his hand.

“Stand down.”

The soldiers reassuredly stepped back. Nara Suyuan leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand as he spoke,

“You are quite an outrageous individual. What is it you seek?”

“For you to trust my words.”

“Hmmm… Trusting is often the hardest thing to do.”

I smiled bitterly.

“I continually feel that way.”

“… Very well. Then, come with me, Sawasvati.”

As Nara Suyuan’s words ended, a beautiful maiden with a radiant smile stepped forward. She had an immaculate and delicate face, appearing to be a perfectly formed young woman in her late teens, with an impressively curvaceous figure.

“Who is she?”

“She is my concubine.”

Sawasvati, the maiden, stood beside Nara Suyuan, who glanced at her briefly.

“Take the Obsidian and verify it for yourself.”

“Yes.”

As Sawasvati accepted the Obsidian, memories flowed into her. She seemed momentarily shocked by the unfamiliar memories, but soon composed her expression. Turning to Nara Suyuan, she said,

“Your Majesty, this one is indeed walking a monumental path.”

“Oh…”

“I believe we can trust him.”

Only then did Nara Suyuan’s curiosity surface,

“Let me have a look too.”

Pab!

As the memories flowed into Nara Suyuan, it wasn’t the wide-ranging recollections of my life that he received but a concise summary focused on the Imperial Palace’s dynamics. It included what I’d discovered while battling against the palace and how I’d ultimately met my end, but key secrets, like those about Cheonan, were deliberately omitted.

‘But that should be enough.’

Just the memories of my repeated cycles were sufficient to impel the ruler of a nation to vigilance. Just as expected, Nara Suyuan’s expression turned grave. He spoke with a serious demeanor,

“Are you saying you are a warrior who fights to bring down the Ming Empire by repeatedly facing death?”

“That’s correct.”

“Hmm.”

“As you’ve seen, the current emperor of the Ming is deranged. He would not hesitate to sacrifice a third of Central Plains to fulfill his ambition. If he were to act on his ambitions and commence his conquest, how would he treat the people of other nations?”

“……”

Nara Suyuan’s expression transformed into one of concern. To stoke his anxiety further, I emphasized,

“A massacre will occur. And as you have seen, a Ming Empire empowered cannot be countered merely by the strength of Ayutthaya.”

“… That is indeed true. Against an existence like a Daemon, firearms would be of no use.”

Nara Suyuan sighed before asking,

“So you mean to say my objective is to move against the Ming Empire from now?”

“That is correct. Also, please share what you know about their firearms and new technologies. Maybe there lies a clue to counter the Ming Empire.”

“Hmmm.”

Nara Suyuan pondered for a moment and then said,

“I’ve heard that the interpretation at the library will be done in three days. Once you’ve seen what you need to, come and find me. We shall introduce you to a key individual.”

“Thank you.”

I exited the audience chamber with a flutter of excitement.

Though it was an impromptu action, everything unfolded exactly as I had planned.