Twenty Thousand

"Master… You… you must be joking. I wouldn't dare question your strength, but…"

Han Seungho's voice trailed off. He hesitated, the words lingering on his tongue.

"You think I'd lose?" I asked, my voice calm and unwavering.

"That's…" His expression suddenly shifted, turning grim. "I've heard rumors about the one leading this relentless expansion… I can't believe they've already reached our borders." His voice trembled, his fear bleeding into every word.

I studied him closely, and to my surprise, Han Seungho was terrified.

"Who is he?" I asked, my heart tightening.

To be honest, the name of the empire had already given me an idea. Please… please let it be Nam Ji-Ho.

He met my gaze and let out a heavy sigh. "Master… Please, do not fight this man." His voice wavered, yet there was something firm, something desperate beneath his plea.