CHAPTER 73

"…Isn't this too much?"

Jung Yeonshin asked after a brief silence. Even fifty taels of silver was an enormous sum.

It was enough for someone to establish a household and live idly for years. Yet, the compensation listed beyond that was far greater.

'A silk robe of celestial silkworm threads and the martial arts of the Divine Sword Squad's leader…'

There is a phrase, 'priceless treasure', which means a treasure beyond value.

Clothing that could not be torn by a blade and martial arts from the highest echelons of the martial world were such treasures.

The same applied to the high-grade spiritual elixirs that the Desolate Fortress deemed top-tier.

"Too much? Not at all."

The Chief Administrator slightly shrugged his broad shoulders.

"If it were only for the Dragon-Phoenix Gathering, that might be true. But your accomplishment in annihilating the Hwangbo branch family with three Blue-level warriors is significant. I heard it was thanks to your unique martial arts. Even one Blue-level warrior is a critical asset, and dispersing minimal force to take down the branch family was a crucial third factor."

"…"

"You seem unfamiliar with receiving such accolades. This is quite amusing."

A deep smile spread across his face. The Chief Administrator seemed to be more genial than he appeared.

"Shall I address the second point? You single-handedly eradicated six branches of the Blood Flame Cult in Xuzhou. The blood fiends in the area were exterminated. Even the local authorities in Xuzhou sent a letter, praising Desolate Fortress as the 'Divine Sword of the Great Ming'."

His expression showed immense satisfaction.

"Securing influence over local government is a key objective of this city. A single Blue-level warrior managing to subjugate the branch leader? That sets an example for the martial warriors of our city, who often see local administrators as mere innkeepers. This is a deed worthy of wide recognition and significant rewards."

He was praising him directly. Jung Yeonshin's expression stiffened slightly, the extravagant compliment feeling awkward and unfamiliar.

The Chief Administrator observed him closely and spoke again.

"This was your first journey into the martial world as a Blue-level warrior, correct? You'll need to grow accustomed to it. As a Blue-level master of this city, and as the direct disciple of our Lord, even more so."

"…Thank you for the advice."

"It was nothing."

The Chief Administrator chuckled lightly and continued.

"Among your recorded accomplishments, the first to be mentioned is the incident in Clear Night Valley of South Zhili. You intervened in the war between the Namgoong clan and the Blood Flame Cult. You acted as a lawful protector of the Great Ming's laws, as designated by the Imperial Family. Since the fight involved a heretical sect, intervention was justifiable without question. Hence, the Namgoong clan, mere aristocrats, should have shown proper courtesy."

Wooong.

In that moment, a surge of energy emanated from his body. It was a level where one's mind and internal energy moved in unison.

Jung Yeonshin was inwardly startled.

This meant the Chief Administrator's mastery of internal energy reached the Black-level masters of Desolate Fortress.

"These lowly mongrels ignored their duty? Such is the way of the so-called martial families of the Great Sect. They see our city as a thorn in their side. This is because the livelihood we protect rarely aligns with the interests of martial elites."

His words, laced with power, continued.

"They wished to kill you without dirtying their own hands, a rising master destined to become the Fortress' future sword of justice."

His expression grew stern, his face terrifying even as he recounted past events.

Jung Yeonshin accepted a teacup handed to him by an attendant.

Bringing the cup to his lips, he waited for the Chief Administrator's anger to subside.

This was his first time trying the highly praised Longjing tea, yet he felt no particular enjoyment.

"I must not be suited for tea ceremonies."

This tea required a leisurely appreciation, a realization that emphasized how distant such hobbies were from his life.

"I apologize for my brief lapse."

The Chief Administrator slightly bowed his head before speaking.

"Though you slew numerous blood fiends, our city gained even more significant justification. The Namgoong clan will serve as vanguards against the Thirteen Heavens.

"Are you saying we'll seek their cooperation?"

At Jung Yeonshin's question, the Chief Administrator shook his head.

"I mean we've gained justification to compel them by force. To oppress a righteous sect requires consideration of public opinion, but this incident allows us to replace Namgoong's leadership. Those who neglected their duty toward you will be dealt with according to the laws of the martial world."

Even as his true energy subsided, his laughter remained chilling.

The "laws of the martial world" invoked in this context were evident. It meant asserting dominance as a superior force.

The plan was to seize control of the Namgoong clan and use them as a battering ram against the Thirteen Heavens.

'Using the pretext of avenging the Lord's direct disciple…'

Jung Yeonshin felt the winter of the martial world. It was the depth of winter, despite this being a plan from his own side.

He recalled the words of the Blood Flame Cult's leader about the chaotic times of the Central Plains. Desolate Fortress was already deeply embedded in the great upheaval.

The Chief Administrator, amused, commented.

"'Borrowing a knife to kill others', 'using poison to cure poison'—these sayings apply here. They dared to use the Blood Flame Cult's blade against you. They'll have no complaints if the same is done to them."

Jung Yeonshin set the teacup down.

"That, too, is part of the mission, I presume?"

"Indeed. Rather than outright war, it will likely be a life-and-death duel. The justification will bind the Namgoong clan while targeting only their leadership. We've been negotiating with skilled warriors from their branch families. They understand that defying our Fortress means annihilation. If they wish to preserve their clan, cooperation is their only option."

"…May I ask when this will take place?"

The Chief Administrator smiled faintly and replied.

"It's not yet time to provide a definite answer. This is a mission where failure cannot be tolerated. If you wish to volunteer, I suggest focusing on your recovery. There may even be competition for support. The city's warriors are driven by honor and won't miss the opportunity to witness and defeat Namgoong martial arts. A contest for the position could occur."

"Thank you for your guidance. What of the main branch of the Blood Flame Cult…?"

"It's late. Let's address that in a formal written report alongside your accomplishments. The reward for that matter will likely be beyond my jurisdiction."

With a gentle smile, the Chief Administrator subtly dismissed him.

"The silver and celestial silk robe will be delivered to the Radiant Demon Squad's Pavilion soon. As the Divine Sword Squad's Leader is currently away, we will send the Lord's sealed orders from our department upon his return. What of the elixir?"

"I will consume it once my recovery is complete."

"Very well. It will be entrusted to the pharmacy under Radiant Demon Squad Pavilion's auspices. Also…"

As Jung Yeonshin rose to leave, the Chief Administrator stopped him, wearing a faint, enigmatic smile.

"As a word of caution, it may be wise to steer clear of Desolate Ma Clan."

"Why…?"

Jung Yeonshin looked at the Chief Administrator, puzzled. It was unusual to discuss someone's maternal family so directly. It seemed like crossing a line.

The Chief Administrator waved his hand dismissively and explained.

"I fear you might misunderstand. This is a friendly warning. Prominent noble families often have factions within them. Your recent martial exploits have stirred significant waves there. There's little more I can say since it's not my family matter."

"…Thank you for the advice."

Jung Yeonshin bowed slightly, his hands forming a polite gesture.

The Chief Administrator returned the courtesy, scratching his head.

For his age, stature, and martial prowess, his mannerisms seemed out of place. It appeared to be his natural disposition.

"Take care on your way."

The Chief Administrator sent him off with a broad smile.

* * *

On the Way Back.

There were five days until the summer solstice. This year's June full moon felt more like early summer than late spring. Twilight was already falling.

A streak of crimson sunlight faintly touched his sleeve, a sunset that dyed his mood with unease.

'Ma Clan… they keep holding me back. Hearing warnings about my maternal family from others.'

Jung Yeonshin adjusted his collar, pondering. The breeze brushing his cheek and collarbone was quite chilly.

Every time he completed a mission and returned, he had to be mindful of his behavior.

It was an unpleasant task. His time was already insufficient to focus solely on his achievements and reputation.

'I made it clear to my grandfather.'

He had firmly declared not to use their blood ties to manipulate him. Hadn't he decisively stated this after his duel with Ma Se-in?

Yet, his lineage was revealed as a matter of ceremony.

The way people looked at Jung Yeonshin had changed.

From a Martial Family in the Countryside, to a Prominent Prodigy of Desolate Ma Clan,

No longer just a warrior who could establish a household, Jung Yeonshin was now inevitably tied to the movements of a prestigious noble family.

The earlier mention by his senior, Radiant Demon Squad, about conflicts between noble families only reinforced this.

This could not continue.

Family matters were never limited to individuals. He might get dragged into unrelated feuds.

Time was running out. Troubles had to be avoided in advance.

...Fortunately, a suitable measure came to mind.

Because of this—

"Yeonsin!"

A handsome boy came running toward him, visibly urgent.

A familiar white-robed martial artist, whose movement technique was notably refined. He was a distant relative whom Jung Yeonshin had defeated twice.

There was no way he could be forgotten.

'Ma Se-in.'

The grandson of his grandfather, Ma Yeonjeok, and heir to Desolate Ma Clan.

One of the causes of his unrest had appeared. It was as if fate had casually laid this encounter before him.

Something serious must have happened. Ma Se-in had come to him as soon as Jung Yeonshin had regained consciousness. Perhaps his careless uncle, Ma Jin, had mentioned something.

It happened to be right before the day's end.

Jung Yeonshin took a step forward and asked,

"What do you need?"

"Wait, let me catch... my breath."

Ma Se-in, who had come within three paces, steadied his breathing.

Though his internal energy exceeded Jung Yeonshin's, he had clearly run for a long time. Being raised in a different environment, he had probably consumed spiritual elixirs like meals.

Jung Yeonshin gave him three breaths' time.

"Now speak."

"Well, um..."

Contrary to his usual pride, Ma Se-in looked hesitant.

Jung Yeonshin gestured silently, urging him to continue. With a sigh, Ma Se-in finally spoke.

"The elders of the family want to see you."

"The elders?"

"The senior members, and my mother..."

"Let's go. It seems urgent—should we head there now?"

Ma Se-in looked somewhat surprised. He hadn't expected such a willing response.

The two began walking together.

Jung Yeonshin asked,

"Aren't they outside the main city?"

"The main family isn't, but many members followed my grandfather here. They're all staying in the city now. They've taken over an entire pavilion since my grandfather is aiming for a seat in the Elder Council of Desolate Fortress. We're showing our support."

Ma Se-in's tone had softened considerably. He'd been like this ever since the coming-of-age ceremony.

They exchanged a few more words, during which Ma Se-in kept glancing at Jung Yeonshin's profile.

"I heard you suffered serious internal injuries."

"And?"

"But your core energy feels the same. No, it seems even stronger. How could that be? Did you really recover so quickly?"

"Rather than that."

Jung Yeonshin avoided the question and changed the subject.

"Calling me now—does my grandfather know about this?"

"…No. He's in the Lord's office."

Ma Se-in also seemed to sense something was off but didn't seem to know the details.

Jung Yeonshin's lips curled slightly.

"Your forceful strikes left an impression."

He casually tossed the remark, recalling the Infinite Blossom Fist Strike that he frequently relied upon.

"You said the noble families practice dozens of martial arts. Do the retainers use different techniques from yours?"

"Of course."

"Interesting."

That was the end of the conversation. Jung Yeonshin said no more.

They silently walked until they arrived at the pavilion where the elders of Desolate Ma Clan were staying.

Ma Se-in signaled to the gatekeepers and spoke.

"We're here."

Even the gate was enormous, comparable to Radiant Demon Squad's pavilion.

Though borrowed, its grandeur hinted at the family's immense influence.

'Hmm.'

As soon as he stepped inside, Jung Yeonshin felt countless eyes on him.

It wasn't just a few—they came from all directions.

It was as if the gazes themselves carried energy, creating intense pressure.

This meeting was clearly unavoidable.

The courtyard had been turned into a banquet hall, with dozens of people seated.

The noble air unique to prestigious families filled the space. Even a cursory glance revealed that no one present was ordinary.

Among them, one figure stood out.

"You."

A middle-aged woman dressed in a black robe spoke.

Her silk garments were dyed the color of obsidian, and her face—though beautiful—radiated elegance.

She seemed to have cultivated a special internal technique, exuding a noble presence as though overlooking the entire world.

"Are you the child who bears the surname Jung?"

She asked without rising from her seat, emphasizing his surname intentionally. Her intent was somewhat transparent.

Jung Yeonshin did not answer. Instead, he turned to Ma Se-in.

"Is she your mother?"

"…Yes."

Ma Se-in replied reluctantly.