Chapter 303: The Passage to Luoyang (1)

Beggars’ Sect.

A sect affiliated with the Nine Martial Arts Factions.

To be precise, it was more akin to a group of beggars.

‘But in terms of intelligence, there is no one in the entire martial world that can match them.’

Given the sheer number of beggars possessed by the Beggars’ Sect and their omnipresence, it was natural that they would be privy to a vast array of stories and gossip.

And the youth before me…

He was one of the elders of the Beggars’ Sect, better known by his nickname ‘Twelve-Faced Beggar’ than his real name.

‘Ma Hye-ryang.’

Despite his actual age being well over seventy, he maintained such a youthful appearance because of his martial art that allowed him to change his face.

But, what truly interested Jinhyuk was not simply because this man was an elder of the Beggars’ Sect.

‘Meeting him like this really brings back old memories.’

Ma Hye-ryang, while an elder of the Beggars’ Sect, was simultaneously a spy who had turned his back on the orthodox factions to serve the commands of the Cheonma Sect.

In the past, it was this slippery character that had caused much suffering in the martial world.

It was only at the very end that his betrayal was discovered, but by then, it was far too late.

The Martial Alliance had crumbled, and a tragedy unfolded with people backstabbing each other out of suspicion.

Still, after a desperate struggle, conditions to breach the next rank were barely met, but that didn’t mean the memories of that time were forgotten.

‘This time, I will repay the debt incurred back then.’

The corners of Jinhyuk’s lips curled upwards.

Now that he had seen through the opponent’s identity and motives, all initiative in any forthcoming scenario was squarely in his court.

Especially when dealing with someone who possesses the ‘Eye of Gluttony,’ one shouldn’t play games.

Name: Ma Hye-ryang

Gender: Male

Age: 73

Level: 127

Strength 85, Agility 77, Stamina 60, Magic Power 8, Internal Energy 59, Sorcery 171

Unique Ability: Eighteen Dragon Palms

Skills: ‘Human Skin Mask’ Lv35, ‘Poison Making’ Lv34, ‘Taming Whip Technique’ Lv34, ‘Anti-Demon Heart Method’ Lv33…….

[Copy Requirements: Delusion is the element that has decided the rise and fall of humanity. Currently, Ma Hye-ryang is attempting to recruit or eliminate you while concealing his identity. Maintain the illusion that his plans are progressing smoothly while acquiring at least three opportunities or critical pieces of information. If accomplished, you will be able to copy one of Ma Hye-ryang’s unique abilities or skills.]

Indeed, the ‘Eye of Gluttony’ can only be described as overpowered.

Ma Hye-ryang thinks he is perfectly disguised…

‘I’ll play along with the deception and use you thoroughly.’

Pretending to be innocent was something Jinhyuk mastered.

Jinhyuk shrugged nonchalantly.

“There’s room to try a few things. I have a certain expertise when it comes to barriers and arrays.”

“Hmm. Do you really think your so-called expertise will be enough? If you make a mistake and get caught, it will be instant execution.”

“That’s my concern. The question is… what business do you have crossing the city walls without permission at this hour? And why reach out to me as if we’re close?”

A sharp retort.

Granting access too readily could breed suspicion.

A proper push and pull was needed to eventually lower one’s guard.

“Ha ha. I don’t have any ulterior motives. I was just outside collecting alms, and I happened to miss the time to return. If I fail to deliver the quota by dawn, I’d be dead meat at the hands of the boss. I was simply looking for an opportunity to slip back in. And just then, I happened to see you.”

“We both need to get inside then.”

“That’s right.”

Ma Hye-ryang smiled readily, nodding his head.

Believing there was now some rapport, he broached the main topic.

“Actually, I know a secret passage into the city. It’s a place I was going to give up on because it’s too dangerous to go alone. How about it… are you interested?”

The bait was laid out.

Hmm…

While the original plan involved breaking the formation and attempting a new challenge…

With Ma Hye-ryang’s appearance, plans would have to be completely revised.

‘I must seize the opportunity to copy his skills.’

Whatever else, Ma Hye-ryang’s ‘Human Skin Mask’ would be truly advantageous.

Being able to change one’s face is a tremendous benefit in its own right.

‘If I later transform into someone from the Pursuit of the Dead, I could manipulate Chun Yu-seong like a dog.’

The thought of training his temple disciples was electrifying.

“Alright. Let’s do that.”

“That’s great. It would be reassuring to have you join.”

“Ah! Wait. Before we depart, may I ask you one thing?”

“A favor?”

“There is a companion of mine. I was wondering if we could go together. Is that alright?”

“……”

Ma Hye-ryang momentarily displayed a suspicious glance.

Instinctively wary of this new variable.

But it lasted only an instant.

“Let’s do that. Though judging by the mood, you might not proceed without your companion.”

“Thanks. Just wait here for a moment then.”

Jinhyuk moved away from Ma Hye-ryang to find a suitably secluded spot and tucked himself away.

Infusing magic energy…

Whoosh!

The ‘Ring of Braham’ he wore responded.

[The seal is being released.]

“Please! It was a genuine mistake to load the lettuce wrap with wasabi. I’ve already apologized countless times!”

Eris appeared, shielding her head with both hands.

＊＊＊

With explanations of the ins and outs done…

“So, you’re saying you need my help?”

The moment the word ‘favor’ was uttered, Eris’s demeanor and even tone changed completely.

She became as haughty as if poised to pierce the heavens with her pride.

“I’ll be cautious and all, but that guy is very sly. I need you to watch our back just in case.”

“Ah, you want me to utilize the beauty trap.”

“……Huh?”

“It means that you want me to sway him with my beauty and poise, doesn’t it? Well, with my looks, it wouldn’t be surprising if men lost their minds. Indeed, I am like a rose vested with thorns, and yet bees relentlessly buzz around, unaware.”

Eris preened at her reflection in a nearby stream with a sigh of admiration.

Fine… If she wanted to think that way, let her.

Though it seemed more like watching a granddaughter prance around in a talent show…

But there was no need to counter and upset her grace.

“So, you will help?”

“As the one bound by contract speaks so earnestly, how could I turn a blind eye? But, what is due is due.”

Eris extended her palm towards Jinhyuk.

Obviously, it wasn’t gold that the wealthy lord of Ataraxia demanded.

She was simply asking to indulge in her favored tastes.

“Salmon sushi, buckwheat noodles. And cheese pork cutlet on top of that.”

“Make it more interesting.”

“I’ll treat you to mint chocolate from Baskin-Robbins for dessert. A half-gallon size no less.”

“Do you wish to die? When did I ask for poison as a gift?”

“You’re really picky… Alright, you once mentioned wanting to see Lotte World? How about a trip there?”

The mention of an amusement park caused Eris’ pupils to quake.

A recreational spot for humans she had only seen on television.

Unlike the dangerous and forbidding amusement park she knew from within the tower, this place was a symbol of never-ending laughter.

“Snow…”

“Huh?”

“Snow waffles. A combination of fluffy, cloud-like white cream, sweet red beans, and bread all in one? I’m so curious about the taste.”

“Pfft!”

“Why do you laugh? Even I have the right to eat!”

“No, it’s not that. Waffles. I’ll absolutely buy you as many as you want.”

With that, their deal was struck.

Moments later, the two headed towards Ma Hye-ryang.

Eris changed her distinctive silver hair and crimson eyes with magic.

Black straight hair and obsidian-like black pupils.

Her fair skin and red lips now took on the typical appearance of a martial artist.

“This is… you have a beautiful lady with you. Is this fine woman your betrothed? She appears to be a refined lady from an esteemed family at first glance.”

“Your low-born eyes are keen. I am the great Atra… Ouch!”

Jinhyuk pinched the back of Eris.

“Not from a noble family, she’s the youngest daughter from a famed business family. She hasn’t formally trained in martial arts, but she has a reasonable amount of physical strength—nothing to be a burden.”

It’s vital not to appear too strong.

So that Ma Hye-ryang could consider taking her hostage if need be.

A hidden card must be played that way.

“Ha ha. It’s fortunate she has some foundational strength.”

As expected, Ma Hye-ryang was pleased.

And with a slimy smile, he pointed to the opposite direction of the palace.

“Then, before it gets any later, let us depart. If we go a little further, we will see the passage.”

＊＊＊

Following Ma Hye-ryang, they arrived at a rocky hill.

It was such an ordinary hill that one would have passed by without a second thought, had they not been told.

But then…

“Gentlemen! Please make sure to tread exactly where I step as we follow this path.”

There was a very narrow gap hidden between the shadows.

The secret passage he’d referred to.

‘If through this passage… Indeed, that’s why he guided us here.’

A non-standard method to enter the palace, one of the few known in the martial world.

This area, in particular, housed one of the most infamous creatures known to the martial world.

Jinhyuk chuckled.

The opponent’s intentions were clear, which only brought out his laughter.

Trudging along the passage, even the faint moonlight eventually vanished.

Instead, rocks stuck to the walls emitted a faint glow that lit the way.

“I will go ahead a little to check the path. Please wait here for a moment. Especially the precious lady, as it might be dangerous—do not follow. Ha ha.”

Ma Hye-ryang took the lead and disappeared.

“This reeks of suspicion. Why would he offer to come with us and then act on his own?”

“Let him be. There must be something here he needs to secure.”

No matter how hard he searches.

Whether that day will ever come…

While Jinhyuk was contemplating how to handle this character, a notification chimed.

[A message and an item from Blacksmith Orun have arrived.]

[Would you like to check?]

Finally.

The item long awaited had arrived.

Jinhyuk’s heart began to pound wildly.