Chapter 791: Only He Holds the Value (1)

"Sapae Alliance …."

The voice of the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke wavered slightly as he murmured the name.

This was no ordinary matter.

Especially when one considered the potential impact this alliance would have on the martial world.

‘This is dangerous.’

Of course, as Jang Ilso had mentioned, forming an alliance might be necessary to stand against the orthodox sects currently rampaging with their righteous fury. However, looking at it from another perspective, the creation of the Sapae Alliance could also solidify the orthodox sects’ resolve to see them as a common enemy.

Screech.

At that moment, Jang Ilso lightly dragged his fingertip across the wooden table. A map of Zhongyuan was drawn on the table, the tip of his finger acting as a brush.

"The current power structure of the world is as follows. First, the Nine Great Sects of the North."

The Nine Great Sects are spread across the land.

From the southern seas, with Haenam Sect on Haenam Island, to the Kunlun Sect located at the edge of Qinghai, and to the Zhenchang Sect in Yunnan. Given this, it might be unreasonable to restrict the influence of the Nine Great Sects to just the northern territories.

However, it wouldn't be entirely incorrect either.

That’s because, in the end, the core of the current Nine Great Sects lies with Shaolin and Wudang. These two sects are centered in Henan, to the north of the Yangtze River, with Zongnam, Gongdong, and Gaebang guarding the surroundings. Clearly, Henan, and by extension the north, remains their focal point.

"And to the west, there is the Heavenly Alliance."

"Hm."

The Thousand Faces Gentleman flinched slightly at that mention.

As much as he hated to admit it, there was no denying the massive influence the Heavenly Alliance currently wielded over the western regions of Zhongyuan.

‘It's absurd.’

To the west of Zhongyuan lie the sects of Kunlun, Zhenchang, Emei, and Cheongseong.

Of course, unlike the Nine Great Sects of the north, they are not as closely knit, nor do they actively involve themselves in Zhongyuan’s affairs.

But even so, they remain powerful sects. The fact that the Heavenly Alliance managed to secure dominance in the western regions despite this opposition cannot be ignored.

‘The fall of Zongnam was a huge factor. Zongnam, which lies further west than Mount Hua, would have prevented the rise of the Heavenly Alliance if it remained intact.’

Whether it was Mount Hua forcing Zongnam into isolation or Zongnam’s own retreat, one thing was certain—the Heavenly Alliance’s maneuvering had been nothing short of brilliant.

The Thousand Faces Gentleman could see it clearly.

From the Northern Sea Ice Palace to the Southern Barbarian Beast Palace, a long and continuous line connected these regions.

‘If they can maintain that line, it might not be long before the Heavenly Alliance surpasses the Nine Great Sects and becomes the dominant power in the world.’

However…

The obstacles were many, without a doubt.

"And now, the last piece…."

Thud!

Jang Ilso spread his hand and slammed it down onto the map, his palm landing squarely on the southern regions of Jiangnan.

"Jiangnan."

"……."

The imperial court’s influence still hasn't reached Jiangnan significantly. As a result, the unorthodox factions have gathered there, fleeing the oppression of both the Nine Great Sects and the imperial authorities.

"The key lies in the Yangtze River! If the unorthodox factions in Jiangnan can unite and hold the Yangtze, they will prevent a southern advance. This will allow us to firmly take control of the southern territories."

"But isn't this just the same situation as before?"

"The world has changed."

Crack.

Jang Ilso gripped the table tightly, splintering a portion of the wood in his hand.

"The Heavenly Alliance has unified disparate sects that could never have come together before. And because of the existence of the Heavenly Alliance, the Nine Great Sects, which had been constantly at odds, have united once again. The era of each sect raising its head only to protect itself is over. Now, it’s all about survival—who will endure and who will fall!"

"Hmm."

"The world will soon be divided into three forces."

The Thousand Faces Gentleman chuckled, amused.

"Are you starting to feel like Zhuge Liang, dreaming of a Three Kingdoms strategy?"

"If that’s what it takes, then so be it."

"Ha ha ha ha."

The strange laughter was followed by a nod from the Thousand Faces Gentleman.

"Very well. I had already agreed with the concept of uniting the remnants of the defeated. And given the current situation, it's clear that if things continue this way, everyone will be ruined."

Among those who handled information and analyzed the current state of the world, Hao Gate was second to none. Hearing such words from the leader of Hao Gate added weight to their decision.

Even the Black Dragon King seemed intrigued.

"Do you intend to use the Yangtze as your central point?"

"I wouldn’t call it the center. But it is undeniably the most critical location right now. If the Yangtze falls, the division between Jiangnan and the north will collapse. The key is ensuring that the Nine Great Sects recognize the significant cost they would have to pay to cross the river."

"…You plan to tear off their limbs and gouge out their bellies, forcing them to devour their own entrails."

The Black Dragon King repeated those words, a peculiar smile spreading across his face.

From his perspective, there was no downside. For the Nine Great Sects to target the unorthodox factions in Jiangnan, they would first need to break through the Eighteen Waterway Factions. Given that, why would he refuse their offer of support?

"Ha ha ha ha! Now you’re finally saying something worth hearing. Very well, I’ll join the Sapae Alliance! However…."

A spark ignited in the Black Dragon King's eyes.

"Don’t think you can use the Eighteen Waterway Factions as cannon fodder. If that happens, I swear I’ll sever your heads myself."

"There's no need to worry. For our survival, we need the Yangtze just as much as you do."

Jang Ilso lightly waved his pale hand, signaling his clear intentions.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

The final person left in the room, the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke, drummed his fingers on the table while resting his chin on his other hand. His constant muttering suggested he was calculating the cost-benefit analysis in his head.

Tok!

As if arriving at a conclusion, the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke slammed his index finger down on the table, frowning.

"It doesn’t add up."

"Why?"

"It’s not enough."

He folded his arms, explaining his reasoning.

"When hundreds of sects are scattered and disorganized, their individual strength matters little. There are too many variables involved. But when two powers merge, the only thing that matters is which is stronger."

"……."

"No matter how many sects from Jiangnan unite and absorb smaller unorthodox groups, their strength will still be insufficient. They might even collapse faster due to the alliance."

The Thousand Faces Gentleman frowned, attempting to argue.

"If we use the Heavenly Alliance and the Nine Great Sects against each other…."

"That's a pipe dream. The core of the Heavenly Alliance lies with the Sichuan Tang Clan and Mount Hua. They are orthodox. No matter how strained their relations, as orthodox sects, they can always band together. Even if they don’t, they won’t stab each other in the back while fighting unorthodox factions."

"……."

"If we can’t gather enough strength to resist the Nine Great Sects alone, it will be like walking into a fire with a load of kindling on our backs. It’s a losing bet. Without the Green Forest Bandits, it’s impossible. But they’ve already joined the Heavenly Alliance, haven't they?"

Jang Ilso nodded deeply.

"Indeed, you're right."

"Hm?"

The Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke narrowed his eyes at Jang Ilso’s unexpected admission.

"Do you have a way to make up for the missing strength? Even if you gather all the unorthodox sects in Jiangnan, replacing the Green Forest Bandits is impossible."

"Indeed, it is."

Nodding, Jang Ilso took a sip from his cup before setting it down, a sly smile forming on his now-moistened lips.

"That’s true if we restrict ourselves to Jiangnan. But… who said we need to limit ourselves to Jiangnan?"

"…Not Jiangnan?"

"Wouldn’t this individual be sufficient?"

When Jang Ilso gestured behind him, everyone turned their heads in shock.

‘Who?’

‘I didn’t even sense them.’

The astonishment was clear on the faces of the Thousand Faces Gentleman and the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke. The fact that someone could approach so closely without them noticing was beyond comprehension.

In the dark corner, untouched by the light of the lanterns, stood a figure draped in a blood-red robe, from head to toe.

Just the sight of him sent chills down everyone’s spines, raising the hair on the backs of their necks.

"…Who are you?"

"I am the Blood Palace Lord."

"Bl… Blood Palace?"

A horrified shout erupted from the Black Dragon King.

The Blood Palace—one of the five most secretive and dangerous sects outside the martial world. Its location is unknown, and its members are shrouded in mystery.

Power and secrecy.

These two seemingly contradictory traits made the Blood Palace one of the most feared factions, and now their leader had appeared in person.

"Blood… Palace… will stand with Maninbang."

"……."

The Black Dragon King, Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke, and the Thousand Faces Gentleman exchanged looks.

"If the Blood Palace joins us…."

"That changes everything."

The Blood Palace rivaled even the Green Forest Bandits in strength. No, in terms of raw power, they might far surpass them.

The pressure exuded by the Blood Palace Lord was enough to prove that point.

The Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke quickly recalculated the situation in his mind.

‘Our numbers are already sufficient. What we lack are top-tier martial artists. In that regard, the Blood Palace is a far better choice than the Green Forest Bandits.’

His decision was made.

The corners of his lips curled upward.

"That’s enough for me. The Black Ghost Fortress will join the Sapae Alliance."

"The Eighteen Waterway Factions will also join the Sapae Alliance."

All eyes turned to the Blood Palace Lord, who slowly nodded, as if there was no need to repeat his earlier words.

"The name is Sapae Alliance, but now there are five factions…."

"It’s all about symbolism. The Blood Palace Lord doesn’t seem to mind."

"More sects will gather under the banner of the Sapae Alliance. Whether it’s called the Sapae Alliance, or the Evil Alliance, it matters little."

Tap. Tap. Tap.

Jang Ilso silently placed five empty cups in front of him and began filling them with wine.

"A wise decision, indeed."

"But!"

The Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke raised his hand.

"Before we drink, one matter must be settled."

"Speak."

"Who will lead the alliance?"

"……."

No one immediately answered.

"If we continue to operate as a loose alliance, it will be meaningless. The orthodox sects might manage to coexist that way, but we cannot. We need a clear leader and a stable system."

"Haha! Well said! But there’s no need to worry. I, the Black Dragon King, will take the lead and guide you all!"

"You? Don’t make me laugh, Black Dragon King. Stay in your lair."

"Thousand Faces Gentleman! Do you wish to die?"

His thunderous voice boomed, but the Thousand Faces Gentleman just smirked and ignored him.

"Information is power. I know the ins and outs of all the sects, making me the most suitable choice."

"Even with all that power, without money, nothing can be done. The one who funds the alliance should hold the power. Don’t you agree?"

"You bastards…."

As the three exchanged cold glares, Jang Ilso calmly finished pouring the wine.

"There’s no need to worry about that."

"You have something in mind?"

"The only person fit to lead the Sapae Alliance is none other than me, Jang Ilso."

Fire burned in the Black Dragon King's eyes.

"You cursed bastard… So, this was your game all along."

"A claim must be backed by reason."

"And benefits."

Jang Ilso grinned as he pushed a cup of wine toward each of them.

"The Black Dragon King’s path is impressive, but he lacks the charisma to unite people. Conflict is inevitable. Moreover, you cannot leave the Yangtze. If the leader is on the frontlines and that front collapses, everything will fall apart."

"…Hmm."

The Black Dragon King let out a low growl as he stared at the cup before him.

It was infuriating, but he couldn’t deny the logic.

"Information is invaluable, but it can also be a liability. No one wants to follow a leader who knows all their weaknesses and secrets."

"…A fundamental issue, I see. Damn it."

The Thousand Faces Gentleman picked up his cup, acknowledging the truth in Jang Ilso’s words.

"Wealth is certainly powerful, but this is the martial world. And if the leader is seen as someone who prioritizes personal profit, the alliance will crumble. The leader must be someone who is willing to sacrifice their own gain for the greater good."

"…You speak wisely."

The Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke nodded. He couldn’t deny that if the interests of the alliance clashed with his own, he wouldn’t choose the alliance over his own wealth.

Jang Ilso picked up one of the remaining cups and lightly tossed it to the Blood Palace Lord.

"Need I say more about the Blood Palace?"

Tap.

The Blood Palace Lord caught the cup and nodded in silence.

"And beyond that…."

Jang Ilso’s eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity, sending a shiver down the spines of everyone present.

Even among these powerful figures, there was something about Jang Ilso that unsettled them. The balance of power had already shifted in his favor.

"A leader of the Sapae Alliance cannot be someone content with merely holding onto their current position. They must be someone hungry for more, someone whose greed drives them to achieve the impossible."

Jang Ilso’s hand reached toward the northern part of the map, where he ripped off a section.

Crunch.

Crushing the splintered wood in his fist, he let the fragments scatter like dust.

"I have no interest in being a king over the barren land of Jiangnan. I crave something far greater. More than anyone, I covet that place. Merely looking at it makes my throat burn with thirst and my stomach ache with hunger. No amount of wine or grain can ever satisfy it."

"……."

"You may divide up the land and the people as you wish. But for me, there is only one thing that matters. I, Jang Ilso, will make all of Zhongyuan bow to my name."

A heavy silence fell over the room.

The madness in Jang Ilso’s eyes left no doubt that he meant every word.

"Only that holds value to me."

"……."

"Follow me, and I will lead you—not to this stinking corner of Jiangnan, but to the very heart of the north, to the center of Zhongyuan!"

"Ha ha ha ha."

The Thousand Faces Gentleman burst into laughter, shaking his head.

"Truly, I cannot compete. The leader of Hao Gate, the Thousand Faces Gentleman, pledges his allegiance to you."

With a respectful bow, the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke sighed and nodded.

"It’s the most profitable path, indeed. The leader of the Black Ghost Fortress, the Ten-Thousand-Gold Duke, pledges his allegiance to you."

"…Damn it."

The Black Dragon King clearly remained unhappy, but at this point, he couldn’t back out.

"Don’t expect any respect from me."

"Of course."

"…The leader of the Eighteen Waterway Factions, the Black Dragon King, acknowledges Jang Ilso as the leader of the Sapae Alliance!"

"Raise your cups."

Jang Ilso raised his cup, and the others followed suit.

"From this moment on, we are brothers. To brothers, we drink! And to traitors, we bring the sword!"

Clash!

The cups collided violently in midair, and they all downed their wine in one gulp.

The Sapae Alliance.

At last, the unorthodox alliance that would shake the world was born.