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“Is it really treason?”

To confirm whether Miho was right, I went to Mangnyang.

“Are we truly plotting treason?”

“……”

I pressed on, “Are you saying what we’re planning is treason?”

Mangnyang glanced at me briefly. He was reading the Art of War by Sun Tzu and suddenly handed it to me, suggesting I should read it.

“You probably haven’t read this. Make sure to check it out when you have time. It’s a remarkable classic.”

“Sure, I will. But can you stop dodging my questions and just answer me?”

As I pushed him further with the book in hand, Mangnyang responded.

“Of course! What we’re plotting right now is perfect treason. The rallying edict has been out for quite some time, and the regional warlords and lords are already on edge, keeping a close watch on us. They’re just figuring out which side to support.”

“Wow… Can you just say treason like it’s no big deal?”

Mangnyang smirked.

“If I were with ordinary folks, I wouldn’t be saying this. I’d twist my words to avoid the direct mention. But since it’s you, I’ll speak plainly.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re the freest person in the world when it comes to power. Honestly, it doesn’t matter if our side wins or loses this battle; your ultimate goal isn’t going to be derailed. Plotting treason is merely the fastest route available.”

Mangnyang interlocked his fingers and continued casually.

“Let me ask you this. Do you think General Hwang has any other choice in this situation?”

“…..”

“No, there isn’t. Initially, both Hwang and I planned to gather the opposing factions, purge the Golden Eagle Guards, and take care of the Demon Subduing Hall forces internally. And we thought we could silence the Emperor, turning him into a puppet. Even if we gained strength, that was our limit. It’s because the Emperor is at the top and it’s much easier to use him than to try overthrowing him.”

“So, what we originally wanted was an internal change. Somewhat moderate, I’d say.”

“But the Emperor died suddenly, and the Demon Subduing Hall forces seized power. The situation changed dramatically. Those guys no longer care about the Emperor’s watch. What if we mobilize the Clear Stream Faction or the scholars and high officials? Do you think the newly crowned Crown Prince will be fazed by that? Once the Emperor died, our options outside of using force disappeared.”

“Ah…”

I sighed, realizing Mangnyang’s words. I thought that once the Emperor, the enemy leader, was out of the way, everything would fall into chaos by itself. But that wasn’t the case. The Emperor was a key link and a point of balance among many powers. The massive opponent known as the Imperial Palace wouldn’t just collapse because we removed one individual.

‘Either we go through the proper channels, or we need enough power to wipe them all out without a trace.’

Seeing my expression of realization, Mangnyang spoke again.

“Of course, it doesn’t mean your choice to get rid of the Emperor was wrong. He was a target to purge sooner or later anyway. It just raised the chances of crossing a dangerous bridge, so we need to focus on the present.”

This wasn’t just a soothing statement. It was clear I had to remain sharp.

“Got it.”

Seeing my acceptance, Mangnyang wore a somewhat pleased expression, one that felt like a teacher’s joy when their student finally understands.

“Tomorrow morning, 30,000 troops led by General Gi Bae-jong will arrive along with 10,000 North Dragon Troops under General Hwang and around 25,000 troops from Guanzhong responding to Hwang’s edict. We’ll be advancing on the capital with about 60,000 to 70,000 troops.”

“70,000!!”

I realized that number was huge. Though ordinary people might not grasp it, being surrounded by hundreds during a fight feels like suffocating in a sea of bodies. Imagining that number battling in a vast space was astonishing.

Suddenly, I noticed something odd and asked Mangnyang.

“Wait a second. Didn’t we send the rallying edict nationwide? Then couldn’t we wait a bit longer to gather even more troops before charging into the capital?”

“That is an option. We could possibly occupy key areas around here for about a month and rally the influential and feudal lords to gather a minimum of 200,000.”

Mangnyang folded the Seven Fires, Seven Golds Line and pressed it against his temple.

“But we can’t do that.”

“Why not?”

“There are three reasons.”

He took a sip of water before elaborating.

“First, no matter how suspicious the Emperor’s death was, and how reckless his orders were, he remains the Emperor. The longer we delay, the more beneficial it is for the Emperor, both in justification and practical terms. We need to end this swiftly while the Crown Prince is still new to the throne and the political landscape is chaotic.”

“Second, if we can gather 200,000, the other side can gather 500,000.”

“Third, if we’re in a scenario where 200,000 face 500,000, it’ll probably lead to a massive civil war that will tear apart the Great Ming Empire. At that point, regardless of victory or defeat, the local control of the capital will plummet into chaos, ushering back a period of strife. That’s something we must avoid at all costs.”

“Hmm!”

“We must defeat the Imperial Guards and seize control of the capital as quickly as possible. That’s our absolute win condition.”

I could feel the logic in Mangnyang’s words. I admired his clarity while carefully reflecting on what he said. Then I asked the question that had been lingering in my mind.

“So, how many Imperial Guards are defending the capital?”

“Essentially, there are always 100,000 troops stationed. And by now, I assume they’ve gathered nearby reserves to boost their numbers to nearly 200,000 by the time we engage.”

“……!!”

So that means it’s 70,000 versus 200,000! The difference in troops is close to threefold, yet Mangnyang seemed completely unfazed. Seeing the look of concern on my face, he said confidently.

“You don’t need to worry.”

“How can I not worry?”

“Fighting, especially war, isn’t all about numbers. And besides, we have Hwang Yeon on our side. That alone is a compelling reason for victory.”

As he smiled, Mangnyang pointed to the Art of War I was holding.

“So, make good use of this time and check that book out. This battle should be a significant learning experience for you.”

“Understood.”

I took the Art of War and stepped outside. On my way, I noticed General Hwang Yeon and Lee Kwang gathered together. As I approached, I could hear their conversation.

“General, are you really planning to attack the capital?”

I recognized Lee Kwang’s voice, spoken with his usual tone of deference. In response, General Hwang Yeon acknowledged him.

“Indeed, Lee Kwang.”

“That doesn’t make sense. This isn’t like you, General.”

Lee Kwang spoke in a tone that suggested complete submission, despite his own strength. Regardless of military status, it seemed he held Hwang Yeon in great esteem. The elder general stood there in his armor, looking at Lee Kwang with soft eyes before replying.

“What does it mean to be like me? Care to share?”

“……”

“I realized something in the Great Thunder Valley. There are entities lurking behind this country that are not human. If we don’t strike and weaken them during this opportunity, it will haunt us for ages.”

“But this is treason.”

“True, it is treason. But if that’s the case, why are you here trying to persuade me?”

General Hwang smiled.

“Heh… I doubt this is a decision made by someone as rational as you. You could simply end my life and deliver my head to the new Emperor. That would solve everything. So why not do that?”

“…It’s for Jin Cheon-hwi’s sake.”

“Jin Cheon-hwi.”

“If it were Jin Cheon-hwi, he would have found a better way.”

As soon as I said that, both Hwang Yeon and Lee Kwang’s gazes darkened simultaneously, reminiscing about Jin Cheon-hwi. Hwang Yeon sighed.

“He was truly a genius. One I could never hope to match… Yet, I have no choice left. As an ordinary person, I must correct justice by force.”

In a spiritless tone but with strong resolve, Lee Kwang said, “Are you saying I should kill you?”

“Do as you wish. That too must be the will of the heavens.”

General Hwang Yeon remained unflinching. Even threats to his life wouldn’t sway him. That was the pride of the greatest general in the Great Ming.

Lee Kwang showed signs of inner turmoil—a struggle between his lifelong ideology of loyalty to the nation and his moral connections with General Hwang. Hwang Yeon drove the nail home to Lee Kwang.

“But understand this. Our loyalty has only ever been to the late Emperor, and we pledged utmost fidelity to his son as well. We no longer have anyone worthy of our loyalty.”

This revelation seemed to shock Lee Kwang, who froze momentarily.

“That…”

“Where is the Great Ming? Is the current Emperor still a representation of the Great Ming Empire? Answer me, Lee Kwang.”

Lee Kwang fell silent, pondering.

After a long pause, he sighed deeply and said, “I need to sort my thoughts a bit more.”

“Do as you please. But know that this war cannot be won without your support.”

“……”

My eyes met with Lee Kwang, who was leaving quietly. Without any apparent change of expression, he passed by me. But his eyes clearly reflected torment and inner conflict. I was surprised to witness such a strong-willed figure like Lee Kwang look so drained in conversation with someone.

‘So this is what it means to be called a general.’

Honestly, I wondered what would change by saving just Hwang Yeon, but gradually I realized how wrong I was. The greatest commander in the Great Ming Empire bore a charisma and authority capable of shaking the very foundation of the world. He could indeed become a pivotal force in reshaping China.

When General Hwang Yeon spotted me, he greeted me cheerfully.

“Oh, it’s you. The small hero.”

The title was laced with humor. I smiled bitterly and replied.

“I feel like I’m in the wrong place.”

“Not at all. This was something you had to go through eventually, and your friend wouldn’t mind either.”

As I fell silent, General Hwang Yeon continued.

“By the way, I’ve always been curious. What’s your relationship with the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance?”

I answered firmly, “Colleagues and friends.”

“Would you risk your life for one another?”

“Of course.”

“No wavering in your gaze. I can feel the courage of a seasoned warrior… It’s rare to meet someone like you.”

“……”

Well, it was almost a given that I’d risk my life for Mangnyang given our past lives, and I had certainly had the experience of a seasoned warrior. My actual age might be far greater than Hwang Yeon’s. As I stood there, slightly awkward, Hwang Yeon chuckled.

“I was just curious. Seeing heroes like you act for righteousness lifts my spirits.”

“I think you’re overpraising me. I still have a long way to go.”

“Ha ha… There are foolish people who can’t even compare to you, wandering around as I’m turning sixty.”

Seeing Hwang Yeon laugh heartily, I felt a twinge of guilt. Before my rebirth, I couldn’t even hold a candle to Mangnyang as he said. Even now, I was still learning so much from him, which made me feel more than a bit uneasy. It had taken countless hours and effort just to get somewhat close to that level.

Hwang Yeon said, “You must have heard already, but I’ve entrusted the entire operation of siege on the capital to the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance. Lee Kwang and I will be preparing for any unforeseen situation.”

“Huh?!”

What was that supposed to mean? This was news Mangnyang hadn’t shared, so I was taken aback. In response, General Hwang Yeon tilted his head slightly.

“Looks like you didn’t hear.”

“Y-yeah, I didn’t. But why would General Hwang not lead directly?”

“Hmm. It’s a simple story. After discussing strategies and tactics with him a lot, I came to learn something. The strategic talent of the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance is astounding.”

General Hwang Yeon smiled as he said this.

“I consider his tactical prowess to be genius-level. If he leads, I’m sure we can achieve remarkable results. I plan to stay on the sidelines and observe.”

I was left wide-eyed.

General Hwang Yeon was a legendary martial god who protected the Great Ming Empire from outside invaders, earning unwavering trust from the military elite. A rallying edict asserting he’d join forces with the emperor who’d fallen into unscrupulous paths held significant weight. Thus, his strategic tactical skills were beyond doubt on this continent.

So for him to say that he fell short compared to Mangnyang?

“Is it really that exceptional?”

“Hmm… It seems you don’t know much about him as his closest ally. I’d say only Jin Cheon-hwi could stand toe-to-toe with the Leader of the Bancheon Alliance. Using equal numbers, I can’t imagine defeating the forces led by him.”

“……”

General Hwang Yeon chuckled softly.

“If that’s the case, why not lead a hundred-man unit? You’ll understand what I mean then.”

I felt a strange sensation wash over me.

Both Mangnyang and General Hwang Yeon, as well as Lee Kwang, displayed no signs of tension despite the expected threefold troop difference. Whether it was a natural presence or something else, they all believed they would ‘definitely’ secure victory in the siege on the capital.

‘Is it really possible…?’

I became aware of my own weaknesses.

I was nearly illiterate in the field of strategy and tactics. I was used to handling individual battles but had no clue how to employ military tactics on a grand scale.

‘I need to read this seriously.’

I glanced down at the Art of War. If I read this, perhaps I could one day move not just a hundred but thousands or even tens of thousands as I wished.

 

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