A Cold Winter's Day

As winter gradually set in, the Martial Alliance's headquarters in Hanam remained as busy as ever.

It was partly because of the changing season, but more so due to the recent events that had unfolded.@@novelbin@@

"There's been a noticeable increase in the frequency of demonic beasts appearing in the northern Mount Tai."

"Yes, I've heard as well. They say green-ranked beasts no longer even appear there."

Originally, most of the green-ranked beasts had been guarding Mount Tai. However, their numbers had dwindled significantly. Green-ranked beasts had nearly vanished, replaced by blue-ranked beasts as the majority, with red-ranked beasts occasionally making an appearance.

As a result, herbalists were banned from traveling through the area, and the Sword Squads’ schedules had grown unbearably tight.

"This is unbearable. With no days off, it’s hard to endure."

Their faces were marked with exhaustion. Even when they rested, it was never for long, making things worse.

Adding to the strain was the current vacancy in the Sword Squad's leadership.

"When is the Azure Dragon Division expected to return?"

"Well, it's been less than fifteen days since they left for Sichuan. It’ll likely be a while longer."

"If it's going to be longer, are we talking months?"

"Most likely."

A deep sigh followed. It was inevitable.

With the absence of the Azure Dragon Division, work had piled up. Especially with the Sectarian Factions' movements becoming increasingly alarming, the other Sword Squads were also forced to act swiftly.

This only made the already short-handed situation even worse.

"Still, wouldn’t things improve once Ilcheon Sword returns?"

"Of course, but..."

The man scratching his chin added hesitantly, "There’ve been some strange rumors lately."

"What kind of rumors?"

"That Ilcheon Sword has colluded with the Demonic Cult."

"What?"

Hearing this, one of the squad members frowned.

"What kind of absurd rumor is that?"

It was too preposterous to believe.

"Ilcheon Sword, colluding with the Demonic Cult? That makes no sense."

"I think so too. It’s just a rumor I’ve heard going around."

"That’s an absolutely ridiculous rumor."

Ilcheon Sword was known for his upright conduct, both during the Great War of Righteousness and in everyday life.

He was already expected to join the ranks of the Top Ten Experts soon and, potentially, even aim for the position of Martial Alliance Leader in the future.

For such a man to collude with the Demonic Cult? It was nothing short of nonsense.

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