Weapon-Eating Bastard [EN]: Chapter 323

Weapon-Eating Bastard – Chapter 323

In the conference room, the heads of each martial arts squad and all commanders, including the defected elders, were gathered.

They were about to begin a full-scale meeting to strategize the attack on the Soongmoo Lee family.

“Then, let’s start with a report on the overall situation.”

Jung Jin-soo turned off the lights in the conference room and turned on the screen at the front.

I quietly watched Jung Jin-soo.

He was a figure Lee Goon-sung had brought in during my past life.

With his astonishing foresight and excellent judgment, he had troubled the family several times. Now, he was my right-hand man, targeting the Soongmoo Lee family once again.

‘In a way, have I become Lee Goon-sung from my past life?’

Now, it was my turn to destroy the Soongmoo Lee family.

The flow of karma was so ironic.

“…Therefore, based on the information obtained by the Black Turtle Association, the current forces of the Soongmoo Lee family can be divided into three main groups.”

Soon, the main discussion began, and I put aside my brief thoughts and focused on the conversation.

The military forces that constituted Lee Goon-sung’s Soongmoo Lee family were divided into three main groups.

Lee Goon-sung’s Spirit Sword Unit, which had begun to be called the Undying Legion.

The Four Gods Unit, newly reorganized by Lee Goon-sung’s power.

And the other martial arts squads under his command and the martial arts groups under the Elder Council.

“It’s just a prediction, but it seems Lee Goon-sung hasn’t completely taken control of the Soongmoo Lee family yet. There seem to be sporadic rebellions from the martial arts squads under his command and the martial arts groups under the council.”

“What makes you think so? The information should be blocked.”

I asked, looking at the neatly organized data on the screen.

“You don’t necessarily have to go inside the family to know the information. In a huge organization like the Soongmoo Lee family, there’s bound to be movement of goods, even if they’ve sealed themselves off. And those who belong there have families, and affiliated businesses….”

That was more of a merchant’s perspective than a martial artist’s.

The following analyses were logical, and his remarkable insight was evident.

The elders who had realized the family’s changes and joined us were also amazed by Jung Jin-soo’s analysis.

‘He’s an incredible person.’

‘Chairman Jung Jin-soo… I just thought he was a merchant.’

‘I knew he was Young Master Lee Chul’s man… Now I see that he’s the brains behind Lee Chul.’

Jung Jin-soo calmly continued his explanation, finishing with a confident tone.

“Of course, the Four Gods Unit should be considered completely Lee Goon-sung’s forces. But it’s hard to say that the other forces under his command completely follow Lee Goon-sung. I don’t know the exact numbers, but many of them are probably following orders from the family rather than out of loyalty. One of the reasons Lee Goon-sung has been quiet is probably to take control of these forces.”

In fact, according to the Black Turtle Association, there had been several rebellions, and some martial artists had been demoted or purged.

In any case, Lee Goon-sung had seized control of the Soongmoo Lee family.

“I’ll explain from here. Please take a good look at the materials you’ve been given.”

Anastasia took over from Jung Jin-soo.

“This is information on the current main forces of the Soongmoo Lee family.”

I focused on examining the materials in my hand.

“And this… these are the images of the current state of the Soongmoo Lee family taken with video equipment.”

Click!

Soon, images of the Soongmoo Lee family appeared on the screen.

“Ah….”

“What is this….”

And exclamations flowed from the mouths of the leaders who saw the data.

The Soongmoo Lee family was truly an impregnable fortress.

Amidst the thick black mist, all sorts of anti-air, anti-ground, and anti-magic equipment were lined up at each of the east, west, north, and south gates, and at the main gate in the south.

And that wasn’t all. All the main family’s forces were thoroughly guarding those locations.

The scene resembled a modern fortress.

The defensive situation that would only occur when the highest alert was issued was now unfolding in the Soongmoo Lee family.

I recalled the ancient battles I had experienced in the Sky Fortress as I watched the scene.

‘But there weren’t things like that in ancient times.’

The gun emplacements defending the outer walls were all open.

The gaping holes, like the mouths of beasts, looked quite threatening.

They were firearms that had been allowed because of the long-standing respect for the government’s wishes, a defensive system that an individual family shouldn’t have.

“These were obtained using our association’s satellites and drones. As you can see, the Four Gods Unit is currently stationed at each of the east, west, north, and south gates, with about eight martial arts squads under their command. It appears that more than 20 martial arts squads are stationed at the south gate, which is the main gate.”

According to the Soongmoo Lee family’s organization, one martial arts squad is about the size of a company, with around 100 members.

Of course, elite martial arts squads or those under the Four Gods Unit may have fewer members, but conversely, units with frequent external activities may have more than 200 members.

Even considering all that, it meant there were thousands.

And if you include the security forces and general troops, not just the martial arts squads….

‘Good heavens. Even if we add up all the forces gathered here, it won’t even reach a thousand.’

The elders realized the difference in numbers and swallowed hard.

They had escaped to save the Soongmoo Lee family, which had been corrupted by Lee Goon-sung, and joined forces like this, but… the situation was hopeless.

“Wait a minute, Black Turtle Association Head. I’m not doubting the information and technology of the Black Turtle Association, but the main family deploys a magic field to prevent satellite observation when entering a state of war. How did you take these images?”

Uncle Lee Tae-hong quickly raised his hand and asked.

It wasn’t Anastasia who answered.

“I helped with that.”

It was Valerie who spoke, twirling a pen with her pincer-like fingers, as if she wanted to smoke.

“The Soongmoo Lee family’s magic engineering is quite advanced, but it’s not at the level of the Magic Tower [a powerful organization specializing in magic]. It’s easy to break through. That much.”

Valerie said it casually, but that was something only Valerie could say.

“Magician Valerie… I see. So that’s true.”

Uncle Lee Tae-hong sighed.

Anastasia continued.

“I’ll wrap it up. The Soongmoo Lee family has started to send some of its forces outside. Even so, that’s the level of their defensive forces. There are still those who haven’t pledged allegiance to the ‘current’ Soongmoo Lee family… but it’s only a matter of time.”

The atmosphere became heavy.

The Soongmoo Lee family had always been strong.

And if the power that Lee Goon-sung had spread had made them even stronger… the current Soongmoo Lee family was truly a den of devils.

Then.

“Can you tell us about the main forces? Anastasia?”

There was someone who spoke as if nothing was wrong, and that was none other than Lee Chul.

People’s eyes turned to Lee Chul.

“Excluding the Spirit Sword Unit, which is difficult to grasp, and Lee Hyul… no, excluding Martial Artist Lee Myung-jung, whose cooperation is uncertain… the strongest force is still Lee Goon-sung.”

Military Sword, Lee Goon-sung.

His martial prowess was uncertain.

The most recent confirmed level was the duel several years ago, where he was known to be equal to Lee Myung-jung.

Even that was an amazing level.

Lee Myung-jung was undoubtedly a top-tier martial artist.

That meant he was at least a 1st class martial artist.

If there was anyone here who could face him… it was only Lee Chul.

“Next is the former Training Inspector. Currently, Elder Lee Baek-chul, the Elder Council Head, who is a 2nd class martial artist.”

At Anastasia’s words, Lee Young-sung, who was sitting in the corner, flinched.

It must have been because his father’s name was mentioned.

“Elder Lee Baek-chul has a record of single-handedly subjugating a Special Grade 4 monster eight years ago. If we assume that there has been an increase in martial power due to some kind of power that Lee Goon-sung possesses….”

Subjugating a Grade 4 monster meant he was at the level of Grade 3.

“Elder Lee Baek-chul is currently known to be secluded in the center of the Soongmoo Lee family. He will be guarding the center of the Soongmoo Lee family.”

Even that was a daunting force, but Anastasia continued in a low voice.

“In addition, there are the new Four Gods Unit Commanders who guard the four gates of the Soongmoo Lee family. Their martial power is at least Grade 3. This is….”

“What we confirmed.”

“We realized the change after seeing that.”

The elders responded to those words.

With this, it was organized.

The first son, Lee Myung-jung, presumed to have been devoured by Lee Hyul.

Lee Goon-sung, who was hiding his martial power.

Elder Council Head Lee Baek-chul.

The Spirit Sword Unit, which had begun to be called the Undying Legion.

The Four Gods Unit and their commanders, and all sorts of defense systems guarding the Soongmoo Lee family, and the forces that numbered in the thousands, perhaps even tens of thousands.

This was the power of the Soongmoo Lee family.

The more they heard, the more daunting and overwhelming the power seemed.

“…Is there no choice but to run away?”

One of the elders in the conference room muttered.

“If we take advantage of the Soongmoo Lee family’s expansion of power to the outside… we could launch a surprise attack.”

“Even if we take it back, can that be a true victory?”

“If the Lord returns….”

Despair was seeping into them like a fog.

In despair, they had to recall the name of one man.

Lee Tae-shin, the Lord of the Soongmoo Lee family, who was known to be dead.

They had to believe that they could do something if Lee Tae-shin returned, that his death was a lie.

If they thought about how this had happened because he was gone, they could realize how great his presence was.

“…?”

In the midst of this, the elders felt a sense of incongruity and raised their lowered eyes.

The atmosphere in the conference room was different from what they had expected.

In an atmosphere that seemed to be filled with despair and frustration, some figures were expressing anticipation rather than those negative emotions.

The elders’ gazes naturally turned to the head table.

Lee Chul was sitting there.

Anastasia, Jung Jin-soo, Lee Young-sung, Valerie, Lee Kyung-hwa… all those who were called Lee Chul’s people were focused on Lee Chul.

In their eyes, there was a unique sparkle of those seeking answers to questions, rather than despair.

Before feeling despair, they were focused on the words that Lee Chul would utter.

And soon, Lee Chul’s mouth slowly opened.

“It’s doable.”

It was a statement that completely denied the despair of the people.

“Tell us the method, Lee Chul.”

Anastasia asked with a smile.

Only then did the elders feel the powerful force that Lee Chul possessed in his bright eyes, a force that captivated the audience.

It was something familiar to those who had lived in the same era as Lee Tae-shin.

He was fit to be the Lord.

The powerful aura unique to those who lead people was felt in his voice, and that power even covered the elders’ despair.

“We need to move quickly. We need the power of everyone here. If anyone has any thoughts other than victory, you may step down right now, and I will not blame you.”

Lee Chul said, his eyes shining.

“Valerie. First, Valerie will have to move with me. In addition, Anastasia, Jung Jin-soo. The two of you….”

Lee Chul began to give instructions.

Like fog clearing when the sun rises, despair disappeared in an instant.

The shadow of Lee Tae-shin fades away because of Lee Chul.

Jung Jin-soo felt the changed atmosphere in the audience and shone his eyes.

‘Yes, the reason I bet my life on that young boy was because of that kind of appearance.’

Jung Jin-soo, he was a thinker.

Lee Chul was the one who decided and presented the path.

And from Lee Chul’s voice, the story of the path to be taken once again began to flow.

“That’s… is that possible?”

“M-maybe it’s possible. Yes, that’s right. That’s what we had.”

One by one, those powerful words were clearly conveying possibilities.

Everyone’s eyes began to shine brightly.

“Young Master Lee Chul. There’s a problem with that. Rather, like this….”

“I’ll take care of that. I know the situation of the main family better than the Black Turtle Association Head, so I’m more suited.”

“I’ll support you.”

Lee Chul presented the big picture, and the details were quickly adjusted.

“Then let’s proceed like that.”

And Lee Chul stood up from his seat, finishing the story.

“The final battle… is in a week.”

Lee Chul left those words, looking at those who had not yet risen from their seats.

In a week.

They would head to the Soongmoo Lee family.

* * *

The week passed like a flash.

On the last day, some elements were uncertain, and some elements were prepared to overflowing.

What remained was for the heavens to decide.

On the last day, I sat in meditation, closed my eyes, and reviewed what I had.

The flow of time and the state of my body became distant, and the distinction between the world and me became blurred.

What I gained from the Sky Fortress.

The countless things I have experienced.

Time passed aimlessly, and at some point, I heard someone calling me.

“Commander Lee Chul. It’s morning. Everyone has gathered.”

When I opened my eyes slightly, Lee Young-sung was in front of me, having packed all his equipment.

I nodded and got up from my seat.

And went outside.

All the forces guarding the Black Turtle Association’s hideout were lined up here.

Some of the forces that participated in the Sky Fortress, Lee Young-sung and the Iron Blood Squad, the Twin Dragons Squad that followed the twin brothers, half of the Four Gods Unit, some subordinate organizations, and the forces of the Black Turtle Association.

It was truly a formation of seasoned warriors, approaching four digits in number.

But that number was still woefully inadequate compared to the forces that were lurking in the Soongmoo Lee family, that den of devils.

“Everyone’s gathered.”

I said, looking at those who were standing.

It was clearly a small number, and everyone knew that fact, but everyone’s eyes were filled with intense determination.

“Those who want to back out, now is the last chance. Back out. There will be no disadvantages. Neither the Soongmoo Lee family, nor I, will chase after you. I respect the will of those who leave.”

But not a single person stepped back at my words.

All those gathered here were those who carried on the spirit of the Soongmoo Lee family.

They were not following the superficial ideology that Lee Hyul had propagated to simply maintain it, but the value of struggle that countless talents had proven themselves over the generations.

I felt that these were the true Soongmoo Lee family.

And as their direct descendant, I had a duty to lead their struggle, taking the lead more than anyone else.

“Then good. From now on, we will be fighting none other than the main family… the Soongmoo Lee family that we belonged to. We will prove the value of struggle that is the world’s best martial arts family, and that we have protected with our blood and sweat.”

The eyes of the forces shone brightly.

I also looked at them.

“I will not take a single step back behind you, but will take the lead. I will be the first to face the enemy’s sword. And, I will be the first to enjoy the joy of victory.”

Flutter!

At that moment, Lee Young-sung, who was behind me, raised a tall flag.

A familiar pattern was drawn on the flag.

Crossed pine trees and a sword, surrounded by a red circle.

The pine trees represent integrity and vitality.

The sword represents the spirit of Soongmoo.

The red circle represents blood.

It was the emblem of the Soongmoo Lee family.

Everyone looked up at the emblem for a moment.

And then turned their heads back to look at Lee Chul.

His mouth opened.

“We are the true martial artists of the Soongmoo Lee family. Let’s go prove that from now on. Just like we always have.”

Swish!

The martial artists of the Soongmoo Lee family raised their respective weapons.

It was the Soongmoo Lee family’s unique ceremony, the Iron Etiquette.

The loyalty of those weapons was directed at me.

“Struggle, seize, and enjoy. This battle will be recorded in history. Your names will last for a thousand years.”

Thump!

The martial artists stamped their feet.

The ground vibrated.

Thump!

Once again, the vibration continued.

“Soongmoo Lee!”

For the first time, I raised my voice.

“Departure!”