Synopsis

The chapter begins by establishing the Aso Stronghold as a particularly brutal place within the Green Forest strongholds, ruled by the notorious Wang Hyeolchang. A caravan is then ambushed, leading to chaos among the escorts and porters. The escort leader, realizing their dire situation, orders the carriage to be set ablaze to create a diversion. Some choose to flee, while others stay behind to try and salvage the goods, only to find themselves facing their pursuers in a grim, divided state.