29 - The Heaven-Slaying Sword

〈Chapter 29〉 Five Organs ­ Dragon-Phoenix Assembly (2) * * * Il-un, the 21st great disciple of Shaolin Temple. He was in an exceptionally good mood. And why wouldn't he be? Having always been confined within the walls of Shaolin, continuing his relentless training, the rare opportunity of venturing outside was bound to lift his spirits. New people and new encounters. Even the tantalizing foods only available outside Shaolin. Though they were things a monk, who should prioritize detachment from desires, ought not to indulge in, he couldn't help it. Why wouldn't it be so? For a 20-year-old filled with youthful vigor, the secular world is nothing short of captivating. 'A little indulgence like this, even the Abbot would understand.' With that thought, he entered an inn as soon as he arrived in Huangshan. Il-un, in the midst of attempting to relish this rare escapade with his fellow disciples, was interrupted. “Excuse me. Waiter. Could I have a plate of Dongpo Pork?” Of course, adhering to his sense of integrity. “…Ah, but hold the meat.” “Hahaha!!! Dongpo Pork, hehe! Without the meat, hohoho!” A frivolous laughter filled the entire inn. Startled, Il-un turned his head. And then his eyes quivered as if an earthquake had struck. “…Je, Young Master Zhuge?” “Ehehehe!” Bang. Bang. The one laughing raucously even as he pounded the table was unmistakably Zhuge San, the direct heir of the Zhuge Family, whom he had met a few times before. Moreover, the woman seated beside him was the heir of the Sichuan Tang Family who had vanished six years ago after the last Dragon-Phoenix Assembly. Of course, there was also a man among them who distinctly grabbed attention, but Il-un had no time to worry about him. 'I've been caught…!' He had ventured into a secluded alley to avoid familiar faces, only to run into someone he knew. Of all people, Zhuge San. The frivolous man notorious for spreading today's happenings across the entire Jianghu. “Oh my! Il-un Monk! It's been a while!!!” Zhuge San exclaimed, wiping away tears of laughter as he caught his breath while greeting. Il-un closed his eyes gently, drawing a hollow smile on his lips. 'Amitabha….' Of all people, why had it to be him? Was this a punishment from the Buddha for his immoderate desires? “Senior Brother…!” “This looks like it could be troublesome….” “…Calm yourselves.” Though he felt as if his insides were burning, Il-un managed to compose himself. The unwavering heart he had cultivated through prayer and meditation proved to be quite beneficial at this moment. 'Let's remedy this.' Il-un stood up hastily and approached the table where Zhuge San, Tang Hwaseo, and an unfamiliar man sat. He clasped his hands in prayer and bowed. “Amitabha. It has been a while, patrons. Have you been well?” “Oh….” “What 'oh'? Didn't you hear, Brother Mok? Dongpo Pork, hehe, without the meat, hehe….” “...Laugh more moderately. The monk seems to be troubled by your antics.” “And it's been years since we last met, Miss Tang. It must be about six years, right?” “Yes, indeed.” Il-un, feeling as if sweat would spring from his scalp, offered greetings in turn. Then, as he seated himself on an empty chair, he added a few more words. “The Three Pure Meats (三淨肉).” All he could think about was how to silence Zhuge San. No, more than that, he wanted to explain the justification for his actions. “Are you familiar with the term 'Three Pure Meats'? In Buddhism, it refers to the foundational conditions under which consuming meat is permissible. It means that the meat should not have been intended for oneself, it should not have been heard that it was intended for oneself, and there should be no evidence that it was intended for oneself. The meat adhering to these conditions is regarded as being left by nature's providence, and hence, we partake of it.” “….” “What is Dongpo Pork, after all? It's essentially a dish simmered in soy sauce—a legitimate meat dish, isn't it? However, if that meat dish lacked meat, and we were to consume the leftover vegetables and seasonings, then the meat would be considered for others, not ourselves. Thus, it aligns with the precepts of 'Three Pure Meats.'” Though his smile was gentle, his words carried a clear message. —If you dare spread this, I will break the killing precept(殺戒). Naturally, Zhuge San was not the type to be easily intimidated by such words. “Yes, of course. The Three Pure… hahah… yes! Indeed! How could a person live without eating meat? I completely understand!” With a playful pat on the shoulder, a vein pulsed on Il-un's forehead. “So, regarding today’s events….” “Do I look like someone who talks lightly? Rest easy!” It was a statement Il-un could hardly believe even a tiny bit. He felt his steadfast resolve threaten to crumble. “I implore once again….” “Do not worry. If needs be, I will snap his neck to keep him in line.” Tang Hwaseo remarked. At this, Zhuge San clamped his lips shut, cowering. Il-un, surprised by the unexpected assistance, beamed a bright smile and expressed his gratitude. “Ah, Miss Tang! Thank you for your help.” “It’s nothing.” Not that she was acting out of sheer goodwill. Tang Hwaseo swallowed those words inwardly as she regarded Il-un. ‘Perhaps it's serendipitous?’ Having established a connection with him even before the gathering commenced was surely advantageous. Though she couldn’t present her intentions at this moment, maintaining a good rapport for future endeavors seemed essential. While Tang Hwaseo pondered what she would say next, Mok Liwon spoke up first. "Ah, pleased to meet you! Are you indeed the ‘Fist Dragon’?" "Hmm? Ah, excuse me. Yes, indeed, that would be me. May I inquire your esteemed name?" "I am Mok Liwon! I am unsure if you've heard, but fellow Jianghu martial artists have taken to calling me the Black Ink Sword (흑묵검)!" Mok Liwon assumed a respectful posture. Il-un's eyes widened in surprise before beaming with a radiant smile. "Ah! Indeed, I have heard of you. You've made quite a name for yourself in Jiangxi Province." "Ahem! It was nothing, truly." Mok Liwon's shoulders rose in pride. His face flushed, clearly delighted by the praise lavished upon him. Watching this, Il-un smiled gently. ‘I had heard he was a master at the Peak Realm….’ --- **Terms Translated and Annotations:** - **Huangshan (黃山):** Translated as Huangshan. Huangshan is a mountain range in southern Anhui Province in eastern China and is well known for its scenery, sunsets, peculiarly shaped granite peaks, and views of the clouds from above. - **Three Pure Meats (三淨肉):** "삼정육" was translated with its traditional Buddhist term. It refers to the conditions wherein meat consumption is permissible according to Buddhist precepts, emphasizing detachment from personal gain. - **Killing Precept (殺戒):** The literal translation of "살계," it refers explicitly to one of the precepts in Buddhism that prohibits taking life, often cited as a sticking point for monks trying to justify actions outside their usual bounds of conduct that might imply indulging in desires. Il-un's comment suggests he'd break this principle as a veiled threat. - **Black Ink Sword (흑묵검):** Refers to Mok Liwon's nickname. The Chinese character for ink (묵) and sword (검) carries significant cultural resonance, as ink is a tool of scholars and swordsmen reflect martial prowess, suggesting a merging of intellect and martial skill. No modifications are required to the existing list given the context of this chapter. These translations ensure the original prose's literary nuances and character interactions are carried across effectively into English. **Expression of Prayer So Sharp** The aura he emitted was undeniably sharp. At the very least, he was definitely at the Peak Realm…. ‘Perhaps on par with me.’ Il-un could ascertain as much just from feeling his aura. ‘Indeed, Jianghu is vast.’ At a glance, the man seemed to be of the same age. To reach such a pinnacle at that age required superior martial arts training and rare elixirs; Il-un’s curiosity piqued at wondering which master had invested such effort. Of course, this lingering question arose because he was unaware that the only elixir Mok Liwon had ever consumed was the Neidan obtained during his ventures into Jianghu. “May I ask which sect you belong to?” inquired Il-un. “Ah, well….” Mok Liwon faltered, looking towards Tang Hwaseo for assistance. Catching this moment, Il-un shook his head. “Oh, you needn’t reveal it if it’s inconvenient. I was merely curious.” “Thank you for understanding.” There was no need to pry and discover someone's sect if it encroached upon personal matters. This understanding arose from Il-un’s respect for others and a pride he possessed as a martial artist. ‘Surely, if he is such a master, I will meet him again in the main round.’ By then, he’d naturally learn about his martial arts. And then, he would conquer them. Shaolin Temple, the guiding star of righteous Murim. That pride bestowed upon Il-un a robust confidence. “By the way, have you completed the registration for the meeting?” inquired Mok Liwon. “Yes, I completed it before stopping here.” “Ah….” “Why do you ask?” “We are about to head for the registration ourselves. I wished to accompany and hear tales of Shaolin.” A hint of disappointment surfaced on Mok Liwon’s face. Tang Hwaseo addressed this. “No need to be disheartened. There will be another opportunity to converse, day after tomorrow.” “Hm?” “The evening the registration ends, there will be a banquet. A gathering for the heirs of the Nine Great Sects and the Five Great Families. Given your accompaniment status, Brother Mok can likely attend.” “What she says is correct. Let us continue our conversation then.” The friendly exchange left Mok Liwon beaming. As always, when his smile broke out, an elated exclamation echoed from somewhere. “Very well! Until we meet again the day after!” “Monk, until then.” “Yes, and Young Master Zhuge….” Il-un’s gaze met with Zhuge San’s. Zhuge San grinned, giving a thumbs-up. “Have no worry.” Amid the unspoken intent to spread the story. … Il-un felt a vein pulse on his forehead, an entirely different matter for another day. --- Below Huangshan City in Anhui Province, called Xian. The three made their way out of the inn and finally arrived at the manor where the Dragon-Phoenix Assembly was to be held. “There are indeed many martial artists…!” Mok Liwon’s head turned enthusiastically as he surveyed the surroundings. Outside the manor’s walls stood martial artists with razor-sharp auras keeping watch, while at the grand gates stood others gathered in groups, awaiting registration for the Dragon-Phoenix Assembly. "Brother Mok, do you see that man over there?" "Hmm? Where?" "The one guarding the gate. He's wearing a blue hero's headscarf." Following Zhuge San's pointing finger, Mok Liwon looked towards the gate. Indeed, there stood a middle-aged man with a blue hero's headscarf. “Who is he?” “He’s Namgung Un, nephew of the Sword King, Changseong Sword (昌盛劍).” Mok Liwon’s eyes widened. His mouth also slightly parted in surprise. “The Sword King’s….” The nephew of the Sword King, one of the Top Ten Masters in the Righteous Murim. Upon hearing those words, Mok Liwon stretched out his senses. Thump— “Indeed.” The entirety of that space was under his dominion. The sharply refined energy enveloped and pressed heavily upon it. Mok Liwon’s instincts told him that if he were to clash with this man, he wouldn’t last even three moves. ‘…Unless I don't hold back in controlling my inner power? If I defend maximally and adapt to the sword's rhythm? Detecting his killing intent is possible. That much can be done. As long as I watch out for his Qi moves.' Perhaps he might not be utterly destroyed. Yet, defeat was inevitable. “He is one of those unparalleled martial artists Namgung Family prides.” “Unparalleled…” Between the Peak and Transcendent Peak Realms lay a formidable wall. Crunch— Mok Liwon clenched his fists tightly. The first martial artist stronger than him since his emergence into Jianghu. His competitive spirit was ignited. ‘I want a match.’ To cross swords with him. To steal the essence of his martial prowess. And with that essence as nourishment, to ascend to greater heights. Mok Liwon's heart began to beat faster. His aura also followed the rhythm of those emotions, leaping upward. In that instant. ‘Ah…!’ Namgung Un’s gaze landed on Mok Liwon. In that gaze's immense presence, Mok Liwon felt as though his shoulders bore a substantial burden. Tap— “Brother Mok, let us go. We're in a different line.” Tang Hwaseo’s words, along with a tap on the shoulder, dissipated the mounting pressure. Namgung Un had already shifted his gaze elsewhere. “…Understood. Let's proceed.” Mok Liwon took a moment longer to observe Namgung Un before diverting his gaze and following Tang Hwaseo. --- Namgung Un subtly turned his head, watching the departing figure of the man. He then inquired of the officer beside him. “Do you know who that man is?” “Ah, you mean the one between the Zhuge and Tang representatives?” “Indeed. I thought I’d memorized the names of the young elites attending this gathering, but he doesn’t seem to be on the list.” The officer chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "He is on the list, but this is his first appearance in Jianghu. That’s why you might not recognize him." “Oh?” "He is Mok Liwon, also known as the Black Ink Sword (흑묵검). An emerging talent of late. I heard he accompanies the Tang Family's Poison Phoenix, and it seems he’s also forged connections with the Strange Dragon.” “Black Ink Sword….” Namgung Un repeated the name, recalling the aura from earlier. “…I see.” “Yes.” “No, I don’t think so.” Namgung Un shook his head at the officer’s retort, contemplating. --- **Terms Translated and Annotations:** - **Blue Hero's Headscarf (영웅건):** The term is a traditional accessory often associated with heroes and martial artists in Chinese culture, symbolizing valor and martial distinction. - **Sword King (검왕):** A title denoting one of the supreme masters in Murim, it emphasizes mastery and authority in swordsmanship. - **Changseong Sword (昌盛劍):** "창성검" refers to Namgung Un’s distinct title or style, emphasizing prosperity and well-being, perhaps ritual significance of a flourishing path. - **Neidan (內丹):** A traditional Chinese alchemical term for an "internal elixir" believed to grant profound abilities or insights. These translations strive to faithfully convey the narrative’s details, preserving cultural and lexical nuances in the transition from Korean to English. ‘It seems Ravaging Sword (패검) would be more fitting than Black Ink Sword (흑묵검).’ The aura emanating from the unknown young martial artist was more in line with a fierce and destructive path rather than something soft and subtle like ink. ‘An intriguing fellow has arrived.’ Namgung Un mused with a slight smile, feeling a stir of anticipation within. This anticipation wasn’t particularly aimed at Mok Liwon himself. ‘He might make a decent rival for Jincheon.’ Namgung Family's young master, the Sword Dragon Namgung Jincheon. It was the thought that perhaps a worthy opponent had emerged to challenge his arrogantly confident nephew. --- **Terms Translated and Annotations:** - **Ravaging Sword (패검):** "패검 (Po Dao)" here is interpreted as meaning a more aggressive or domineering sword style, reflecting both Mok Liwon’s martial aura and the impression it leaves on others, contrasting with his nickname of Black Ink Sword which evokes artistry and subtlety. This translation captures Namgung Un’s interest in the potential clash of different martial paths and the opportunity it represents for his nephew, Namgung Jincheon.