829 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

The Ten-Sided Ambush Formation. In the past... (omitted). Anyway, completed! A structure that allocated an entire mountain slope, with a meticulous personnel arrangement and communication system, was a masterpiece completed by inviting external 'experts'. However. The Ten-Sided Ambush Formation prepared by Odukgon and assisted by the Blood Cult was not merely a large-scale encirclement operation. Adding to the ambush was the arrangement of natural objects, forming a tactical array that twisted one's internal orientation and perception, creating a natural labyrinth. If one didn't know the paths of life and death, even if they tried to force their way through with power, they'd ultimately circle the same spot. If they lost focus for even a moment, they'd lose track of the companions beside them. In the end, those ensnared in this trap would be scattered, facing countless enemies converging from all directions. But that's not all. No, the most deadly, powerful, and dangerous part of this Ten-Sided Ambush Formation remains. It's the fact that they poured out the immense amount of deadly poison that Odukgon had been storing since its founding! A sect dealing with toxins naturally had many enemies. Odukgon was the same. Whenever someone died from Odukgon's poison, hatred was directed at Odukgon, regardless of whether it was the sect's doing or not. Regardless of whether the poison was something Odukgon sold decades ago, something entirely unrelated, something stolen, or just something with similar symptoms causing misunderstanding, the hatred would find its way back to Odukgon. Furthermore? Suppose an Odukgon cultivator wins a fair battle against another sect member. If it were a typical martial contest, the life of a Jianghu martial artist would mean leaving minimal grudges. It was just part of their lives, after all. But if poison was used? Odukgon, even in victory, would be accused of using lowly means, and the opponents couldn't accept defeat, only nursing their grudges. Therefore, the members of the poison sect acted ruthlessly. It wasn't without reason that the Tang Clan lived by the motto of repaying gratitude twofold and grudges tenfold. If the poison sect did not instill fear, the accumulated grudges would overflow and assault them beyond their defenses. And this fear came from the poison's potency, from the sheer quantity stored within their vaults. So pouring out all those reserves of poison? It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Odukgon's future was entirely consumed by this one extermination formation. However. In this world, there were actions that needed to be taken, regardless of their foolishness. This ambush formation was one such action. During the Sichuan massacre, Odukgon lost more than half of its most treasured disciples. Even the senior most disciple met a gruesome end. To reconcile such hatred, sacrificing even the sect's future was necessary. Moreover, being tied to the Blood Cult meant that if this was revealed, they'd face annihilation by the whole of Zhongyuan. In essence, Odukgon had forsaken its future. The depth of Odukgon's grudge was such. And thus, the Ten-Sided Ambush Formation became even more terrifying. After constructing an intricate ambush designed by experts, adding a strategic array, and without hesitation, pouring in lethal poisons. The very essence, the pinnacle of it all. This hatred, or rather, resolve! No matter how perfect an ambush formation might be, without the resolve of its members, it would be as loose as a net, allowing enemies to slip through like fish. To charge at the enemy with unwavering courage, to bite when arms are cut, and to entangle with legs if jaws are shattered, such indomitable resolve was needed! And that's what Odukgon was now. Having abandoned their future, having forsaken tomorrow for today, they only sought to slay their enemies. Having meticulously completed preparations for the horrifying Ten-Sided Ambush Formation. What remained for Odukgon was just to have the clueless enemies walk in of their own accord, meeting the most gruesome end... but? The enemies did not arrive. No news at all. Despite sacrificing the sect's future to set up this trap, the enemy did not come. While the whole sect was camped outside, eating and sleeping in the open, facing dry winds and cold dew... “...Where are those bastards?” “They have not been found, sir.” “Is that even possible?!” Bam! Odukgon's Leader, Huchunji, slammed his fist on the strategic table. “Did they vanish into the earth or soar into the sky?! Didn't they say they were heading directly this way?! How come they still haven’t shown even a hint of their presence!” “Leader, please calm down. Aren't those youngsters just naive? Perhaps those brats are sightseeing at the terraces...” “What do you mean sightseeing at a time like this! Why aren't they marching in quickly!” “Well, since they aren’t coming to fight, they might be playing the hero rather leisurely. Moreover, the terraces are a spectacular sight…” Indeed, the terraces of Won-yang (圓陽) are a marvel... but that's not the point! Unintentionally agreeing, Huchunji gritted his teeth. He wasn't truly angry at his commander. His commander was undoubtedly frustrated as well, making Huchunji similarly helpless, venting at innocents. Still, regretful words couldn't help but escape his lips. “What about those Blood Cult vermin? Are they saying nothing?” “Being the sneaky bunch they are, they keep insisting they’ll arrive soon.” “The disciples have been camping for five days now, tch, let's prepare a special meal today. But don't slack on the vigilance. Also...” And so, Odukgon continues their encampment. ---- Odukgon, at its base. While the sect was empty due to everyone being out on ambush, strangely, a heated atmosphere prevailed at the headquarters. Originally, the place where the leader would discuss sect matters with the elders should have been deserted, since the leader and all elders were deployed. Surprisingly, at the prime seat in the headquarters, atop the grand conference table, an intense union of male and female was underway. Such outrageous behavior could not be imagined from even the most notorious troublemaker of the sect. --- ### New Terms: 1. **Odukgon (오독문)**: A sect known for using deadly poisons, translated literally and contextually to "Odukgon," emphasizing its role and reputation. 2. **Huchunji (후천지)**: The leader of Odukgon, translated as "Huchunji" due to lack of direct native English equivalent and to preserve authenticity and phonetics. 3. **Won-yang (圓陽)**: A fictional location known for its prestigious terraces, translated as "Won-yang (圓陽)" to retain the sense of a specific, culturally relevant place. --- ### Changes & Recommendations: 1. **Remove literal translation** of fictitious cultural & personal names if more creative adaptation fits; however, this depends on narrative style preference (e.g., Beijing versus Peking). 2. **Check consistency** in terms and references for unsolved or evolving aliases, ensuring alignment with world-building intricacies. For example, if "후천지" transitions to a well-known alias/battle title, this must reflect in future translations to retain narrative consistency. 3. Explore dual narrative interpretations where traditional roles/events hold possible alternate meanings based on evolving character and plot dynamics. How could such lewd acts occur in the very heart of the sect, in its most public place? It was an insult akin to dishonoring all the ancestors of the sect, an outrageous offense punishable by death for disgracing one's ancestors, or by crippling punishment where one's dantian is shattered and meridians severed. Yet, as long as one remains uncaught, anything goes. Especially in an empty Odukgon, where Odukgon disciples were absent, who would know or care if sacred places were used for profane acts or roasting whole pigs? In any case, the one currently engrossed in the fervent affair likely didn't care if discovered. After all, he was a member of the Blood Cult, and not just any member, but a significant one at that—Dokma, the Poison Demon leading the Blood Hand under Blood Cult's command, precisely the leader of the Blood Cult. This was representative of the typical character of Blood Cult members. Moreover, it was a sight difficult to watch with a sober mind. With one being a great magic practitioner in the guise of a not-yet-matured boy, and the other an old man. A terrifying scene beyond description and one that should not be described! And as time passed, the intensity only grew. At that moment. "Dokma, there's an emergency, huff." A Blood Cult warrior burst through the main hall doors, paralyzed on the spot by an unexpected visual assault. "What's so urgent? Can't you see I'm busy right now?" Dokma's demeanor was utterly normal. It was the elderly woman entangled with him who hurried to conceal herself in shock. Dokma smacked his lips. "There's no need to tremble. Must be urgent enough for you to dare burst into my presence. So, what is it?" The reason the Blood Cult warrior trembled differed slightly. Essentially, Dokma's practical nature meant if the warrior had considered politeness, it might've angered Dokma more for appearing relaxed in a crisis. Nonetheless, who wouldn’t feel fear witnessing such a scene? Rumors existed of Dokma's taste, but to think they were real...! "Well, the poison-making facility was attacked. The mine has collapsed, and all of Jeong family members are annihilated. Only five survivors." "What?" Dokma's expression twisted sharply. "What about Sejung?" "It's reported that Sejung has passed away..." Dokma's annoyance flared on his face. How long did it take to train a poison master? He had barely managed to educate a promising child to manage one task, only to die? "What, who dared?" "The culprit is said to be the Supreme Thief, Eum Baek-doek, suspected to be a master in the Transformation Realm." Dokma's expression contorted further. Supreme Thief? Who uses a nickname like that? Eum Baek-doek? Eating rice thief? The logic eluded him, and if such a master with that odd nickname had been famed, he'd have at least heard of it, but it was entirely unfamiliar. And Do-deoklyeon? The name Dokryeon, although beautiful, is not a name you'd give to someone with the last name ‘Do’. Surely, it’s a master hiding their identity, coming up with a mocking alias and name. But who? Well, figuring out could be left to interrogation. Dare mess with my subordinates? Just as Dokma's tongue flicked with anticipation. "Furthermore, Lord Jeong and warrior Dong are severely injured-" "What?" "The details aren't encouraging." "Why report that to me? Should call that phantom and report to the Sword Demon." "The details are extraordinarily disturbing. They've lost their sight, gone deaf, and had their tongues cut out—" "As I stated, report those matters to the Sword Demon, ah, wait? Oh. Quite a vicious hero? Hmm. Hmm. I was contemplating how to handle the one who dared touch my things, but that seems reasonable." Dokma began putting on his clothes. "Relay to Jaeryun that we're setting off immediately, gather suitable individuals. And, um, tell the Sword Demon that I'll send the perpetrator wrapped similarly and owe me one. Now, then." At that moment. Suddenly, a breeze seemed to blow, and the silhouette of an unfamiliar woman appeared beyond the open door. "Oh. Lord Dokma. Excuse me. Is it safe to assume that... the dreadful affair is concluded?" "What is it, ghost? And what do you mean, dreadful affair? You may not know, but sharing affection between a man and a woman is not a dreadful thing." "But weren't they elderly?" "So, at my age I should be frolicking with a young girl? Isn't that what's truly dreadful?" "Ah? I see? Anyway. Hmm." The woman feigned adjusting her voice. Then dipped her voice as she spoke. "The Master commands. A rebellion has broken out in Namwol; Dokma is to handle it personally. That's all." "Why now of all times?" "The order had arrived earlier, but Lord Dokma was too... engrossed, fearing to approach." At this, Dokma frowned. "Orders from the Master should have been prioritized. Hmm. Then, what about that guy." An opponent at the level of the Transformation Realm, if left to subordinates, would certainly result in casualties. bWpnL1VNWWVlR0h2N0IyVWd5ZUJTeGljUXVKZ202QTFFV2NiaXZtbk9BRFRGNm1RdGxUSjBxMFRiSFZvT3h4MA If it were another overly brash unit swinging weaponry around, it might be different, but my Blood Hands are immensely hard to train, with a balance of martial prowess and scholarly studies due to the abundance of knowledge required. After pondering momentarily, Dokma suddenly snapped his fingers. There is an old saying—use poison to counter poison? “Right. Instead of sending our people, let the Odukgon handle it. Release the reserve forces sent by the Sword Demon, have them find and lead her to the place where Odukgon is laying an ambush.” “But would Odukgon willingly engage? They’re already in a frenzy over capturing their enemy.” “Odukgon's most hated enemy is the Heavenly Sword Flower, wasn’t it? Then tell them the identity of Do-deokryeon is the Heavenly Sword Flower. They’ll chase after it relentlessly. Afterwards, if it's found false, we’ll just say we were deceived too.” Upon reflection, it seemed like an exceptional plan. --- ### New Terms: 1. **Dokma (독마)**: Literally translating to "Poison Demon," likely a significant antagonist or character with poisonous abilities within the Blood Cult. 2. **Sejung (세정)**: Translated as "Sejung" for authenticity and preserving profile as possibly a notable sect member. 3. **Eum Baek-doek (음미적 도독련)**: A nickname "Supreme Thief, Eum Baek-doek," humorously suggesting traits or hidden meaning, blending mystery with whimsy. 4. **Ghost (허깨비)**: Used metaphorically to describe a messenger or mercurial character in service of the Blood Cult, translating to “ghost” or “phantom.” 5. **Namwol (남월)**: A location presumably under threat, translated directly as "Namwol" to maintain narrative clarity and contextual importance. --- ### Changes & Recommendations: 1. Moderate humorous or whimsical nicknames **without explicit context** should be explained within story development to balance between humor and plot coherence, essential for reader immersion. 2. Reinforce thematic convergence in translations by **aligning cultural idioms or sayings** contextually, e.g., "use poison to counter poison," ensuring cultural references enhance and not confuse. 3. Synchronize alias transitions and rich characterization **to align with story arcs and perceived mysteries**—crucial for maintaining series intrigue and reader engagement. The Odukgon might grit their teeth, but it's their regret, not that of the Blood Cult. However. Sometimes even a backward motion catches the rat. If Qing knew, it would be exceptionally infuriating. Or, perhaps it's rather favorable. If they don't flee and instead confront, it might actually be a welcomed challenge. --- ### New Terms: 1. **Qing (청)**: It seems to be an informal way of referring to Ximen Qing, retaining authenticity in name recognition and narrative alignment. --- ### Changes & Recommendations: 1. **Reflect character emotions** and perceptions by inferring subtleties in narrative threats or challenges within the translation, providing an immersive bridge across language emotions. 2. **Highlight implicit cultural idioms** like “sometimes even a backward motion catches the rat” by maintaining narrative expectations, enhancing the metaphor's role in cultural tongue and story dynamics. 3. Monitor consistency of character’s emotional expressions across similar or recurring scenarios to **reveal behavioral patterns and foreshadow plots**, allowing deeper reader engagement and foresight.