Side Story: Episode 17-1 - Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Episode 17. Storm in a Teacup (1) Anna Croft spoke. “Yoo Joonghyuk, perhaps the loops we have endured are nothing more than a storm in a teacup. The numerous rounds we struggled through might not have changed even a fragment of the night sky.” Yoo Joonghyuk silently gazed down at the stars reflected atop the teacup's surface. “There will come a day when all the stars in the sky fall, leaving me alone in this world. If I still hold this teacup then.” Yoo Joonghyuk, as if swallowing the sky reflected in the tea, emptied his cup. “In that moment, the world will have changed.” ―Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World (Myeolmanghan Segye-e Seo Sanananeun Ssegaji Bangbeob 中) * This was not the first time I had seen someone dying before my eyes. Those who read this story die. The brilliance in their eyes dims, and their body loses warmth, becoming unable to read anything more. Elain Forest's Essence. Demonic Pill. Summoning Circle. None of it mattered. It was too late. Even if the Great Celestial Immortal came, the wound could not be healed. But I already knew that. Even so, without indulging in such thoughts, I couldn’t bear it. Because otherwise, different thoughts would creep in. I stared dumbfounded at my hands. The hand that had been writing moments before was stained red. “Dad.” Jung Heewon spoke, holding the cold hand of the late Jeong Moonho in a calm voice. “Get up. This isn’t right.” As if those words would truly bring him back to life. But Jeong Moonho could not open his eyes again. A story with a replication success rate of 90% had played out like this. 「Jeong Moonho is dead.」 All I could do was document this moment. 「Jung Heewon was crying.」 The body of Jeong Moonho, having succumbed to the demonic energy of Point Explosion, gradually disintegrated. I wanted to ask. Why did he risk his life for this child? Why did he jump in for a character with no connection to him? Perhaps I already know the answer. 「He was a fragment of Kim Dokja.」 From the spot where Jeong Moonho's body disappeared, his soul slowly ascended. 「Little Kim Dokja.」 When Jeong Jaewoo died in the Theater Dungeon, I witnessed a similar phenomenon. Back then, a white hand had reached out from a tear in the dark space, snatching Jaewoo's soul. Yet this time, a black hand appeared. The black hand swiftly reached out, seizing the soul of the young Dokja and vanishing into the crevice of the space. White hand the previous time. Black hand this time. I couldn’t comprehend it. What kind of entities take away the souls of the deceased Dokjas? Was it the representative Kim Dokja I saw at that banquet? Or the otherworldly divine entity that appeared this time? Why were we brought into this world? 「Finally, it was the ending the reader desired.」 Such an unwanted story, why must it persist endlessly? My breath was becoming ragged, my head spinning. The swirling emotions dragged me down like quicksand. [The exclusive skill, ‘Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World’ has activated!] Yet, there still existed a story that protected me. 「Yoo Joonghyuk said, “It’s okay.”」 The Yu Joonghyuk of 'Myeolsalbeop' was speaking. Hearing his voice repeating across countless loops, I barely managed to gather myself together. 「“As long as you don’t give up, there is a way.”」 I repeated that sentence over and over, murmuring to myself as if to brainwash my doubts away. Yoo Joonghyuk was right. Even if his soul was abducted by the divine entity, there was a way to retrieve it. Just as Kim Dokja, who had been kidnapped by the ‘Secretive Plotter,’ had returned. At some point, Jung Heewon had stopped crying and was organizing Jeong Moonho’s belongings. “Eunho, is there a way to save him?” Her voice was endlessly deep, serene, and rich. Using the last of my strength, I answered her. “Yes, there is.” As if awaiting my response, a message appeared in the sky. [Constellation, 'Maritime War God' supports you with 100 coins.] [Constellation, 'King Heungmu' supports you with 100 coins.] [Constellation, 'Bald General of Volunteers' supports you with 100 coins.] [Constellation, 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' supports you with 1,000 coins.] [Constellation, 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' inquires about the otherworldly divine entity's fate.] . . [Your first Narrative Grade story is about to bloom.] [<Star Stream> is evaluating your first Narrative Grade story.] . . [‘Bounty Scenario ― Nostalgia’ has concluded.] [You have acquired ‘Low-grade Elixir’ as a reward.] The enormous coin support arrived along with the reward for the 'Bounty Scenario.' I immediately opened the wooden box that descended from the sky. Inside the box lay a familiar elixir. ‘Demonic Pill.’ Of all things, it had to be this elixir. I quickly contacted Bihyung using 'Dokkaebi Communication.' ‘Bihyung, is this the entire reward? Honestly, a scenario concluding with merely this level of reward seems unjust.’ Not even another entity, but an 'otherworldly divine entity' was vanquished in this scenario. Yet the reward was just one Demonic Pill. It made no sense. Thankfully, Bihyung’s reply came almost instantly. ―The bureau is already discussing it. I've also placed a request. It might take some time... Apparently, Bihyung was also facing a hard time with the 'otherworldly divine entity' situation. Given that an 'otherworldly divine entity' appeared even before the fifth scenario started, the bureau must be in chaos. Jung Heewon saw the Demonic Pill and asked. “Is that an antidote?” “This alone won’t suffice.” The Demonic Pill is a lesser version of the 'Demonic Soul Pill,' a prize from the Murim tournament. The elixir itself is effective, but if Eunho consumes it as is, he will literally go mad and become a demon. **New Terms:** 1. **Elain Forest's Essence(엘라인 숲의 정기)** - Essentially translated based on context from the novel as the essence/extract or life force related to a mystical forest, Elain. 2. **Demonic Pill(마인단)** - A fictional pill in the context; rendered as 'Demonic' due to the '마인' which connotes demon or magic related. 3. **Summoning Circle(소환단)** - Translated as a tool or circle used for summoning purposes in mystical or magical contexts. 4. **Point Explosion(혈점 폭발)** - A mysterious technique or ability that led to Jeong Moonho's demise, associated with explosive outbursts. 5. **Narrative Grade(설화급)** - A kind of story classification in the universe akin to legends or myths, where narratives are evaluated. 6. **'Myeolsalbeop(멸살법)'** - A recurring term associated with Yoo Joonghyuk’s skills, keeping the original Hangul due to its contextual significance with the methods to survive. **Explanation/Context:** - Yoo Joonghyuk and Anna Croft appear as characters engaged in commentary about the cyclical nature of their struggles, using the imagery of stars and a teacup to express futility. - The narrative is centered around witnessing the death of Jeong Moonho and the emotional turmoil his death evokes in the characters. - The black and white hands symbolize mysterious entities with purposes potentially tied to the retrieval and fate of souls. - Usage of coins and elixir are linked to support and reward mechanisms within the story’s universe, connected to surviving and progressing through scenarios. - The narrative builds on the concept of an ever-persistent story and the hope for salvation even in repeated loops of despair. **Changes/Notes:** - No specific changes needed to the prior list; existing character and term translations fit ongoing narrative contexts. - Additional context was provided regarding the relationships and motivations, emphasizing character backstories and potential revelations about Kim Dokja's identity. To counteract the Demonic Pill, a refined elixir of no less potency was required. "Sister..." Regaining consciousness, Jung Eunho struggled to open his eyes. Jung Heewon grasped her younger brother's hand reassuringly. "Eunho, it's okay." "What about Dad...?" "Don't worry about it; just breathe comfortably and don't think about anything else." As she gently covered her brother’s eyes with her hand, Jung Heewon turned to look at me. There really wasn't much time left. If we delayed any longer, even the elixir wouldn’t be able to save Jung Eunho. I rose and ascended onto the martial stage. There was still a chance. I had remaining coins, and if push came to shove, I could open the 'Exchange' instead of the 'Dokkaebi Bundle' to purchase an elixir, even if it meant paying an exorbitant price. If fewer Constellations were keeping an eye on me, I might have considered that option. [Constellation, 'Emperor Dreaming of Immortality' offers a modest elixir if you make a contract with them.] [Constellation, 'Usurer Targeting Hearts' offers a trade: 100,000 coins for an elixir of 'Summoning Circle' quality.] Damn these scoundrels. Using the 'Exchange' now would likely mean purchasing an elixir at an outrageous price. [Constellation, 'Maritime War God' challenges such absurd profiteering.] [Constellation, 'Merchant of the Daedong River' clicks his tongue, saying others are worse than him.] Thankfully, I had not overlooked such a dire scenario. I stepped onto the stage and gazed at the meteor guarded by Yongdu Bangju and Sagul. 「Meteorite.」 As mentioned in 'Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint,' meteorites vary depending on their color. For instance, a ‘Yellow Meteorite’ contains a 'Guide' for anticipating disasters, while a 'Bright Red Meteorite' contains weaponry, and a 'Dark Red Meteorite' holds calamities. However, this 'Otherworldly Meteorite' had a faint turquoise hue. If my memory serves, a greenish meteorite contains rare items related to “Scenarios.” Once more, I recalled the contents of 'Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint' and commanded 'Reminiscence' to transform into 'Broken Conviction.' [‘Almost Everything About Memories’ refuses your command.] Perhaps it was because it had been overburdened today. It wasn’t listening at all. [Penalty: You are unable to use Persuasion for the next 10 minutes.] Due to the penalty, I couldn’t use [Persuasion] either. I retrieved a bat left on the ground, infusing it with [White Azure Gang Qi]. Could this break the meteorite? Honestly, I wasn’t confident. The backlash from [Persuasion] left my limbs unresponsive. “Can you break that?” Turning my head, I saw Jung Heewon standing beside me. "I'll do it." Before I could nod in agreement, Jung Heewon picked up the 'Mikazuki Munechika' lying on the ground. Soon, an unsettling magical power began to swirl around Jung Heewon’s entire being. [A deep madness surges within Character 'Jung Heewon's' mind.] Behind the composed face, a strange heat flickered. Her gaze alone sent chills down the spine. Without any hesitation, her blade slashed vertically across the meteorite. Crack. Despite its considerable size, her sword cleaved the meteorite cleanly in two. Looking closely, a dark, faint aura flowed around her body. [A new trait within Character 'Jung Heewon' is stirring.] She had already awakened as the ‘Judge of Demonic Annihilation.’ Yet, another trait evolution was occurring within her. It was clear what she would become as a result of this evolution. ‘Slaughterer of Madness.’ Ultimately, the death of Jeong Moonho had engraved a deep scar on Jung Heewon's heart. And it wasn’t a good omen. 「During Yoo Joonghyuk's countless regressions, the ‘Slaughterer of Madness’ never made a companion. He was always alone, and he died alone. No one in the world tried to understand his madness, nor did he understand anyone else.」 I do not wish for Jung Heewon to become like that. For that, I must ensure Jung Eunho survives. As the meteorite crumbled away, a black wooden box was left behind. It was of far better quality than the one received as a scenario reward. Opening the lid, a resplendent golden light spilled forth. Inside the meteorite were three 'Summoning Circle' pills. [Constellation, 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' expresses relief at your good fortune.] [Constellation, 'Emperor Dreaming of Immortality' protests to the bureau, saying something is wrong!] The secret elixir of Shaolin, the Summoning Circle. Considering it was a meteorite from <Third Murim>, this level of reward wasn't unexpected. "Eunho." "Yes. This should suffice." Together, Jung Heewon and I helped Jung Eunho to sit on the ground. “Stay strong, even though it might be uncomfortable for a bit.” Jung Eunho’s condition was even worse than anticipated. His skin and organs, pierced by shrapnel, were all poisoned, and some tissues had already suffered severe necrosis. For such a small child to have suppressed the pain until now was impressive. I took the Demonic Pill from my pocket and mixed it with the Summoning Circle pill, then administered it to Jung Eunho. It was an application of what Kim Dokja did in 'Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint' when mixing 'Demonic Soul Pill' and 'Great Elixir.' [The mixing of some herbal ingredients neutralizes toxicity!] With a faint ray of light, Jung Eunho’s complexion began returning. No matter how severe the injury, it was ultimately a wound of an Incarnate body. Unless the core narrative was damaged, the elixir's power could potentially be enough for recovery. About five minutes passed like this. Suddenly, Jung Eunho’s body began to convulse. “Eunho! Eunho is—” I quickly checked Jung Eunho’s pulse. [Constellation, 'Goryeo's First Sword' watches Incarnation 'Jung Eunho' while making a sound of disapproval.] It suddenly dawned on me how careless I had been. [Constellation, 'Maritime War God' states the boy is not yet prepared to accept the elixir.] This was commonly referred to as habitation becoming a demon (走火入魔), a critical deviation often faced by practitioners when their energy pathways surged uncontrolled. **New Terms:** 1. **Exchange(거래소)** - A trading system mentioned as a potential means to acquire high-cost items and services, including elixirs in this narrative universe. 2. **Emperor Dreaming of Immortality(불사를 꿈꾼 시황제)** - A Constellation title, possibly inspired by historic figures desiring eternal life; offers contracts in exchange for elixirs. 3. **Usurer Targeting Hearts(심장을 노리는 고리대금업자)** - Constellation name implying predation or price gouging regarding heart’s desires; trading coins for higher grade elixirs. 4. **White Azure Gang Qi(백청강기)** - Translated as a cultivation or martial arts technique; Qi associated with strength and purity, integral to the novel’s martial context. 5. **Mikazuki Munechika(미카즈키 무네치카)** - A famous Japanese sword embraced within this story for its significance and character link. 6. **Slaughterer of Madness(광기의 도살자)** - A powerful transformative title pertaining to characters confronting extreme mental states or madness. **Explanation/Context:** - The chapter covers crucial moments of urgency to save Jung Eunho, utilizing various unlikely resources by mixing supernatural narrative elements and items. - The distinction between black and green meteorites indicates diverse outcomes based on choices and items. - Constellations with unique attributes offer unpredictable exchanges and form the narrative's mystical economic structure. They reflect mythological or historical characters with complex motives. - Evolving character dynamics and personal growth are central, marked by Jung Heewon's awakening to a new, unsettling role, influenced deeply by her emotional states and past events. - It is depicted as a traditional, possibly Eastern martial art concept where overexertion without preparation can lead to devastation of mind and self, usually described as flowing demons or energy errors. **Changes/Notes:** - No specific changes needed to the previously given list of translations and character pronoun usages; the context remains consistent with the expansions. - Emphasis should be placed on the varying influences of Constellation deals and exchanges within unfolding scenarios. 「There are two solutions for managing 'habitual deviation turning into a demon' caused by an elixir: One is if fortune smiles upon the subject, allowing them an epiphany on their own. The second is for those nearby, the protectors, to collectively bear the rampaging power.」 This passage from 'Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World' surfaced in my mind. "Heewon, it seems we need to help," I explained the situation to Jung Heewon. The solutions mentioned in 'Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World' were meant for the martial arts masters of Murim. But we had no other option now. Holding each other's hand tightly, we each placed our free hand on the ashen-faced Jung Eunho's hand. And then... Ddrrrrr. Like currents flowing from tributaries into a river, Jung Eunho's wild magic surged through my fingers violently. Blood vessels unblocked, and my entire latent magical energy was boiling to life. Instinctively, I knew. If we could survive this crisis, both Jung Heewon and I, and possibly Jung Eunho too, could emerge stronger than before. The problem was that if we failed to endure, all three of us would perish. Gritting my teeth, I braced myself against the oncoming pain. Kugugugu! Though no words were exchanged, we all kept holding hands firmly. Jung Heewon, whose magic level was lower, was gradually growing pale. I also grew anxious. Jung Eunho's magic, which I thought would soon settle, showed no signs of abating. Sweat-soaked my entire body, and my vision was darkening as if covered by a mold. The reality I refused to acknowledge was rearing its head. 「Jung Eunho cannot be saved.」 For a fleeting moment, a tempting notion struck me. If I let go now, we might suffer severe injuries, but perhaps Jung Heewon's life could be spared. But surely, Jung Eunho and I would die. At this point, it was almost laughable. As if some grand destiny were at play. 「As if someone is determined to make Jung Heewon the ‘Slaughterer of Madness.’」 Reading my thoughts, Jung Heewon held onto my hand with a fierce gaze. Regrets crept in. If only I had learned even basic [Qi Breathing] skills... Jung Heewon, with blood pouring from her nose and mouth, was beginning to fall. As I hastily prepared to let go to save her, a message appeared. [Your new ‘Narrative’ emerges!] [Narrative, ‘Persistent Murim Expert’ begins a story.] Like a true expert of Murim controlling their energy, Jung Eunho’s magic came to a halt. It was prowess in controlling magical flow born from a stalwart spirit. Following the narrative's guidance, the energy began coursing through the meridians. I immediately knew whose Narrative it was. 「It was the Narrative given by the Heavenly Beggar, Yongdu Bangju.」 From his days as a human to his ascension as a Constellation, Bangju's essence of martial arts was encapsulated in this Narrative. The raging flow of energy, like a runaway train, gradually settled, and the complexions of Jung Heewon and Jung Eunho slowly improved. As the energy settled, the torment within Jung Eunho, entrapped by his affliction, echoed. 「Sister. I’m sorry.」 Jung Heewon replied. 「It’s okay.」 Sorry for what? Okay for what? I didn’t know. But the two of them had crossed a boundary. They accepted the loss of their father and that they must continue living in this world. 「And author Lee Hak Hyun recorded all of these tales.」 A curious thought struck me. Where do these sentences that often float into my mind come from? Is it 'Three Ways To Survive in a Ruined World'? Is it 'Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint'? Is it the 'Fourth Wall'? Is it the 'Final Wall'? Or if it is none of these... 「Do you want to know?」 I wanted to know. Though I thought I shouldn’t lose consciousness, my vision gradually darkened. A deep drowsiness loomed over me, and soon, it seemed like someone was waking me. And when I opened my eyes again. 「You've returned again.」 I found myself lying in a white expanse of snow. A face as white as the coat it wore was looking down at me. I called his name. 「Kim Dokja.」 As if he knew what had transpired, he gazed at me with a somewhat melancholic look in his eyes. 「Drink.」 He extended a teacup he was holding. Warm steam rose from the surface. 「It’s a tea developed by Yoo Joonghyuk of the 81st round.」 Yoo Joonghyuk of the 81st round. If my memory served correctly, he's the Yoo Joonghyuk who excelled at cooking. I sat up and took the teacup. I sipped the tea. Delicious. A warm sensation filled my chest, calming my previously anxious heart with tranquility. It's amazing that you can create something like this. Of course. Kim Dokja was ‘The Oldest Dreamer.’ He is the god of this world, and whatever he imagines can become reality. My hands holding the teacup trembled slightly. Kim Dokja looked at me silently. Everything seemed peaceful. Yet, in this serene interval world, I felt a slightly different emotion from usual. The tea in the cup rippled. Across the rippling tea, people came into view. Some were screaming, others were wailing. Among them were Jung Heewon's face, Jeong Moonho’s face. Jeong Jaewoo’s face was also there, along with Yongdu Bangju's. Worried they might overflow, I gripped the teacup with both hands, and I asked Kim Dokja. 「Why do you still dream of such things?」 **New Terms:** 1. **Habitual Deviation Turning Into a Demon(주화입마)** - This refers to a phenomenon often cited in martial arts and cultivation literature, where one loses control during practice, leading to a mental breakdown or berserk state. 2. **Heavenly Beggar(천개)** - The character “Yongdu Bangju” associated with a powerful figure in martial arts lore, typically embodying a wise yet unorthodox teacher or master role. 3. **Qi Breathing(운기조식)** - A foundational breathing technique used for circulating energy or "Qi" in martial arts practice. 4. **Persistent Murim Expert(끈질긴 무림 고수)** - This refers to someone with tenacity and mastery over martial arts, hinted at as possessing great resilience and skill. 5. **Narrative(설화)** - Stories or tales that carry mythical or significant resonance within the narrative structure, capable of influencing characters and events. **Explanation/Context:** - The passage describes a critical moment of survival where characters grapple with overpowering magic through partnered resilience inspired by martial arts legends. - In the precarious situation, mystical narration and shared experiences form a lifeline, binding them in collective struggle. - The narrative often utilizes Constellations and otherworldly elements that exert both guidance and pressure. - The serene interlude with Kim Dokja reflects a metaphysical exploration of narrative creation and control, infused with deeper existential questioning. - The development questions stability, introspection, and the drive behind one’s dreams or repeated patterns — exploring the mindscape of those entrenched in prophecy or repetition. **Changes/Notes:** - No changes necessary for existing translations, consistent with contextual storytelling. - A recurring theme emphasizes forging strength through trials, illustrating growth in the face of overwhelming forces and internalized narratives.