194 - The Heaven-Slaying Sword

EP.194 Intermission - Mistake (2) * * * Tang Hwaseo lay in bed, lost in thought. Her mind was occupied with what she heard from Namgung Jinchun. "Yes, there could be women eyeing Young Master Mok." Did Mok Liwon have a somewhat handsome appearance? Isn't it the kind of appearance that makes one worry they'll fall short in beauty next to him, despite him being a man? Moreover, his character is so naive, making one fantasize about devouring him hundreds of times a day—that's just who Mok Liwon is. Yes, it’s possible. There could be women targeting Mok Liwon... "There shouldn't be." Crack! Tang Hwaseo’s fist clenched tightly, emitting a chilling sound. In her narrowly opened eyes lurked a murderous intent. There shouldn't be any women after him. If they exist, they must be stopped from ever seeing another sunrise. Who dares to reach out for what I've claimed as mine? Such shameless individuals must be punished accordingly. "Young Master Mok is the problem too." How could he walk so carelessly in front of strange women, without any awareness? Even if he doesn't realize how good-looking he is, he should still be on guard! Surely, before they parted, things were going well! After an inevitable reunion, he should've aimed to progress their relationship further! - To Mok Liwon’s room.... Only Tang Hwaseo is entitled to enter there. She had already come to that conclusion. It was at that moment. - Madam. A voice came from outside the door. - May I enter? “…Come in.” Tang Hwaseo suppressed her indignation as she replied. The door creaked open, and Sohyang entered. Once merely an acquaintance, Sohyang had now become an essential member handling various tasks alongside Tang Hwaseo. Tang Hwaseo forced a calm expression and asked, “Yes, what is it?” “It's a report on the supply status for the frontline.” Sohyang bowed her head and presented the documents. Tang Hwaseo reviewed the papers. “The initial supply is complete, I see.” “Yes, thankfully we had some financial leeway this time.” “There better be. Considering how much land we sold off.” The Tang Sect had downsized its operations and dismissed many of its senior members to achieve this. The value of the land and items sold in the process was substantial. Even after completing the second and third supply runs, there were still some funds remaining. “Well done. What's the next destination…?” “We plan to return to the rear, resupply, and then head back to the front lines.” “What about the security forces?” “The escort consists of thirty-two martial artists from the alliance, and adding twenty from the Tang Sect, we have a total of fifty. So losing the supplies shouldn’t be a concern.” Tang Hwaseo nodded. With that many forces, they could fend off any possible schemes from the Demonic Cult. Therefore, she should focus more on the issues at the front…. ‘…Wait.’ Her thought process came to a halt. “What’s the matter?” Even at Sohyang’s question, Tang Hwaseo couldn't immediately answer. It was because a particular thought had seized her mind. “On the way to the rear, don’t we pass by the Zhuge Family’s estate?” Indeed, since the Zhuge Family's estate lay along the primary supply route, it was inevitable they’d stop by. This means, if she joined the procession, she could ‘accidentally’ run into Mok Liwon at the Zhuge estate. Tang Hwaseo's eyes glowed with a fiery light. ‘A perfect opportunity to deal with those contemptible women!' The documents she held were crumpled in her hands. Sohyang narrowed her eyes and asked, “Madam.” “What?” “Are you thinking about Mok Liwon again?” Startled, Tang Hwaseo’s shoulders twitched. “Wha, what nonsense are you spouting….” “Did you know? Whenever you hear something related to Mok Liwon or think about him, you always have that fierce look in your eyes. Your breathing becomes heavy and your lips purse….” Honestly, you look quite sinister. Even though it wasn't said, those words seemed to linger in the air around her. Tang Hwaseo knew the reason why. Honestly, every time she thought of Mok Liwon while looking at something she admired, her expression turned exactly the way it did now. Tang Hwaseo was well aware of how sinister her face could appear. “So, you're coming along, aren’t you? Since Mok Liwon is at the Zhuge estate….” “Sohyang, it's really not for that reason.” “Of course, of course.” “Truly, it's not. The war is intensifying, so I need to strengthen the supply line….” “Sure, naturally.” “Sohyang….” “Madam, you’re terrible at making excuses.” Tang Hwaseo clamped her mouth shut. A blush appeared on her cheeks. She had no rebuttal. * * * Sohyang, one of the key figures in the current Tang Sect. In discussions of life's hardships, she could confidently vie for the top spot, given her tumultuous life experiences. Trained as a guardian from a young age, she stayed by young master Tang Hwaseo’s side. She supported her during tough times, shared joy in happy moments, and spent many years together. Then, on the day Tang Hwaseo fled the Tang Sect, they left together, wandering for five years. They weathered the storms upon returning to the Tang Sect. Being at the forefront of all those events, one could say that Sohyang was the living history of the Tang Sect. Hence, no one in the Tang Sect dared defy Sohyang. Under one person, above all others. At least within the Tang Sect, Sohyang held such a position. However, she had worries she couldn't share with others. ‘How should I handle this?’ It was a concern regarding her master, Tang Hwaseo. Specifically, it was about Tang Hwaseo's ongoing struggles with her first love. Her adversary was none other than Mok Liwon, the young and talented martial artist stirring up the martial world. Just a face with an outstanding appearance. ‘Who would've thought the master had a weakness for men.’ It worried Sohyang how Tang Hwaseo became blinded by jealousy and very foolish whenever Mok Liwon was involved. Sohyang thought about Mok Liwon. She knew enough about him to recall quite a lot. Why wouldn't she, when she was the one who first confronted him in Su Yang County in Jiangxi? The one who exchanged many words with him as he first set foot into the martial world was herself. Sohyang admitted it. Mok Liwon is good-natured. He understands cooperation and possesses excellent martial skills. Above all, he is handsome. But still. --- 1. 남궁진천 translated as Namgung Jinchun, as it represents a character name with the surname Namgung. Alternate translations could involve positioning as 'Namgung Jincheon,' but context as a name fits. 2. 제갈가 translated as the Zhuge Family, in line with the naming conventions for established families like the period novels. 3. 사내 주제에 is an idiomatic expression to critique Mok Liwon's beauty despite being a man; translated to keep the critical tone. 4. 호위 병력으로 맹의 무인 삼십이에서 the "맹의 무인" refers to 'martial artists from the alliance,' demonstrating organized escort groups. 5. “일인지하 만인지상” was translated directly for its idiomatic meaning, implying Sohyang's high yet subordinate status to only one person. 6. 사천당문 consistently translated as Tang Sect to maintain name consistency across all instances. Any context involving expressions or idioms was translated to capture the original tone and character dynamics, retaining depth in expressions of jealousy and authority. Pairing Mok Liwon with Tang Hwaseo left Sohyang with an undeniable sense of unease. "That simpleton as a husband?" Sohyang felt a chill run down her spine. Mok Liwon, simpleton that he is, and Tang Hwaseo, who becomes equally foolish in his presence. In such a case, who would lead the Tang Sect? Who would protect the future of the Tang Sect? A dreadful scene began to play out in Sohyang's mind. “Young Master Mok, they say the flowers are in full bloom today. Shall we go?” “Sure! But who’s handling the affairs?” “Sohyang will.” Oof, she shivered, goosebumps running up her body. Sohyang was certain. If those two ended up together, she'd end her life guarding the Tang Sect alone. "But still…." Even so, this was Mok Liwon. The candidate for the greatest martial artist in the world, Mok Liwon. Once he joined the Tang Sect, the fallen Tang Sect’s fortunes would rise again—perhaps higher than they were before. Isn’t it such a waste? The idea of having someone of his caliber join the Tang Sect is too good to pass up and something only a traitor would reject. Not that anyone would bother planting a spy in a humble family like the Tang Sect anyway. "Is it practicality or a peaceful life?" Sohyang closed her eyes tightly, lost in thought, but she could not find an answer. In the midst of her musings, a voice cut in. “We’re ready to depart.” A subordinate's announcement that the procession was ready to leave made Sohyang snap her eyes open. “Yes, what about the Madam?” “She hasn’t come out yet.” Sohyang cocked her head. Tang Hwaseo was a meticulous woman who was never late for appointments. The fact that she hadn't shown up was beginning to concern Sohyang. “Wait here for a moment.” Swiftly, Sohyang made her way to Tang Hwaseo's quarters. If she were sick, Sohyang was prepared to play nurse day and night. Arriving at the quarters. Bang! “Madam!” “Mm, hmm?” The sight that greeted Sohyang left her speechless. “…Ah, Sohyang, you're here. Is it time already?” Tang Hwaseo was sitting in front of a mirror, meticulously applying makeup. Her application was so thorough that even her pores were invisible. Sohyang's gaze settled on the array of cosmetics spread out. Without thinking, she asked, “What are you doing?” “If I’m going out for public appearances, I shouldn't look untidy, should I?” It's probably because she intends to meet Mok Liwon. “After all, I am the face of the Tang Sect. How could I, as its master, tarnish its name?” Says the person who almost singlehandedly brought the Tang Sect to ruin. “Ah, Sohyang. Come here and help me. Which of these two colors looks better?” Arguing about the difference between two identical shades of red, is this some kind of eye-training? “…Sohyang?” “Madam.” “…Yes?” “Are you going to a matchmaker?” Why go to such lengths in your appearance? Even if you show up in rags, that simpleton would welcome you, Madam. Sohyang held back words that would only make Tang Hwaseo happy. She gave her a fierce look, trying to convey that she shouldn’t even think about lying. Even then, with that brazen attitude, Tang Hwaseo blushed as she spoke. “Well, it’s been a while since I last saw him….” Acting like a young girl doesn't suit you. Sohyang shut her eyes tightly. “…It’s time to go. If we don't leave now, the schedule will get tangled.” “Alright. Alright. You're always in such a rush, Sohyang.” The future of the Tang Sect looked bleak. --- 1. 부군 (Father/Master) used here metaphorically to indicate a future husband was translated as “husband” to fit the context of a contemplated marriage. 2. 등골이 섬찟해졌다 (a chill ran down her spine) captures the eerie sense of fear or startling anticipation. 3. 고금제일 (greatest martial artist in the world) has been used to refer to Mok Liwon as a top martial artist akin to the phrase "best under heaven," thus maintaining the grandeur of his status. 4. 손잡이 (“matchmaker”) adapted to match the context of meeting or marrying someone, suggesting a formal or romantic intention in the grooming. 5. 향이 (Sohyang) is Sohyang’s name, shortened in familial or familiar settings; translated directly here due to the informal context. The text played on familiar cultural norms and humor, such as the meticulous grooming for meeting someone important, while still highlighting the core of their relationships and underlying tensions. Strategic balance between maintaining character dynamics and contextual interpretations.