849 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

This time, by some twist of fate, Qing found herself in the role of an old master, making it awkward to suddenly switch to a frivolous and careless demeanor. Every time Qing embarks on a path of carnage, she adopts the guise of a vulgar character, not because that matches her true nature (perhaps), but simply because it infuriates others more. Imagine a serious master of the martial arts world passing judgment on an evildoer. To the villain's cries of "Why is this happening? Isn't everyone living like this?" he would coolly reply with a single word, "Justice." Then he would walk away without looking back, which is undoubtedly impressive—truly majestic. But in this way, the stature of the judged villains is inadvertently elevated. An evil-doer cut down by a martial arts hero from a story seems to gain renown, becoming something solemn. However, imagine a base and frivolous character with no sense of gravitas, who fills the air with vulgarity, passing judgment on a villain. In this scenario, it doesn't even feel like judgment. It's simply bad luck; just a fool passing by who got involved. The remaining people would merely laugh, saying that it served him right for living so filthily. The finale of death, or being crippled, just becomes a snort of mockery. For this effect, Qing doesn't mind discarding her reputation. Truly, she's a genius of slaughter, the one who even mocks death! But now, she's mimicking an elder, and disrupting this role that has been established would be strange. If a character collapses, so too do their previous deeds. Despite having meticulously blocked the involvement of the Odokmun, there's the risk, "Isn't that fake Odokmundo perhaps the real Odokmundo?" Therefore, for the first time in a long while, Qing strides with weighty significance in her elegant, graceful manner. Behind her, there seems to be a whispering presence, as if asking whether it's okay for outsiders to enter someone else's manor. Passing through the main gate, she encounters the unique, open courtyard characteristic of the Sang Clan's manor. And there they are, the sturdy men of the Sang Clan, armed with clubs, lined up in formation. Yet their faces are pale and not in good spirits. No matter how strong these men may be, it's not as if they could stand against an armed martial artist. Because of the threat of an invader, they're reluctantly out here with clubs, but their expressions suggest they'd flee if it came to an actual fight. It was somewhat disappointing. Surely, there would be at least one wandering martial artist blocking the way. Did they really think calling two members of the Odok Blood Church could stop them? Of course, most martial artists wouldn't want to antagonize a large faction like the Odokmun. Yet, the fact remains that a group of club-wielding men isn’t to be underestimated. For a third-tier warrior, they'd be opponents worthy of risking their life against, and depending on their numbers, they could be quite a threat to a second-tier warrior. Especially if it’s a young boy they’re up against. A boy with a slight build, smaller than his peers, who for nearly a month now has endured unexplained hatred from everyone he meets. Jong Moon-Woon's hands tremble. These were once the same servants who warmly called him "Young Master" with easy smiles, but now they're glaring with menacing faces, radiating hostility. He doesn't want to face them. He doesn't want to see the people he once lived with now showing him hatred. Even at sixteen, the legal age of adulthood in Zhongyuan, he's still a very young boy, a child. Even adults struggle with undeserved hatred; how unbearable and frightening it must be. Jong Moon-Woon stares at the ground. He tried to persuade his benefactor to leave, partly out of concern for her, but mainly hoping she'd take him and his younger sister somewhere else. He didn’t want to face these circumstances. Despite entertaining dreams of being taken in and taught martial arts, he didn’t truly expect anything so grand. He just hoped to be taken to his maternal family's homeland and would consider it a lifetime favor. At that moment. Suddenly, an incredibly soft, more comforting than any silk, touch slipped into his hand and grasped it firmly. Though the touch was cool, the warmth of the gesture was undeniable, as if to say, "I am on your side." Yes, on my side. Jong Moon-Woon looked up at Qing. The benefactor, unusually tall for a woman. From below, he couldn't see her face because of the veil, but he imagined her wearing a gentle smile, a face that must be beautiful. And then, the benefactor's voice, softly reaching his ears. "Isn’t it strange? Nowadays, is there a case where the master of a clan enters their own manor only to be met by servants wielding clubs? What a bizarre situation is this!" Instantly, Jong Moon-Woon's expression changes. The master of the Sang Clan entering the manor. Yes, he was the rightful master, the heir to the Sang Clan. With his father's passing, he was the legitimate owner. What a disgraceful sight this is. Jong Moon-Woon directs his gaze forward. He recognizably looks at the faces of the servants. He felt resentment and anger towards them, but avoiding them just because he didn't want to see them was a childish escape, unworthy of an adult. Moreover, turning his back on his benefactor, who had supported and led him here, was not respectful. And the faces of the servants he faced were pitiful. Despite their fierce expressions, underneath lay an evident fear that Jong Moon-Woon now notices clearly. And also… "It's okay. It's okay," the benefactor whispered gently. When Jong Moon-Woon turned, he saw his younger sister, tightly hugging the benefactor's waist and burying her head into her side. New Term Translations: 1. Sang Clan (상가) - The name of the clan where Jong Moon-Woon belongs. 2. Odokmun (오독문) - A large faction mentioned in the context, translated as is due to its specific reference in the text. Gender identification corrections: - Jong Moon-Woon is identified as male. - The servants, though not named, display a collective male presence. Additional Context: - The contrasting personas Qing adopts while judging villains showcase her strategic approach to demoralizing her opponents by undermining the gravitas of their downfall. - The passage reflects on themes of reputation, perception, and the psychological aspects of facing conflict, with Qing using her persona to manipulate this. Alterations to the List: - No changes, but the confirmation of the Sang Clan's connection to Jong Moon-Woon provides clarity to the character's backstory. For all his love and concern for his sister, Jong Moon-Woon couldn't help but feel a twinge of embarrassment. This boy, at a time when he should be presenting himself as the dignified master of the Sang Clan, was shamelessly clinging to their benefactor, pressing his face into a young woman's waist. At that moment, a voice interrupted. "Stop right there. It seems there’s a misunderstanding here. How can you speak of the Sang Clan’s master? How could the wretched who killed my father inherit his property?" The audacity of someone trying to twist the truth was evident. Qing turned her gaze to the man emerging from between the servants. A square jaw, sharp eyes beneath thick eyebrows, broad shoulders reminiscent of a braggart. Beside him stood a fairly comely woman. Unlike the servants, they were clothed in silk. This pair must be the Chief Manager and the second wife, Lady Yi. Yet, here was the first rule of survival in the Central Plains unknown to most: "Never argue with the Heavenly Flower, the Heavenly Sword." "Isn't it rather the beast's words, who poisoned his brother to death while consorting with his sister-in-law, and before the funeral, framed his nephew to exile?" These words were a brutal insult, right in their faces. The eyes of the intruding onlookers lit up with surprise. What? Consorting with his brother's wife and then killing his brother? And subsequently framing his nephew? What sort of human could do such a thing? The crowd's eyes darted towards the Chief Manager. A mix of half contempt and half expectation, or perhaps two-thirds contempt and just a third expectation filled their gaze. Of course, the part about poisoning the brother was Qing's fabrication. Because, doesn't it make everything more abominable? But, the Chief Manager and Lady Yi felt their hearts drop, exchanging alarmed glances as if saying: “How did they know?” “Have you said something?” “Or did the physician confess?” “That’s nonsense! Do you have any proof?” “Secrets do not exist in this world. One only needs to look.” "Such baseless accusations, ahem, you see, honorable one, the situation is as follows." A man wielding a large saber emerged slowly from the line of servants, blocking Qing's path. “I am Lee Jin-Byung of the Exiles Blade.” The Exiles Blade? According to the rules of martial world monikers, Exiles is a local name, and since he wields a great saber, he carries the title Blade. It wasn’t a particularly remarkable nickname. But Exiles? Is it an area I know? If it's the Hunan Exiles, it's a rather large city. This was the second tactic prepared by the Chief Manager. By fortune, they were able to bring a skilled tradesman's bodyguard, offering two boxes of gold. Known to be a skilled warrior from Exiles, the plan was to either host him graciously or have him stay until the young heir came of age. Qing assessed the saber-wielding martial artist. She inspected the numbers looming above him. With Exiles in the name, he wasn't talentless. Given his commendable deeds, it didn't seem like he was on the run or hiding due to some misdeed. Then why is such a capable martial artist serving in a lowly position like this? Qing paused, her hand stroking Jong Moon-Woon’s head, briefly letting a red hue flicker like starlight over her palm. A glimpse that vanished in an instant, a display recognized by those skilled in the martial arts world. Lee Jin-Byung’s expression hardened— "Exiles Blade, you mean Exiles in Hunan?" Qing inquired. "Indeed." "Really? I heard something similar from Wang Ga-Shang. An acquaintance of sorts, though passing through an intermediary connection. Might you step aside?" Exiles Blade responded with a sigh of realization. "Upon seeing that large saber, I've realized. You must be the venerable senior Wang often spoke of, the one who saved his life. Since you are my friend’s benefactor, you are akin to my own. I cannot dare to wield my weapon, and as such, I withdraw." He bowed his head. In truth, they say that among ten people in Zhongyuan, two would be Wang, another two could be Lee, and yet two others might be Chang. It's challenging to specify someone with the name Wang. Hence, Wang this, Wang that. The essence of their conversation was: "Step aside while you still can. If you wish to live." "......Thank you." As Exiles Blade turned to leave, he cast a backward glance. Still, something had to be said. Not to Qing, but to the Chief Manager. Exiles Blade sent a whisper: "You should have been more mindful of your footing before speaking. Trading two boxes of gold to face this, you'd typically bear a grudge, but given the circumstances, consider the favor repaid." No refunds, the message implied. The Chief Manager’s complexion lost its color. Qing smiled wryly. The first hand was Odok Blood Church’s support. The second was hiring a guest martial artist. Now, isn’t there more? Suddenly, the Chief Manager knelt forcefully to the ground. "Please, honorable one, there’s a misunderstanding! I can explain everything!" By kneeling, it seemed he’d exhausted all his planned maneuvers. “Misunderstanding, you say?” “Yes! Indeed, those children, my nephew’s children. Could I cast out the children of my brother so harshly? After some hardship, I planned to take them back. It’s the truth! I intended to call them back after the fortyninth day of mourning. To say I covet the Sang Clan property is a grave misunderstanding!” “Hmmm. Is that so?” “Yes, it is. I’ve already spoken and sought understanding with the people of the late brother.” Turning his head, the Chief Manager asked. New Term Translations: 1. Chief Manager (총관) - The title indicating someone's administrative or managerial position within the clan. 2. Exiles Blade (익양태도) - Based on the context that relates to the name of a location and a weapon. Gender identification corrections: - Lee Jin-Byung is identified as male. - The mention of Lady Yi (이 씨) shows her alignment with the Chief Manager. Additional Context: - The narrative provides intrigue, highlighting themes of manipulation, family betrayal, and the power dynamics among martial community members. - The storytelling builds tension with Qing’s strategic unveiling of accusations and clever interactions ensuring her dominance and control over the scenario. Alterations to the List: - No immediate changes required, but the introduction of the character as Lee Jin-Byung adds a potential foil or ally dynamic, depending on future narrative developments. In response, murmurs of "That's right, "and “Yes, that's correct” echoed among the spectators. Lady Yi chimed in. "Elder, within my womb is the child he left behind. How could you say I was involved with another man, especially with his sworn brother, in such a disgraceful affair? I... I just wanted, to consult about the Sang Clan's affairs after he left," she cried, unable to continue. A deep furrow formed between Qing's brows. Oh, what an act. There exists a terrifyingly effective skill known as the "Poison of Boundless Bloom(萬天花露)"—tears so realistic, they addictively evoke unsolicited pity. It’s a signature move of Tang Nanah(당난아), a lethal technique from those who possess great skill in deception. Having witnessed this perfected deceit many times, Qing was unfazed by such a poor imitation. But the bystanders’ gazes shifted from contempt to suspicion. Now, who on earth should they believe? Qing pondered momentarily. Hmm, how should I deal with these scoundrels? What would make a good story? Just as Qing deliberated over her options— "Stop this at once! In broad daylight, what's this ruckus about amidst such laws of the land!" A third party's voice interjected, taking everyone by surprise. All heads turned toward the source, a group in uniform entering through the manor’s gate. Across their chests the characters "포捕" (Capture) and "아衙" (Magistrate) emblazoned, denoting them as officers maintaining city order. In other words, a faction of the government forces. Hmm, did the officials get bribed as well? Not the least bit surprising. It's a well-known fact that among those doing business in Zhongyuan, there's not a single person who doesn’t pay off officials. It's simply common knowledge. To do business in Zhongyuan, it’s expected that you line the pockets of local officials. As Qing observed the officers descending with their six-sided clubs, the Chief Manager, emboldened anew, exclaimed with vigor. "Chief Zhang! You're here! It’s not much, but coming like this shows what a friend you are! Wahahahaha!!" The Podu is the commander leading the officers. His proclamation loudly declared to all, I’m best buddies with this Podu.