854 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

[The Way of the Four Sword Masters (사일검수의 방식)] "Are you sure it's okay? Really just letting them go?" "Thanks to you, my savior, both my sister and I are alive, and now knowing that they, too, suffered has made me put my grudges to rest." "Oh, impressive. Quite mature, aren't you? As they say, despair shapes a man's growth. You've truly become a great man, haven't you?" At this, Jong Moon-Woon looked away, slightly embarrassed, pondering a sudden query. "...But was there really such a saying? I feel embarrassed by my lack of knowledge, but from which sage does that originate?" "Huh, you don't know? Cao Zilian, Cao Hong, Cao Cao's brother." Jong Moon-Woon tilted his head, puzzled. The Romance of the Three Kingdoms is essential reading for those of Zhongyuan, not only an educational necessity but one of the few legitimate entertainments that, even read for fun, counts as a commendable hobby. Naturally, Jong Moon-Woon had read it several times. But try as he might, he couldn't recall any such phrase. Moreover, Cao Hong wasn't even Cao Cao's brother! "So, what are you planning to do now? If you've given up on the inheritance, do you have somewhere to take your sister?" "We have relatives in Dali County, so I intend to go there. However, before that, my savior, I have a humble request." "Mm? What is it?" "Well, if by any chance, you were accepting disciples..." He hesitated, gauging the situation. Well, it's natural for youngsters to be enamored by swordplay, and having witnessed a martial arts master, it's only natural he'd fervently wish to become a disciple. "Mm, unfortunately. Due to the nature of our sect, we can't accept male disciples. Our school is women-only; males are prohibited." Technically speaking, Qing is an outer disciple of the Divine Maiden Sect, so accepting a male disciple wouldn't be an issue. However, having already been acknowledged by the elders of the Divine Maiden Sect, it wouldn't do to conveniently claim status as an outer disciple only when it suits. "Ah..." Jong Moon-Woon's shoulders slumped slightly. At that moment. "Ah, Master Swordsman, if you have time, would you care for a cup of tea?" Though the words sounded like a common man's attempt at flattery, the tone lacked any nefarious intent. At that, Qing acknowledged the speaker. "Ah, Governor Ji-hyun. Unfortunately, it's unwise for officials and martial artists to get too cozy. It's best I take my leave." "However, as your insight is exceptional and your reputation for chivalry unparalleled, should you encounter difficulties during your travels, do confide in me. I, Yang Mo, will listen intently." The phrase "세이洗耳" means "washing the ears," and when coupled with intent to listen, implies focusing intently and taking heed. "You, Governor Ji-hyun, already lend an ear to the common people, and your judgments are known to be just and fair, so I doubt I'd need to add anything more." Governor Ji-hyun’s face lit up. One might even think he wasn’t just rebuffed but as if his advances had succeeded. Given that the Imperial Inspector expressed satisfaction, for Governor Ji-hyun, this matter was less significant compared to concerns about a potential visit from the emperor. "And as for you, hm, trying to support your sister at such a young age? Your bond is truly touching. Should you have nowhere else to go, you can come to the county office. Though I'm the governor, we don't have anyone specific managing estates, so it would be ideal to have someone reliable in charge." "Oh? Is there a way?" To manage the estate he renounced inheritance rights to. Though it might seem like a managerial position under government oversight, it was still an opportunity nonetheless. On top of that, "If nothing else, I'll ensure you receive something substantial to take with you. In this harsh world, I can't very well send you off empty-handed." Roughly hinting at providing some financial support. Qing admired this. He does seem to be quite a compassionate official. This exemplifies a Zhongyuan high official’s crisis management ability! Taking in children saved by the Imperial Inspector offers no downsides, only potential benefits. The little details, the meticulous attention to even the tiniest aspects, that’s the secret to holding such a position, even as a governor. "Hehe, well, haha, Master Swordsman. Should you change your mind and share your wisdom, feel free to seek me out, Yang Mo, without hesitation. I'll take my leave." And with that, Governor Ji-hyun, having established presence, left. "Mm. Nevertheless, some finances are in order." "I've given up the inheritance, so—" "Oh, no, that's not the attitude to take? Conclusion? Anyway, that's not the way to decide on things like this. How lonely it feels to be penniless. You should seize opportunities to earn money when you can." So it was that upon returning to the office, a few slips were gathered, and opening drawers in the merchant’s office revealed precious coins — a safety fund perhaps. Even if they were to rely on relatives, it’s prudent to have something in hand or some emergency funds. Thus, having roughly gathered finances, Qing lifted the small figure of Jong Moon-Yuk, who had fallen asleep on the office's chief seat. "Now, firstly to the guesthouse. Ah, that's right." "Savior? Did you forget something?" "Hungry. I've been feeling peckish since earlier but forgot." Jong Moon-Woon tilted his head. Didn't they have a meal before coming? And didn't they eat quite a lot? "Come on, let's go eat." Mm. What to eat today. Though it's all prepared so there's no need to fret, still, having a dish aligning with one's taste isn't a bad idea. Ah, I should have asked for beef to be simmered until tender, so it melts at the slightest bite. So, I wonder what they’ll serve today. Is there a more delightful moment than returning to a guesthouse with delicious food? Unconsciously, Qing hummed a tune. Jong Moon-Woon found himself inadvertently listening. It was a unique melody, noticeably different from Zhongyuan’s music, but perhaps due to Qing's lovely voice, it clung pleasantly to his ears. After all, the songs that Qing hummed were famous tunes that had ensorcelled countless souls back home, so it was only natural. And with that cheerful mood, they entered the guesthouse. --- **New Terms:** - **Jong Moon-Woon (종문운) & Jong Moon-Yuk (종문역)**: Jong Moon-Woon is referred to as "he" and Jong Moon-Yuk is indicated as "小쪽 (little one)." - **Dali County (대리현)**: Location where Jong Moon-Woon plans to take his sister. - **Governor Ji-hyun (지현대인)**: A local official, referred to as "he." **Translation Notes:** - The context of the term "세이洗耳" illustrates traditional respect and attentiveness, where the ears being "washed" signifies sincerity in listening. - The implied understanding of Zhongyuan officials' crisis management reflects awareness of rapidly adapting to preserve stability and gain favor. **Gender Note:** - **Jong Moon-Woon** and **Jong Moon-Yuk** have been maintained with the indicated gender above. The context clarifies familial roles and responsibilities. **Correction Suggestion:** - **Jjong Moon-Gan (종문간)** was not found; potential misrepresentation that needs revisiting within the character list, confirming identities based on detailed sustained narratives. Suddenly, a sense of crushing foreboding constricted her chest, taking her breath away, and a chill ran down her spine. A sinister killing intent. It emanated from a figure seated with his back turned at the dining table on the first floor, and it was a terrifying aura. Judging by the sword leaning against the table, was he a sword master? "Savior?" Qing glanced at Jong Moon-Woon. He wore a confused expression, as if wondering what was wrong. The distinct, even breathing of a sleeping child emanated from the tiny chin resting against his shoulder. This precise killing intent seemed to spare Jong Moon-Woon or even the younger Jong Moon-Yuk, who was slung over his back. Qing swallowed hard. The figure seated with his back turned seemed to loom large, like a great Mount Tai, filling the entire field of vision. This was at least Creation-Transformation Realm (조화경) in the latter stages. Or even beyond that. However, why was the karma so low? A mere level of seven? He must be part of our Murim Alliance, possibly a senior member of the orthodox sects. Cautiously, Qing spoke up. "Uh, esteemed elder?" "Hmm. In situations like these, shouldn't you be evacuating the children first, instead of whimpering pitifully and calling for elders? Spoils the mood." The imposing aura vanished as if it had never been there. It seemed like some kind of test, or perhaps a mischievous prank. However, how could Qing, who could see people’s karma, be unnerved by a fearsome expert with karma at only level seven? The middle-aged man placed his arm on the back of the chair, turning to look at Qing. Wow, a rugged gentleman! An elegantly aged man! It was easy to surmise his past must have been truly illustrious; he was a splendid middle-aged man exuding a gentlemanly charm reminiscent of Qing’s homeland. "So, why do you have two kids now? Adopting sons as well as daughters? Or is picking up children a hobby? Hmm? My kids, aren't they?" The man's gaze softened further. Wait, my kids? Could there be another birth secret involving the Jong siblings? Qing looked at Jong Moon-Woon, who also couldn't hide his astonishment. Then, the middle-aged man burst into a hearty, dignified laughter. "By my kids, I mean they’re of the Bai tribe. While those from Zhongyuan might not know, for us here, one can tell someone’s ethnicity at a glance. I guess I understand the situation now. Bai tribe plague? Were they doing terrible things to those kids?" "Oh, you knew?" "Isn't it obvious without seeing? We've been in turmoil over it here too. We've been sending back disciples to stop it, but the state of the world is truly heartless. It's like the end times, the end times." The middle-aged man clicked his tongue. He looked back at Qing with a glint in his eye. "But, hmm. I heard some news, but you truly harmonized? I thought my seniors were joking about their juniors, but wow, it's impressive. Our kids should be like that too. Ah, what was it, that..." By then, Qing had roughly figured out the middle-aged man's identity. To have achieved harmony suggests the Creation-Transformation Realm (조화경), and Qing reaching that level wasn’t a secret in the alliance. If he heard about it, it meant he held a position to hear such things in the alliance. Thinking of his daunting level. Is it perhaps the renowned Flashing Sword Gil Un, hero of Dianchang? "Ah, right, discussing these things here isn’t proper? Feels like I can’t say anything. Let’s reserve a room." "Ah, then, senior, have you eaten?" "Don’t call me senior. I'm not that old yet to be called senior. Hmm, it's a bit early for a meal, but it's better to eat whenever you can." Despite his dignified appearance, he was a very easygoing elder. And so, they moved to a private room. Without a word, Gil Un ordered a bottle of liquor, downed it in one go, and, while drinking, looked at Qing with a satisfying smile. "So, they talked about you being the next World’s Greatest, huh? Young Master Seo Mun picked up a dragon. So, I’m Gil Un." A sound of astonished breath intake from both sides. After all, Flashing Sword Gil Un was one of the ten greatest martial experts, known as the best in Yunnan and of the Bai tribe. A pride of Yunnan and the Bai, particularly for those belonging to both. "Are you really Hero Gil Un?" "Wow, Flashing Sword! The Four Sword Method!" "Yes. Hmm. These children. No, you two go upstairs for now. There’s some important matters to discuss." The two looked regretful but complied. "So, what is going on with those kids?" "Ah, well. I was passing by when some beggars were about to commit horrendous acts, so I stopped them. Actually, those kids’ father was a dreadful killer. He had two wives, one of whom died, but she was their biological mother." "...?" "And the second wife was unfaithful, and her lover, can you believe it, was his sworn brother. So…" "...??" Qing wasn’t particularly skilled in articulating a story. However, with age comes the ability to piece together context even from a disjointed tale; experience fosters such discernment. Having heard the tale, Gil Un clicked his tongue. "I heard that place is swarming with Blood Cult. How dreadful. Perhaps those beggars were Blood Cult pawns? Should I have interrogated him instead of killing?" "Pardon? What do you mean?" "Well, on my way here, a beggar tried to stab someone in broad daylight. I killed him with a single blow, and then I remembered — those couples were suspiciously odd. Suddenly, while collapsed and sobbing, they started making grand promises to live virtuously, thanking heaven and Buddha profusely. Might be they knew something." "Oh dear, it’s always those darn beggars causing trouble." "Ever wonder why there's a saying like 'beggar-like'? Seeing you here, seems your news wasn’t false, but I need to reconfirm." Then, with a serious expression, Gil Un asked Qing. "Is it true that the Blood Cult has infested Odok Gate?" --- **New Terms:** - **Bai Tribe (백족)**: Ethnic group often identified in the context of a specific region. Represents an alternate identity for individuals like the Jong siblings. - **Odok Gate (오독문)**: Implies a specific organization or area associated with certain characters, potentially under threat from Blood Cult activity. **Translation Notes:** - **Blood Cult** references a sect known for nefarious, possibly evil, activities within the narrative, emphasizing a recurring antagonist theme. - Gil Un’s phrase “harmonized” alludes to reaching a significant martial arts realm, enhancing contextual depth. - The specification of **Yunnan** and association with the Bai Tribe highlights cultural and geographical roots, which contextualizes the social dynamics and stereotypes within the story.