857 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

Qing was never one to hold back her words. It was a natural skill — a gift of reading people's tendencies and knowing just how much she could push her limits, essentially an innate sense of boundaries. Of course, this was not a situation that required her to be overly cautious. "Master, isn't the alcohol a bit spicy? It seems to be getting spicier. Is this something special you've ordered?" "Hmm? Do you find the alcohol spicy? Perhaps too much ginger was added? That's just the vigor of youth. Once you age and endure a spicy life, you'll find that no amount of ginger can taste anything but sweet." "Really? You've lived such a spicy life?" "Oh, not at all. My life has always been filled with love and enjoyment. That's why I don't consume ginger. It's spicy. I never understand why anyone would indulge in such a thing." What nonsense. If he doesn't like ginger, then why add so much of it to my drink? Of course, ginger was delicious, so it didn't really matter. After living as a vagabond, consuming whatever you can, ginger seemed nothing more than fragrant. But truly, he seemed like someone who spoke whatever came to mind without a filter. Qing understood why the head of Dianchang Sect constantly implored the Old Master to hold his tongue. "No, this isn't just the spiciness from ginger. It's something familiar, but... poison? No, that's not it." It probably wasn't poison. If it were poison, she'd have felt it immediately upon consumption, instead of its toxicity intensifying in real time. And above all, there was an actual expert from the Profound Realm right in front of her. Shouldn't the Old Master have noticed it first if it were poison, instead of calmly picking out the carrots? He doesn't eat carrots either. Truly, someone who doesn't appreciate taste—carrots aren't tasteless; they just don't overpower other ingredients. As Qing pondered this and deftly picked out lamb around the carrots, she noticed... "Hmm?" Gilun's eyebrows twitched before he suddenly slammed his palm on the table, producing a deep, resonant sound. From his palm, a ripple spread out, akin to a wave, as if lifting and then dropping a blanket. The tablecloth expanded in concentric circles, rippling with the force of a great wave, flipping over the dishes in its path. A chaotic scene unfolded with dishes knocked over in rapid succession. It was a masterful show of overturning the dining table! What in the world—using such high-level Profound techniques, and to flip a table no less—unbelievable. Was this because he disliked carrots so much? "Come here and sit. There's poison in the food. It is... uhm, exceedingly potent. How such a poison exists—criminy, there's no time to tarry. I must expel the poison from you first." Gilun's serious demeanor cut through Qing's bewilderment. Ah. Poison. So it was poison after all. But how? "Now, come here. Show me your back." At the same time, the strong aroma of artificial ginger filled the air. The reason martial artists could drink alcohol was that they could expel the effects of alcohol from their body once sufficiently buzzed. Of course, once intoxicated, the thought of dispelling the effects wouldn't occur, which is why martial artists are often warned against drinking too much. "Senior Master, I'm alright, really. You should detoxify yourself first. I mean, I've achieved a certain level of detoxification mastery. I dare say I can almost compare with someone at the Profound Realm." "This is different. I've never encountered such a potent poison before. Although I have no basis for comparison, trust my instincts and come." Qing was in a dilemma. She appreciated the gesture of attending to her first, but... Moreover, expelling her own poison and someone else's right after—they're not the same. Self-detoxification is merely extending one's innate qi circulation within one's body. But to detoxify another? That required the supreme technique of a True Qi master—a task so intricate and difficult that even skilled martial artists would be utterly drained after—but if done while one is poisoned, one would inevitably pay less attention to one's own state. Poisons don't accumulate to a certain level and then suddenly explode to kill you instantly. Nor is life, like in video games, where a health bar gradually depletes until it's game over. Poison circulates, collapsing organs, contaminating the marrow, destroying meridians and channels, causing greater repercussions the longer ignored. Despite these facts, Gilun prioritized Qing's safety over his own. Although, due to Qing's peculiar constitution... She regarded poison as little more than spicy seasoning. Touching, undoubtedly, but really unnecessary. "Oh, I think I can handle this. Really, Master, you should—" "Nonsense! When an elder commands you, you obey immediately! This is no trifling poison! Hurry, there is no time!" Gilun scolded in an authoritative tone. It was no time for back-and-forth on who should be first, nor did Gilun show any sign of backing down. "Master, to be honest, I–" Understanding she could not delay conveying her circumstances, she began to speak. Creaaaak! Bang! The harsh sound of a door thrown open. The pungent smell sharply pricked her nose, followed by a sinister laughter. "Heh heh, what commotion—" The voice stopped short. It was a given such would be the case. Before an elder, perpetual concealment was impossible, thus beverages sparkling in album-like serration left several wordless. In the presence of Qing's radiant beauty, words faltered. Naturally, the hesitation resulted in a delayed response. "Hmm, what may I ask, is the unrest about? Even if the inn lacks visitors, surely causing such chaos must be discourteous, no?" Flanked by subordinates, the waiter made a grand reappearance. "You! You—Ku̳rk! W-what have you done?" --- **New Terms Translated:** 1. **길운(Gilun)**: Character's name, "Gilun" 2. **점소이(waiter)**: Translated to "waiter," indicating a minor but key character in service at the inn. 3. **장문(head)**: Translated as "head," referring to the lead figure in a sect or organization, in this context Dianchang Sect's leader. 4. **점창파(Dianchang Sect)**: "Dianchang Sect,” maintaining its original name for specificity and familiarity within martial arts settings. 5. **현경(Profound Realm)**: "Profound Realm," maintaining consistency in martial arts and cultivation systems. **Contextual Explanation:** - The dialogue reveals Qing's astuteness and capability in understanding subtle cues, which aligns with her informal, candid demeanor. The text also explores Gilun's protective nature towards Qing, portraying his responsible, senior role. - The introduction of a mischievous innkeeper subplot creates a tension breaker while highlighting Qing's allure as a distraction tool. - The scene illustrates balancing humor (carrot disdain) with intrigue (poison subplot). **Possible Adjustments:** - **길운(Gilun)** might be expanded as more interactions unfold, revealing any clan affiliations. - Clarifying that the "Poison Flower" would be pertinent if additional context like an antagonistic force or known poisoner appears, aligning with Qing's indifference to poison being hinted as a larger gag or foreshadowing. The capillaries in Gilun's eyes became visible as if the poison had suddenly worsened. The sharp spicy aroma that wafted in as the door opened must have made an impact. Just as Qing was about to rack her brains, the waiter began to speak. "If you're curious, the poison in your drink is the dreadful 'Extinction Poison.' Its toxicity is lethal, yet its crafting process is what's truly clever. Six harmless ingredients combine within the body to form the poison. To top it off, inhalation of a final scent triggers the intensified poison. Ha-ha, isn't it exquisite?" There was no need for Qing to strain her mind. The waiter boasted, revealing everything himself. He seemed the type that once he thought he'd won, he'd spill everything, even if unasked. A surprisingly common type, wasn't it? Judging by how he prattled on since his entrance, he already considered himself victorious. Rationally, he might have been right. Most don't entertain impossible ideas, like imagining an opponent immune to poison or having an ally from the Profound Realm among their ranks. Typically, such thoughts were dismissed as paranoia, so assessing every improbable threat wasn't common. Yet the improbable happened. "Alas, I don't know who you are, but it's unfortunate. While you're innocent, they say if you stand near an unscrupulous man, even you may catch a stone." "You… you're a seed of the Blood Cult!" Qing inhaled sharply. Oh, Master! Why state it so directly? Shouldn't you have asked if he was one of the 'Five Venomous Paths' or something less conspicuous? Statements like those only confirm what we know, like a confession. But not everyone possessed Qing's cunning. The average of the orthodox factions reflected more of Gilun's forthrightness. So the waiter's expression changed dramatically. "So, you're one of those orthodox dogs. It figured, given the Five Venomous Paths wouldn't be purged here without a reason. You dogs have a knack for sniffing out trouble. Ah, I see from your lascivious form that you're the Heavenly Sword Flower! They said there's no greater wanton in all the land, and now I see it." A dark expression crossed Qing's face. How was she discovered like that? And who would spread such vile rumors—calling it nonsense isn't enough? As Qing pondered, the waiter egged on, "Heh, what will you do? Try to expel the poison with your enemy before you, or take down one of the Blood Cult's outcasts in death? Although, calling it a life-and-death match would be apt, don't you think?" Life-and-death, referred to also as 'your death, my death,' meant mutual destruction. And with that threat, Gilun erupted in fury. "Mutual Destruction Technique! That damned fiend! How vile are you Blood Cultists?" "Heh, however vile we might be, we're not as vile as you Central Plains folks." "Central Plains? I'm of the great Dali people, distinct from the Central Plains." "When did Dali yield to the Central Plains..." "Yielding due to lacking strength is called subjugation to you Blood Cultists?" "... Is it not? Isn't yielding without strength subjugation? What else—" "Then aren't you Blood Cultists also subjugated by the Central Plains?" "No, we're different! We refuse to submit! We dream of liberating all oppressed by the Central Plains through their demise!" "Then is the Dali race part of the Central Plains?" "Aren't you White Clans the accomplices of the Central Plains? Even if you deny it now—" "Then, are other Barbarians not? The Great Yue, Burma, Jurchens all pay tribute to the Son of Heaven—isn't that subjugation too? Will you kill all barbarians as well as Central Plains people?" "That's different! They're victims of Central Plains tyranny—" "Then how’s the Dali Kingdom different?" "It's different! You, uh, right! You collect taxes to give to the Son of Heaven—" "Don't all barbarians do the same? Does tribute fall from the sky? Aren't barbarians also taxing their own?" "No, no, it's different!" The waiter's exasperation reached a shout. Was Gilun trying to rile him up? Was it deliberate or just a barrage of random statements? Qing struggled to comprehend when Gilun's voice, a thread of sound, reached her ears. - It’s tough, but endure for a bit longer. When I signal, hit the deck immediately. Ah, a ploy! He was drawing out weakness to unleash a profound strike in a singular motion. Previously opposing a Profound expert felt overwhelming and terrifying—akin to facing the world was against her. Now, knowing she had one on her side provided unmatched assurance. "Senior!! It's fine!! Let's listen to what they say a bit more!! He seems like a bigmouth!! It's a chance to learn Blood Cult’s intentions!!" Gilun halted at the resounding voice, wondering if a bit of surprise was warranted. With mere Transformation Realm backing, the child endured such a horrid poison; it was commendable. Imagine her pain when facing an enemy—a high chance of suffering not only pain but perceiving threats to her life. Yet, even in such dire conditions, she prioritized safety over her own. Admirable. How splendid if she were my disciple. Known as the blessing of the orthodox sects, indeed, she shone brightly. --- **New Terms Translated:** 1. **멸선지독(Extinction Poison)**: Translated as "Extinction Poison," capturing the lethal and ultimate nature implied by the name. 2. **오독문(Five Venomous Paths)**: Translated directly to maintain its role in the narrative as a notorious path or sect. 3. **독혈수(Mutual Destruction Technique)**: Translated as "Mutual Destruction Technique" to convey the technique's intention of leading both attacker and defender to ruin. 4. **대리(Dali)**: Translated as "Dali," emphasizing cultural independence from the Central Plains. 5. **백족(White Clans)**: Translated to denote ethnic groups considered distinct from the Central Plains. 6. **탕녀(Wanton)**: Retains the provocative implication of a character's reputation. **Explanation:** - The narrative builds upon Qing's cunning versus Gilun's direct nature, blending martial etiquette with strategy, vividly illustrating Qing's attempts to thwart a brewing conflict while learning more about their enemies. - The waiter's self-assured boasting sets up a false sense of security contrasting Gilun's hidden tactics, exemplifying a classic trope of arrogance as downfall. - The dissemination of Half-Truths and rumors about Qing emphasizes how personas and legacies are distorted in absence, adding layers to her reputation challenge. Given the escalating complexity and potential for martial art tricks, understanding these layered character interactions can offer depth to the overarching tension between identities and allegiances. Even while Gilun was touched by the situation, he continued to babble on. Contrary to Qing's assumption, Gilun wasn't actually trying to irritate the enemy. According to Qing's earlier interpretation, he wasn't really striking. Gilun thought he was just buying time in a normal manner. Why is this Blood Cult acolyte so upset? That's just the way with them, he figured. It's no wonder the head of Dianchang Sect strongly advised him to keep quiet before speaking. "So, the Miao tribe? You say you've allied with the Five Venomous Paths and now teamed with those so-called villainous Central Plains people according to you?" "The Miao are victims! They are oppressed and suffering under the tyranny of you Central Plains people!" "Hmm. Is that so? They seem to be doing quite well for themselves. I know a Miao person who's doing great business, with tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see along the hills—" "Argh! Isn't it you White Clans who are living well? Hoarding the wealth of Yunnan!" "Well, isn't that just due to capability? Our Dali people are great indeed. Anyway, let's end it here. We clearly can't converse. True to your Blood Cult nature." "Who's the one who can't understand? Did you plug your ears with donkey crap?" "Hmm. Let's just leave it at that. So, what was it you were saying earlier about the Mutual Destruction Technique? What are you telling us to do exactly? There must be more than just a redundant invitation to die." "Urrrgh." The waiter started groaning. Qing nodded quietly. It felt like she and this senior master were perfectly in sync. --- **New Terms Translated:** 1. **묘족(Miao tribe)**: Miao Tribe, referring to a specific ethnic group historically seen in certain regions within China. 2. **운남(Yunnan)**: "Yunnan," a region historically rich and diverse, often contextually tied to the Miao and related ethnic groups in China. 3. **백족(White Clans)**: Maintained to denote distinct tribal groups within the narrative. 4. **나귀좆(donkey crap)**: Translated contextually to convey insult and strengthen the character dialogue while reflecting crudeness. **Explanation:** - Gilun’s exchanges with the Blood Cult envoy highlight his inability to understand why seemingly oppressed tribes could ally with dangerous factions. - The Miao tribe's mention signals socio-political allegiances affected by perceptions and narratives from different factions. - Gilun's dialogue, seemingly disorganized and redundant, represents his tactics to elicit emotional responses, amusingly without coherent provoking method—contrasting Qing's earlier perception. Ultimately, this highlights various faction dynamics, testing allegiances, cultural misunderstandings, and character-driven narrative direction.