897 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

"Indeed, having a horse certainly makes things convenient. For one, you don't have to walk on your own. And you can carry quite a load with it. Not to mention, it's pretty fast too. Above all, a horse is practically a fully autonomous vehicle with animal intelligence! Moreover, without any complex operation, the horse naturally follows the path, even possessing a safety feature that avoids danger on its own! As it’s said in Qing’s hometown, there might be people who haven’t ridden a horse, but no one who has ridden it just once. However, the ride quality... well... A horse is a living animal, and like any animal, while there might be a commonality by breed, each has its own distinct personality. Like dogs of the same breed can have vastly different temperaments, so too with horses. Even their habits of walking and running differ. Some horses try to provide utmost comfort by moving cautiously not to shake their rider. While others, upon stepping outside, get overjoyed and move with a lively bounce. It looks delightful to onlookers, but the rider bouncing up and down on top might not find it amusing. The lazy 'Gongdung', a packhorse, tends to slow down deliberately. Even when urged with gentle nudges from the driver's seat to speed up, it pretends ignorance and dawdles along. And then there's 'Lu Bu', he’s something else. His ride quality is dreadful. The up-and-down motion isn't mere bouncing; it feels as if one's pelvis lifts a full inch with each breath. Crossing the mountain was just a bit rough, but as soon as we hit the flat lands leading a hundred li to Joyang County, amidst the basin of Tian Shan, the ride quality plummeted alarmingly. If you don’t keep nudging him to pay attention, he sneakily increases speed as if itching to sprint and protesting. Had 'Lu Bu' known, he would be unable to hide his surprise at how perceptive his owner was. Unlike 'Gongdung' who is a packhorse, 'Lu Bu' is a warhorse, the leader of the herd, and beloved steed of the Mongolian warriors who galloped through the steppes. Naturally, a warhorse desires to run. So he bounces on purpose, protesting to his rider, but Qing had insightfully read his steed's mind. However, 'Lu Bu's' tragedy was that his protest didn’t work on Qing. In reality, horse riding demands considerable stamina. Especially strong, robust lower body including the waist is required! Basic technique involves clinging tightly to the saddle with thighs. Due to the constant up-and-down movement, shocks accumulate on the pelvis, necessitating non-stop back muscle engagement for balance. A spirited horse protesting with rough ride would usually overwhelm a rider. Though, one can tire the horse out by pushing it to run at full speed, causing it to soften quickly with satisfaction. Yet Qing's physique wasn't weak enough to be bothered by a mere warhorse’s tantrum. In fact, Qing's horseback skills were barely commendable; to be precise, they were quite poor. Thus, it was more like Qing was perched on the horse, barely holding on rather than actively riding it. Equestrian skills mainly reduce the high physical exertion required in horse riding. Conversely, if one can endure the physical stamina cost, then there isn't much need to master equestrian skills! Like they say, if the body is strong, the brain doesn’t have to suffer, and no elaborate technique is necessary! However, young Moyong Jun didn’t yet know this truth. Hence, to him, Qing appeared quite awkward. After all, Qing's head was bobbing half a head height even during mere fast walking. As a result, the movement of other heads situated under Qing’s head was quite vigorous. “Big sis beggar, Lu Bu seems to want to run.” “Hmm, indeed.” “Big sis beggar, shall we run?” Hmm, the title ‘big sis beggar’ really throws off the vibe. If it’s just ‘big sis, shall we run?’ it sounds flirtatiously inviting, but with ‘big sis beggar,’ it feels more like we’re about to run off after getting caught stealing food. Maybe that’s why despite being called ‘big sis’, it feels more natural. Shaking her head, Qing thought as much. “Animals get spoiled if you indulge them too much, you know? This unruly fellow, trying his antics. Seems the barbarian chief was very sweet to his horse?” “That's not how you should treat horses, especially warhorses. They become more ill-tempered if not let loose." “Well, it kind of makes sense, I guess?” Come to think of it, even dogs, especially large or herding breeds, are said to go bonkers if not taken for walks, so yeah, like dogs. “Shall we go for a quick run?” “Huh, aren’t you coming with me?” “We’ll be riding all day; Jun, don’t you think you’ll get tired?” The faster the horse goes, the more the rider's stamina depletes. A lightweight rider in particular faces increased difficulty. If the rider is not only light but also weak and even short-legged like a kid, it’s more severe. “Uh, big sis beggar? It's me, Moyong Jun, right? Moyong?” “Hmm, so is that Moyong, Jun? Want something else? Standard? Adjustment? Quasi-standard? International standard?” “Is there a family name called International Standard?” “Wouldn't there be? Didn't the barbarians have three or four-lettered family names?” “Hmm, if I used an alias, it might be better to go with Jang Jun. Jang is a common family name.” “Gim Yi Bark, it's Wang Yi Jang in Zhongyuan though. Wang Jun is most common.” “Wang Jun doesn’t sound quite right, does it?” “Is it? Sounds like he’d say ‘Do you have a point?’ or something?” Anyone hearing this conversation would be utterly baffled. What on earth is this context? For the record, there was another person here, Ho-Wi Nok, a quiet man acting as escort. But Ho-Wi Nok was already utterly charmed by the ever-engaging Qing, only able to look on with a pleased smile at this nonsensical conversation. The Heavenly Sword Flower is truly considerate and seems to adjust well to children, thinking she's a person of good character, destined to be a good mother. “Anyway, I am Moyong Jun. From the Moyong Clan.” “Oh really? I didn’t know. Such a surprise.” "That's not what I'm saying. “Then what do you mean?” --- Terms Retained: - 'Gongdung': Translated as 'Gongdung', a term referring to the laziness or carefree nature of a horse. - 'Joyang County': As a cosmetic change to the location transcribing as '조양현'. - 'Tian Shan': In reference to 천산산맥, the mountain range surrounding the area in context. - Qing: Refers to the protagonist's nickname. Additional Context: - The narrative elaborates on Qing's familiarity with horse riding and characteristic reactions from the horses during the journey. The text also explores cultural nuances, such as the dialogue reflecting on names, family status, and unique expressions contrasting formal and informal speech. - The dynamics between Qing and Moyong Jun reflect humor, rooted in misunderstandings and jousting with titles echoing jest and cultural idiosyncrasies. Expansions or Modifications: - Retained expressions delve into humor pointing to Qing's experiences, the mention of 'big sis beggar' highlighting a humorous, innocuous nickname juxtaposed against the remarkable background of character interactions. "Do you really not know?" "I knew our secret friend was a Moyong even before we became secret friends, didn't I?" "Our family is famous for our equestrian skills." "Really? Is that true?" However, Qing was unaware of this. Generally speaking, Qing was not well-versed in worldly knowledge, but this time, she could be excused for her ignorance. The equestrian skills of the Moyong Clan are widely acknowledged as the best in Zhongyuan, yet no one easily speaks of it. This is because praising the Moyong Clan's horsemanship brings up the topic of their origins. The Moyong Clan originally hails from the Jurchen's great noble families, one of the tribes that held sway over Liaoning, known as barbaric Jurchen marauders. And when one thinks of notorious horseback-riding barbarians, Mongols and Jurchens come to mind first. Hence, complimenting the Moyong Clan’s equestrian skills could imply, “Oh, so you’re from a clan of people without worthy origins, mere barbarian bandits.” If it weren’t for their overwhelming power as part of the Five Great Noble Clans, the Moyong Clan would likely have faced significant disdain. Even in reality, to the learned scholars and high-ranking officials in Beijing, the Moyong were known as those barbarian folks. "So, confident in your horsemanship, are you?" Qing glances at Nok-Ho Mu Sa(녹 무사), also referred to as Green Warrior. Just because the Moyong Clan is renowned for their horsemanship doesn’t necessarily mean Moyong Jun excels at it. After all, it’s the same as how the “Most Beloved Jega Hyang” isn’t exactly reflective of the Zhuge Noble Clan, and “Supreme Wisdom Athlete Zhuge Leehyun” wasn’t exactly the epitome of their family either. Hmm, I really miss Hyang. Should've visited on the way. Seems like I’m having withdrawal symptoms with a lack of Hyang essence. I should stop by on my way back. However, Nok-Ho Mu Sa was nodding in response. A man of few words, letting actions guarantee their confidence rather than words. "Then, shall we give running a try? Lu Bu—" Neigh! Recognizing its name instantly, Lu Bu breaks into a spirited augh, interrupting Qing. Without any urging from spurs or reins, Lu Bu starts galloping at once. And thus the dash begins! And ends. R1o1RUY1V2dWdFByellBWDZwUWJGZGIvbHQxenlYZS9UMkdLVXZ5cHpSRnVqbks4MHcyYmRUSE1CV09mQXBFMg Certainly, Lu Bu does seem to be a top-notch horse. Moyong Jun and Nok-Ho Mu Sa’s horses, worn out, are left panting and drooling, sweating profusely, their steam meeting the cold weather which makes it look like the steaming trays of a dumpling shop. Meanwhile, Lu Bu, who seems finally appeased, becomes docile, with sweat trickling gently down, showing no signs of fatigue. “Surprising. I expected him to burst ahead on his own. Doesn’t seem to struggle much, calms down all of a sudden.” “Oh, that’s because he’s a leader horse. They have such a personality, enjoying leading other horses while running. It’s said leader horses have a yearning for power.” “Hmm. You mean horses even have ambitions for power. Come to think of it, when he rushed over to me after his former master’s death, I should’ve suspected then.” Anyway. Thus, from Gunpyeong, heading east about one hundred eighty li. Expected to arrive by dusk, yet surprisingly well ahead of schedule, by mid-afternoon—hmm? Isn’t half a day a whole day, and since half a day is one half of a whole day, what am I thinking? The answer is both. Half a day can mean the entire day or refer to one entire morning or afternoon session. Regardless, they have arrived at Joyang County thereafter. --- Upon reaching the guesthouse, it’s customary to eat first, such was Qing's unvarying routine. Such normalcy meant no mere arrival time would interfere. Despite the ambiguous timing, somewhere between lunch and early dinner due to Lu Bu’s impulsive sprint, Qing went ahead and ate a meal. Following that, soaking in hot water during and after meals was her bliss. She scrubbed off the grime accumulated during her days of wandering life, reveling in sheer delight—ah, this must be paradise. Is there anything quite like washing the hair after over ten days without doing so? Wow, it’s intensely invigorating, though hard to describe, it’s practically to die for. This resulted in an intense sweating session. Particularly since Qing exists in a state of half-Cola Giant and half-resistant to cold and warm elements alike, without a thorough soak in scalding heat, perspirations don’t come easy—she had just about had enough, and loved it. Finally, she slipped off the coarse rags she'd lived in, the very essence of grit leaving them behind. Wearing fine silk after a long time, with her delicate skin heightened by Enlightenment Divine Arts(각성신공), brought an odd delightful sensation. Yes, it’s for these kinds of reasons I live like a beggar. Thus, Qing, who had cleansed her status from being perceived as a beggar to once again embody the Heavenly Sword Flower, made her way back to the table reserved near the second floor railing. Having eaten the main meal earlier, now it was time for dessert. A meal is a meal, and dessert is dessert. A woman's bath is lengthy, as was Qing's. When Moyong Jun, who had gone down earlier, saw Qing, there was a faint hint of disappointment. Why? Why does he look disappointed? Qing tilts her head in curiosity. “Hm? Why? Ah, could it be Jun still hasn’t seen my face? Because of the veil? Did you want to see my face?” Perhaps so. Initially, there was nothing but a beggar disguise, then a veil, then a beggar with an invisible face mask, then back to a veil after removing the mask. Not that it was intentionally hidden, the timing just didn’t quite align. Yet Moyong Jun shook his head. "Not that. It's just... Um." Abruptly, Moyong Jun clamps his mouth shut. Qing's eyes twinkle playfully. Just because? Just because what? Does he believe the rumors about a beggar beauty's aesthetics? Has he not heard the legend of Heavenly Sword Flower being the world's unrivalled beauty? Or does he just not believe it? "Oh, sorry about that. That was a mean thing to say, wasn’t it?" “Mm. Still, you’re aware it’s a mean word now. That’s quite progress, makes me almost tear up.” “You just don’t seem like a beggar, big sis beggar. I kind of like it when you seem more beggar-like.” Wait, is this roundabout sarcasm? Right after being praised for progress? Pay attention to the spacing, will you not? To this, Qing simply nods. “Hmm, so our secret friend likes beggar-like aspects? I suppose, can’t be helped. Really quite a beggarly taste you’ve got there.” “But you’re a martial hero…" --- Terms Retained: - 'Nok-Ho Mu Sa': Refers to 녹 무사, Green Warrior, in original context. - 'Lu Bu': Translated as 'Lu Bu', the horse's name kept consistent with its original context. - 'Gunpyeong': Translated as 'Gunpyeong', referring to a geographical expression. - 'Joyang County': Original 창양현, adjusted contextually as 'Joyang County'. - 'Hanbulchim Ban-seobulchim': Rendered the original Korean term related to Qing's unique physiological state. - 'Enlightenment Divine Arts': Translation of 각성신공, Qing's cultivation technique. Additional Context: The narrative delves into the explorations of lineage, cultural resonances, and the nuanced symbiosis with Qing. Subtle humor and personality quirks are embedded in dialogues as reflections upon societal opinions further depth the persona across familial, martial, and ethnic dimensions. "How on earth does one end up with martial hero from that line of thinking? What does a beggar have to do with being a heroic wanderer? To be a martial hero, you've got to do heroic deeds." "But still, wouldn't it be cooler if you were more like a beggar..." "Hmm, beggar, well, never mind." Qing could effortlessly endure more than a reservoir of beggar-related insults. However, Moyong Jun seemed to favor not just any sect but rather the Beggar Sect (개방), not even one of the Nine Great Sects. But why the Beggar Sect? Aren't they a gray area about whether they're an orthodox or unorthodox faction? Yet Qing held back. Criticizing what someone else cherishes is incredibly impolite. Forcing someone to dislike something just because you do is the height of being disagreeable. "Enough of that. How about some snacks? Wonder how many kinds they have here. Maybe I should ask if there's a good tea house nearby." At this, the eyes of both Moyong Jun and the silent Nok-Ho Mu Sa—Green Warrior—began to twitch. Yet with Nok-Ho Mu Sa being a reticent man, the reply was pointedly simple. "You're going to eat again? After everything you’ve already had?" --- Terms and Contexts: - 'Nine Great Sects': Refers to the prestigious nine major martial arts factions. - 'Beggar Sect (개방)': Kept as is, suggesting a particular martial arts sect known for embracing vagabonds yet operating within ethical boundaries. - 'Moyong Jun': As recognized, a character with a sense of affiliation and cultural preference towards beggarly demeanor. - 'Nok-Ho Mu Sa (녹 무사)': Maintained as the character's identity, synonymous with Green Warrior's reticent nature. Additional Context: The interactions emphasize Qing's adeptness at understanding societal tropes, illustrating equanimity amidst differing ideologies. Despite differences, the convivial demeanor is maintained. The Beggar Sect's reputation as a martial faction informs humor and lighthearted misconceptions around the contrary imagery of nobility versus humility within martial roles.