901 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

[A Fortunate Day.] With Lü Bu standing proudly, Qing looked down at the two people who had come out to see her off. Moyong Jun wore an expression filled with regret. Moyong Seong-ik had left at the break of dawn, without giving Qing a chance to bid farewell. In such circumstances, Moyong Jun, the only son, could not leave the clan unattended. "I wanted to go with Older Sister the Beggar, but since Father’s also away..." However, well, who said they’d be taking him along anyway? From the beginning, even the Old Master of Sun and Moon did not permit him to skip off to such a tumultuous frontier. Rather than a risk, it seemed inappropriate for such a young child with so many ill-suited scenes to behold. Still, it would have been less distressing to think of it that way, and perhaps the Old Master left so early at dawn to avoid being pestered by Jun. "You’re stopping by on your way back, right? I wish I could have gone with you, but with Jun here as well..." Unlike Moyong Jun, Moyong Joo-Hee truly had to stay because the clan head was away. Someone was needed to make decisions for the clan in case any significant issues arose, in place of the young Moyong Jun. “If you stay another day, we could go to Simyang Pavilion, to the best restaurant in Simyang, and tour around to see things. Like, Yo-bin Tower, and, um, something else..." Moyong Joo-Hee trailed off. Simyang was notoriously one of the most uninteresting cities in Zhongyuan, holding a status similar to Sungsimdang in Qing’s hometown. "Ah, true friendship means that a single day’s acquaintance becomes a lifelong memory 一日之交终生不忘. We ate together yesterday, right? Took a bath together, slept together, right? We did everything." "L-lifelong..." "What? You don’t know? It’s a saying from the Book of Later Han, it means for a true friend, genuine connection of the heart is more important than long acquaintance. Study, Moyong Ms." "Yes, yes..." Moyong Ms. hung her head in embarrassment. Hmm, the odd desire to tease Ms. Moyong arises, perhaps because she’s always trembling? "Hey, just joking, it’s a joke. Well then, Moyong Ms., see you later." "Yes! See you later!" With that farewell, Qing began to ride away on her horse, leaving the clan. Towards the Baekdu Mountain Range, Heaven and Earth bound. It would be best to take a look since she was here. According to what the Old Master of Sun and Moon said, the chaos was occurring near the mid-lower reaches of the Yalu River, originating from Mount Baekdu, and beyond. Near Dandong County, at the very downstream point of the Yalu River, with the military stationed there maintaining order, such chaos did not occur, or so it was said. Thus, she planned to head to the western Huanin county first, border with Manchu territory in Jilin, then proceed to Mount Baekdu, ascending all the way to Tianchi, in anticipation of inquiries and exploration. Today the clatter of Lü Bu’s hooves seemed particularly lively. Because a new horseshoe had been fitted. Knowing that a horse finds it easier to walk with a new horseshoe, it was understandable Lü Bu would be thrilled for a while. Though eager to run continuously, Lü Bu understood the need for restraint within the city and did not whine. In this way, he seemed quite clever too, no? As they traversed Simyang, envy-filled gazes pierced her. The more they did, the longer Lü Bu's neck stretched and proudly held its head high, making it indistinguishable whether he was looking forward or gazing at the skies. Ah, so people are staring out of envy because the horse is so impressive. Back in her hometown, the feeling of getting out from a mid-sized domestic car inherited from her uncle and into this was incomparable. Even the managers of the Moyong clan went berserk, praising the horse. Despite their pride as a nomadic tribe and the clan’s finances nurturing many famous steeds, it was their first time witnessing such an exceptional horse like Lü Bu. They did not spare compliments, comparing it to legendary steeds like Ochu or Red Hare, indicating the praise really came from their heartfelt appreciation. Indeed, one might say it's akin to a fancy red foreign car that’s so attention-capturing back in her hometown. But, you rascal Lü Bu, now that I think about it. Not walking calmly because it’s inside a city, but wanting to show off to the people looking at it so stylishly and thus walking slowly? In any case, the folks of Simyang were genuinely awestruck by the rare sight of the horse's stature, a rare encounter in their lives. Unfortunately, although the horse was a thoroughbred, the rider was not quite up to par, making for a sight where the jockey’s upper body wobbled back and forth with the horse’s strides. Yet, due to this colossal effect creating an irresistible spectacle, much like waves rolling over the sea. “Wow, isn’t it quite something?” “Wow, what a magnificent horse. Gosh!” “Hmph! I don’t care. I want to go home.” However, the men couldn’t help but feel wronged. For entrancing one’s eyes in this grand wave is akin to a man’s instinct, an undeniable irresistible force of nature. With many similarly wronged men getting pinched on their sides, Qing and Lü Bu confidently passed through Simyang. Exited via the west gate of Simyang, heading westward. As is usual for major cities, expansions beyond the walls revealed downtown scenery extending outside the fortress walls. Though soon enough, the buildings of businesses aligned without any gaps looming closer, and as they started spreading apart, the frequency of residential houses increased. Eventually, sparsely situated homes transitioning into vegetable gardens or vacant land unfolded, until the entrance of the Changbai Mountains presented barren hillsides, cleared by ruthless logging. Whinny, Lü Bu snorted roughly. Having no one on the road now that they left Simyang, he urged a swift gallop. "Ahh, tsk, you can’t." When Qing pulled at the reins, a sulking Lü Bu took larger steps. Adding upward push to each step for effect of being wronged, Qing seated on it experienced a dreadful ride, bouncing an inch off with each stride. Ugh, such a temperament. --- **Terms added:** 1. **Lü Bu (여포)** - The name of Qing's horse, named after a famous historical figure known for his excellent horsemanship and martial prowess. 2. **Simyang (심양)** - Sometimes referred to as one of the less interesting cities in Zhongyuan, holds a status similar to Sungsimdang in Qing's hometown. 3. **Third Characters Identified:** - **Moyong Seong-ik (모용성익)** - Father of Moyong Jun, possibly suggesting male gender. - **Book of Later Han (후한서)** - A historical text referenced by Qing. 4. **Tianchi (천지)** - Refers to the heavenly lake on Mount Baekdu, known to be its caldera. 5. **Zhongyuan (중원)** - Literally Central Plains, referring to the central region of China, usually considered the core of historical China. No changes required for existing terms as translations seemed consistent with previously provided context. However, cars that emphasize exit sensation are meant to be ridden with the discomfort they bring. Besides, Qing’s body possessed an iron-like durability impervious to such rebounding, and her ample flesh cushioned her pelvis, absorbing the impact. Thus, Qing hummed a carefree tune despite the harsh riding conditions. Indeed, Qing was in an exceptionally good mood. Why? Well, because her day began on a high note with the thrill of accomplishment. West of Simyang, between the bare ridges of the Changbai Mountain Range heading toward Wushun County. It was in the midst of a valley with a turn at the bend when it happened. "Stop right there!" A carriage blocked the road, and several armed men stood around it. Behind her veil, Qing's smile deepened. "For what reason do you block this road?" Qing's voice, trying to maintain decorum, couldn't fully hide a hint of amusement. However, to the audience, this hint of amusement in Qing's voice might have sounded like it quivered with fear. "It's nothing to be scared of. We're not here to devour anyone," laughed the men, puffing out their chests. It seemed that since she was a woman with weaponry, they were somewhat cautious, remembering the tales of threats associated with women in Jianghu. But since her voice was supposedly trembling, what more could they think? "Our masters wanted to pass, but the horses are exhausted and can't pull the carriage. We need a bit of help. Your horse looks quite robust." "So?" "We just need to reach Wushun County. Your horse could pull the carriage, and you could ride along." "Is that all?" "Not just that, isn't the travel dull? With a man and a woman together, wouldn't it be entertaining to enjoy ourselves?" At that, the men chuckled lewdly. Behind her veil, Qing's smile grew even more pronounced. Earlier at the gate of Simyang, some bunches had been hurrying off, whispering after glancing at her. And those who followed behind were likely cohorts, too. Thus she had not rushed, enduring the inconvenient ride to ensure she didn’t pass by hastily. And now, another rider from behind came trotting to block her rear. Three men dismounted from the carriage tethered with horses. They showed menacing smiles and raised their blades, seemingly suggesting that surrender was her only option. "Hah…" Qing exhaled a sigh of relief. She’d nearly been disappointed if the followers behind her turned out to be innocent. Qing stroked Lü Bu's mane. Is a good horse why bandits always follow? Is that why everyone rides a quality steed? Qing slowly drew her Moonlight Sword. With a swish, the light trembling of a well-refined sword echoed, and sensing the brewing battle, Lü Bu gave a soft whinny. However, the men remained nonchalant. “Well now, are you really opting for punishment over drinks? Surrender peacefully, and your life will be spared—” "Enough, whoa!" As Qing sharply tugged the reins, Lü Bu neighed, raised his forebody high, spun around, and charged backward. The excited warhorse reared and dashed forward at high speed. In an instant, the horsemen neared closer. Horses are inherently sensitive and fearful creatures. Unless specially trained as warhorses, they easily startle from little things, and seeing fierce incoming riders, the frightened man's horse, became uncontrollable, rushing towards them. The Moonlight Sword was long enough to swing effectively atop the horse. The moment two horses brushed past, a head was sent flying into the air. Splat! Blood gushed high as the shocked horse bolted towards the carriage. Thud thud! An empty wagon leaped noisily, its thunderous clatters trailing behind. A man unaware stood in front of the charging rider. Qing leaned, let the sword's hilt hang down, and with a flick of her wrist, thrust it upward vigorously. "Ohh?" A remarkably witless last exclamation it was. The man's torso sliced diagonally, spilling its contents into the cold air as white steam rose. Qing leapt up from the horse. With momentum, her body rotated vertically. One spin, two spins, three spins—a final full extension of Qing's legs. Her heel struck the bandit's crown dead center. Crunch! The toughest bone in the body collapsed, simultaneously crushing the softest organs. Thud, Qing landed lightly. Beside her, a now frantic bandit tried to draw his blade. Qing gently tapped the bandits' jaw with her left fist, then kicked enthusiastically between the stumbling man’s legs. The bandit’s eyes rolled as he hovered in mid-air. Unconsciously, he spewed saliva and was hurled violently. Stomp! Meanwhile, Lü Bu finished circling and returned to Qing. Qing jumped up and landed on the horse. Lacking horsemanship, it was purely her physical prowess that allowed her to leap up, with Lü Bu cleverly slowing down to catch her. Qing, astride the horse again, approached the carriage blocking the road, reining back to slow down. Neigh! Lü Bu stood tall, and from a higher vantage, the Moonlight Sword glittered with azure Sword Qi, casting its chilly starlight. Frantically trying to calm the runaway horses, the men broke into a cold sweat and gazed blankly at the blue Sword Qi nearby. Qing added a simple statement. "What are you doing? Aren’t you all running away? Do I have to show you again? Look here. Sparkle, sparkle, sparkle. This isn’t the glow from my mouth." Neigh! Lü Bu responded with a cry. The once brazen bandit leader desperately waved his hands. "Wait, wait! Great Hero! There’s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding! It's all a misunderstanding!" --- **Terms added:** 1. **Jianghu (무림, Murim)** - Refers to the martial artists' world, often of a wandering nature outside of conventional society. 2. **Sword Qi (검기)** - Describes the spiritual or energy force emitted from a sword, especially in martial arts contexts. 3. **Wushun County (무순현)** - A geographical location Qing tries to reach, potentially based on real locations but fictionalized here for narrative needs. 4. **Moonlight Sword (월광검)** - A weapon mentioned, showing its significance through the skilled usage by Qing. No adjustments to current terms are necessary with no conflicting context emerging from this passage. The translation effort continued to prioritize literary elements and the evocative description intrinsic to the original. "Misunderstanding? What misunderstanding?" "We were just trying to ask for help—" "Oh, really? And what about the bit where you suggested that since a man and a woman are together, we should have some fun? As far as I recall, those words sounded like extremely serious harassment. Is that also a misunderstanding?" "Th-that was, ah, it was about, um, Shuanglu! It was meant to suggest that since the journey is dull, we should pass time by playing Shuanglu, that kind of thing!" Shuanglu is a term for gambling with two dice, where players compete by rolling dice for the highest number or place bets on numbers thrown by a gambler. "Shuanglu, my foot. You've been bandits long enough that I can see the numbers above your heads all glowing bright red." "Uh?" "Talking about games is a bit dull, isn't it? But here we are with a gallant heroine and bandit scoundrels gathered, so surely fun can be had, right?" Qing continued with a bright smile. "Now, run. Quickly." --- **Terms added:** 1. **Shuanglu (쌍륙)** - A traditional dice gambling game known as a pastime mentioned as a euphemism by the bandits. The term **"Shuanglu"** is a fitting choice, aligning with how traditional games are often played in historical settings, especially when cited as substitutes for other activities. It resonates well culturally and with the setting described in the narrative. Qing's strategic use of language unfolds an intellectually driven character dynamic entrenched in wit, turning an aggressive overture into a commanding rebuttal.