907 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

Despite a small incident, Qing managed to resolve it smoothly. However. The fact that a martial artist at the Profound Realm had suddenly appeared on the road left a deep sense of unease in Qing's heart. No matter how vast and populated the Zhongyuan (Central Plains) may be, having such a master appear without any warning seemed to cross a certain line. Of course, the master of the Profound Realm might feel wronged. After all, the martial artists of the Profound Realm aren’t like trees rooted in one place, unable to wander around freely. To the master of the Profound Realm, every person they brush past is simply another of the countless individuals who happen to encounter them while wandering. Though it might make sense when considered from that perspective, something about it just didn't sit right with Qing. An immediate resolution would be to quickly master the Profound Realm oneself, walking confidently before anyone at any time, or perhaps develop a technique to counter the Profound Realm. In the current situation, even when the opponent was going easy on her, Qing couldn't overcome them. Trying to provoke or enrage them to the point of losing reason might result in some solution, but it would also place her in danger... Ultimately, more strength is needed. An overwhelming force! Even as Qing craved power anew, it’s not as if mere longing would suddenly produce a powerful, weighty voice asking, ‘Do you need strength?’ The completion of the Lone Nine Swords Technique was indefinitely postponed due to displeasure from the Great Celestial Martial Emperor. Additionally, no sudden bout of intensive secret training or a miraculous effort would instantly elevate Qing to the Profound Realm. Therefore, to enhance her powers immediately, collecting all of the World’s Eleven Great Demon Arts seemed the only option. And she wasn't too far off. Once she completes collecting the Heaven-Shattering, Heart-Piercing, Blood-Overturning Decisive Strike, with her current accumulated good karma, she should be able to perform at least two exchanges. Maybe even three, but that's uncertain. If she makes a hasty exchange and gets stuck at two, well... The task of finding one of the remaining three World’s Eleven Great Demon Arts and then the last one would become three times harder, merely considering the numbers. Though it may not mathematically be exactly three times harder, Qing wasn't exactly on good terms with mathematics. Of course, if she'd wasted efforts in vain, she could exchange karma and, if lacking good deeds, hunt down the evil to fill the gap. R1o1RUY1V2dWdFByellBWDZwUWJGU3RUZ25WZElVVTArdlVDY0Q1TEhRbXhGaDNYWEJFVUVxTlFYZWxPRzRDbA (A string of strange characters is seen here.) To put it simply, it's a total war stance to gather the World’s Eleven Great Demon Arts. Qing rekindled her determination. There's no time to waste. She must thoroughly search Changbai. "Yepo, come here. Let's move." Calling out to Yeopo, who was cheekily rubbing against the fierce Gangtal Horse and snorting, Qing beckoned. Why was he doing that? Heehee! Responding to Qing's call, Yeopo neighed loudly, then boldly brushed his nose against Gangtal Horse's shoulder. "Hoho, quite a playful horse, isn't it? Despite looking like a fierce steed." "Yeopo?" Neigh! Yeopo neighed back at Qing. Even with Qing's linguistic prowess, speaking countless languages, interpreting animals' cries wasn't within her abilities. Yet, something about Yeopo's stubbornly raised head and the way he eyed her with those rolling whites suggested a clear message: I do not heed the words of a weaker one! Moreover, Yeopo knelt down beside Gangtal Horse. Given that horses naturally feel most at ease standing on four legs, kneeling was for one reason only. Hop on, human. Let's ride together. "Eh." Suddenly, it seemed to Qing that she heard Moyong Jun's youthful voice. -There are such creatures, you know? Lead horses? They are sensitive to their master's presence (abbreviated) Come to think of it, didn’t Yeopo nonchalantly begin showing off his charm right after his previous master’s death without the slightest mourning? Now, pressing against Gangtal Horse and flirting, he seemed to eagerly want a third official master fit for his name, Yeopo. Judging by this behavior, he probably had multiple masters before, but when Qing named him Yeopo, he was at least just with her and what was it, that barbarian guy. Qing felt the veins in her forehead pulse. This brat? Abandoning his master just because he lost once and swiftly switching sides? "Yeopo, you brat, come here!" -Neigh! "You're done for! Tonight’s dinner is horse meat. I hear horse sashimi is quite tasty, better prepare yourself for a feast!" -Neigh! Upon hearing Qing, Yeopo hid behind Gangtal Horse. Though being a large creature, hiding left him barely concealed behind Gangtal Horse. Isn't he just too funny? Betraying once the opportunity arises, ditching his master at the first sight of a superior one—that's not only his nature, or "horse nature (馬性)," but also his sheer confidence. Expecting that changing masters would undoubtedly lead someone to accept him is laughably optimistic. Considering everyone who's laid eyes on Yeopo reacted with awe, calling him a thousand-li horse, who would disregard such a magnificent steed falling into their lap? Qing glared sharply at Yeopo. And yet, that’s all she could do. Her nature of yielding to the strong and opposing the weak wouldn’t let her confidently demand Gangtal Horse be handed over to her. The extent of what Qing could do was to silently, sheepishly, and dejectedly implore for pity. Though it was indeed the best strategy. Respected elder, it seems Yeopo wishes to change masters to you, but since that’s out of the question, would you mind sending him my way? -But even if she asked, would they send him back? If martial artists, known for robbing others of their skills, wouldn’t steal horses too? They would relish and clamor over accepting a horse who claims to follow them, laughing delightedly all the while. **Translation Notes:** 1. **Gangtal Horse (강탈마)** - "Gangtal" suggests fierceness or forcefulness, appropriately reflecting the steed's nature. 2. **Yeopo (여포)** - Qing's horse is named after the historical figure "Lü Bu" (known as Yeopo in Korean), renowned for both his martial prowess and betrayal tendencies, which is fitting here as the horse quickly tries to curry favor with a new master. 3. **Moyong Jun (모용준)** - Based on context, we infer this is referring to a somewhat youthful character, potentially a past acquaintance sharing insights on horses and their perception of their masters. Once should consider adding the explanation for **Yeopo** to the character list, reflecting its association to the historical figure "Lü Bu," given its significance in portraying the horse's humorous and treacherous traits. If Qing simply kept quiet, people would likely just think she had a horse that was a bit mischievous. If I keep silent and let it be— "Lord Gangtal Horse, it seems this creature has changed masters. Truly, it acts like the speechless simpleton it is," commented Gong Lang-Sa Yoon, standing next to her. Gangtal Horse then let out a "hmm." "Though I already have a horse to ride, it's not like I can just turn away a beast that comes on its own." "Well then, shall we have horse meat for dinner?" "No, why butcher a steed that looks like a noble horse?" "Aren't you curious? Whether a noble horse tastes as fine as its reputation suggests, I am incredibly curious. Surely, not many have tasted noble horse meat, have they? And since it was basically free, it's not much of a loss, is it?" "Hmm, true. If this horse is so quick to change masters, it might run again at the sight of someone more appealing, so perhaps filling our stomachs once might not be a bad idea." "Gulp." "Yes, there might be a lot of meat." At this, Yeopo let out a nervous neigh and performed an amusing sidestep walk, moving away from them. Then, acting as if nothing had happened, Yeopo naturally approached Qing and began to nuzzle her face with his nose. "What, not going away? If they have a horse meat feast, I might go and stuff myself." Neighing in frustration, Yeopo sidled up, looking up at her with eyes reminiscent of a guilty pet caught by its owner. With a sour look, Qing nodded slightly towards Gangtal Horse. Though talk of eating horse meat was just talk, horses themselves are expensive assets. Selling one could sponsor a horse meat festival for months, rather than just a feast. Simply ignoring it and sending Yeopo back required a gesture of gratitude. "Gulp. Too bad. Heavenly Sword Flower, let me know if you ever lose fondness for that creature," Gong Lang-Sa Yoon added, his gaze sparkling wickedly. Yeopo trembled and snorted nervously at Gong Lang-Sa Yoon's intense look. Nevertheless, Qing mounted Yeopo. Seated on Yeopo, she gripped the horse's flank, expressing her discontent, causing Yeopo to let out a disgruntled sigh and glance toward the distant hills. Even though she had been beginning to grow fond of Yeopo, her affection abruptly dropped. "Let's go," Qing commanded. As Qing gently tugged on the reins, Yeopo obediently began to trot gracefully. The usually rough, bumpy ride was now replaced with a smooth, elegant trot. What? He could walk like this? Alright, no special treats for a while. Just bland grass until he learns. Thus, they started off again. …until? Qing muttered in a thoroughly vexed tone. "You there?" "Hmm? What's the matter?" the man responded. "Are you heading to Hwanin City as well? Should I take another route?" "Oh, you're on your way to Hwanin City?" "Then where are you going?" "Where else? Following you." Gangtal Horse replied casually. Regrettably, the content was anything but casual. Qing’s expression turned sour. "No, what is this? We agreed to meet in a month." "The duel is in a month, but we never said anything about not traveling together." "Isn't this a breach of agreement? What if you follow me around and can't go where I try to go, like the Murim Alliance? Will you just capture and lock me away somewhere?" "I'm not that discourteous. And someone as famed as the Heavenly Sword Flower, wherever you went, news of you would spread quickly. Finding you wouldn't be impossible even if inconvenient." "So why are you following me, then? Are you unemployed, elder? Nothing to do? Perhaps you're just a leisurely retiree? Whoever heard of a freeloader tagging along?" Qing’s words, by her native standards, were scandalously impertinent towards an elder. This wasn't just within Qing's culture; it was also against Zhongyuan (Central Plains) standards. However, Gangtal Horse merely chuckled. After all, Qing had gauged that this much defiance was tolerable. "I’m quite busy, actually. Urgent tasks await me. Isn't that right?" he turned to Gong Lang-Sa Yoon. "Absolutely, without a doubt. I did hear so," Gong Lang-Sa Yoon confirmed. Gangtal Horse nodded. "See? I'm indeed a busy person." Despite Qing being nonplussed, Gangtal Horse didn’t waver. "If you've got important affairs, why are you tagging along?" Qing demanded, exasperated, and Gangtal Horse replied with what also had nothing to do with the conversation, "I've been roaming for martial abilities for about five years, you know? Throughout all those wanderings, how many worthwhile martial arts, aside from the commonplace, have I truly acquired?" "How many?" "One. The first one you taught me." Oh, my. Qing's face fell. He’s been lapis-lazuli robbing for five years and couldn’t even snag one red-bordered martial art? And I’m the first to offer? So naturally, he's all but enamored. "Collecting martial arts isn't as straightforward as you'd imagine. Those who babble on tend to have just mundane martial arts. Those who possess actual skills never open their mouths. Or if they do, they’re likely to deceive you." Suddenly, the atmosphere turned into an earnest confession of struggles. Though, that was Gangtal Horse’s plight, wasn't it? "So?" Qing asked. "You're heading to Manchuria?" "Why?" "After crossing Mount Changbai, you either end up in Goryeo or Manchuria." Goryeo had long since disappeared, now called Joseon. However, to the Central World-dominating Zhongyuan people, the name of the eastern barbarians' nation didn't particularly matter whether Goryeo, Joseon, or whatever else. Qing, anyway, was not in her Joseon. Hence, correcting them was uncalled for. "Not Goryeo, but you see, in Manchuria there's a particularly vicious master. They're two levels above me, as far as I know. They harbor quite a strong grudge against you, actually." **Translation Notes:** 1. **Gong Lang-Sa Yoon (공량사윤)** - This appears to be a new character whose comments about horse meat intrigue show a somewhat mischievous personality. 2. **Hwanin City (환인시)** - Presumably a city they are traveling toward. The naming suggests a blend of Chinese and Korean influences. 3. **Changbai Mountain (장백산)** - Maintained the meaning of "Ever White Mountain" as an important geographical landmark connecting Korea and China, giving context to the consideration of locations. 4. **Joseon (조선)** - Historical Korean kingdom name used for cultural context relevant to the time settings, though obsolete within the world. 5. **Goryeo (고려)** - Refers to the former kingdom name before Joseon, focusing on the continuation of cultural identity perspectives. The character **Gong Lang-Sa Yoon** should be added to the list with the new insights reflecting his playful yet earnest approach to situations, stressing the importance of accurately reporting new characters and their exact historical or contextual significance for robust narrative continuity. “Gasp.” Qing was taken aback. If someone is one or two levels above Gangtal Horse, it means they are a master of the Profound Realm, and such a person holds a grudge against her? “What? Why? I don’t even know who they are, what did I do? Who is this master anyway?” “I can't say. I have my reasons. Anyway, that's the situation. If you head to Manchuria and get killed, what happens to my martial arts?” Wait, why is it 'your martial arts'? My martial arts are mine. Well, some of them are Shaolin’s and the Namgung Noble Clan’s, and ownership is a bit mixed, but still. Anyway, Qing's attitude softened a bit. In Manchuria, specifically in the land of Jilin, there’s an unidentified Profound Realm master who holds a grudge against me, and if I die, the martial arts entrusted to me would disappear. So, he wants to come along to intervene— “No, intervention is not possible. I told you, he's a nasty fellow. He’s not one to let go of grudges easily. If you encounter him, I'll hold him back so you can escape.” So, not intervention but assistance to escape. Qing hummed, feeling something uncertain. “Uh, thank you?” She expressed uncertain gratitude. After all, this means he’s coming along to protect her, even if it means abandoning his task which was labeled as imperative. Of course, trust in this aspect is a bit shaky. The fact that he would throw aside an extremely important task just to snag some of her martial arts made her wonder whether the acquisition of new martial arts is such a dire and urgent matter even for someone of the Profound Realm. However, even the Great Celestial Martial Emperor was fanatically obsessed with martial arts. Choosing between duties and personal fulfillment isn’t something utterly incomprehensible. All things considered, having a martial arts madman tagging along might not be so bad after all. Thus, carrying additional burdens on both sides, they set off once more toward Changbai. **Translation Notes:** 1. **Manchuria (만주)** - Historically pivotal for relations between Korea and China and a significant region for martial artists in this narrative. 2. **Jilin (길림)** - A province in Manchuria, signifying an important upcoming location possibly linking to Qing's unknown adversary. 3. **Qing’s ambiguous gratitude** - This expression points toward a mix of appreciation and suspicion, maintaining the comedic undertone while reflecting Qing's complex perception of the situation. Additional context regarding Qing’s internal dialogue and the relationship between her and Gangtal Horse provides insight into her hesitance and calculated trust, building upon the broader narrative of martial arts politics and alliances within the martial world.