908 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

Chapter: Trip with the Tang Monk and Forty Thieves Unfortunately, with no village to stop by on the way to Hwanin Prefecture, there was no choice but to spend the night outdoors. Thus, Qing started a fire before the sunset and placed a Mongolian pot over it, preparing her special version of sweet porridge, the "Heavenly Nutrient Porridge." “The Self-Master Dao Method is far more mystical than the White Lotus Dao.” This was an abrupt statement from the bandit, Gang Talma. Qing’s ears perked up in interest. The White Lotus Dao was apparently the name of a martial technique that unleashed an infinite sequence of real attacks. Having already gleaned the bandit's relentless dedication to harsh training from his beliefs, the name "White Lotus" suited it well. However, hmm, why is it framed in blue...? Suddenly, Qing felt a surge of irritation. I mean, he achieved the Profound Realm with a martial technique in blue, yet why does he covet someone else's martial skills? “Hmm, indeed, the depth is unusual; yes, this is what you might call divine technique.” Despite claiming he'd never stolen a proper martial art, he was now boasting about acquiring a red-framed skill, claiming it as divine. Well, perhaps anyone who’s only learned in blue can't help themselves. Qing stirred the porridge absentmindedly, pretending not to hear. Knowing he was obsessed with martial skills, Qing refrained from engaging with him, fearing he might say, ‘So anyway, could you teach me just one more?’ However, what he said next was beyond even Qing’s imagination. “So, whoever wants to learn, step forward.” “Eh?” Then, out of the dusky sunset, masked figures suddenly appeared and swiftly formed a formation. “Hold on. Sir, this isn’t right. Why are you freely giving away my martial arts?” Talma had the right to feel wronged. When did it become his art anyway? But Qing was resolute. The stolen book from the villainous sect was, technically, a gift left for her—a blessing bestowed by the villain on the virtuous Heavenly Sword Flower, intended for use in good. Undeniably and transparently, it was her martial art. Unlike the stolen Buddha’s Divine Palm or Emperor Sword Form, it was genuinely hers! Qing wouldn’t use the Death Escape Technique in front of others, but perhaps that's due to her confidence. And likewise, Talma was confident. “It’s better you know than for me to secretly pass it along, isn't it? Even if I promise not to tell, you’d still be suspicious forever. It's more relieving for both of us to just be open about it.” “What? How…” Even the formidable Nihilist Thief was left speechless by the bandit’s terrifying logic. “And I’m not giving it to anyone; these are my disciples.” Qing surveyed the so-called disciples. Hidden behind their masks, their evil karmas were evident, and if not for their master’s tutelage, they would be considered bandits, ruthlessly cut down without any question. “This still isn't right. If that’s how it is, I’m not giving you my martial arts either. Why not announce it to the world?” “Well, it might sound petty, but I have my reasons. It's a power struggle. I need to build strength, and... unless, if you have a technique complementing the Self-Master Dao Method, I’ll take it next month. How about it?” Despite claiming he had no need for heart techniques, Talma showed interest. He had already reached the Profound Realm, so there was no point in rearranging his Dantian for the sake of technique. His internal energy was precious, and at his level, techniques and internal strength could operate independently to exert their full power. However, the same did not apply to his disciples, who would benefit from rebuilding their Dantians at a lower level. He plainly intended to teach them. “Hmm.” Qing pondered for a moment. Give another skill to a bandit already at the Profound Realm? Or let the bandit's subordinates grow stronger? Considering the power of the Profound Realm, the latter seemed like the much safer option. Who knows how long it would take to search the Changbai Mountain Range? By the next month, at least until the following month, she should make it back safely to Central Plains... Once she reaches the Divine Maiden Sect, at least Supreme Yeom will be there, albeit with one eye, but he’s still at the Profound Realm. “Just don't change your mind later.” Qing’s voice was particularly sharp. Playing along with the schemes of someone like him never sits well. Gang Talma likely had similar thoughts; it’s not easy to come looking for a recluse martial artist intent on lying low from the Murim. Yet, agreeing to meet monthly was probably his way of thinking long-term, given the lengthy lifespan of those at the Profound Realm. However, it seemed he hadn’t a clue that the Self-Master Dao Method was really the Death Escape Technique, so given the right manipulations, perhaps even the Great Demonic Sect would come forward... Ultimately, what she needed was power! Overwhelming power! She needed greater strength! Qing suddenly felt a renewed determination. Next to her, Gong Sun-Yoye picked up a spoon, staring intently before indulging in a spoonful himself. “Oh. It’s delicious. Though it looks like deteriorated mush, is Heavenly Sword Flower actually an outstanding chef?” Hmm, why does he persist in acting all friendly…? ----- Although Hwanin was a border town, it boasted abundant water sources, and the fertile land attracted a growing population, eventually increasing to city size. Though part of the Central Plains, it wasn’t a city of the Zhongyuan people but one of the Jurchens. Originally a Jurchen territory, an emperor from the distant past persuaded them to surrender, which their chieftain promptly accepted, seeking to assimilate. In return, the emperor granted the chieftain the official position of Jianzhou We, giving their lineage the right to oversee Hwanin Prefecture. Thus was the genesis of the Hwanin-dong family. Simultaneously, to the Jurchen themselves, the Hwanin-dong are seen as traitorous figures, who betrayed their heritage for comfort, selling their national land and soul. --- Terms translated: 1. Hwanin Prefecture (환인현) - A fictional place with historical context related to Jurchens being integrated into the Central Plains realm. 2. Jianzhou We (건주위) - An official title granted to the Jurchen chieftain, symbolizing authority over Hwanin Prefecture. 3. Hwanin-dong Family (환인동가) - A prominent family within Hwanin Prefecture with a history of managing the region under the city’s new authority. The text reveals a blend of historical fantasy and martial arts elements, situating the reader in a world where territorial disputes intertwine with personal power struggles. The pun on "Heavenly Nutrient Porridge" highlights the absurdity and Qing’s quirky culinary skills, adding humor to the narrative flow. The debates over martial arts ownership reflect ongoing themes of power dynamics and ethics within martial fantasy genres. It's noteworthy that the character settings, names, and genders should align within a fictional context, ensuring continuity and reader engagement. These translations and interpretations fit within the established context of martial arts fantasy, where historical and fantastical elements create a culturally rich tapestry, exploring both personal and sociopolitical struggles. The humorous tone, with emphasis on dynamic interactions between characters, conveys a lively and immersive storyline. The Jurchens ranked them as the second most hated traitors in the world! As a result, the Manchu Jurchens frequently launched assaults, clashing heavily with the Jianzhou Jurchens while the Central Plains military simply watched and munched on snacks. Hwanin Prefecture was essentially used as a buffer zone leading to Manchurian lands, acting as the proverbial meat shield, as Qing would say in her homeland's terms. For context, the Mengga tribe stood just above them in terms of the Jurchens' hatred hierarchy. This suggests that there was another, even more loathed traitor, universally detested by the Manchu Jurchens. Who was the ultimate traitor, the First National Traitor of the Jurchen? That would be none other than the Moyong Clan, who surrendered without even receiving demands to surrender. Anyway. Thus is Hwanin! It's been over two hundred years since Hwanin Prefecture was annexed by the Central Plains, fostering endless battles and lingering resentments between the Jurchens and other parties. Conversely, the Central Plains ensured generous support to prevent the Hwanin Jurchens from falling, making the Han people's spirit in Hwanin lands quite amiable. Settling into Wohnuro, the most renowned inn in Hwanin, the view from the separate room on the third floor was no ordinary sight. The ridge of the eastern mountains rose high, with a steep cliff jutting upwards like a fortress. As the sun set in the west, casting a fiery red glow, the majestic natural fortress atop the eastern mountain turned crimson, creating an incomparable spectacle. Qing, lost in the view, questions a young waiter who brought refreshments for more information. “Oh dear, guest, you're headed to Changbai Mountain? The Manchu tribes there are so fierce; even top martial artists only have one life, right?” Beyond Hwanin Prefecture lies an area essentially lawless and beyond the reach of national authority. “Hmm, rather than that, have you heard of a mysterious person in Changbai Mountain? They say there’s someone with black veins over their entire body, letting out strange howls.” “Are you speaking of the Disguise Game troupe? They're bandits imitating ghosts, but I haven’t heard of any such ghost.” “Hmm, then is there anyone who might know? Or where might I encounter these bandit bands?” “Around these parts, the Disguise Game troupe wouldn’t dare appear. Hmm, if you travel along the Yalu River, you might meet them eventually.” Ah, the Yalu River. Being familiar with such a name after spending so long in the Central Plains felt a bit strange... Something, hmm, reminded me of home after a long pause. Qing, lost in thoughts of her distant homeland, stared blankly into space, prompting the waiter to misunderstand her reaction. As it happened, there stood, in that direction, a natural fortress on a mountain — a mesa as they call it in their language. The waiter, thinking Qing was captivated by this spectacle, offered an explanation. “Isn’t it magnificent? That’s the pride of Hwanin Prefecture, Onyusan Fortress.” “Onyusan Fortress? I feel like I’ve heard that before. Uh, some chronicles? Why am I suddenly remembering this? What is it?” “They say it was the sacred land where the Goguryeo dynasty arose long ago. Previously, it was known as Jolbon Fortress.” “Ah, Jolbon Fortress. Spread the squirrels. Hmm.” “Squirrels, you say?” “No, it’s just something I said. Ah, so that’s Jolbon Fortress. Goguryeo...” Could it be the Goguryeo I know? Even if it is, does it even matter to me? In another world, sure, but in this world’s Goguryeo and this body, there’s not a single trace of that bloodline, right? So what am I in this world? Suddenly, it felt like my heart plummeted. A world that suddenly felt strange and unfamiliar, and the profound loneliness feeling like I am all alone in the world, which I thought had gotten better, reared its head unexpectedly. Qing’s hand began to tremble slightly. At that moment. “You’re eating again, huh?” “Mmpf.” It was Gong Sun-Yoye, cheeks puffed like a squirrel as she stuffed her face with pastries, showcasing her love for food. Surely, eating like that must be delectable; there's a satisfaction in having your mouth full. “What taste? It’s so sweet it cloys in my mouth. Here, you have it.” “Strong addiction, huh.” Gang Talma slid his own plate over to Gong Sun-Yoye. I wonder, what’s their relationship? By appearance, they don’t seem like master and disciple, and Gang Talma’s nonchalant care resembles that of a gruff father. Could they be related, like father and daughter? They don't look alike at all, though. Then, a face suddenly comes to mind. Hmm, Jayeo, I miss you. What would you be doing right now, studying? Hmm, growing up healthy is reaching dangerous levels. Yet, for one to live as a person, one must be literate; healthily rampaging around won't suffice, else one becomes indistinguishable from a beast… Warm fondness swells in Qing’s chest. Somehow, even without touching dessert yet, she feels full. Could this be paternal love? Is this what makes you feel full when thinking of your child? Although Qing polished off five dishes, still. Come to think of it, why feel lonely? After all, at home, Jayeo awaits, and Jangmyeong, and surely by now Master must be about to return from his journey. On the way back, maybe stop by the Moyong Clan, pass through Hebei, the Murim Alliance, then visit the Zhuge Noble Clan, or perhaps take a detour via Jiangnan to Nanjing to visit the Gongsun family before visiting Namgung Clan and then Zhuge Clan? It's been a while since I last met Lady Gongsun, so it might be worthwhile visiting Nanjing on this occasion. A gentle smile graced Qing’s face. --- Terms translated: 1. Changbai Mountain (장백산) - A mountain range mentioned within the narrative, tied to the mysterious events Qing is investigating. 2. Yalu River (압록강) - A well-known river boundary, mentioned in context as a pathway to finding information or encountering the Disguise Game troupe. 3. Onyusan Fortress (오녀산성) - A historical and natural fortress in the narrative, associated with ancient Goguryeo history. 4. Jolbon Fortress (졸본성) - Historical significance related to the Goguryeo dynasty, evoking memories for Qing. The narrative introduces extensive cultural and historical contexts, weaving familial and nostalgic themes with geopolitical landscapes. Qing's personal journey and her reflections on heritage provide a deeper connection to her actions and decisions within this complex world. This storytelling blends humor and introspection, juxtaposing the solemnity of identity with Qing's whimsical interactions, thereby enriching the narrative with emotional depth and lively interactions. The translations aim to maintain fidelity to the original character reactions and cultural references, enhancing the reader’s immersion in this multifaceted martial arts fantasy. The descriptions of landscape and history contribute to building a vivid and expansive setting, reflecting Qing's internal conflict and growth through her external environment.