917 - I Am This Murim’s Crazy B*tch

"[It's not that I-]" "[Oh dear. It's alright.]" Kim Heo-jung displayed a bizarre expression. It was an expression that could only be described as strange. Qing desperately racked her brain and could only hypothesize, albeit without much confidence, that maybe the expression was meant to be compassionate. Perhaps Kim Heo-jung was just as hideous as he appeared, but Qing chided herself for having such unkind thoughts. bWpnL1VNWWVlR0h2N0IyVWd5ZUJTMzJ6cE1pc3I5S3pIQm93NGg0N0ZJZlpVelVKZ3FwblBJYnIzOHRRUGlEOA Qing was at a loss for words due to an inexplicable, unfathomable expression that surpassed mere ugliness, while a hunchback nodded his understanding. "[Based on my deductions, it must be an important matter that requires the noble young lady's personal attendance. I, Kim Heo-jung, am not a heartless man who would pry into the sorrows of a woman. Simply ask for help, and I will assist you.]" What in the world kind of deduction is that? It's not even accurate. And aside from the deduction, why is he being so overwhelmingly kind? "[Are you cold? The chill in Kaema is unlike any other, harsher than Daegu's winter. Even in early spring, it would be severe for someone as esteemed as you. I will prepare some tea to warm you up. I'll also make sure there's something for your attendants, so you needn't worry yourself.]" With that, Kim Heo-jung left to boil water, while Steel Demon quietly addressed Qing. "He doesn't reveal his realm, but he is undoubtedly someone who has reached the Demon Possession Realm." In the Harmony Realm, it's common to identify those in the Pinnacle Realm or lower at a glance; if it’s not visible, he must be a true master, someone above the Harmony Realm. "No, why would he be a demon? He seems like a decent and polite person." "Do your eyes deceive you? Look at that gaze; it’s clearly the look of a madman, unmistakably so." At that moment... "[Who dare uttered barbarian?]" On his way to the hut, Kim Heo-jung stopped in his tracks, turned slowly with a deeply furrowed brow. He was already quite unsightly, but with a scowl, he looked downright hideous. Qing knew she shouldn't entertain such thoughts, but his ever-surprising hideousness was a marvel. "[Young lady, how could you have barbarians as your escort? You should not do such a thing. There are many skilled warriors in the Geomgye, so why use such lowly, barbarian trash for protection?]" Suddenly, the atmosphere turned hostile towards Zhongyuan people. "[I understand, young lady. You must have had no choice. Since you came directly here, it must indeed be urgent. Surely the despicable barbarian must be exploiting your desperate circumstance for his gain.]" This deduction of his is utterly off the mark. A correct deduction is fascinating and charming, but an incorrect one risks being as unsightly as his face. "[Um, I am also sort of a barbarian.]" "[But you are one of our own, are you not? The barbarian rabble can never mimic the refined pronunciation of a noble from Hanyang like you. You must be one of us, simply concealing the fact for personal reasons. However, doing so is improper. No matter the circumstance, trying to imitate something less than a human is unacceptable. Proclaim yourself as a descendant of Arasa or Jin instead.]" Kim Heo-jung's deductions remained unfailingly inaccurate. In his defense, the accentless, upright speech was typical of a native of Hanyang, especially from distinguished houses. Kim Heo-jung's eyes gleamed in realization, making Qing finally empathize with the Steel Demon. Yes, his eyes—truly deranged. It seemed as if the people of Zhongyuan had wronged him personally, a fury blazing in his polished, glass-like eyes. Trying to discern his reaction, Qing cautiously probed. "[It seems you harbor disdain for people from Zhongyuan. Would you refuse to help if I were from Zhongyuan?]" "[A filthy barbarian bloodline, but, um, well, um...]" Kim Heo-jung began to brood, furrowing his protruding brows in thought. But really, why even bother thinking so hard about it? When the Steel Demon spoke Zhongyuan, he was prepared to kill with a glance, but when I asked, why was he pondering this long to decide whether to help or not? Why indeed? Qing pondered over that question, leading to a brief silence. "Ahem, if you journeyed all the way from Zhongyuan, you must have made a major decision. Thus, it must be a grave matter, critical enough to seek assistance from a Geomgye man here in Joseon." Kim Heo-jung's Zhongyuan language was surprisingly fluent. His eyes regained their shine as he spoke, unsettling Qing with how fickle his gaze was—disturbingly so. Was this some form of schizophrenia? Eerie. "If I were to deduce, it would seem you require assistance not from martial artists but from an outsider—a task martial artists would avoid. Perhaps involving a powerful adversary they wish not to cross, or facing a significant power or the imperial palace." Of course, it wasn't any of that. "Regardless, each opportunity to destroy the arrogant bastards among the barbarians would be a delight and aiding you would be a pleasure indeed. So, just say the word. I, not that horrid Zhongyuan man, shall help you!" His constant erroneous guesses only made it harder to speak freely, lest the situation become unmanageably awkward. Better to try words first. The tenacious martial skills of the Steel Demon were reassuring at times like these, standing firmly by my side. Ah, to have a master of the Harmony Realm with me—what fear is there left in the world? --- **New Terms:** - **Kaema**: This was translated as "Kaema" due to it being a known geographical reference in Korea. - **Geomgye(검계)**: Translated as "Geomgye" referencing a traditional band of warriors or swordsmen, indicating a local faction or group. - **Arasa and Jin**: These were not translated directly but interpreted as references to nations or ethnicities likely in contrast to Zhongyuan, keeping it consistent in tone. "Arasa" can refer to Russia (Alasa) and "Jin" likely references the Jin dynasty or related ethnic group. - **Hanyang(한양)**: Translated to "Hanyang," maintaining its original name as it is a historical name for Seoul, adding geographical authenticity. - **Joseon(조선)**: Retained as "Joseon," a historical dynasty name of Korea. - **Steel Demon(강탈마)**: Contextually translated as "Steel Demon," reflective of his martial prowess and rough demeanor. - **Zhongyuan(중원)**: Remains "Zhongyuan," referring to the central regions of China, aligning with Jianghu context. **Gender Note:** The text mentions Qing using female pronouns, consistent with "Yeon Sul," the body Qing occupies. Steel Demon and Kim Heo-jung's masculine demeanor and addressing align them with male pronouns. **Amendment Suggestion:** Adding the context of Steel Demon referring to a male entity when mentioned could be beneficial due to the occasional ambiguity in translated texts. "It's not quite that. I've come seeking to learn your martial arts, specifically the Heaven-Shattering, Blood-Overturning, Heart-Piercing Decisive Strike." "Heaven-Shattering, Blood-Overturning, Heart-Piercing Decisive Strike? One of the World's Eleven Great Demon Arts?" "Yes, that Heaven-Shat... uh, such a long name. Anyway, I'm willing to pay handsomely for it, as it's intended for a good cause..." Qing spoke cautiously, gauging Kim Heo-jung's reaction. Well, it's sensible enough, considering what I've heard. Kim Heo-jung's tiny eyes widened, likely in surprise, but given their minuscule and sunken nature, his drooping eyelids barely revealed anything. Apparently, this condition was technically called ptosis, limiting how wide his eyes could open. "This, this...!" A grinding sound emanated from his clenched teeth. Sensing the tension rising, Qing quietly dismounted from Yeopo and subtly signaled to Gong Liang-Sayun, who took the reins and led the horse away at a slow pace. It seemed clear that things weren't going to proceed amicably. It's acceptable to remain atop a horse when confronting petty individuals, but to face a true demon, being grounded would best utilize one's abilities. "So, you're not here to avenge a family or school feud? You haven't come desperately, grasping at straws by journeying all the way to Changbai to find a hidden master, Professor Divine Ghost?" "Please, calm your anger for a moment. Can we not speak in our own tongue? This elder here is a genuine expert, truly a master of the Harmony Realm, so please manage your anger-" "You despicable woman! You've deceived me! How could you, how dare you deceive me? Just like a filthy Zhongyuan bloodline! Was it all a lie? After bestowing my grace upon you, overcoming adversity together, and fostering tender affection... I even thought it would be wonderful to marry you and have five daughters together...! This is betrayal! Betrayal! Return it, return my dreams!" A shiver ran down Qing's spine. The absurdity of his words was staggering. In hindsight, his kindness was merely an attempt to seduce her while supposedly assisting in avenging her enemies! "What betrayal? We've never made any promises or seen each other before. And what do you mean return? You pounded the drum and beat the gong all by yourself. Your intention to help was filled with impure desires from the start." "Ahhh! So, is a hideous man supposed to live and die alone?! Should I die, only to try again after reincarnation?!" Kim Heo-jung shouted fiercely. His intensity was unmatched, fiercer than even a raging beast's roar. But the content of his rant... "Without at least some act of grace, what woman would favor such an ugly hunchback! I want to find a partner too! I want a partner as well!!" "Uh, um. I see..." Qing held back laughter at his tear-laden plea. Unfortunately, Zhongyuan lacked any societal policy providing lonely men with a numbered list of matchmaking opportunities. One is born with their looks, and while effort can enhance and adjust appearances somewhat, limits remain. But Kim Heo-jung's appearance was beyond any possible improvements from mere grooming. Even a roughly sculpted ball of clay would surpass his looks. Hmm. Avoid bad, unkind thoughts... "Still, within Jianghu, masters are respected. Building up your reputation might-" "Shut up! Those women only approach based on a man's abilities—aren't they harlots? It's not about mere approach; a natural bond is needed, where conditions or intentions are absent: a natural encounter!" Hmm. His whining was beginning to irk Qing. "Loving and understanding each other with a pure heart, longing to see the other even while seeing them, feeling heartbroken if you can't—such pure love is true love!" But without regard for appearance or skills, how can anyone understand or connect with the heart of another they can't even fully understand themselves? What matters is what you’re drawn to, be it skill, appearance, or personality. It's important for different people to meet—not for perfection, but for accepting and compromising, matching and considering each other in everyday matters. Of course, this varies by person... But striving for such genuine love sounds tedious and time-consuming. Qing was drafting words to assure Kim Heo-jung not to lose hope. "You must take responsibility." "What? What responsibility? Why should I?" "Blasted Zhongyuan scum, your kind made me into this abomination! So take responsibility as a Zhongyuan and become my concubine and live with me!" "Now, come on. Didn't you just spout about purehearted connection and love? How is taking responsibility as atonement for one's ethnic group an example of pure love? And a concubine—what nonsense is that?" "Exactly, how could I even date a stinking, filthy Zhongyuan woman unless it was to repay a debt?" "What kind of- this jerk-" "Ahhh! Why! Why won't you listen to me!" Kim Heo-jung suddenly dropped to his knees with a pitiful wail. He lay facedown, pounding the ground with his fists, continuing his lament. With his humpback and hunched form, he resembled more of a turtle or terrapin than a person in despair. Then it happened. A powerful energy surged forth. No, more accurately, a tremendous force from nature was converging intensely toward this spot. The energy surged like a tempest, with gales howling and winter branches clattering, sounding as if the world's energy coalesced here. Suddenly, Kim Heo-jung's eyes locked onto Qing. Spreading out his disproportionately short arms and legs against his body, he lay prone in an exceptionally unattractive posture. --- **New Terms:** - **Yeopo(여포)**: Translated as "Yeopo," remains untranslated as it's a name for Qing's horse. - **Gong Liang-Sayun(공량사윤)**: Untranslated as it serves as a character title or name, likely an attendant or associate aiding Qing in this context. - **Changbai(장백)**: Translated as "Changbai," referencing a geographical location consistent in historical and wuxia contexts, known for being a mountain in what is modern-day China. - **Divine Ghost(신귀)**: Translated "Shingwi," literally "Divine Ghost," a suggested name for a skilled individual reportedly hiding in Changbai, keeping with the narrative's mystical feel. - **Byung Aegwan (병아관)**: Translated as "Hanyang," referring to the accent in the region, providing authenticity and context with a historically accurate location. **Gender Note:** The text involves male pronouns for Kim Heo-jung, aligning with his masculine portrayal and interactions within the narrative. Qing remains female in this representation. **Amendment Suggestion:** Incorporating the note that "Divine Ghost" is a translation of "Shingwi(신귀)," offers clarity about the referenced master, aligning with existing bit unknown martial personas like Gun(Goon) or Master. The neck stretched forward in an eerie, unnatural manner, projecting out towards Qing with a face emanating an intense, sinister aura from gleaming eyes. Suddenly, a forepaw—no, a left hand—brushed the ground with a thunderous crash as it lunged towards Qing. "Damn it! Run!" the Steel Demon shouted, drawing his sword to intercept. Crack! Massive spikes formed of ice shot up in succession, surging forward. The Steel Demon's blade produced countless afterimages. The sound of grinding ice was deafening as the relentless strikes of the White Lotus Blade shattered the rising glacial formations, sending shards scattering in all directions. A bone-chilling cold quickly descended. In an instant, frost formed upon Qing's long eyelashes, leaving a trail of white remnants across her vision. As the biting cold deeply penetrated her lungs, causing searing pain akin to being torn apart, the Steel Demon's urgent voice jolted Qing to her senses. "We've been deceived! It's a demon from the Demon Liberation Realm!" --- **New Terms:** - **White Lotus Blade(백련도):** "White Lotus Blade" is translated as "White Lotus Blade" suggesting a mythical or powerful weapon associated with purity and destruction, fitting tentatively within martial arts tropes. - **Demon Liberation Realm(탈마지경):** Translated as "Demon Liberation Realm," indicating a formidable level of demonic power or cultivation, highlighting a level above common abilities within the narrative's structured world. **Gender Note:** This scene involves the Steel Demon and Qing, maintaining their established genders: Steel Demon male, Qing female as clarified previously. **Alternate Considerations:** - **Demon Liberation Realm:** Could retain its original form, "Talmajigyeong," to preserve specific stylistic elements for readers familiar with transliterations. These translations maintain narrative consistency while effectively conveying urgency and the supernatural event's gravity within the wuxia setting.