Chapter 6
The RoFan Novel Fan Has Reincarnated Into A Martial Arts Novel
Chapter 6: A Powerful And Strong Aura From The Future
Yeon had left Cheonwang Hall and returned to her room, where she called out to Sojin.
“Sojin, Sojin!”
“Yes, Milady.”
Sojin, always cheerful and cute, came running to her.
“I’m planning to attend the martial artists’ gathering this time. Can you help me pick out some clothes to wear?”
“Clothes?”
“I can’t go out looking ordinary since it’s been a while, right?”
“Tha-That’s right.”
“Bring all my clothes in. You can also tell my father to buy new ones.”
Sojin was surprised since the original Hwangbo Yeon had never shown much interest in clothing. But as a quick-witted child, she immediately ran off with a reminder to herself.
‘You’ll have to get used to it, Sojin.’
Despite the importance of the martial arts world’s fate, Yeon had not lost sight of her original objective of becoming a noblewoman. It was not an impossible dream.
Is the Hwangbo Clan’s status in the martial arts world similar to a noble family? If so, Yeon can be considered as a lady of high social standing and daughter of a nobleman. After rationalizing it, Yeon clenched her fist.
“Even if it’s not a rofan novel, I can still become a lady here, right?”
Furthermore, she had no desire to be humiliated by people who were of a similar age. However, if they were nobles while she wasn’t, it might be different.
But that wasn’t the case, and Yeon wasn’t going to be inferior to those of a similar status. Therefore, she must master the martial arts style of this world.
Moreover, Hwangbo Yeon’s stunning beauty was already a formidable weapon on its own..
The previous owner had kept this asset hidden, but the current circumstances had changed. The vengeful spirit inhabiting Hwangbo Yeon’s body couldn’t resist showing off her alluring appearance, rendering it impossible to remain hidden.
“Fufufu, I will reveal to you the true value of a modernized soul and the body of the most stunning lady in Sandong, which have been concealed. This is the essence of power that has remained unknown to all……”
Yeon’s lips curved into a smooth arc, and the room was filled with the sound of her soft laughter.
* * *
A few days later, a splendid carriage left the front gate of Hwangbo residence with appropriately dressed escorts and servants. This display of extravagance was unusual for the modest Hwangbo Clan, causing the people to be taken aback.
“What’s going on?”
“I heard they’re going to a martial artists’ gathering.”
“I never knew such a fancy carriage was in Hwangbo Clan’s possession. I don’t think they would have allowed its use without permission from the clan head.”
As news spread that the Hwangbo Clan’s heiress was riding in the carriage, the murmurs died down.
“Well, that explains it. That man loves his daughter more than anything else in the world!”
Yeon had coerced her father into obtaining the high-end carriage and was sitting comfortably inside, examining the silk dress prepared for her by Sojin.
“Look at this, Sojin. It’s so soft!”
“Yes, Milady. The head servant of the house paid special attention to it. Of course, I did my best to convey your wishes as well. Ahem.”
“You did well. There’s no one like our Sojin.”
Yeon praised the bashful Sojin and caressed the dress. Though it was different from the dresses in rofan novels, it had its own charm. Rather, it was a dress that exuded the beauty of the Orient. She was also adorned with luxurious jewelry that satisfied her desires and impressed others.
Yeon remembered her past when she could only dream of wearing dresses and accessories. She trembled with joy at the thought of being buried in it.
“It’s perfect……”
Now, all the preparations are complete.
The meeting of the major sects. The place where the handsome and beautiful people of this vast continent gathered.
‘I will present myself there. I will show them the beauty that they’ve never seen before. The incarnation of beauty from the future!’
She was the combination of a modernized soul and the body of the most beautiful lady in Sandong. She realized that even if she wanted to look inferior, it would be impossible with the addition of her modern aesthetic sense. Yeon tried to calm herself down by taking deep breaths.
“Stay calm. I haven’t even started yet.”
To distract herself, Yeon opened the window and looked outside to appreciate the scenery and soothe her mind. Suddenly, Sojin interrupted her thoughts.
“Milady, are you planning on greeting Lord Lee Cheongang there?”
“Huh?”
Yeon was caught off guard when she heard the unexpected name.
‘How come I didn’t think of him before?’
Lee Cheongang was the protagonist of 『The Unrivaled Martial Artist』. In Yeon’s mind, Hwangbo Yeon was just a minor character with no connection to the main character.
“Is he also attending the martial artists’ gathering?”
“Of course. If Lord Lee Cheongang doesn’t attend, no one would attend either.”
It was a valid point. After all, Lee Cheongang was the best martial artist in this world, as befitting a protagonist.
‘But did Lee Cheongang attend the gathering? Why can’t I remember?’
It was probably because it wasn’t mentioned in the novel, or maybe Yeon just didn’t read the novel thoroughly.
“Have you seen him in person?”
“No way, how could I have met him, Milady?”
Sojin answered dejectedly. Lee Cheongang was described in the novel as a strikingly attractive man, so it was probably because of that.
Yeon, always curious and eager to learn, was intrigued.
“What rumors have you heard about him?”
“Rumors? Let me see……”
Sojin hesitated as if waiting for the right moment and then took a small breath.
“Just looking at him will make you sigh. His looks can rival that of Song Ok’s and Ban An’s, the famous beauties of ancient China, so he doesn’t look like an ordinary person.”
Song Ok and Ban An? They must be some ancient Chinese beauties, but it’s a shame she doesn’t know what they look like.
‘Well, they must be really good-looking.’
Sojin continued.
“His eyes are like those of a phoenix and his nose is perfectly straight. I bet God himself carved his features. And he’s tall and slender, so it’s awkward for most women to stand next to him.”
“Is that so?”
“But Milady, you’ll be fine, won’t you? You’re tall too.”
Sojin blushed and looked at Yeon with sparkling eyes.
It was obvious what was in her heart – probably the same feelings one would have for her friend who was the prettiest girl at school. The mere thought of her friend dating a handsome guy made her heart flutter
‘Well, it’s not like I have high expectations for him either……’
Yeon couldn’t help but think of her favorite novel’s male lead, Elrond.
‘Even if Lee Cheongang is really good-looking, he can’t compare to Elrond.’
A man like that is only good as a 2D character. It’s the rule of the world that such features won’t exist in reality. After reaching a clear conclusion, Yeon quickly dismissed thoughts about Lee Cheongang.
“By the way, Sojin, once we’re at the gathering, you’ll have to help me.”
“Me? What can I do for you, Milady?”
“Fufu, there’s something only you can do. You just have to do what I tell you.”
“Yes, Milady!”
Sojin answered promptly as always, and Yeon gave her a meaningful smile.
* * *
The carriage arrived at Hanam, in the Central Plains, without any problems. The gathering is scheduled to take place at the Shaolin Temple, nestled in the Tae Mountain Range of the Jungwon region[1]. The temple was chosen for its organizational structure and convenient location, as it was an ideal meeting spot for everyone. Additionally, the timing was perfect as the temple had just completed its post-training evaluations.
On the way there, Yeon learned that the temple’s monk was called ‘Gongyeo,’ and his nickname, ‘Iron-man,’ hinted at his prowess as a martial artist who diligently trained his body.
Yeon murmured in the carriage.
“I never imagined I’d have the chance to visit a Shaolin Temple in my lifetime.”
The Shaolin Temple she knew of had evolved into a large, corporate-like organization in modern times, even having a CEO. The head monk was also said to hold a master’s degree in business administration. However, her familiarity with the temple was limited to entertainment programs, and she believed it to be a place where one could superficially learn martial arts, but not truly experience it.
As she was lost in thought, they nearly arrived at their destination. Through the window, she caught sight of a towering statue standing at the side of the road. The statue depicted a muscular leader of martial arts, and its intricately carved eyes appeared to be alive.
“Oh.”
Yeon, a modern individual, gazed at the statue in awe and newfound appreciation. She realized that the real Shaolin Temple in the world of martial arts might differ from what she knew. The temple, called the Thousand-Year-Old Shaolin Temple, shrouded in legend, was now receiving a visitor who had traversed time and space.
* * *
Yeon was surprised when the carriage stopped near where the temple was located, despite her expectations. The reason for this was the rule that prohibited women from entering the premises of the temple.
“They had such rules?” Yeon asked, sounding incredulous.
Hwangbo Jeonggun replied, exasperated, “It’s not just us, everyone attending the gathering has agreed to be dropped here.”
“Is that so?”
“Consider this, Yeon. Many monks have spent their entire lives within the temple. It would be challenging for them to suddenly be in the company of women, particularly someone as beautiful as you. They may find it difficult to sleep at night.”
Hwangbo Jeonggun, who seemed to be acting like an overprotective father, cleared his throat uneasily. Although disappointed, Yeon nodded reluctantly.
Just then, a young child appeared, running towards them from a distance. His bald head caught their attention.
“Are you from the Hwangbo Clan? My name is Hyun-oh, and I will be your guide.”
Hyun-oh bowed his head and folded his hands together, looking adorable. Yeon felt like petting his head, but held back.
“Hello, Samanera Hyun-oh[2].”
“Yes, Senior[3].”
Hyun-oh’s face turned red as he faced Yeon, but to her it seemed like he was looking at Sojin instead. Sojin didn’t even bother to glance in their direction.
“The gathering starts in two days, but there will be a meeting for the leaders tonight.”
“Where will that be held?”
“At the guesthouse, Senior. Do you see the tallest building over there?”
Hyun-oh pointed to a high roof that stood out.
“Then let me guide you to your lodgings,” he added, lowering his head and walking ahead.
Hwangbo Jeonggun, who had been looking at the small figure getting further away, gestured at Yeon with his eyes.
“Look, Yeon. Even the young monk feels embarrassed.”
“It doesn’t seem like it’s because of me specifically.”
“Huh?”
Yeon trailed behind Hyun-oh without responding. Upon reaching their lodgings, Sojin approached Hyun-oh and inquired, “Excuse me, Samanera. Could you tell us where we can store our luggage?”
It was just a trivial question, but Hyun-oh was flustered. He didn’t expect Sojin to speak to him. His face turned red as he stumbled over his words.
“I-It’s over there……”
“What about the restroom? Is there a place that Milady can use?”
“It’s over there too……”
“Huh? Where exactly is that over there?”
Frustrated by Hyun-oh’s hesitance, Sojin leaned in closer, making him step back in shock and yell.
“The luggage area is over there! The restroom is over there! There’s another one in the south! Please rest comfortably!”
Hyun-oh spoke rapidly, almost as if he was rapping, and then briskly departed, taking steps faster than his usual pace.
“Why did he suddenly act like that?”
Sojin asked innocently as she tilted her head in confusion. She was cute although a bit slow-witted.
~
[1] : The Tae Mountain Range in the novel is based on the Taebaek Mountain Range, a real-life mountain range that spans the eastern part of South Korea from Gangwon Province in the north to Gyeongsang Province in the south. Hanam, Jungwon region, and the Shaolin Temple are also real-life locations. Jungwon region, located in the central part of South Korea, includes parts of Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, and Gangwon provinces. Hanam, a city in Gyeonggi Province, is part of the Jungwon region. Although the Tae Mountain Range is located in Hanam in the novel, in reality, there is no direct connection between the two. While part of the Taebaek Mountain Range is located in the Jungwon region where Hanam is situated, they are located in different parts of the country. It is possible that the fictional Tae Mountain Range is meant to be situated in the vicinity of the Taebaek Mountain Range, or that it is inspired by the real-life Shaolin Temple located in the mountains of Hanam.
[2] : When Yeon greeted Hyun-oh, she referred to him as “Hyun-oh Seu-nim”. In Korean, Seu-nim is used to address Buddhist monks, similar to how Christian clerics such as pastors or priests are addressed with “Reverend” in English. Since Hyun-oh is still a child and most likely not yet ordained, I decided to translate “Seu-nim” as “Samanera”. This is because in some Buddhist traditions, “Samanera” is the title commonly used for novice Buddhist monks, while “Bhante” is used to address ordained monks and nuns as a title of respect. If ordained monks ever make an appearance or are mentioned in future chapters, I will use “Bhante” when the characters address them.
However, it’s important to note that not all Buddhist traditions use the titles “Samanera” and “Bhante”, and in some traditions, other titles may be used. These two terms are from Pali language, a language used in the Buddhist scriptures of Theravada Buddhism, which is one of the oldest existing Buddhist traditions. It is a Middle Indo-Aryan language that was used in ancient India, and it is closely related to Sanskrit. The Pali language was used to record the earliest teachings of the Buddha, and many of the Buddhist scriptures, including the Tripitaka, are written in Pali. Pali is also used in many Buddhist chants, rituals, and ceremonies.
[3] : Hyun-oh addressed Yeon as “Siju-nim”, a Korean term that is used as a title of respect for senior monks in the Buddhist tradition. It is equivalent to “Master” or “Teacher” in English. Yeon is neither a monk nor a nun, but monks do practice martial arts, so this is also probably their way of addressing someone who’s been in the practice for much longer. Kinda like how Koreans call their upperclassmen or work seniors as “Sunbae-nim”. I also thought it would be weird for him to just start calling Yeon “Master” or “Teacher”, so I opted for Senior.
~
T/N : I’ve never been to that place in South Korea nor am I a Buddhist, so for those who actually know the details, feel free to correct any wrong information.