MurimLiteral meaning: "Martial Forest"Refers to the world of martial artists, sects, clans, assassins, and wandering warriors who live outside the regular laws of society. It's a society governed by strength, reputation, and honor—hidden from the eyes of ordinary people.
Jianghu
Literal meaning: "Rivers and Lakes"A poetic term used to describe the chaotic underworld of Murim—filled with heroes, rogues, and rival sects. It's a metaphorical "world" where martial clans rise and fall, grudges last for generations, and fame is earned through the blade.
Sect / Clan An organized group or family that trains in a specific martial style or philosophy.
Sect: Often spiritual or orthodox, usually based around temples or schools.
Clan: Family-based, with bloodlines and political power.The Jegal Clan in your story is a powerful, aristocratic clan renowned for strategy and martial tradition.
Patriarch / MatriarchThe official head of a clan. Often a master martial artist, respected elder, or founder.
Former Patriarch: A retired leader still held in reverence and often wielding behind-the-scenes influence.
Spiritual Energy/ QiThe inner energy that flows through all living beings. Martial artists in the Murim world cultivate Qi to enhance their strength, speed, and spiritual abilities. Masters can manipulate Qi to heal wounds, shatter weapons, or pressure enemies without lifting a finger.
Aura / PressureA manifestation of a martial artist's power. When a powerful individual releases their aura, it can paralyze or even suffocate weaker opponents—sometimes used to assert dominance without violence.
Scrolls / ManualsAncient texts containing martial techniques, cultivation methods, or forbidden knowledge. Many are heavily guarded by clans or lost to time. Discovering one can completely change a martial artist's path.
Martial AllianceA governing body that oversees the balance of power in the Murim world. They enforce rules, suppress forbidden knowledge, and act as judge and jury in major conflicts. Often political, not always just.
Spirit Valley / Spirit Kingdom A mythical, possibly real location spoken of in legends. Said to be a land where martial cultivation reaches divine levels using the spiritual energy that flows through. Many seek it, few believe it truly exists. In your story, it may be far more real than anyone ever imagined.