Page 50 of 321 FirstFirst ... 404142434445464748495051525354555657585960100150 ... LastLast
Results 981 to 1,000 of 6420

Thread: A step into the past - 寻秦记 - by Huang Yi

  1. #981
    Junior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2004
    Location
    USA
    Posts
    47

    Default

    I have always thought and felt the the phrase: Absolute power corrupts absolutely .... is a flawed statement, coming as it is, from a flawed creature - Man. Although this phrase is quite accurate when explaining many situations involving power held by man, and/or super beings/demigods, it does not apply to all situations. GOD is absolute power ... and he is not corrupt or corruptible.

    I would even venture to state that: Those who aspire to absolute power, will tend to corruption.

    A very big thanks for Jean, for her continuing translation. This book is fun to read!

  2. #982
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Feb 2007
    Posts
    611

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by genuis8 View Post

    I would even venture to state that: Those who aspire to absolute power, will tend to corruption.
    In my opinion those who aspire to absolute power in the first place are corrupt.

  3. #983

    Default

    every man is corrupt in vary condition. and i believe that there is no perfect government system.
    in my humble opinion if people hold tight the kindness and
    righteousness. God will give them a good king.
    so simple

  4. #984
    Senior Member gqonmars2's Avatar
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Location
    Niagara Falls, Canada
    Posts
    348

    Default

    Thanks Jean.

    Great update.

    I hope she is the assassin.
    "Every man dies, but not every man really lives." -BH

  5. #985
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Posts
    616

    Default

    for those who would like to discuss spiritual path, religion or philosophy, twins of brother or dai tong sheung lung jung should be a great book.

  6. #986
    Senior Member Jean's Avatar
    Join Date
    Nov 2002
    Posts
    1,367

    Default

    and the end of the chapter.... what will happen?

    ************************************************** *******

    Ji Yanran seems to have transformed into a female leopard, or like a ghost has possessed her as she quickly retreated, her waist seems to be made of spring as she moved about, making full use of the strength in her waist and wrist. Her sword attacks were like the River Jiang, attacking every gap available.

    Xiang Shaolong was furious and executed the Mozi swordplay, defending himself. After blocking more than 10 attacks, he finally found a chance to counterattack and his sword sliced towards the tip of his opponent’s sword.

    Naturally Ji Yanran’s arm strength is not as good as Xiang Shaolong, and she was only relying on her excellent swordplay so that Xiang Shaolong cannot execute his moves even if he has the strength to. Now that her opponent has struck her head on, she hurriedly retreated.

    Ji Yanran smiled coyly, “Finally willing to reveal your real capabilities?”

    Xiang Shaolong has wasted his strength trying to fend off her initial flurry of attacks and although he can say he lost because he was caught unawares, but the main reason is that his opponent’s swordplay is indeed excellent, even better than Lian Jin. At this point in time he dared not give way to her as he blocked his chest with his sword, the angle, strength used and timing made it difficult for her to attack.

    Ji Yanran’s eyes shone and in an instant she moved her body diagonally and her long sword pierced up from the bottom, coming in contact with Flying Rainbow.

    Xiang Shaolong almost lost his grasp on his precious sword and in his shock he moved diagonally away.

    Ji Yanran easily moved back into the offensive and launched another flurry of lightning fast attacks so that her opponent does not even have time to catch a breath.

    Only now does Xiang Shaolong truly experience why she can be No. 2 in swordplay in Wei. She is indeed better than him but this is only in terms of swordplay. His advantage is that every part of his body is a formidable weapon so if he wants to stay alive this time, he will have no choice but to use unorthodox moves. As he blocked off the attacks using Mozi swordplay’s defensive ability, he was secretly scrutinizing his surroundings as well, looking to see if there’s any way he can change defeat into victory.

    The more Ji Yanran fought the stronger she became, every move full of energy, frightening yet so alluring and a delight to see.

    At this time Xiang Shaolong kept retreating, he felt his back knock against a large tree.

    Ji Yanran laughed as her long sword struck towards him.

    Xiang Shaolong moved his sword up diagonally to block it.

    ‘Dang!’ and Xiang Shaolong’s Flying Rainbow flew out of his hand.

    Ji Yanran was momentarily stunned because it was obvious Xiang Shaolong loosened his grip deliberately and allowed her to strike the sword aside. Because she was using all her strength, her body fell forward from the momentum.

    ‘Bang!’ Ji Yanran’s shoulder was struck by Xiang Shaolong’s flying kick and she fell forward due to the intense pain, collapsing onto the soft grass.

    Ji Yanran was about to turn over and use the strength in her waist to rebound when Xiang Shaolong leapt over and pressed down on her alluring body, his 2 hands grabbing her wrists like metal manacles and she was immediately immobilized.

    Xiang Shaolong grinned as he lowered his head, looking into her eyes with only a 3 inch distance between them, “You do not concede?”

    Ji Yanran’s body totally relaxed and she loosened her grip on her sword, her pretty face blushing and pouted prettily as she replied gently, “Why would Yanran not concede?”

    Xiang Shaolong’s face turned serious, “Then how are you going to account to your King?”

    Their limbs intertwined, the intoxicating feeling coming so strong towards them but instead they have their opposing situation. Xiang Shaolong found it really difficult to describe such feelings.

    Ji Yanran totally gave up trying to fight back as she laid on the ground limply. She blinked her huge and pretty eyes, “What account, Yanran does not understand what Mister Xiang is talking about?”

    Xiang Shaolong saw the look of sincere joy in her face and slowly understood. He stood up angrily, “So you were lying to me.”

    Ji Yanran pouted, “Aren’t you going to help me up?”

    Xiang Shaolong was so furious he almost wanted to ignore her. But finally he could not find the heart to be so cruel towards this beauty so he extended his hand and pulled her up.

    Ji Yanran bowed and said, “Please don’t blame Yanran? If I don’t do this, how can I test your wondrous… heh, wondrous leg skill. That area is still in pain!”

    Xiang Shaolong shook his head as he smiled bitterly and he walked over to pick up his flying rainbow and after returning it to its sheath, turned and walked away.

    On the way back in the horse carriage, Ji Yanran looked totally ecstatic and self satisfied and kept on stealing peeks at the simmering Xiang Shaolong and said gently, “Xiang Shaolong you look so good when you’re angry!”

    Xiang Shaolong was fuming and he stared at her angrily, “I did not expect that talented Learned lady Ji would lie as well, and be so good at it too.”

    Ji Yanran rolled her pretty eyes at him and said, “Aren’t you wondering why I would want to test your swordplay?”

    Xiang Shaolong leaned back on the chair, crossed his leg and made a show of nonchalance as he said with a chortle, “You’re trying to see if I’m suited enough to be your future husband, right?”

    Ji Yanran covered her mouth in surprise, “You’re only half right, because things have not reached that stage yet. Besides you only barely passed!” She guffawed and continued with a laugh, “Until today, you’re the first who passed the first round. If you’re really serious in wooing me, I can try my best to give you chances.”

    Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that this woman is indeed funny and he furrowed his brow, “Love is a strange and wondrous feeling between a man and a woman and comes naturally, it’s not a series of tests like what you’re doing.”

    Ji Yanran’s eyes shone with an indescribable brightness as she said with a smile, “Very well said, better than anyone else, that’s why Yanran knows that you have a reason for pretending not to like me. However the way you looked at me revealed the secret in your heart. Especially when you were pressing down on me on the grass earlier, I am even more certain of your feelings towards me.”

    Xiang Shaolong secretly felt guilty and was dumbfounded. He can only stare at her dumbly.

    Ji Yanran asked happily, “So do you want to go back to Prince Xinling’s residence, or to Yanran’s little house by the lake?”

    Xiang Shaolong seems to be startled awake and was secretly cursing himself for being bewitched by her and cried out, “Turn left quickly!”

    Ji Yanran gave the orders and before they reached the main door of Prince Xinling’s residence, they turned into another street.

    Xiang Shaolong said, “Please stop at the junction in front, I am getting down.”

    After Ji Yanran gave the orders, she asked sadly, “Mister Xiang, do you really not feel any longing for Yanran at all?”

    Xiang Shaolong felt a wave of sadness and after a sigh, he went close to her ears and whispered, “Miss is the most alluring beauty I have ever met in my life. However the timing is too inappropriate and very soon Miss will understand my difficulties. Forget me! All right?” He hardened his heart and left the carrige.

    He was standing on the street when Ji Yanran lifted the curtain and called out, “Mister Xiang!”

    Xiang Shaolong secretly sighed and moved towards the window.

    Ji Yanran looked at him deeply, intelligence reflected in her pretty eyes and she said serenely and gently, “Yanran understands now. If there’s any problem, remember that Yanran will help you at all costs.”

    ************************************************** ***
    Last edited by Jean; 04-27-08 at 09:49 PM.

  7. #987
    Junior Member
    Join Date
    Jan 2007
    Location
    Ithaca, NY
    Posts
    35

    Default Thanks for the translation

    Lol, when she lost I was surprised that this didn't turn into another rated X scene.

    Thank you for the translation. Although anyone can translate a book, your rendition of the novel from Chinese is so smooth and flawless that it demonstrates a mastery of both languages.

  8. #988
    Senior Member gqonmars2's Avatar
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Location
    Niagara Falls, Canada
    Posts
    348

    Default

    Thanks Jean. As always, great update.

    I wonder how is XSL going to ask a martial beauty to help escort his other beauties to safety... lol

    "ah.. I like u a lot, but there are a few others hotties who I also like, so can you help them escape so we can all be together later?"


    "Every man dies, but not every man really lives." -BH

  9. #989
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2006
    Location
    Washington, DC
    Posts
    712

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by raywang View Post
    Although anyone can translate a book,
    I can't.


    Thanks, Jean! She's still irritating me by referring to herself in the 3rd person, but I like her a lot so far, particularly with the offer of help at the end. Wonder just how much is it that she knows about his plight?

  10. #990
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Feb 2007
    Posts
    611

    Default

    Kchil is right...
    who does she think she is ? queen of england ?
    that shite is getting anoying. lol
    Kill her off I say.

  11. #991
    Senior Member Jean's Avatar
    Join Date
    Nov 2002
    Posts
    1,367

    Default

    new chapter!!

    ************************************************** ***

    Book 4 Chap 5 – Bloody battle on the long street

    Xiang Shaolong met up with Wu Zhuo at an abandoned old house. This extremely reliable battle friend who went through life and death with him said, “We’ve already followed your instructions and dug a tunnel from beneath our camp to lead to a forest behind the camp. We’ve also sent men to use that tunnel and make more than 10 wooden rafts in the forest and kept them hidden next to a small river that leads to the main canal. If we follow the flow of the water, we will be able to reach the southern border of the state of Qi in 2 days.”

    Xiang Shaolong replied happily, “Lady Ya and the rest will return to camp this evening. Tell Cheng Xu to put on an act and insist on traveling only tomorrow. In that way Prince Xinling won’t be on his guard against us.”

    Wu Zhuo furrowed his brows, “Then how are you going to get out of the city? Prince Xinling will certainly send men to keep an eye on you.”

    Xiang Shaolong said, “I definitely cannot leave, or else no one will be able to escape. To use that tunnel to let everyone leave, we’ll need at least 2 hours. You will start immediately after the sun sets and make some fake men as cover ups. All armors, horses and heavy items will have to be left behind. Try to purchase some horses from the traders after we reach Qi and if you travel by night, you’ll definitely be able to return to Zhao safely. In summary success will depend on being secretive, just pretend that you’re horse thieves.”

    Wu Zhuo’s expression changed, “What about Grand Young Master-in-law, if I abandon you, Master will certainly take my life! At least I want to stay behind and accompany you.”

    Xiang Shaolong replied sternly, “This is an order, you must follow my instructions. Without you, Cheng Xu will definitely not be able to accomplish anything.” He continued gently and consoled him. “I will definitely treasure my own life and I have a detailed plan as well. I’ll be able to save myself and take Zhao Qian away as well.”

    Wu Zhuo still shook his head.

    Xiang Shaolong sighed and revealed to him the whole plan.

    Wu Zhuo was silent after listening to it before saying, “If Grand Young Master-in-law does not return to Zhao within 3 months, I will kill myself to replay your kindness.”

    Xiang Shaolong was both touched and helpless and after discussing further some details, they parted. He managed to find Fu Bu through a series of intricate communication methods and after some secret discussion, he went back to Prince Xinling’s residence.

    Prince Xinling dragged him to lunch and after the meal Xiang Shaolong returned to Flying Clouds Chamber to see Lady Ya.

    Lady Ya has already received notification from Prince Xinling and has already packed. When she saw him return, she ran into his arms and cried bitterly, “Without you, Ya’er will not leave!”

    Xiang Shaolong thought this to be a headache and after trying to cajole and scare her, he was finally forced to reveal his whole plan to her. Lady Ya knows that this is the only way they can survive so she had no choice but to tearfully agree.

    It’s time to depart.

    On Zhao Qian’s side, she and her 3 maids were hugging each other and crying bitterly, as if they are about to be parted by death, making all who witness it feel sad as well.

    It was only under Xiang Shaolong’s constant urging that the 2 maids Cui Tong and Cui Lü went on their way tearfully.

    Prince Xinling escorted them out of the city personally and when they reached the camp, Cheng Xu followed Xiang Shaolong’s instructions and insisted on traveling only the next day.

    Xiang Shaolong pretended to be helpless and exchanged a look with Prince Xinling, finally accepting Cheng Xu’s suggestion.

    Prince Xinling smiled, “Don’t worry! I’ve specially transferred a team of light cavalry to escort them on their way tomorrow morning.”

    Xiang Shaolong had long noticed the Wei army camp nearby and looking at the scale knows that there is at least 2000 men there. He was laughing secretly to himself as he returned to the city with Prince Xinling.

    They were riding next to each other as Prince Xinling commented, “From now on, it’s best that Shaolong stays in the residence, firstly to conserve your energy and also to prevent any other accidents from happening that can spoil the grand plan. I’ve already sent men to send Zhao Qian to hide at a secret location so that Shaolong need not have any worries when you attend the feast tomorrow.”

    On hearing that Xiang Shaolong felt as if his heart has dropped into a bottomless pit. If Zhao Qian has really been kept by him, won’t he be totally under the control of this fiend? But he still pretended to be grateful on the surface.

    Heavens! What should he do next?

    Prince Xinling asked nonchalantly, “Why did Yanran look for you this morning?”

    Xiang Shaolong was thinking at this point that if Prince Xinling finds out tomorrow morning that Lady Ya and the rest have all slipped away, he will certainly suspect his sincerity, then how would he deal with him and Zhao Qian? He forced out a smile and said, “I don’t know why she’s looking for me too, she was talking to me about everything and left after a while.”

    Prince Xinling thought to himself that as long as she has not taken a liking to him, it’s all right, and he stopped talking further.

    Xiang Shaolong was in an extremely bad mood and returned listlessly to Prince Xinling’s residence. When he returned to his room, he got rid of the 4 pretty maids. Just as he was feeling edgy and nervous, there was a ‘plonk’, and a piece of cloth wrapped around a stone was thrown in.

    **************************************************

  12. #992
    Junior Member Namdynamo's Avatar
    Join Date
    Aug 2006
    Location
    Sacramento, CA
    Posts
    29

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by aliderhamy View Post
    Kchil is right...
    who does she think she is ? queen of england ?
    that shite is getting anoying. lol
    Kill her off I say.
    Heheh, I know you just say that to spite us Yanran lovers but in the back of your mind you very much admiring and lusting after her, just like XSL and all men at this time period (except lord Long Yang that is).

    Once again, thank you Jean.
    Last edited by Namdynamo; 04-29-08 at 12:14 AM.

  13. #993
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2006
    Location
    Washington, DC
    Posts
    712

    Default

    I trust your word that I will grow to like her, but next time let me kinda discover that through the reading of the story. That's dangerously close to a spoiler right there.

  14. #994
    Senior Member balikpapan's Avatar
    Join Date
    Feb 2005
    Location
    Looking through blinds
    Posts
    391

    Default

    This is getting tense. Looking forward for the next update.Thanks, Jean. Your avatar is pretty.

  15. #995
    Junior Member Namdynamo's Avatar
    Join Date
    Aug 2006
    Location
    Sacramento, CA
    Posts
    29

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by KChill View Post
    I trust your word that I will grow to like her, but next time let me kinda discover that through the reading of the story. That's dangerously close to a spoiler right there.
    My bad, I shouldn't have written that then.

    I apologize for the oversight.

  16. #996
    Member
    Join Date
    May 2007
    Location
    Middle Earth (NZ)
    Posts
    171

    Default

    i didnt read the spoiler ^_^



    hmmz, i think its kinda cute the way she refers to her self in 3rd person.. i wudnt mind it at all =)

    thanks Jean!

    yea getting intense now.. I wonder wat his plan was.. and how it will change now... i hope Zhao Qian will be fine...

  17. #997
    Senior Member ChronoReverse's Avatar
    Join Date
    Apr 2003
    Posts
    2,858

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by KChill View Post
    Thanks, Jean! She's still irritating me by referring to herself in the 3rd person, but I like her a lot so far, particularly with the offer of help at the end. Wonder just how much is it that she knows about his plight?
    Quote Originally Posted by aliderhamy View Post
    Kchil is right...
    who does she think she is ? queen of england ?
    that shite is getting anoying. lol
    Kill her off I say.
    Seems you two are suffering from a cultural gap here =P

  18. #998
    Senior Member gqonmars2's Avatar
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Location
    Niagara Falls, Canada
    Posts
    348

    Default

    Thanks Jean. Great read.

    I wonder who is this now ???
    "Every man dies, but not every man really lives." -BH

  19. #999
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2006
    Location
    Washington, DC
    Posts
    712

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by ChronoReverse View Post
    Seems you two are suffering from a cultural gap here =P
    KChill doesn't suffer from anything. KChill is just enjoying the story. KChill hopes that Chrono doesn't misunderstand his comments, KChill doesn't mean any harm.

  20. #1000
    Junior Member jmonik's Avatar
    Join Date
    Apr 2008
    Posts
    2

    Thumbs up Thank's a bunch Jean

    Sorry to interrupt you guys, just found this site and thread.

    Great read. Thank's a lot Jean for the effort. Nice to know you and get well.
    Although I've read, almost all wuxia translations in my own native lang. ("Bahasa"), this is a great treasure. Oh boy, need to catch up from the beginning.
    Cheers,

Similar Threads

  1. Replies: 318
    Last Post: 11-12-15, 05:26 PM
  2. a step into the past question
    By King_Kong_1981 in forum Wuxia Fiction
    Replies: 29
    Last Post: 09-26-13, 03:27 PM
  3. A Step Into The Past 《尋秦記》
    By i|uaNZ in forum TVB Series
    Replies: 128
    Last Post: 10-04-08, 03:20 AM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •