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

[little Fish]

Off with his head she says!!!!

then it shall be done!! XSL never lets the pretty ladies down. so u can be restassured Tweety =)


Thanks Jean ;-)

[gqonmars2]

Jean, thanks for the great update.

I like how the author make the princess leave immediately after they return. Now that leaves room for XSL to see the other ladies and not have to answer thousands of questions. Its more like an easy off for the author so he does not have to think of ways to answer these questions/scenario.

Now back to taking care of Zhao Mu. I am thinking of the 5 horse torture method right about now. But, I will also accept the drowning in a pig basket method too.

But lets see what other schemes he has up his sleeves. And how XSL reciprocate.

[akolaw]

The princess has to leave and she dare not even show any hint that she have any close relationship with XSL because XSL is her guard against external aggression.

Remember XSL kick the princeling when he try to raid at night. The whole team of guard could have their head chop off if the princess was hurt/raped that night.

[KChill]

I knew the moment that scumbag Zhao Mu appears that my mood will take a turn for the worst . Never fails to piss me off. Someone please his head off. And give him a horrible death. IMO XWM died too quickly.

Thanks for the wonderful update, Jean.

Calm down, Tweety...leave his fate to the wuxia gods to decide...I have a feeling he'll get what's coming to him.

[tweety365]

Hehe... sorry for the angst. I know ZM won't prevail over our hero, but I hate disgusting perverts. XSL is not exactly a pervert... just lecherous, so he's off my list . I suppose I'm still bittered about Legendary Siblings, Jiang Yulang never got the punishment due him

I don't think the princess being around XSL will make a difference to how other women will welcome him. All the women seem perfectly fine with sharing. No jealousy whatsoever... he's like a God to them. Living in a fantasy world of all men.

[Jean]

to continue.... and something sad...

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

He was secretly cursing but on the surface he pretended to be nonchalant as he sighed, “I’d like to know who was that hero who saved me as well, but he left after taking me and the Princess away from danger, not even leaving us his name.” Zhao Mu furrowed his brow, “Weren’t you seriously injured then?” Xiang Shaolong was secretly chortling, thinking that evil fiend has finally let the cat out of the bag. If not for Xiao Weimou telling him, how would he have known that he was seriously injured. He pretended to be puzzled and looked at him, asking “Who told you that I was seriously injured, it’s just all superficial wounds!”

Zhao Mu knows that he has revealed too much and coughed dryly to cover up his embarrassment. By now the team has entered the city walls of Zi. Xiang Shaolong thought to himself: Just come! Let’s see who shall be the ultimate victor.

The next morning Xiang Shaolong, Zhao Mu and the rest started the journey as soon as it was bright. Following the official path they reached Handan 2 days later and entered the Palace immediately to see the King of Zhao. He arranged for Teng Yi and Jing Jun to return to the Wu family first. The King of Zhao received him in the Politics Discussion Hall, and Zhao Mu was the only one accompanying him.

After respects was paid to the ruler, King Xiaocheng walked down the stone steps from his dragon throne and with his hands clasped behind his back, commented, “Shaolong! Tell me how I should deal with you? You successfully stole ‘Lu Gong’s Secret Manual’ and killed Hui Hu, eliminating a troublemaker for our Great Zhao and achieved great accomplishments. But you did not wait for my instructions and brought the 3rd Princess back on your own accord, making me go back on my words towards the Weis. Tell me! Should I reward or punish you.” Xiang Shaolong pretended to be astonished as he knelt down and said, “Your subordinate knows he’s made a mistake, but I was really forced by circumstances, the Weis were…”

The King of Zhao interrupted him, “No need for more words, whatever you wanted to say, my royal sister Lady Ya has already told me. But ultimately you did not accomplish the mission I gave you. If King Anli goes back on the marriage agreement, then just let him go back on his words. But now it has turned out that he is putting the blame on me, tell me how should I account for this?”

Xiang Shaolong felt fury rising up and almost wanted to strangle King Xiaocheng. A father who does not care about the happiness of his own daughter, how can he be fit to rule a country. He controlled his temper and removed the bag on his back which contained the head of Xiao Weimou and said, “Your Majesty can return Xiao Weimou’s head to the King of Wei and he will know that we have found out about his collaboration with Xiao Weimou, then he will no longer pursue this matter!” The King of Zhao looked at the bag in surprise, then looked at Zhao Mu, not quite knowing what to do with Xiang Shaolong’s suggestion.

Zhao Mu pretended to be the good guy and said, “Shaolong, you’ve made a very bold suggestion. But the King of Wei can always deny his relationship with Xiao Weimou, or even say that you’re setting him up. Hai! Shaolong is still inexperienced indeed.”

Xiang Shaolong expected that this conniving thief would say this so he said with a smile, “Both they and us are just looking for excuses! Your Majesty need only tell Anli that I was trying to save the Princess, that’s why I escaped back to Handan in order to hide from Xiao Weimou’s pursuit. It’s simply not safe within Wei’s borders. If the Weis want to marry the Princess, then ask him to send someone here to escort the Princess, let’s see what he will do?” Zhao Mu did not expect Xiang Shaolong to come out with such a plan and for a moment had no argument.

The King of Zhao was stunned for a moment before nodding his head, “This is a good idea to round things up. We’ll do just that and see how that old man Anli is going to react?” He then told Xiang Shaolong, “For now I’ll take it that your accomplishments have atoned for your mistakes and you can keep your current position. Rest well for the next few days! If there’s anything else I will summon you into the Palace.” Xiang Shaolong was relieved and hurriedly bid his leave.

Xiang Shaolong had just stepped out of the Palace gates when Cheng Xu came up. However there was no joy of meeting after a long absence and instead he lowered his voice and said seriously, “Lady Ya is waiting for Commander Xiang.”, followed by a sigh. Xiang Shaolong feels a dark omen and taking a deep breath, asked, “What happened?” Extreme sadness shot out of Cheng Xu’s eyes as he gritted his teeth and said, “Lady Ni is dead!” Xiang Shaolong was stunned, “What?”

Cheng Xu said dejectedly, “It happened on the 3rd day after you left. When the maid went to her room that morning, she saw her holding a sharp dagger. Her belly had a fatal wound and the bed was stained red by her blood.” Xiang Shaolong felt as if he is falling from Heaven straight into hell, the blood in his body turning cold, his chest felt as if it has been pounded by a thousand kilo force, his breathing difficult and all the strength in his body suddenly disappearing. He staggered and almost fell to the ground if not for Cheng Xu supporting him.

His face turned as pale as paper and tears fell uncontrollably down his cheeks. He thought of Lady Ni’s love and elegance, yet such a horrible death befell her, is there justice in the world? After Cheng Xu steadied him on his feet, Xiang Shaolong said through gritted teeth, “She certainly will not commit suicide, don’t those maids know anything?” Cheng Xu sighed, “That’s all we know upon our return. Now all those maids have been dismissed and we can’t even find one of them to question. Those in court are fearful of Zhao Mu and dared not ask too many questions. His Majesty is now totally under Zhao Mu’s control and will not object to anything he says.”

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

[tweety365]

I'm betting big bucks that heinous dirtbag Zhao Mu had something to do with Lady Ni's death . Didn't I say that his mere appearance will piss me off. Oh, someone please just take him out!

Darn, have to wait 2 long days before another update.
Have a wonderful weekend Jean.

[little Fish]

yip, tweety sums up my feelings on the matter...

looking forward to hearing about ZM's demise! sooner rather than later I say!

THanks Jean!! =)

[eliza bennet]

Thank you so much Jean.

I like the way XSL genuinely feels for his friends. He really has become a noble person.

[gqonmars2]

Thanks Jean for the great update. Have a great long weekend.


Can someone please remind me? Is Lady Ni the mother of XSL's pupil?
I am at a lost again with people of Zhao. Jean's translation took me to away.

"What Doesn't Kill You Makes you Stronger", ah... I see XSL getting stronger.

[Enishi]

Yes, Zhao Ni is XSL's pupil's mother!

Have a good holiday guys!

[Jean]

Maybe someone can make a glossary of all the people who has appeared... can also help keep track of the women in XSL's life

anyway, to continue....

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

Xiang Shaolong exclaimed hoarsely, “Zhao Mu?” And he slowly understood. Zhao Mu saw that Lady Ni has given in to him and was extremely jealous so he secretly went to rape Zhao Ni. Zhao Ni was distraught after the shameful ordeal so she used death to wash off her shame. That conniving thief Zhao Mu, who is worst than an animal! A sudden stab of pain and sadness rushed to his heart and Xiang Shaolong finally broke down and wept bitterly.

Xiang Shaolong hugged Zhao Ya tightly, as if he’s afraid that she will suddenly disappear like Zhao Ni. Lady Ya cried hot tears together with him and wailed, “Xiang Lang! Brace yourself, all the more Zhao Mu will not let you and the Wu family off. If you don’t pull yourself together we’ll all die under his hands sooner or later.” Xiang Shaolong asked, “Where is Xiao Pan?”

Lady Ya replied, “For now he is under the care of my royal sister. This child is indeed strange, after crying for a few days, he kept quiet and has not cried since, only saying that he wants to wait for your return.” As she spoke the last words, Zhao Pan’s voice could be heard screaming madly from outside, “Teacher!” Xiang Shaolong pushed Lady Ya aside and hugged Zhao Pan who had ran into his arms.

This little lad has lost a lot of weight and he cried bitterly, “Teacher! It’s Zhao Mu that conniving thief who cause Mother to die, I feel such deep hatred in my heart!” Xiang Shaolong became calmer instead and asked, “Tell me what happened that night.” Zhao Pan replied, “I don’t know anything at all. That day his Majesty sent someone to bring over some snacks and I fell into a deep sleep after eating it. When I woke up Mother is already dead and even her body had been moved away. Mother is so pitiful!” and he cried bitterly again.

Lady Ya couldn’t control her sadness and leaned on Xiang Shaolong’s back and sobbed uncontrollably and a cloud of despair surrounded them. Xiang Shaolong reached out to hug Lady Ya and said quietly, “From today onwards, Xiao Pan you will follow your royal Aunt Ya. We must certainly avenge your mother, but we cannot act rashly or else it’ll only give that conniving thief an excuse to deal with us, understand?” Zhao Pan nodded his head vigorously, “Xiao Pan understands totally. All these time I have been practicing my swordplay everyday as you have instructed. I want to kill Zhao Mu personally.”

Xiang Shaolong told Zhao Ya, “Ya’er, take good care of Xiao Pan. For now Zhao Mu will not dare to do anything to you and Qian’er, but it’s still better to be careful. Will you be able to get Qian’er out of the palace to stay with you at your residence outside the palace, and at the same time tell Zhao Da and the rest to increase defenses and not give Zhao Mu any opportunities?” Zhao Ya replied, “Although Imperial brother usually does not bother himself with Princess Qian’s matters, now because of her marriage agreement with the Weis, it might be a bit difficult to get her out of the Palace. But I will think of a way. After I retrieved the ‘Secret Manual’, Imperial Brother has regarded me highly, maybe I can persuade him.” Xiang Shaolong thought of something and after telling Zhao Pan to leave first, he told Zhao Ya that he’s already having a physical relationship with Zhao Qian.

Zhao Ya’s expression changed, “What shall we do? Zhao Mu will certainly coerce Imperial brother to give orders to check if Zhao Qian is still intact. If they find a problem, they’ll definitely not let you off.” Xiang Shaolong replied, “Zhao Mu is extremely distracted right now and may not think of this point for now.” He continued with a furrowed brow, “Just how do you determine if Qian’er is still a virgin?” Zhao Ya replied, “Mainly is to see if her hymen is still intact.”

Xiang Shaolong secretly thought so that’s the case and asked, “Who will do the inspection?” Zhao Ya replied, “It should be the empress who inspects personally, because of Zhao Qian’s royal status, no one else is allowed to touch her body.” Xiang Shaolong thought of the Zhao empress and a thread of hope filled his heart as he said, No matter what, try to get Qian’er away from the dangerous Palace first, then we’ll think of how to deal with Zhao Mu.”

By now Tao Fang has arrived with Wu Tingfang and Ting Fangshi and after the long parting, the reunion is certainly a joyful one. If not for the death of Lady Ni, this would be the happiest moment in his life, but now it’s a different matter altogether. In the secret chamber in the Wu family stronghold, they held the first important meeting since Xiang Shaolong’s return. Besides Master Wu, Wu Yingyuan and Tao Fang, there’s also the leader of the family soldiers Wu Zhuo. Now he has become Xiang Shaolong’s closest and most reliable battle mate.

Master Wu first expressed his admiration towards Xiang Shaolong, “Shaolong has outdone himself in Wei and his actions have caused quite a stir. Now everyone regards Shaolong as Zhao’s most promising person. But at the same time it has aroused the jealousy of Zhao Mu’s gang.” Wu Yingyuan said, “Now we have no other choice but to throw in our lot with the Qins. That’s the only chance of surviving, or else we’ll just be sitting and waiting to die.” Everyone’s heart was heavy. Besides Qin and Zhao, of the remaining 5 states, Wei and Qi all hates Xiang Shaolong to the core, Yan has trouble protecting herself and is currently under attack by Lian Po while Han is weak. The remaining state of Chu is too far away and they don’t have many connections with the Wu family as well. Therefore the only way out is to join Qin.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly laughing bitterly to himself. When he came to the warring states period on the time machine, he had intended to ally himself with Emperor Qin who has fallen on bad times here but later troubles kept coming one after another and he did not even have time to take a breather. He did not expect that after all the twists and turns, he’ll ended up back on this old road. Wu Yingyuan continued, “I just made contact last month with the man Tu Xian sent.” Looking at Xiang Shaolong’s lost look, he explained, “Tu Xian is Lu Buwei’s best family warrior, having both brains and bravery with excellent sword skill. He’s on quite good terms with me.”

He continued with a sigh, “According to Tu Xian, although Qin’s King Zhuangxiang* ascended the throne, but because everyone suspects that he killed King Xiaowen with Lu Buwei and King Zhuangxiang has been staying in Zhao for a long period of time, it’s very difficult for Lu Buwei to become the premier for now.” Tao Fang’s expression paled, “If Lu Buwei is thrown out, it’ll be the end for us too.” Master Wu said, “We’re now secretly helping Lu Buwei in various ways. Luckily this person is very experienced and cunning, he’ll not be kicked out so easily. As long as King Zhuangxiang stands on his side, there will be a way.”

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_Zhuangxiang_of_Qin

Wu Yingyuan said, “This is the most important point. The woman King Zhuangxiang loves most is Zhu Ji (Concubine Zhu) and the son he pampers most is Ying Zheng. As long as we can send mother and son back to Xianyang, we’ll be able to capture King Zhuangxiang’s heart tightly. We’re the only ones who can accomplish this matter, although it will be a difficult task.” Tao Fang was afraid that Xiang Shaolong would not understand and explained, “Zhu Ji was originally Lu Buwei’s beloved mistress and in order to make King Zhuangxiang happy, he gave her to him to become his wife.”

Master Wu said, “This woman’s beauty can rival a country and is very good in flirting and handling men. She’s also extremely loyal to Lu Buwei, so if we have her next to King Zhuangxiang, we can guarantee that King Zhuangxiang will not be against Lu Buwei.” Xiang Shaolong can’t help but ask, “So is Ying Zheng the son of Lu Buwei or King Zhuangxiang, how old is he this year.”

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

[tweety365]

Thanks for the update, Jean!

Since I have some free time, I compiled a list of women who have previous/current relationships (sexual and nonsexual) with XSL. Please feel free to add to the list if I miss anyone.

In order of appearances:
1. Zhou Xiangmei
2. Mei Canniang
3. Xiu Yi
4. Ting Fangshi
5. 4 maids: Chunying, Xiaying, Qiuying, Dongying
6. Shu’er - DEAD
7. Su Nu - DEAD
8. Zhao Ya (Lady Ya)
9. Wu Tingfang
10. Tian Zhen
11. Lady Ya’s 8 maids (4 - Xiaozhao, Xiaomei, Xiaozi, Xiaoyu)
12. Third Princess Zhao Qian
13. Zhao Ni (Lady Ni) - DEAD
14. Lady Pingyuan
15. Ji Yanran


I think this is the first time ever that I've read a novel where the hero is so sexually promiscuous O_o. All these women and still more to come. Wow...

[Jean]

wow thanks tweety! Actually I found a page in wikipedia with a glossary of main characters, it's in chinese tho.

http://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%B0%...8F%E8%AA%AA%29

I've translated some, there's spoilers inside so don't click if you'd rather not find out who's important or not. I've left out who died or lived in case some of you can't take the news.

click to show/hide spoilers

Xiang Shaolong - Main character, travelled via time machine from the 21st century to the warring states period. Using his 21st century ideals and experience, he can usually turn defeat into victory. He's a little lecherous, but restrained himself a little in the later part.

Sworn Brothers
Wu Zhuo - One of the Wu family warriors
Teng Yi - XSL's sworn brother. Went thru many life and death situations with him just because of the word 'honor'.
Wang Jian - General from Qin. Holds the same position of Grand Tutor as XSL.
Jing Jun - Another of XSL's sworn borhter. Very nimble, very good at spywork.


Wives and concubines
Ji Yanran - Royalty from Yue, nicknamed Learned Lady Shi, on par with Qin Qing as the greatest beauty of that time. One of the 3 greatest swordsman in Wei, famous for her spears. Well versed in scholarly and martial pursuits, independent thinker. Later became Xiao Pan's grand tutor.

Wu Tingfang - Wu Yingyuan's daughter. Naive and lively by nature.
Zhao Zhi - Shanrou's sister, adopted by Zhao Ba. Trained as a dance courtesan in Zhao Mu's residence and a spy for Shaorou.
Zhao Qian - 3rd Princess of Zhao, gentle and quiet.
Qin Qing - Nicknamed Widow Qin, also Grand Tutor to Ying Zheng together with XSL.
Ting Fangshi - Concubine given to XSL by Tao Fang
Shu'er - Another concubine given to XSL by Tao Fang, later tortured and killed by Zhao Mu
Tian Zhen, Tian Feng - Twin sisters, originally beloved concubines of Zhao Mu


Wu Family
Wu Yingyuan - XSL's father-in-law after XSL married Wu Tingfang. Intelligent and regards XSL like his own son.
Master Wu - The master of the Wu family, father of Wu Yingyuan.
Tao Fang - one of the 12 servants of the Wu family. Found XSL in mulberry Village and brought him into the Wu family.
Wu Tingwei - Wu Yingyuan's son, proud and revels in wine and beauty.
Wu Yingen - Wu Yingyuan's 3rd brother. Refused to travel with family because of his love for a life of fame and riches. Later become Qin's spy.
Wu Guo - Husband of Zhou Wei, extremely skilled fighter.
Wu Yanzhuo - another skilled fighter.
Jing Shan - Originally a clansman from Xing family village, later followed Jing Jun and XSL. Later became a skilled fighter in Wu family.

Characters in Zhao
Zhao Mu - King Xiaocheng's lover, the 5th son of Chu's Prince Chunshen. Good at using herbs and loves to torture and kill women. Appointed as Marquis of Julu.

Zhao Ya - Sister of the King of Zhao. Made a drastic change in her life after meeting XSL and helped him numerous times.
Guo Zong - Master of metal making, his wealth can be comparable to the Wu family's.
Guo Kai - Originally working for Zhao Mu but took over his position after overthrowing him
Han Jing - Empress of Zhao
Zhao Ni - Sister of the King of Zhao, mother of Zhao Pan. Committed suicide after being raped by Zhao Mu.
Lian Jin - Nicknamed Master Red Crown, outstanding looks and swordsmanship but later killed by XSL in a duel.
Li Mu - Great general of Zhao. Never lost in battle.
Lian Po - Another great general of Zhao, another important pillar of the country
Mei Canniang - Widow staying in Mulberry Village, the first person XSL met when he came to the ancient warring states period.

Characters in Wei
Prince Xinling - The leader of the 4 Princes during the warring states period. Tried to lure XSL into assasinating King Anli.
Lord Longyang - Important official of Wei and one of the 3 great swordsmen of Wei.

Characters in Qin

Those on the Emperor's side:

Zhao Pan (Xiao Pan)/ Ying Zheng - Originally Zhao Ni's son, later after the death of the real Prince of Qin, XSL made him masquerade as the Prince. He later became the ruler of Qin and known as Emperor Qin.

Li Si - Ying Zheng's strategist, highly trusted by Ying Zheng
Lord Chang Ping - Royalty of Qin, later became premier
Lord Chang Wen - Royalty of Qin, younger brother of Lord Chang Ping, became a general
Wang He - A highly respected person in the military
Huan Yi - A military genius recommended by Wang Jian.
Lu Gong - Highly respected military person
Xu Xian - Highly respected military person
Wang Bi - Son of Wang Jian
Lu Dan'er - Granddaughter of Lu Gong, later married to Jing Jun
Ying Ying - Younger sister of Lord Chang Ping and Lord Chang Wen, very stubborn by nature
Meng Tian, Meng Wu - Young warriors of Qin, sons of Meng Ao
Wei Liao - A new power Emperor Qin groomed in the later years to deal with XSL

Those on Lu Buwei's side

Lu Buwei - Powerful official in Qin, after Ying Zheng's succession regarded himself as 'surrogate father'. Always on opposing ends with XSL and his men.
Guan Zhongxie - Lu Buwei's man, excellent swordmanship, cunning and intelligent.
Lu Niangrong - Daughter of Lu Buwei, later married to Guan Zhongxie
Tu Sheng - Loyal to Lu Buwei on the surface, but joined forces with XSL when he learned that Lu Buwei is out to kill him. Provided important information secretly.
Meng Ao - Great general of Qin


Those on Lao Ai's side
Zhu Ji - Empress of Qin, good at using her beauty to get what she wants.
Lao Ai - A fake eunuch sent to the Empress's residence by Lu Buwei, but later left Lu Buwei's control. Used his body to contril Zhu Ji and tried to vie for the world.

Characters in Chu

Li Yuan - Royal Uncle of Chu, the elder brother of the Empress Li Yanyan. Later became premier with XSL's help. Extremely talented and Ji Yanran once had feelings for him.
Li Yanyan - Empress of Chu, had a miserable past.
Prince Chunshen - One of the 4 princes of the Warring states period, tried to copy Lu Buwei and gave Li Yanyan to the King of Chu

Characters in Qi
Tian Dan - Power official in Qi. Avoided XSL and Shan Rou's assaination attempts numerous times. Lecherous and cunning, very good in trickery.
Shan Rou - One of the disciples of Cao Qiudao. Was the daughter of a Qi official but her family was destroyed by Tian Dan and Zhao Mu, so her only goal of surviving is to kill Tian Dan and Zhao Mu.
Shan Lan - Shan Rou's younger sister and Zhao Zhi's older sister. Saved by Teng Yi in Xianyang and married him.
Cao Qiudao - Have the reputation of Sword Saint, his opponents will surely be injured or perish in duels.
Jie Ziyuan - Shan Rou's husband
Zhongsun Long - Local bully, loanshark
Zhongsun Xuanhua - Son of Zhongsun Long
Tian Bang - Son of Tian Dan
Tian Sheng - Crown Prince of Qi, successor to the throne
Tian Jian - 2nd Prince of Qi

Characters in Yan
Taizi Dan - Prominent person in Yan, has a natural aura that makes others totally trust him

Characters in Han
Han Chen - Saved by XSL many times, lecherous by nature

Other characters
Yuan Zong - Leader of Mohism, taught XSL Mohist swordplay
Xiao Yuetan - Originally Tu Sheng's man, later left when he found out Lu Buwei wanted to kill him. Expert in disguise.
Feng Fei - Originally Princess of Lu, after the country was destroyed, became the leader of the world famous 3 courtesans
Lan Gongyuan - one of the 3 famous courtesans
Shi Sufang - one of the 3 famous courtesans

[eliza bennet]

Thank you for the update Jean!

Now there is another beauty for XSL to conquer!!!

[tweety365]

Thanks for the compiled list, Jean!
Much appreciate it since I can't read Chinese

click to show/hide spoilers

I don't see Lady Ya on the list of XSL's wives/concubines. I'm really really hoping she does not die. I've grown to like her immensely and would rather have someone else kick the bucket.

[akolaw]

Huang Yi just publish his latest book, Fung Sun Kei.

[gqonmars2]

Thank you Jean for the excellent update and the detail list.

Now, I wouldn't be at a lost when I am reading your wonderful updates. Jean, you are the best!

Ah.. the story about king Qin is about to begin, I can't wait.

About Lady Ya,.. in the TVB series..

click to show/hide spoilers

Lady ya don't make it to the end .. so, if the TVB series is somewhat true to the book, sorry Tweety, she maybe a goner

[Jean]

end of chapter.....

and also added rest of characters in glossary

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

Wu Yingyuan was stunned, “I’m afraid the only person who knows is Zhu Ji. Ying Zheng was born before the battle of Chang Ping, so he should be more than 13 years old now, most likely between 15 or 16 years old.” Xiang Shaolong was perplexed, according to history books, Emperor Qin was only 13 when he ascends the throne a few years later. How can it be possible that the history books are so wrong.

Wu Yingyuan said, “I’ve made an agreement with Tu Xian and will try to send Zhu Ji and her son back to Xianyang in the shortest time possible. So the most important task at hand now is not to kill Zhao Mu, but to try and make contact with Zhu Ji and her son to see how we can stealthily take them out of Handan.” Xiang Shaolong asked somberly, “How many useful men do we have on hand right now?”

Wu Zhuo replied, “We have 2 groups of warriors under us, one group are the good fighters we attracted from the various states but these people are not reliable and may very well run away when something happens. The other group are the orphans I adopted for Godfather from various places and the blood relations of the Wu family, which amounts to about 2000 men and they are all trustworthy, willing to even lay their life down for the Wu family.” Xiang Shaolong asked, “If we want to move Zhu Ji and her son away, what would be the biggest obstacle?”

Tao Fang replied, “It’s still that conniving thief Zhao Mu, the biggest problem is that he’s made Ying Zheng so happy that he totally listens to him.” Xiang Shaolong gritted his teeth, “That conniving thief again!”

Master Wu said, “Do not belittle Zhao Mu. Not only has that fellow controlled King Xiaocheng, he’s also joined forces with Guo Zhong, so the largest Warrior Association and Mohist group here will be on his side. Even Lian Po and Li Mu, generals who hold military powers in their hands dare not step too much on his toes. Shaolong now you’re a thorn in his flesh, so you must be careful all the way or else you will die any time.” Xiang Shaolong was stunned, “What is the Warrior Association?”

Tao Fang replied, “It’s a place which specializes in training professional warriors. The Zhao Warrior Association’s leader is Zhao Ba and he’s extremely highly skilled. You have to be careful when you meet him, he is very powerful in Handan!” All of them discussed the finer details a little more before Xiang Shaolong returned to his Hidden Dragon Abode.
Tao Fang accompanied him as he walked, “Our men went to the valley you described at Mulberry Village. The house is still there but they’ve waited until now and there’s still no sight of Mei Canniang. But don’t you worry! I’m trying my best to find her.” Now Xiang Shaolong has another thing to worry about. It’s been more than a year since he came to this era and he’s falling deeper both in terms of relationships and feelings. Sadness and happiness came at him alternatively, making the 21st century moving further away from him.

Sometimes it’s difficult to differentiate, between these 2 eras, which seems more like a dream. Or maybe life is just a big dream. Time is just an illusion, and the time machine is something that allows one to experience different illusions. Maybe even Crazy ma, who invented the time machine, has no answers to such confusing questions.

Tao Fang said, “I’ve arranged for that 2 friends of yours to stay at the courtyard next to your Hidden Dragon Abode. Heh! Jing Jun and Teng Yi are the exact opposites, his eyes gleamed when he sees beauties whereas Teng Yi has no interest in them at all, how strange!” Hidden Dragon Abode was just ahead so Xiang Shaolong stopped and summarized to Tao Fang the tragic fate that befell Teng Yi before he parted ways with Tao Fang and went to see Teng and Jing.

Jing Jun was hugging a pretty maid and enjoying himself but when he saw Xiang Shaolong he was startled and jumped up, looking a little lost. Xiang Shaolong laughed, “Enjoy all you want! No need to bother about me!” and he went into the inner hall to look for Teng Yi. Teng Yi was sitting quietly alone on the rug in deep thought, and might be thinking of his dead wife and family again. Xiang Shaolong sat next to him and explained to him the current situation.

Teng Yi replied after listening, “If there are 2000 death warriors, it won’t be a problem to break out of the city, but it’ll be more difficult to deal with pursuing soldiers. If possible, I’d like to personally train these 2000 people.” Xiang Shaolong thought about it for a while before replying, “Let me discuss this with Wu Zhuo.” Teng Yi said, “Just say I’ll be his assistant! When it comes to military and wars, I once spent a lot of effort researching old and new military tactics. When I was a commander in the past, I’ve spent long periods fighting the Qins and Weis, so I have some insight and experience in this.”

Xiang Shaolong knows that this person is not one who boasts so if he can say this out, he must be very confident. He said happily, “Then we should not delay! We’ll go and discuss this with Wu Zhuo immediately.” Teng Yi greatly admires Xiang Shaolong’s way of putting action to words and gladly agreed. Xiang Shaolong brought him to meet Wu Zhuo and the 2 of them hit it off immediately, having discussions about military and battles and both lamenting that they should have got to know each other earlier.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly glad and afraid that Wu Tingfang would blame him for ignoring her, he left the 2 to their talk and left on his own. Lady Ni’s death re-ignited the hatred he felt towards Zhao Mu and at the same time he learnt the importance of striking first. The most important task at hand is to make connection with Ying Zheng and after that it will be the time to escape from Handan. Once he thought of this, he can’t help but start to miss Mei Canniang.

Heaven has already been very cruel to him, and he hopes that nothing unfortunate will happen to her. He should also learn to control himself, unless he really have the ability to protect the women he loves, or else he really shouldn’t involve himself in more relationships. For those who knows Xiang Shaolong very well, they would know that this change in his thoughts can be quite unbelievable.

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[tweety365]

Awww, is our little hero maturing?

Btw Jean, is it possible to add the list of characters at the start of chapter 1? It will be easier to locate. Thank you

About Lady Ya,.. in the TVB series..

click to show/hide spoilers

Lady ya don't make it to the end .. so, if the TVB series is somewhat true to the book, sorry Tweety, she maybe a goner

I really do hope you are wrong. Otherwise...