The Portal of Wonderland by Wang Yu (玄界之门 - 忘语)

[xianxiaworld]

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《The Portal of Wonderland》 is the third influential work of the writer Wang Yu, following his previous novels 《A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality》 and 《Mo Tian Ji》. 《A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality》 tells about the world of god and 《Mo Tian Ji》 presents the world of demon. This time we recommend the latest 《The Portal of Wonderland》 which centers around the world of human.

Synopsis by xianxiaworld:Shi Mu, the hero of this book, is born in a fishing village. As a child, his father disappeared and his mother died, so he had to rely on himself thereafter. With indomitable will, he gained the help of Xiang Zhu by coincidence, hence began his journey to be the strongest warrior ever in the world.


Official Description:A wonder falling down from heaven! A boy possessed by strange blood! Gods tremble! Demons flee! A boy from the land of Dong Zhou. A pink skull as his sworn friend until death. A story of a determined warrior struggling for power. A legend that shakes the galaxy and disturbs the worlds of god, demon and man.

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[xianxiaworld]

Prologue

Prologue

Through the vast expanse of the cosmos, a glitter of golden light was flying leisurely, at some fixed slow rate against the pitch-dark sky. During its flight some whining sound could be heard occasionally, continuing from time to time, only faintly audible; it was difficult to tell whether it sounded like harrowing weeping or hellish sneer.

Unknown years had elapsed when an immense blue star was right forward.

“Boom!” a thunderous sound exploded.

The golden glitter, drawn by the gravitational force of the immense star, began to rush toward it at an alarming speed, and turned into a blazing shooting star the moment it touched the former’s atmospheric layer. Right down to the sea area below it fell.

......

In the ninth year of Tian Yuan epoch, in Da Qi dynasty, an event about some alien matter falling into the East Sea from out of the sky was reported to the court by officials responsible for such inexplicable events. The report said that twenty-odd islands were drowned by rolling mountains of waves caused by the unknown thing, its billows spreading to destroy at least ten thousands of seaside households in Yue Prefecture, killing innumerable people and their livestock. ------recorded by

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 1 - Fishing Boy


The story began in a remote fishing village in Quan Zhou, Kai Yuan Prefecture during the reign of Da Qi Dynasty [1].


Outside a dilapidated log cabin stood a richly decorated carriage garnished with magnificent embroideries. Several black-robed riders were guarding the carriage, sword in hand. Villagers swarmed around the hut to see what had happened, excited, discussing in small groups.


“Are they really the Jin [2] family, the Jins of Feng City?”


“I won’t be mistaken, see the golden embroideries in their robes, throughout Kai Yuan Prefecture no other household could have that except the Jins. “


“God, incredible! No news was heard from Shi Ting ever since ten years ago he left, leaving his wife and son behind. No one would doubt it if he had died at some strange place. But now! It’s the Jins that he has connections with, moreover he’s back to take his son Shi Mu. It’s a shame the boy’s mother died for years, or she could have high position and great wealth as long as she lived!”


“Position and wealth? Don’t say so too early. Haven’t you overheard one of the Jin servants saying that Shi Ting is already the Jin’s son-in-law, he wouldn’t dare to have come here if Shi Mu’s mother had not died!”


“Anyway Shi Mu’s time has come. Yesterday he’s an orphan, today a young master.”
……


“My father is sick in bed and I have a blood sister?” Shi Mu fixed his eyes on the elderly blue-robed visitor, asking hesitantly.
Though not turning fourteen yet, his skin bore the colour of light auburn due to perennial exposure to sea wind, his features heavy, his stature higher than his peers. Even in old and shabby shirt one could tell his sturdy muscles which added to him a sense of intractable wildness.
“That’s right, master is seriously ill at present, his day of doom may really come this time, that’s why madam asked me to take young master back: to see master at his deathbed”, answered the blue-robed old man, smiling.
“Madam? Now that he’s abandoned my mother for so many years, what’s the use of taking me back now? Please return, I won’t go back with you to the Jins.” The youth answered without hesitation, his face sour.


“Alas! I’m afraid Shi shaoye [3] has wronged my master. Master has his difficulties so he could not return here; as long as you two meet all misunderstandings can be lift. “ The old servant continued thus after a light cough.
“Humph, that man abandoned his own wife and son, nothing would change even you talk you head off. End of the story.” The youth snorted coldly.
Hearing thus, the blue-robed old man could not help but knit his brows, spoke again only after having another close look at the youth, as if a decision was finally made.


“Wasn’t the medicine shaoye had been buying from the town’s pharmacists unreasonably cheap? Moreover, hasn’t instructor Li of the town’s martial arts school charged you less than other students while he teaches you the same skills? Last but not least, Aren’t the fish shaoye caught from the sea quickly sold out every time you come to the town’s market? Plus few buyers would haggle over the price.”


“Don’t you mean, all these were pre-arranged by that man?” The youth could not help but ask directly, his color changed.


“I know not whether it’s master’s idea or not, but madam did request these arrangements in person.” The blue-robed old man answered with a smile.


Hearing thus the youth grew agitated and irresolute.


“By the way, hasn’t Shi shaoye been studying the art of Cui Ti, or Body Tempering? You must aspire to be a real warrior. Madam told me in particular that as long as shaoye agreed to see master, she would definitely manage to secure an opportunity for you to take the enrollment test of Kai Yuan martial arts school, by then as to whether you could finally get enrolled, your talents will tell the answer.” The blue-robed old man played his trump card eventually.




“Kai Yuan martial arts school?” Obviously the youth was moved by such a temptation.


“Being a practitioner of martial arts, I’m sure you must now this: the four famed martial arts schools only enroll students every five years, and candidates must meet two terms strictly before they are eligible to take the test. First they must finish studying the art of Body Tempering before the age of fifteen, second, they must have already grasped the essence of qi [4], which is indispensable in the further practice of cultivating one’s real qi, getting it circulating smoothly through one’s veins. One can never be a real martial arts practitioner before these conditions are fulfilled. However, to sense qi is not that easy at all, one has to take Qi Ling pill [5] at an exorbitant price in order to induce his qi. Even our Jin family could only get at most ten pills each time. I shall worry for your lifetime dream if you want to fend for yourself.” The old man said in an unhurried way, full of composure and confidence.


The youth sank into silence, and only spoke again in a cold voice after a long time.


“Come three days later, then you’ll get an answer.”


“Good, it’s settled then. I’ll come to hear good news three days later.” Blue-robed old man did not persist, knowing that the boy had had his mind made, hence he bowed slightly and left.


......


“Butler Cheng, are we coming back without the boy? Why not take him by force, so that we won’t waste more time?” A sturdy rider could not resist asking once they left the village.


“Nonsense! Though not born of madam, Shi shaoye is master’s son by blood. We are here to take him back safe and sound, and nobody is to take him lightly, or considering the strong affection madam has for master, we could never have an easy time.” The blue-robe old man reproached him with a sour face.


“Sure, sure, I’ve been fool.” The sturdy rider felt crestfallen.


Just then a shadow flashed past the road and there rushed out another black-robed rider, who bowed to the old man and then said, “ Butler Cheng, we found the Biao[6] guys of the fifth master [7], what should we do?”


“Humph, it seems then the fifth master still sticks to his old plan, the Biao guys are not some lads you guys can handle. Leave them to me. You guys wait here, and you, show me the way, I shall end their plan personally.” The old man decided, frowning.


“Yes”




……
Away went the rider instantly, following the path he had come; while the blue-robed old man whizzed down his horse and darted to the rider’s direction. His body seemed feather-like, disappearing into the nearby woods in a moment. The sturdy rider remained with others beside the carriage, daring not to move a muscle.


It was toward evening. Outside the village where there lied an unnamed hill, Shi Mu was kneeling at a tomb, moonlight shining softly on the slightly protuberant grave mound. The yellow tomb stone read clearly “The Tomb of the Shi Family’s Wife, Originally with the Surname of Wang”.


“Dear mother, you should never have believed that father is not dead, moreover, he’s married into another family out there. But please rest assured, I shall do as promised. Father left you with the pretext of pursuing martial arts, then I shall be a real warrior, and the best warrior ever, so that you can rest in peace!”


The youth stood up before murmuring some other words, then had his muscles moved to exercise in front of his mother’s tomb.


His moves grew faster with the sounds of his bones, his body like a tiger. After a while it became difficult to make out his profiles in the yellow dust fog stirred by his quick movements.


A figure whizzed out of the fog and punched heavily on the thick trunk of a big tree. “Boom!” With a thunderous sound the tree trembled, uncounted leaves fell down and an impressive fist print of half inch deep appeared on the trunk.


Shi Mu raised his eyebrows, gazing at the print.


This series of fist trick was the only skill of fist he learned from the town’s martial arts school, and it was also the most popular trick in the art of Body Tempering in Da Qi. According to the school’s instructor, such a deep print must have reached the seventh level in Body Tempering practice, and he only needed to reach two levels higher to practise qi-sensing.


But four whole years had passed!


There’s some sense in the saying that martial arts were only for the rich. If you are poor you could only be a bookworm.


Ever since he decided to study martial arts he had saved money for nearly half a year to pay the tuition fee of 30 liang [8]silver. Even such a large sum of tuition fee was already a reduced one, much lower than the general requested sum, and was secured at his earnest entreaty.


Moreover, the exorbitant price of medicine bath needed to temper his body cost all his income, leaving him penniless. Given his situation Shi Mu still managed to reach a level that astonished the martial arts school, obtaining the instructors’ admiration that with such amazing talents and well-made bones, Shi Mu must be a born warrior. After all, though he had asked the school’s pharmacist to prepare medicine bath for him from time to time, with the money he possessed who would sell him rare herbs that cost much? Thus he could only bathe with ordinary herbs that had little effects.


Shi Mu let out a sigh, knowing that actually his was not born with sturdy bones, his achievement within such a few years would be impossible had he not run into an event two years ago, which was the reason why he needed time to ponder if he should move to live with the Jins.


With such thoughts in his mind, the youth looked up at the moon, then rushed down the hill. After a quarter he arrived at seaside where stood clumps of rocks. He jumped into the sea without hesitation, moved his arms and slithered into deep sea like giant fish, making no sound at all. After a while he swam to the depth of some thirty or forty zhang [9].


Then something astonishing appeared.
The originally pitch dark sea water began to glitter with increasing white light, even brighter every moment, which illuminated the nearby area.
Shi Mu was not a little bit surprised. still holding his breath, he quickly moved several other meters downward before he rolled backward and stood on a patch of sand land. It was the bottom of the sea here, covered with white fine sands.
Until now it was able to see clearly that the white glitter at the bottom belong to the ten-odd shells sized a man’s palm. In the middle of the shells stood an immense rock of seven, or eight zhang high, flickering incessantly.


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Notes:
[1] Both the place and dynasty were fictional here. Readers only need to know that this story takes place in ancient China.
[2] “Jin” means gold in Chinese, indicating the family’s wealth and position.
[3] Shaoye: young master, a title in ancient China.
[4] qi: the vital flowing of energy of life in human bodies in Chinese culture.
[5] “Qi Ling” means to make one’s qi sensitive and flexible.
[6] Biao is a family name in Chinese.
[7] Master’s fifth younger brother.
[8] Liang is the calculation unit of silver in ancient China.
[9] Zhang, a unit of length (= 31/3 metres).

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 2 - A Pearl Sent by A Clam Girl

Chapter 2 - A Pearl Sent by A Clam Girl

Shi Mu showed no interest in the glittering shells and swam nonstop to the boulder. He lift one arm and knocked at it, which then let out a puff of blood fog from its bottom. The fog, as if alive, swirled around the youth swiftly for some time, before it finally seeped into the youth’s body without a sound. The fog boosted Shi Mu’s spirits immensely. After exhaling a long breath into the sea he became able to breathe freely like a fish in an amazing way.

Then he lost no time turning to the back of the rock where he dug out a rusty iron awl and chisel, and then began to cut a hole at the bottom of the rock.

The white glitter made it possible to see clearly that a sea clam the size of a tank had been kept beneath the rock! The whole clam was as white as jade, its colour pure. But its most part was now pressed hard by the rock, unable to move, only that its surface was glittering with silver light.

A hole had been almost chiseled out at one side of the rock’s bottom, which, with the aid of the consistent wash of some undercurrents, had caused the rock to shake slightly.

An hour passed as Shi Mu kept cutting the hole. Somewhat exhausted, he held his breath again and stopped his work, turned again to the front of the rock and knocked it three times. This sent a signal to the huge clam, whose silver lustre began to flow at the knock, after which a slit was forced open in the clam! Immediately a puff of blood fog rushed out of the slit.

Then the former scene recurred: after inhaling the blood fog Shi Mu could breathe freely again. He then held his tools back to the place and continued the toil.

Shi Mu discovered the huge white clam beneath the immense rock two years ago. It was exactly here at the bottom by then, and after he inhaled a coincidental puff of the blood fog for the first time, he found himself able to breathe freely in water, though not for long each time. Surprised, he knew that this was no ordinary clam of huge size, so he fetched a chisel and awl from home to chisel the bottom of the rock, intending to save the clam from confinement.

The clam seemed rather intelligent, as if aware of Shi Mu’s intention, so every time he felt hard to breathe a puff of blood fog would be ejected to help him breathe freely for another period. But the rock was too immense to conquer. Moreover, even though he had no problem breathing in water, deep sea limited his strength. Coupled with the solidity of the stone, the formidable task was only nearly done after two whole years.

During this period, Shi Mu gradually found that the blood fog of the clam became unexpectedly mysterious! The more fog he inhaled, the more time he could breathe freely in the sea. At first the effect of one puff could only persisted for a short while, but now it lengthened to a good one hour. Meanwhile Shi Mu had another discovery: the blood fog was not only helpful in swimming, but also strengthened his body! He was being at a standstill in practising Body Tempering at that time due to his lack of herbs, but now he had reached level seven! All the way up from level four! Besides, he began to get the hang of many troubling things that used to puzzle him, which indicated that the fog was beneficial to his intelligence, too. Thus he grew even more mature than his peers. Or how could have the teenage boy faced the blue-robed elder with such composure?

This time he toiled until late at night, returning his home in the village with an exhausted body. Usually he would rest for days between his sea journeys, now that the situation had changed, he must quicken his pace.

The next day, the same seaside, he jumped into the sea. The third day, again to the deep sea! Boom! With a shower of small lumps of stone, the boulder began to shake violently, tipping over the side which was now cut empty thoroughly. The clam that was pressed hard underneath the boulder began to struggle out too, its lustre growing stronger and wider.

“That’s it.”

Shi Mu was overjoyed at the sight, turned his body and moved his arms to the other side of the rock so as to not be inflicted.

The boom went on uninterruptedly. The boulder had nearly half collapsed, and the clam tried hard to escape from the bottom. But just then an undercurrent came from nowhere, rushing toward the direction where the boulder fell. After booming in rapid succession the boulder stopped collapsing and resumed its place! The half escaping clam was to be pressed down again.

“No!” Seeing thus Shi Mu shouted and lowered his body without thinking, his feet sunk half inch deep into the sea sand. He reached out his arms and pounded twice in no time on the rock. Meanwhile two dull sounds was heard. The youth’s fists found their way right on the rock, stirring the nearby sea water. Consequently, the boulder slowed its movement with a slight tremble, the clam got more time before fully pressed. So it seized the moment and escaped, disappeared into the sea after a glitter of white light, before the youth had got time to see clearly.

Shi Mu stepped backward from the spot and felt his fists in great pain, his hands badly mutilated. He fell into a coma after spitting some blood. Just then the water nearby stirred, and the immense clam reappeared among white lights, its shells slowly opening, showing a little girl with a blood pearl in her arms. The little girl looked like the age of six or seven, was only three inches high, wearing a gauze bellyband. She had fair skin, star-like eyes and a little delicate face which showed an expression of great gratitude after seeing the unconscious youth and his bleeding hands. She moved her beautiful lean arms to lift the blood pearl, whose silver lustre rapidly rolled to all directions like ripples.

The next moment, shrill flying sounds were heard from the bottom of the sea, shells of all sizes rushing like crazy to the youth’s body to lift him slowly up to sea surface. After a while the water divided at the surface where the youth finally came out.
The myriad shells then dispersed in an uproar, plummeting back into the sea.

The immense clam reappeared with a silver light. Its two shells wide open, the little girl was shown again. Seeing that the youth was still unconscious, she hesitated, looking at the blood pearl in her hand, and then cast the pearl onto the youth with her mind set. The pearl swirled above the youth, and then a big puff of blood fog was ejected this time!

......

Several days later, the little girl appeared at a sea some ten thousand miles away, her stature like an ordinary child this time, only that she was accompanied by a beautiful middle-aged woman in blue court robe. The two was standing on a huge turtle the size of a house, rushing at lightening speed into the deep sea, their flanks full of stirred waves.

The beautiful woman was holding the girl’s hand, her eyes full of tender affection for the girl. She kept saying, “My girl, if you had not run into me first I’m afraid you wouldn’t be so lucky. Alas the holy girl of the heavenly clam, you are a born water conjurer! Even throughout the history of the East Sea this happened only once in a ten thousand years. Seems that our East Sea family is destined to prosper! By the way, what’s your name, little girl? Where’s your holy pearl? They say that all holy girl of the heavenly clam must carry with them a holy pearl of life, which is the best material to make an amulet...”

“ah, ah...”

The girl babbled, her little hand kept making gestures at the woman.

“Oh, you mean your name is Xiang Zhu [1], you sent the pearl to someone who saved your life? Well, it’s good to show your gratitude...Wait, your life-saver is a human? And is a “he”! Remember my girl the male humans are the least reliable, next time you see them, smite them dead directly. Come, let’s take back the pearl...What? The holy pearl was contaminated by some strange blood long ago at the sea bottom and lost its power? Well, then, leave it to that human boy, he’s got a big bargain indeed. But from now on you are forbidden to see that man again......”

As the woman’s voice grew increasingly inaudible, the two were carried far away by the huge turtle, their figures eventually looked like a dot before it was seen no more.

......

During his unconsciousness Shi Mu could only felt an overwhelming fever boiling his blood, his mouth parched and tongue scorched. With a sudden shout he sat up abruptly. Only till then did he find himself back at the silent, empty beach. He was stunned for a moment, and after a glance at his hands he was extremely taken aback. The back of his two hands should have been bleeding and mutilated, but now there were no scars at all, all smooth and intact.

Shi Mu turned his hands several time, trying to confirm their condition. Then came the strange feeling of the unusual flow of his blood. He could not help but feel quite strange. After thinking for a while a thought crossed his mind. He began to fumble over his clothes. Then shortly afterwards he found a crystal-clear ball the size of his thumb near his chest.

“What’s this......”

He suspected, but was sure he never carried such a thing before.

Of course Shi Mu was not aware that the blood fog puffed out of the clam belonged to the strange blood which had stayed with the girl’s holy pearl. Only that one tenth of the blood had had been inhaled by Shi Mu, and the rest was forced out by the girl in order to heal his wounds at one time completely. As to the holy pearl, it lost its holy power ever since the girl stopped suppressing the strange blood, and now it could only be counted a rare luminous pearl, or the girl would not have left it to Shi Mu.

Shi Mu observed the pearl in his hand for a while. Feeling its rare mellowness he knew it would be worth several cities, so he hid it well into his clothes. During the rest of the night he jumped into the sea again, fumbled around the collapsed boulder to make sure that the clam had really escaped. Only when he was assured did he leave for his home in the village with a disconsolate heart.

Three days later, in the morning, the blue-robed old man revisited the fishing village.

After a while a black carriage, guarded by several riders, galloped out of the village right toward the direction of Feng City.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 3 - Auntie Zhen

Chapter 3 - Auntie Zhen

Da Qi’s territory was located within a peninsula that projected from the east land of Dong Zhou, neighboring the country of Yan and Huang. To the east there was the East Sea, while to the west lay the wasteland belonging to those uncultivated tribes. Therefore for hundreds of years the three countries had formed a strong alliance to fight their common foe.

Da Qi lay in the center of the peninsula, therefore sandwiched by the two other countries. But Da Qi had the strongest national power, claiming that they were equipped with a standing army composed of a million soldiers. Huang came the next and Yan was the weakest. Apart from its capital area which was directly under the control of its central government, Da Qi had another nine prefectures which was subdivided into thirty-six zhou [1], each administering some ten-odd cities. As to towns and villages no body knew the exact number of them.

Feng City was the largest city in Quan Zhou, and was also the capital city of it. Even within the whole Kai Yuan prefecture it could be ranked at least No.5. The Jins was one of the most influential clans in Quan Zhou, holding large amounts of fields and manors at the city skirts, and they also do medicine and ore business, able to influence almost half of the events in Quan Zhou.

Shi Mu got all the information from the blue-robed old man. Now he had knew that the old man’s name was Jin Cheng, that he was a diplomatic butler of the Jins, and that he enjoyed a rather high status among servants, at least well revered by the Jin’s riders.

The trip back to Feng city took them almost a month. After going through two cities they finally arrived at Feng, there they directly went through the city gate, heading toward the northwest direction of the city.

Shi Mu could not help but glance at both sides of the streets through the window of the carriage. He was born and grew in the fishing village, and that was all the world to him. The largest “city” he had been to was only the nearby town.

Feng City deserved to be the largest city in Quan Zhou. All kinds of buildings could be seen along the roads that were crowded with passing townspeople, creating a hustle and bustle. But his mind was barely disturbed at such flourishing scenery.

Their carriage slowed down and walked almost another hour to reach their destination --- a rather ordinary-looking manor. Down from the carriage Shi Mu saw white fan [2] hung at one side of the gate, his looks only slightly changed. He followed the blue-robed old man into the gate while the riders remained as asked beside the carriage.

Shortly afterwards Shi Mu arrived at the hall where memorial ceremony was to be held. It was all white within the hall. There Shi Mu saw a teenage girl and a woman in memorial dress.

The woman looked at most the age of twenty-nine, her appearance natural and graceful. The moment they met she half reproached Shi Mu, “Too late! Your father passed away the day before yesterday. I know not how you think of your father, but you are his natural son after all. Come and see your father, other things can wait.” The teenage girl seemed sad with swollen eyes, but still she was eager to see her half brother for the first time.

Shi Mu looked at the black coffin lying in the middle of the hall, his mind a mess.

The woman said no more seeing thus. The blue-robed old man seized the opportunity to walk up to her and said something in a low voice before he retired quietly.

After a long period Shi Mu finally moved his steps. Walking slowly to the coffin, he said calmly, “Open the lid, I want to say goodbye to him.”

“All right”, the woman clapped her hands twice. Two burly fellows issued respectively from the two sides of the hall, opened the lid with a push. There in the coffin quietly laid a man, with whom Shi Mu shared rather similar features. He lowered his head gazing, his face paled. Only after a long while did he move, taking out a bronze mirror that looked not special at all. He placed the mirror beside the body without a word.

“This is......” the woman said with slightly knit eyebrows.

“I’ve no idea thanks to what reason he abandoned my mother, but her last wish was to have this mirror buried with father.” Shi Mu answered slowly, turned to burn an incense in the burner in front of the coffin, and then made three loud kowtows [3]to his father.

This was slightly unexpected of the woman in mourning dress, but she did nothing to stop Shi Mu, just watching the coffin absent-minded. At last she waved, and the two burly fellows closed the coffin.

“Follow me, this is no place we can talk. There’s something your father wanted you to know before he died.” The woman led the girl to the subordinate hall after saying thus.

Shi Mu raised his eyebrows and followed without demur.

Once they arrived at the subordinate hall the woman turned and said, “seems I have not wasted my time asking Butler Cheng to take you here. You kowtowed to your father, then I’ll ask no more. You don’t need to call me mother, ‘Auntie Zhen’ is fine, if you will. This is your half sister Yu Huan [4]. Come and see your brother, Yu Huan.”

“Nice to meet you Brother Mu, ” greeted Yu Huan obediently in a clear and melodious voice. The girl had rather big eyes and curved eyebrows, her mouth delicate and her nose prominent. When she moved her eyeballs she gave a cute sense of being clever and impish. Shi Mu nodded to the girl with a forced smile.

“Though your father has married into the Jins, he possessed his own manor at the suburb. He made the wealth himself. You are his only son, so all should be yours now. I’ll only ask for this manor to live with Yu Huan in the city. After all I’m a Jin, so I’ll not run short of money. Besides, your father had made a big contribution to the Jins, which is why he died young. But he has not been rewarded yet. So now you have two choices. “ The woman paused for a moment. Shi Mu looked at her in surprise.

“Either I get you a Qi Ling pill as a reward from the Jins, so you could have opportunity to get enrolled into Kai Yuan martial arts school.

Or I get you a title of nobility --- of course we cannot afford a high one --- with all the power the Jins have. With the title you’ll be rich all your life, even your sons and grandsons can benefit.” The woman said earnestly, looking into the youth’s eyes.

“A real title? ” Shi Mu knit his eyebrows hearing thus.

“That’s right. There are five levels of title in Da Qi, Gong, Hou, Zi, Nan, Xun, each has its respective status and power. With your father’s contribution and the Jin’s influence, a title can be got without the least difficulty. Moreover we can make you an official in the court. “ The woman explained briefly.

“I don’t care for the title, give me Qi Ling pill!” Shi Mu said without hesitation.

“Make your decision after you’ve considered carefully. If I were you I would take the second choice.” Shi Mu’s answer surprised her.

“What do you mean by it?” The youth sensed some overtones.

“How much do you really know about qi and about being a warrior?” The woman questioned him in reply.

“Don’t Auntie Zhen mean you are also a warrior?” Shi Mu thought for a while in surprise and ask slowly. This time the woman did not answer, only her figure flashed and moved to a wall in no time. She lift her arms and a sword laced with gold was already in her hand.

Loud noise was then heard as the woman moved the sword, heaven was as though pierced. The movement of the sword left numerous temporary traces in the air, then with a cold blink and a clear sound the sword merged into the wall, leaving its handle out still shaking slightly.

Shi Mu was absolutely amazed at such a sight.

“Don’t judge me from my appearance. Actually the Jins have three accomplished warriors and I’m one of them. If not why can I get you a Qi Ling pill from the Jins considering the pill’s invaluable price? Moreover even you have the money you don’t necessarily have the right place to buy it.
However a dead man is quickly forgotten. Some in the family think even the contribution your father made no longer deserves such rare herbs. You will irritate them if you ask for Qi Ling pill. I can help you this time, but not the next.”

“I’m determined to be a warrior whatever it takes.” Shi Mu answered without thinking.

“Since your mind is made I won’t persuade you any more. First, according to your knowledge tell me the different levels of warrior. “ Auntie Zhen let out a sigh and said.

“Aren’t the levels are the Tempered Body, the Real Warrior and the National Guard? I heard that once one becomes the strongest national guard he can rank level with princes and marquises!” answered Shi Mu.

“You learned it from the town’s school? Well the titles are not bad! But even the best instructor in those martial arts schools counts nothing compared to real warriors. Do you expect to learn from them the real division of levels?” Auntie Zhen was not surprised at Shi Mu’s answer, obviously she had guessed it beforehand.

“May Auntie Zhen teach me!”

“The Tempered Body, the Real Warrior and the National Guard are all titles used by common people. The real levels of warrior in Dong Zhou should be Martial Arts Practitioner, Acquired Warrior, Inborn Warrior, corresponding to the Tempered Body, the Real Warrior and the National Guard respectively. At the beginning level any practitioner can study the art of body tempering, but for those not born with fine bones they may never make much in their lives. The Acquired Warriors are those who have perceived qi and thus can practice their real qi. Aided with real qi they can be a match for a hundred fully armed men. These are what you common people call the Real Warriors. As to the Inborn Warriors, their real qi has reached a certain extent that can help them produce a large sum of deep breath controlled by the diaphragm. Only until then can your inborn real qi be induced.

These inborn warriors are best of the best in real sense! If ten practitioners can kill one acquired warrior with all their forces, then even hundreds of the latter could not harm an inborn warrior in the least.

Because inborn warriors’ real qi can leave the body to kill someone from a distance. Generally speaking there’s an invisible wall between an acquired warrior and an inborn counterpart. But few could imagine the difficulty of being an inborn warrior.

As far as I know, throughout Da Qi there’s only seven or eight of them. “ Auntie Zhen expounded to the youth.

“Such a small number?” Shi Mu was astonished indeed.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
[1] Zhou: an ancient administrative division in China.
[2] Fan: a long and narrow flag hung at funerals, usually white.
[3] Kowtow: a ritual performed in ancient China to show respect and obedience to someone in authority. A loud kowtow indicates sincerity, earnestness, awe, or some other extreme emotions. This ritual is rarely performed at present.
[4] Yu Huan: both a usual female name and jade bracelet.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 4 - The Manor

Chapter 4 - The Manor

“Small? Big indeed! Do you know how much it would cost to train an inborn warrior? Uncountable! Moreover, there is no guarantee of success even with such a huge investment. Few could really reach the inborn level at all.” Auntie Zhen let out a sigh with a bitter smile.

The youth sank into an utter silence.

“Well, that’s still a long way ahead. If one day you really reached that level, the whole nation would be at your service, even the emperor of Da Qi would be polite with you, trying hard to make you an ally. That’s why the top warriors are called National Guards. Now let’s talk about the art of body tempering and qi-sensing first. Which level are you at now?” The woman asked.

“The seventh level.” Shi Mu answered with lifted spirits, for it would suit him best if he could learn some qi-sensing and get enrolled into Kai Yuan martial arts school, considering his current abilities.

“The seventh? That’s only a fair achievement. Kai Yuan will start its enrollment next year, you’d better reach level nine within one year. Can you do that?”

“Not quite sure before, but now I am, to some extent. “ Shi Mu gave a positive answer after some thought.

“Even if you could reach level nine and succeed in sensing your real qi, that’s only the basic requirement for everyone. You must compete fiercely with all the other candidates.” The woman seemed a little strange, but still said so.

Shi Mu listened with all his ears.

“As far as I know, there are not a few talents among the candidates this year. Some of them have already tempered their body to the level of nine or even ten at an early age. After all, higher levels help one to sense qi more successfully. According to previous records even with the aid of Qi Ling pill, less then one-tenth of your peers could really sense qi. The majority of practitioners could only managed with difficulty to sense qi in their thirties or even forties, not to mention the repeated use of Qi Ling pills. This is why Kai Yuan only asks for young practitioners between the age of ten and fifteen. One’s bones are not quite shaped under ten, unable to temper his body; while fifteen is the watershed, after which one lost his potentials of accomplishment. Worthless to continue the training. Da Qi boasts many accomplished warriors but only less than a hundred of them have the opportunity to struggle for the upper level. One of our Jin’s ancestors is an accomplished warrior, his reputation is mainly why we Jins can make a powerful clan in Quan Zhou. “ An expression of pride was shown on her face as she ended her words.

The remark that higher levels make qi-sensing easier and the tiny number of one-tenth kept resounding at his ears, he took in a deep breath to calm down. Though he had expected that not all who took Qi Ling pill would successfully acquired the sense of qi, but the little probability did catch him unprepared.

“You can always turn to the first choice if you are regretted.” Auntie Zhen smiled, gazing at the youth.

“No, I’m quite determined. “ Shi Mu shook his head.

“If so I shall hand over to you the suburb manor’s title deed shortly. You can live there with Jin Cheng. Go to him if ever you need anything. The Qi Ling pill the Jins have ordered is to be delivered one year later. I’ll let you know when it arrived. Mind you, besides body tempering, you may as well manage to learn some more martial arts for real fight, they’ll be useful in the enrollment test. Although the Jins have its own family martial arts but it’s a rule that only the Jins can learn them.” After giving a nod Auntie Zhen gave him another piece of advice.

“Many thanks Auntie Zhen”, this time there contained some real sense of gratitude in Shi Mu’s words.

A quarter later Shi Mu left the manor, a wooden case in hand, his expressions somewhat puzzled.

There in the wooden case were all properties his father had left him, including more than a decent manor in the suburb, but also three thousand liang of silver notes, some three to four hundred mu[1] of fine land near the manor, as well as a well located restaurant in the city. So he had turned a rich man overnight.

What was hidden from Shi Mu was that only shortly after his leaving a middle-aged man paid a visit to the manor in a violent rage, questioning Auntie Zhen in the hall,

“Sister Qi [2], are you really going to send the only Qi Ling pill to some outsider instead of your own nephew?”

“Father had promised this in person, so do you have any objection to father’s decision?”

“I do have objections as to how we deal with the Biao brothers, but that’s not what I came here for. That chap is not a Jin, so why the pill we Jins got after so much trouble should be handed over to some strange outsider. Father won’t say no if only you change your idea. You know your nephew did not make it last time when he tried qi-sensing, so this year is so important an opportunity he can’t afford to lose. He’s finally got some assurance this year and it’s exactly the year of Kai Yuan’s enrollment. Missing it he will regret his whole life!” The middle-aged man nearly hit the roof, his eyes as if spouting flames. He had a rather long and narrow face.

“Humph, an outsider? He’s the only flesh and blood of my husband thanks to whom half of our Jin’s properties were saved. Are you satisfied with this answer, Brother Wu [3]?” Auntie Zhen snorted bluntly.
“Well, well, if you still wants to favour an outsider, someone of no blood relation with you, then I’m done with you, sister. I won’t beg you any more, but shall get your nephew a Qi Ling pill myself with all properties I have. “ His words finished, the man rushed off in rage.

“Mother, do you really let Uncle Wu walk away in angry?”

Yu Huan appeared from some unknown place once the man left and asked, her eyes blinking.

“No harm’s done. You know you uncle’s son hasn’t got the makings of a warrior, considering how many rare herbs he’d used before he finally managed his body tempering. A Qi Ling pill won’t help much in his qi-sensing. Your uncle was driven to ask for the pill with his last hope.”

“That’s true. Jin Tian does not have as good talents as my brother Mu, it’s not a fat chance for him to be enrolled even if he managed his qi-sensing.” Yu Huan gloated, clapping her hands.

“He-he, you’ve already begun to side with your own brother. But I don’t quite believe in Shi Mu either. Nevertheless I’ve done I all could for your brother, I’ll anger our family if I help him further.”

“Although it’s the first time we met, I feel him rather good, at least nicer than those Jin idlers.” Yu Huan grinned.

“Actually it’s mostly for your sake that your grandfather promised to give Shi Mu a Qi Ling pill. After all you sensed qi only at twelve and meanwhile have reached level ten. Your grandfather had much hope in you.” Auntie Zhen gave a sudden smile.

“Believe me I shall be accomplished with the sword art in one year. By then it’ll be no problem for me to get enrolled into Kai Yuan. I won’t let grandfather down.” The young girl was full of confidence.

Hearing thus the woman nodded, her eyes full of affection for her daughter.

In a manor ten miles away from the Feng city Shi My stood on a square surrounded by houses, and showed a satisfied expression after a good look around.

The manor had a space of at least four to five mu, rooms more than twenty, and the spacious square amazed him into overjoy. He turned his eyes to the nearly twenty servants and tenants waiting in front of him, asked then,

“Who used to look after the manor and fields before I came?”

“Shi shaoye, it’s me.” A sandy haired middle-aged man with fairly clean shirts came to answer Shi Mu obediently.

“What’s your name? Are you one of the locals?” Shi Mu asked slowly, feeling him honest enough after a brief look.

“Your humble servant is named Zhang Suo, my family have lived here for seven or eight generations. “ The man answered with great respect.

“Good, I’ll leave you to your old job. It’s the same to all of you, so do your usual work and pay the same rent. Besides, ask the manager of the restaurant to see me here tomorrow.” Shi Mu thought briefly and sent his orders.

“Yes, shaoye.” Zhang Suo answered hurriedly, immensely satisfied at the arrangement.

Other servants and tenants also relaxed at the news, bowing one after another to say yes.

When all had left Shi Mu turned to the blue-robed old man at his side and asked, “Am I doing well Butler Cheng?”

“Well done Shi shaoye, all matter settled, quite neat. You amazed me as born of a fishing family.” The old man answered with a smile.

“I was quite surprised myself, it feels nice to ask people do things for you. Besides I’d like to ask a favour from you. “ Shi Mu said a little diffidently.

“Oh, anything, Shi shao. I’ll do whatever I can.” The ask came somewhat unexpectedly, but was still accepted quickly.

“Right, it’s only that I would like to have an expert martial arts instructor in our manor who can teach me personally. Do you have anyone in mind, Butler Shi?”

“Oh, speaking of martial arts schools, the four schools in Feng City are all quite famous. “

“Apart from body tempering I’d like to learn a series of fist art.”

“If so I shall recommend you instructor Li Cang Hai [4] in Liu Feng [5] martial arts school. He’s got some rare skills with him. But what kind of martial arts in particular do shaoye like?” The old man questioned in reply after giving it some thought.

“I used to chop firewood when back in village, so I feel quite good with knives. “

“Then I should say the Feng Chi school’s thirteen series of knife art, as well as their Stone-Breaking Fist enjoys a great fame. But they won’t charge you low if you want private instruction.” The old man said slowly only after a moment’s thought.

“That’s all right, as long as it’s really worth the money. “ With three thousand liang of silver notes Shi Mu now sounded like a rich man.

“I see, then I shall invite Instructor Li immediately here tomorrow.” Seeing thus the blue-robed old man answered with a smile.
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Notes
[1] Mu: a unit of area (=0.0667 hectares).
[2] Qi: the number seven in Chinese. “Sister Qi” means one’s seventh younger sister.
[3] Wu: the number five in Chinese. “Brother Wu” means one’s fifth older brother.

http://www.xianxiaworld.net/The-Port...d/1000052.html

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 5 - Li Canghai

Chapter 5 - Li Canghai

Three months later. On the suburban manor’s square.

Under a hot blazing sun Shi Mu was practising with a long blue knife, three chi [1] in length, leaving its traces glittering in a circumference of several zhang, waving to and fro.

Compared with three months ago now several standing stocks and human figures of straw were rather eye-catching on the square. There were even some heavy stone locks and a row of wooden shelves newly added, the latter used to put some commonly used weapons such as knife and spear.

“Stop!”

A man’s voice thundered, rather rude and abrupt.

Shi Mu paused and took back his knife held single-handed.

“That’s fair enough. You finally start to get the hang of the thirteen series. But that’s quite basic, doesn’t count much in real fight. You’re far from good still.” The speaking man stood at one side of the square, his arms folded, eyes rather sharp despite his bony stature. The bronze skin gave a strong sense of being capable and well-experienced.

“It’s all owing to master Li’s personal instruction, or how could I have gone this far in understanding such an abstruse art in mere three months.” Shi Mu answered with great respect.

This bony man was none other than the well-known instructor Li Canghai in Liu Feng martial arts club, an acquired mid-term warrior. Three months ago in this manor his brief display of a single movement filled Shi Mu with amazement, the former’s expertise immediately recognized. Thereafter Shi Mu had been practising martial arts four hours everyday under Li’s instruction.

“This series of knife art seems quite rudimentary, isn’t it? It’s mostly used by warriors of practitioner level. But don’t take it lightly, as long as you get some corresponding tricks at higher level it can be used in real fights too, even when you become an accomplished warrior. Its key is to use wind well, one movement quicker than the next, a quite simple art indeed. I once used it to kill two warriors of my level in a fight, within quite a short time. At your level, as a practitioner, the most complex art should be Xiao Zhou Tian Sword Art, it has all together 306 movements, and few can really handle all of them even within their lifetime. “ Li Canghai explained slowly.

After giving his words some thought Shi Mu asked, “Master once said, there are two components in martial art, tricks and expertise. Tricks deal with the methods to kill in fights, while expertise is the art of qi-sensing and body tempering. The two work together and neither can be left out. But if weighed strictly which one of the two do you think is more important?”

“Hey, you smart little chap are really thinking much. But this is such a frequently asked question even from ancient times, each strong guy may have his own understanding. For me if you learn tricks only then you can’t even reach level two, that’s pretty much like having a heavy head and light feet, so you can’t stand at all. On the other hand, if you learn expertise only, even a beginner could get you killed, however much real qi you have. But I’ve also heard that an inborn warrior can protect his body merely by his real qi, even if he just stands there without moving a muscle. Ordinary weapons counts nothing in front of him, moreover, he can shake weak guys to death merely by using real qi. Last but not least, ordinary people can live at most a hundred years, but an inborn warrior’s life expectancy is doubled.” Cang Lihai first snickered, then continued to explain.

“So master thinks expertise is more important, “ Shi Mu answered, smiling.

“Many difficult arts contain expertise and tricks at the same time. When you reach a certain level expertise will be coordinated by corresponding tricks, these two are inseparable. To compare them separately doesn’t make any sense. But for you practitioners the first task should always be training your expertise to strengthen your general abilities, if not, even when you have the chance to learn a rare martial art, you won’t make it without qi-sensing. Moreover, each level has its corresponding arts, especially so for high levels. If you’d like to learn an art surpassing your current level the consequences will be rather bad, either you can’t enhance yourself anymore or you get killed by your own qi. “ Li Canghai said disapprovingly.

“I see, but can I see you display your Feng Chi series again?” Shi Mu nodded and then asked for the favour.

“It takes a lot of energy to display the movements, and I still want to teach you Stone-Breaking Fist today in the following time, so I can only show you once. “ Li Canghai frowned, grudged his agreement after some thought.

Shi Mu was full of obedience.

The next moment, Li Canghai went to the middle of the square, took the knife from Shi Mu and began the swift movements after a shout, not loud but filled with power. It all took place in a second, when piercing sounds was heard one after another above the square, the movements of his silver knife leaving a trace like a long white strap. He moved increasingly faster, in a blink everything blurred in silver light with the blowing of strong wind.

Shi Mu watched the scene with utmost concentration.

After a while the cold silver light moved slowly to a stock at one side of the square. With a loud shout the light swirled toward the stock, its coldness followed by strong wind, then all of a sudden the wind stopped, along with the cold light which melt into daylight.

Pa! Pa! With several clear thuds the stock was seen cut into seven parts right from the middle, the broken parts rolled down to the ground.

The ordinary-looking movement should have contained six cuts at one time!

“Six cuts at one movement without using his real qi, master’s practice of this knife art has really attained perfection.” Shi Mu could not help but utter a long sigh of admiration, clapping his hands.

“I could have done nine if I use my real qi, and if one is fully accomplished he could do thirteen. It’s a pity I am far from perfection. There’s a rumour about this knife art that it actually belongs to the inborn level, only that it was divided into thirteen series so it dropped to the level of practitioners and its power was reduced immensely. Of course it’s only a rumour, if it’s really an inborn art it wouldn’t have been leaked out. Millions would have restored it. “ Li Canghai smiled lightly.

“Thirteen cuts in a movement, who can resist before such a high level!” Shi Mu was astonished at such words.

“If you could really do thirteen you are sure to surpass all the accomplished warriors, if not the inborn ones. Well these things can wait. Now I’ll show you the key to this Feng Chi knife art for the last time, and then we’ll move on to Stone-Breaking Fist. It seems that the art consists of thirteen serious, but once practised it is actually followed successively by movements, and it mainly uses the power of the wind to quicken your each cut, before you finally reach the top speed which nothing can resist. “

Li Canghai imparted earnestly, while Shi Mu listened with full concentration, memorizing all by heart.

“Well, that’s all of the Feng Chi knife art. Let’s move on to Stone-Breaking Fist. This fist art is different from Feng Chi knife art in that it is an art simply used by strength, and its movements are quite easy, you only need to induce your power by your fists. As shown by its name, once you are fully accomplished you can undoubtedly break the stone by fist.” Saying thus, Li Canghai went for a stone lock the size of a basin, taking a deep breath and then kicked crazily at the stone.

“Peng!” a thunderous sound.

Despite his bony stature his kick should have sent the huge stone lock into the air!

He let out a shout and then pounded suddenly into the air, his bony body as if three-fold strong now, as imposing as a tiger.

A thunderous boom was heard. The falling stone lock, as soon as pounded, exploded with myriad lumps of broken stone splashing apart to all directions.

Shi Mu’s eyes were wide open with amazement.

“Listen, no matter you practise knife or sword in the future, it’s possible that you run into cases when you have no weapons with you. Then the only thing you can rely on is your fists. This fist art, though simple, is well enough for a practitioner. If you could really be fully accomplished, this could be a good foundation for further tricks using pouch and kick. Though it enjoyed a good reputation among practitioners and has strong power, few have really set their minds to practise it for the suffering it takes, because you must reinforce your fists by force. Besides, the art relies much on one’s strength, hence for someone born with great strength it will yield twice the result with half the effort. Likewise, I did not use my real qi at all in that pound. “ Li Canghai said, expressionless.

“I wonder how much strength does master have now.” Shi Mu could not help but blurt out the question.

“Me? I can easily lift a stone lock of five hundred jin, without using my real qi.”

He went to the second largest stone lock sized half a man, looking extremely heavy...

Again with a shout he lowered his body and grasped with both his arms. Exerting himself he suddenly lift the stone over his head.

Shi Mu was all but amazed, kept hurling his praises, at which the bony man showed an expression of some pride. Indeed, with pure body strength few accomplished warriors could have done so far as to lift a stone lock as heavy as this one, even throughout Feng City...

An hour later Li Canghai left the manor, leaving Shi Mu standing on the square alone, a medicine bottle the size of his thumb and a white book in hand.

This medicine was made by Li Canghai in particular for the aid of practising the fist art, and the book told the secret of the art. Shi Mu only glanced at the bottle, opened the lid and smell, then put it away, sitting directly on the grass and began to peruse the book.

Speaking of reading, he would not have known a single character had not an old Xiu Cai [2] living near the fishing village taught him several years for free, considering that Shi Mu was a poor orphan.

Shi Mu browsed through the whole book and then looked down at the bottle in the other hand, A surprised look on his face.

“The more strength the better?” The youth murmured, putting away his book and turned to look at the nearby stone locks, then walked to the largest one which had the size of a table, nearly twice as large as the one Li had lifted. It at least weighed a thousand jin [3].

He lowered his body and moved his right arm, tried to lift the stone at only one grasp.

A boom thudded as Shi Mu lifted the huge monster single-handed over his head, as if it weighed only a feather.


Notes:

[1] Chi: a unit of length (= 1/3 metre).
[2] Xiu Cai: one who passed the imperial examination at the county level in the Ming and Qing dynasties.
[3] Jin: a unit of weight (=1/2 kilogram).

http://www.xianxiaworld.net/The-Port...d/1000053.html

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 6 - The Mutation

Chapter 6 - The Mutation

“No, not heavy enough. I can do better.” Thinking to himself Shi Mu made another lift, the stone lock thudding down onto the nearby ground, sending the whole square into a slight shake.

Shi Mu raised his hands and studied them closely. They were rather sturdily made, long and lean, but however observed they did not seem to have that huge strength so as to lift a thousand jin.

Shi Mu then walked to the wooden shelf after a thoughtful moment, and took the long knife again. In a moment a succession of flashing shadows left by the knife’s movement exploded above the square, the overpowering manner able to send sand and stones flying as well as induce dragons out of the sea.

Whiz! A white strap appeared rolling, submerging a nearby stock.

Pa! Pa! After a few clear sounds the stock tumbled onto the ground in seven broken parts. This was done only in a blink.

A movement, six cuts. That was what Li Canghai showed to him. But now he had overshadowed his instructor by doing seven.

The then shadows vanished, and Shi Mu remained at the same spot, knife in hand, deep in thought.

Then night came.

A heavy wooden door was closed inside a room. The room was large but with only minimal decorations. Shi Mu lay on the bed, his eyes closed, his skin reddish and sweating. Huddled up, he kept murmuring and twitching in a half-unconscious state. An unknown time passed before his groan died down and he was able to stretch his body, his skin turning gradually to its normal colour and his eyes opened with tiredness. He took some deep breaths and then got off the bed, trying to exercise his body. He grasp the edge of a bed suddenly, exerting his fingers.

Crack! With a clear sound the solid wooden edge was smashed.

“My strength has grown, but not that much as last time. Besides the interval becomes one month, the effect only lasts for less than a quarter. Seems I won’t make much progress next time. “ Shi Mu murmured.

That amazing change began as soon as he moved into the manor, and had had happened more than once, giving him all the strength he displayed earlier in the day and sharpened his practice of knife art. The first mutation happened in the first month after his moving in, which tormented him for a whole night. But by the next day he found himself not only back to normal, but also was equipped with enhanced strength and body elasticity. The second mutation was only two days later, still happening during the night. In this way he went through some ten odd times of mutation each amazing him with its huge benefit. However with each mutation’s duration decreasing, the intervals also shortened and his strength grew less slowly. This time, the grow was negligible compared with the beginning mutations. But the achievements were outstanding enough. Shi Mu was able to lift more than a thousand jin and his body responded far more quickly than common people. He was not slow to gauge that the mutation must had something to do with the huge clam he saved from the sea, after all, the whole process of mutations stirred spasms of pain similar to what he felt that day at the beach. By then he had been healed by the clam girl during his coma, and the feeling of his blood boiling inside awoke him. Only that the pangs of mutation was ten-fold sharper than the boiling pain. He had had heard from others many wonderful events before in admiration, now that such a wonder had befallen himself, filling him with overjoy as well as assurance for the fierce competition he was to meet in the enrollment.

Besides, Shi Mu also knew from Li Canghai that even he could acquire qi-sensing and was at the right age, the competition would still be difficult for him. After all, considering the limited resource a school could hold, only a small number of candidates could get enrolled which were always heavily outnumbered by all the test-takers.

Shi Mu was quite aware of his mediocrity. Even with the aid of Qi Ling pill he would not have more chance in sensing qi. But according to Li Canghai, once over level nine in body tempering, he would have more chance succeeding in qi-sensing; while over level ten, even a practitioner of not much intelligence may succeed with a chance more than one-third. If he accomplished the whole thirteen levels of body tempering, it should be surprising if he still failed in qi-sensing. This was why some inferior practitioners were still able to sense qi at their thirties or even forties with the aid of Qi Ling pill and the accomplishment of thirteen levels. But such a wonder only happened to the rich because few practitioners could afford the time and money invested. Furthermore, to acquire qi-sensing until middle age would leave little time for their further study, the prime of a warrior already wasted, and the difficulty of being an intermediate accomplished warrior would be tripled, let alone to be an advanced one. But for some real aristocrats, they collected rare herbs to help their qi-sensing, only that the cost far surpassed the price of Qi Ling pill. Li Canghai had his standing regret exactly here. At his twenties he had reached the twelfth level in body tempering and taken Qi Ling pill twice before he finally managed to be an accomplished warrior. While for Shi Mu, with his limited amount of properties, collecting rare herbs was out of the question; the only way was proceed his body tempering.

But once over level nine, the higher the level, the more time it would cost, far exceeding the amount common people could afford. To reach level twelve - the level of full accomplishment - was no task for common practitioners at all; only those born with demon-like endowments could finish, and throughout the history of Da Qi they could be counted with five fingers.

However, Shi Mu had reached as high as level nine aided by the mutation, nearing level ten even.
Judged by common rule he could have reached level ten within a year, but level eleven? Hard to imagine. Besides he would not be satisfied with a chance of mere one-third. Thus it seemed that he could only resort to the extreme approach Li Canghai mentioned to him earlier.
According to Li Canghai, this special method of body tempering was learned from an expert warrior by coincidence. Though simple and crude, it yielded amazing effects, only that the whole process was full of danger and suffering, even with a big chance of premature death - the reason why it had been rarely imparted to other practitioners. Li hinted that he would like to teach Shi Mu all he knew if a large sum of tuition was paid.

Danger? What danger would scare him back now that he had made such oath in front of his mother’s tomb, the promise that he would be the strongest warrior ever?

But the urgent task was to master this Stone-Breaking fist, before he could concentrate on body tempering. Shi Mu pondered; before long an idea dawned on him.

Seven days later at the center of the manor’s square stood a blue tank three chi high, filled densely with soybean.

Ha! Ha! Shi Mu stood before the tank shirtless, wearing a pair of over-sized black trousers and a thick silver glove in each of his hands, and then pounded heavily at the soybean in the bank with both fists.

“Listen, though your body strength counts much in practising Stone-Breaking Fist, the key to fully tapping the art is the toughness of your fists; or even with great strength a pound on the stone will only mutilate your fists. You are only a beginner, even with your accomplishment in body tempering the toughness of your fist can only deal with wood right now. So I give you the glove made of layers of fish’s skin in order to train your sinews and flesh, preventing your fists from suffering too much, meanwhile your fist strength can also be enhanced in a short term. When you can break the tank with a punch I’ll use stones instead of beans and take away one layer of fish skin from your gloves. When you can do the stones and I’ll let you do real iron sand. Next, real rock. Note you left hand, you don’t want to wave it that far.” Li Canghai explained with a poker face, his arms folded.

“Yes.”

Shi Mu answered and kept moving his arms, each punch half inch deep into the tank. His upper body was sweating profusely, each muscle trembling incessantly, as if he was immersed in strange fanaticism.

After half a quarter Shi Mu shouted loudly out of a sudden and pounded into the tank at least one inch deep, nearly half of his arm buried into the beans.

“Stop it! Hasn’t I told you to restrain you strength? Let me check if you are hurt!” Li Canghai’s looks hugely changed at such a sight, scolding anxiously and produced a medicine bottle from his pocket in no time.

“Master Li, I’m all right. “ Shi Mu grinned, pulling out his half buried arm from the beans.
“Humph! I’ll be the judge of it! Take off the glove.” Li Canghai snorted without thinking.

Shi Mu could only took off the layers of the glove after a swing of his arm obediently, waving his reddish fingers leisurely before Li Canghai.

“Why, it seems all right. That’s quite strange. I’ve been a teacher for years, it won’t surprise me if your fingers were bleeding. Come and pound the stock with you fists, this time do not restrain your strength.” After studying Shi Mu’s fists closely Li was quite amazed, and said thus after some thought, pointing to a nearby thick stock.

“Yes,” Shi Mu answered and took a deep breath, then walked to the stock, measuring it in circles.

Boom!

After exercising his shoulders Shi Mu gave a sudden punch which cut the thick stock into two parts, the upper part whizzing across the square straight toward the outer wall of a house which even shivered at the mighty crash.

His fist was, however, safe and sound.

http://www.xianxiaworld.net/The-Port...d/1000055.html

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 7 - Blood Warriors

Chapter 7 - Blood Warriors

“As a beginner it’s incredible you could have progressed this far! I’ve never seen anyone like you before. Surely it’s not because you have aroused a certain blood vessel? “ Li Canghai was caught off guard at Shi Mu’s performance, wearing a look of amazement on his face.

“Blood vessel?” Shi Mu paused at the word.

“Hehe, it’s only a wild guess. Blood warriors are quite rare, you couldn’t have been one. It must be for your inherent strength. But all things considered you’re really born for this Stone-Breaking Fist. “ At first Li Canghai could not find other words but only a silent smile, then after a moment he shook his head and said thus.

“Master Li, what are blood warriors?” Shi Mu asked out of curiosity.

“Well, it’s hard to say. Among our warriors those who have aroused certain blood vessels inside them are called blood warriors, who thus have at least one special talent to themselves. But few warriors could done that, almost one in a million. Surely a practitioner of your level is unable to arouse that vessel. All right, if you really want to know more of blood warriors you’ll have the opportunity in Kai Yuan martial arts school. You know, blood warriors are regarded as demons because each can annihilate all warriors of his level. Do keep away from them. But they are also hated for their talents. It’ll be easier for blood warriors born in powerful families, if not, they’ll mostly get assassinated at an early age. By the way, there could be blood warriors among the talented candidates this year. “ Li Canghai showed an obvious indifference, waved the topic off after a brief explanation.

Shi Mu nodded and would ask no more, only memorizing all information about blood warriors and his own mutation deep in heart.

“But you do possess outstanding talents in Stone-Breaking art. Well, I’d better quicken the pace, or current exercise would be useless for you.” After giving Shi Mu some meaningful looks Li said with a smile.

Of course Shi Mu was all satisfaction at the decision.

Then Li Canghai asked servants to put some sharp-looking stones in the tank, meanwhile took off one layer from his gloves, and ordered Shi Mu to proceed at his practice.

This time only after a little while Shi Mu started to feel his fists sore. Some more time passed before his both fist began to sting, as if there were myriad tiny needles hidden in the stones.

Shi Mu turned to see Li Canghai standing near him and saw no intention of calling it a day, so Shi Mu continued to hit wildly at the stones, his teeth set, his speed as fast as usual.

“Remember, since the method of practising Stone-Breaking fist is usually rude and violent, so it’s highly likely to have your sinews and bones get hurt. Even though you have rather good talents, along with my secret ointment, you should rest at least four days between each practice. During this period you can continue your body tempering, let you hands get fully healed so that you can proceed to practise Stone-Breaking fist. If you can adhere to this schedule for half a year, it’s possible to reach an intermediate state of accomplishment in this fist art”, instructed Li Canghai.

“Yes.” Shi Mu answered in a firm voice and had another heavy punch into the stones, the whole tank shivering slightly.

Then night came again.

Shi Mu sat on the wooden chair in his room, his arms set on the table before, his hands bare without gloves. It was seen clearly that the ten figures had swollen to at least twice its size, red as carrot. The swelling rendered the its skin extremely thin and transparent. At such a strange shape Shi Mu smiled bitterly.

According to Li Canghai, only a hurt to this extent told the effect of his daytime practice. But with such swollen hands even applying the ointment became quite an impossible task.

His face was contorted in agony as he managed to take out from his shirt the medicine bottle Li Canghai had given him. First opened the lid, then applied the thing to his palm with swollen fingers. When all was done he had already ached into sweat all over his head.

The next morning.

As Shi Mu got up and looked at his hands subconsciously, he was stunned.

The hands that should have been swollen were now healed as if no harm had been done to them. Had not been for the remaining blood stasis of light red on the back of his hands, he would consider himself dreaming.

“Why? It’s impossible!” Shi Mu blurted out and shook his writs, his fingers nimble and intact.

Everything was fine, no trace of pain was left as if yesterday’s practice was not real.

He still held some doubt. He gazed at his hands, blinked his eyes, and grasped the bed edge backhand. He then exerted his fingers.

Crack! A clear sound. A chunk of wood was pinched into pieces.

Seeing thus Shi Mu was first surprised, then overjoyed, followed by his deep thought, “Looks I’m fine. Can’t it be that I’ve aroused some blood inside my body? If so it must be owing to that huge clam. Perhaps it’s all due to the blood fog. But according to Li Canghai to reveal my talent right now is not a clever choice. But since I’ve got such remarkable ability to heal myself, I can practise the fist art everyday then, to quicken my pace largely!”

It was high noon. Shi Mu’s hands were packed up tightly with white straps, heavy sand bag tied up around his waist and legs. He was running about the square wildly. In a short time he became drenched in sweat.

Li Canghai watched nearby, his face wearing expressions of satisfaction.

In the afternoon, in a room kept tightly sealed in the manor, faint thuds could be heard. In the center of the large empty room, Shi Mu was hitting wildly into the stones in the tank, the white straps that used to cover his hand disappeared and the glove he wore now was rather thin.

He thoroughly ignored the pang in his fist, only kept punching onto the stones, his mouth tightly closed.

Then in the depth of night.

The youth was sleeping soundly, his face full of tiredness while his arms stretched far to the edges of the bed. His fists turned extremely red with swelling, covered with a thick layer of white ointment. One of his fingers made a sudden twitch while a grain of pain was shown on his face, but the youth was still fast asleep.


“What? You want to try on iron this time?” Li Canghai was quite taken aback, his eyes wide open, blurting out the question.

“That’s right. I remember that Master Li once said you’ve got an alternative art of body tempering, its practice speed far exceeding other methods. If only I could learn it! I would probably finish level eleven before the enrollment test, plus the aid of Qi Ling pill there’s a fat chance I could acquire qi-sensing. “ Shi Mu’s hands were again covered with thick layers of white straps this time, but he seemed rather calm while saying thus.

“I did have say so. But are you really aware of its danger? Despite its amazing effects, the method needs a huge investment of resources, plus it’s full of danger, you may get killed anytime.” Li Canghai said with much severity.

“I’ll pay anything to reach level eleven within a year. Money? Danger? I don’t care. Master Li, all I ask of you is to teach me all you have.” Shi Mu said determinedly.

“Well, I’ve already shown you all the possible consequences. If you still won’t change your mind, I have no reason not to teach. But this method requests help from others at its beginning stage. So you must come to our club, is that a problem?”

“Not at all. To save the trouble of commuting, I prefer to live in the city before I finished my practice. “ When asked Shi Mu immediately came up with an idea.

“That would be best if you live near the club. Bring a thousand silver note to the club tomorrow, and I’ll also go back for some preparation too, then our lessons can start right from tomorrow. Hehe, you’ll get your money’s worth. You may guess from its name, this method of body tempering is to temper your body like iron, thus enhance it forcibly. During this period you’ll suffer insufferable pains, and will also have medicine bath everyday as instructed. The bath is not to be broken off or your body wouldn’t get by. Once accomplished, I’ll have no more to teach you at the practitioner’s level.” Li Canghai smiled and nodded in agreement.

Shi Mu promised to do as instructed obediently.

During the following time Li Canghai taught Shi Mu some other skills of using his strength and then left.

Shi Mu immediately asked for Zhang Suo who was responsible for the manor’s affair, and requested a clean, retired yard be rent for him in the city as his residence there during his stay.

Zhang Suo promised obediently, then hurried out with some silver notes to run his errand.

http://www.xianxiaworld.net/The-Port...d/1000056.html

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 8 - A Corpse Attack in an Old Temple

Chapter 8 - A Corpse Attack in an Old Temple

Half a year later, in the suburb of Feng City, on a remote, deserted mountain road.

All of a sudden, it began to rain heavily, the rain drops as big as beans pounding hard on the ground. Loud crashes of dull thunder were heard from the clouds from time to time, vivid lightning glaring meanwhile.

Even in such conditions a man was running wildly like a leopard in the rain, each of his step at least five times larger than that of ordinary people. In an instant he had already covered a small hill, then headed directly toward a thick wood near the hill.

Shortly afterwards his shadow glittered with coldness. Boom! Then some ten odd big trees were cut down right across from their waists one after another. Just then a glaring lightning showed the person clearly, who was wearing a straw hat and a straw raincoat. He then disappeared into darkness after a shake of his silhouette, while all the trees were shaking too.

Two hours later.

The gate to a half dilapidated temple in the mountain was banged open, followed by heavy footsteps belonging to a man carrying a huge thing over his shoulder. Heavy raindrops and blows of wind swirled into the temple as he opened the door.

There were two travellers sitting around a bonfire at the center of the hall, disrupted by the new comer, they were struck dumb with astonishment.

“Why, are you visitors to the temple? Is that my firewood?”

The heavy thing thudded down onto the ground as the comer shook the raindrops on his raincoat off. He asked the question unhurriedly.

The two pile-users were a man and a girl, the former apparently in his forties, looked graceful but rather worn-out, and the latter a teenage girl, though of fair skin and uncommon beauty, had a perceptible blue birthmark - a blemish on an otherwise perfect face.

“Ah, that’s your firewood! I thought they belonged to no one, so I just used them. You know my daughter and I were wet for the rain. But don’t worry young boy, I’ll definitely pay for your damage.” The middle-aged man stood up hurriedly to offer his apology, but his eyes were surely drawn to the huge thing on the ground, which frightened him apparently.

Out of his expectation, the thing was a corpse of a brown boar weighed at least a hundred jin, the whites of its eyes, the bleeding mouth and two broken huge fangs showed that it must have been dead for a while.

“The woods are chopped to be used, no need to pay me! “ The comer walked up. Against the bonfire a boy of thick brows and big eyes showed himself carrying a one-edged knife - he was none other than Shi Mu.

“I could only thank you then. By the way my surname is Zhong.“ At the offer the middle-aged man hurriedly answered with profuse smiles, quite relaxed, until he felt satisfied with his repeatedly expressed gratefulness he returned to the bonfire to comfort the girl.

The girl in blue dress stole a glance at Shi Mu too, but in silence, full of gentleness.

By then Shi My had taken off the knife as well as his raincoat, underneath which a thick black iron armour was seen unexpectedly, the armour fully covering his torso, leaving only his neck and arms out.

“Wow, is that the well known black armour?” The middle-aged man was stunned at the sight after some words with his daughter.

“Does sir know this armour?” This time it was Shi Mu’s turn to be surprised.

“Hehe, to tell you the truth, I once saw a blacksmith forge this armour with my own eyes so I was left with a deep impression and can tell it in a glance. How much does it weigh? I was told by the blacksmith that this armour is not made for defense in fight ‘cause it’s rather brittle. It is made for the simple purpose to exercise one’s body for warriors. “ The man answered with a smile.

“This one I’m wearing doesn’t weigh much, or I couldn’t have been able to move with it.” Shi Mu waved the question off and then grasped one side of the armour with some strength.

The black armour cracked into two pieces and thus thrown onto the ground by Shi Mu at ease, which caused the ground to tremble twice. The middle-aged man blinked his eyes twice in turn.

Such a remarkable weight! The armour must weigh more than five or six hundred jin. It must take at least a huge monster to support the armour with full strength. Hence though in an early age the boy must be quite strong, his level in body tempering art must be high enough.


Shi Mu undid the black armour’s straps, his whole body thus relaxed. After that he cut off the two forelegs of the boar single-handed in a blink of the eye, and then turned his wrists; meanwhile golden light appeared around the legs before they were completely skinned in a short time. Then the youth produced a small bottle from his clothes, and from the container some white powder were scattered on the boar’s legs before they were taken to the bonfire by the youth busied with his own affairs.

After a while a strong delicious smell began to fill the whole temple. The two around the bonfire were eating some previously prepared dried food. Drawn by the strong smell of the sizzling boar leg, the girl could not help but feel tempted. She at once found it ungraceful, so she lowered her head with a blushing face.

Seeing thus Shi Mu passed her the half done leg with a smile quite unexpected to the girl.

“That’s too much! We’ve used your firewood, how could we take the meat now...” Overjoyed at such a generous offer, the middle-aged man took the meat willingly, though trying to make some declining gestures politely in words.

“Father......”The girl beside called him in a shameful voice.

“Don’t you see more meat there? The young boy is no average warrior, he would not care about such a small offer. “ The man answered his daughter, grinning.

“All right then, but still...Thank you so much, gongzi [1].” The girl blushed a meek acceptance of his father’s impoliteness and a thank for Shi Mu after a pause.

“That’s all right, this boar is rather big for me to eat alone. “ Shi Mu had already skinned another leg of the boar by now. He turned back and answered with a smile.

“By the way, young boy, Feng City is not far from here, is it? We came from Ying City to stay with our relatives in Feng City, only that we were met with the rain and lost our way in the mountain. “ The middle-aged man was all thumb when he tried to rip the meat for his daughter. He then inquired about the way from Shi Mu.

“I see. I was wondering why you two were here in this deserted temple at such a late hour. Uncle Zhong [2], don’t worry, it’s not far from Feng City here. Walk along the road in front of the temple straight for some ten li you’ll see the west gate of the city. “ Shi Mu understood their reason here until now, then answered him without thinking.

“That’s great! Xiu Er[3], did you hear that? We can reach Feng City tomorrow and you’ll soon get married into the Wus. “ Hearing this the middle-aged man was overjoyed.

“Father, stop that! Don’t you see our current conditions? Plus I looked so terrible now! It’s highly likely they would deny the engagement. “ Hearing his father mention her engagement, she could not help but blush with shame.

“Terrible? Nonsense! My daughter has always been the most intelligent and beautiful girl in the world! Humph, it’s exactly thanks to the Wus we have now fallen into such a state. Don’t worry Xiu Er, I’ll deal with the Wus about your engagement.” The middle-aged man disapproved of his daughter’s self-abasement.

However that rang a bell in Shi Mu.

The Wu family? Can’t it be the powerful clan Wu coming only next to the Jins? But judging from the father and his daughter’s stature they seemed not strong enough to be warriors.

As the man was talking with his daughter and Shi Mu continued his cooking there sounded a shrill howl afar; before long a lasting boom was heard increasingly near. In a blink some huge thing approached the temple, having had covered a distance.

“What’s that? Can’t it be some monsters in the mountain?” Much scared, the man rose and fumbled for a dagger from his clothes, the sharp weapon glittering with coldness. He stood forward to protect his girl, though himself full of fright. But seeing from his trembling legs he wouldn’t stand a moment in the fight.

“Careful, it can’t be a monster, or at least not a monster from this mountain. I’ve never heard a similar howl here. “ Shi Mu jumped for the knife laid beside the bonfire and grasped it with full strength. His eyes were fixed at the gate, shining with force. After all, he had been hunting all kinds of wild animals in this mountain for half a year, not for entertainment but for exercise. On the one hand he continued his body tempering in this way, on the other he had acquired much experience of actual combat.

Though the mountain was a rather meek one when it came to the animals living inside, the number of wild wolves and boars he had killed was not small indeed, amounting to at least one hundred. This had made him rather experienced at killing animals, far surpassing his peer warriors who shied from blood.

Though not a warrior himself the middle-aged man had a pair of perceiving eyes. Shi Mu’s composure helped him calm down a little, only trying hard to shelter his daughter from any danger.

Boom! The already half torn gate was now burst out from outside. In the shower of myriad splinters a monster of human figure rushed into the hall, his skin black from head to toe.

“This is... a zombie! A real zombie! Heavens! Where did that thing come from? What are the armies in Feng City guarding people against? We are dead meat now.” Recognizing the monster’s shape, the man was nearly half dead.

A zombie?

Shi Mu’s blood froze at the figure.

The monster was at least two zhang high, its face badly mutilated, and there were only two big blood holes at where its eyes should have been. His whole body was covered with a thick layer of black hair, drops of green fluids falling from all over his body now and then, giving off a nauseating smell.

----------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
[1] Gonzi: a respectful title for young man of high position in ancient China. But the girl here used this title only to show her respect and gratitude, not necessarily for Shi Mu’s status which she had no idea then.
[2] Uncle: a respectful title for any man of your father’s peer. So here Mr. Zhong, though not having any blood relation with Shi Mu, is called “Uncle Zhong” by him to show respect.
[3] Xiu Er: “Xiu” is a Chinese character the the meaning of elegance and excellence, while “Er” is a suffix added to a name to show intimacy and affection.

http://www.xianxiaworld.net/The-Port...d/1000059.html

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 9 - Killing the Corpse

Chapter 9 - Killing the Corpse

As Shi Mu was stunned at the coming of the corpse it had already pounced on him after a howl, its body giving off a stinking smell as of rotten fish. Taking a deep breath while managing to driven out of his mind all bad thoughts, Shi Mu pulled out his knife without delay. His wrists moved nimbly as he wielded the knife, creating a strong light of coldness.

Peng! Some loud sounds were heard at the moment when Shi Mu gave the monster’s chest five cuts successively, but the cuts were dull as if fell on a dead tree, only leaving a few shallow wounds on the surface. There were trickles of green blood seeping out of the wounds; besides nothing serious happened to the monster which, however, then stretched its arms and pushed down Shi Mu forcibly.

Shi Mu was struck dumb with astonishment, but was until now fully convinced of the benefits of his previous exercise running wildly in the rain with the heavy black armour; since without any previous knowledge of Qingkung[1] he was still able to slither out of the monster’s thick arms without any difficulty, then showed himself at its back in no time. Then came another shimmer of his knife before the monster found itself cut another five times at the waist.

The monster was angered into howling again, though not heavily hurt. He wrenched his body backward suddenly, and surprised the three by turning only his upper body completely to the opposite direction. He waved his arms and then pounced viciously on Shi Mu’s head.

“Boom!” This attack was completely not anticipated thus impossible to dodge. Shi Mu could only confront it by holding his knife steadfastly; the next moment his whole body was sent darting out by the punch, stopped only by a midway stone column which gave his back a good knock. As he started to set his foot back onto the ground he found himself fainting slightly.

But the monster showed no sign of letting Shi My off, he made the second attack after pressing hard on the ground and began its hunting. This time Shi Mu did not try to dodge but only let out a shout, shook his wrist and gave the monster another six good cuts, a dull sound ringing at the successive fierce cuts. The youth used so much strength so as to throw out the knife, sending it darting upwards before finally got inserted into the crossbeam of the hall; as to Shi Mu himself, he was pressed backward at the throw, too.

The monster let out a shrill shout when forced back by the violent attack, its arms now carrying another four scars and its face a two long ones, sprouting large amount of green blood.

“Young brother, its head is the weakest point, attack there!” The middle-aged old man was reminded until then, shouting to Shi Mu anxiously, but his shout attracted the monster’s attention unexpectedly, which thus vented its anger to the annoying helper with an abrupt turn around to the bonfire, knowing that Shi Mu was not easy to deal with.

“No!” The middle-aged man was scared out of his wits, but with his daughter behind him he decided not to dodge but braced himself to cast the dagger - his only weapon - to the monster before turned around and tightly held the girl to his chest. By doing this his body became the girl’s armour.

The monster pushed the dagger away as if sweeping off some dust, using its other hand to rip open the middle-aged man’s shirt, its sharp fingers already half inserted into his body.

“Ah!” The man shouted in pain as his blood sprang out. His daughter blanched seeing his father hurt, screaming in despair.

Then something strange happened.

The monster was about to snap at the man’s neck, its stinking mouth opened as it lowered it head, but as soon as it heard the girl’s scream it trembled with a corresponding shout, taking back its arms and staggered back from the man, as if suffering from some untold agonies.

Seizing the chance Shi Mu rushed to the monster’s back at an amazing speed, his movement stirring a sudden puff of wind. He jumped to the height of a zhang and began to pound mercilessly at the monster’s head. Boom! His two fists were like real iron hammers hitting the monster’s weak point, his strength superhuman enough to stir an exploding sound, after which the monster’s head was split open as a melon while myriad drops of green blood began to splatter into all directions. Shi Mu pressed hard on the ground to push himself back some steps so as not to get inflicted in the blood rain.

The monster, now headless, fell heavily onto the ground after two shakes.

Shi Mu steadied his body by clenching his fists. Though with the aid of a deep breath he still paled a little. The mortal wound was done only in an instant, but had not the monster been disturbed by the girl’s sudden scream he would not have been able to kill it. But undoubtedly the success was due to his superhuman strength too, which was gained by his nearly accomplished Stone-Breaking Fist. If not, the monster’s head - even though it was the weakest point - would not have been injured bare-handed by an ordinary practitioner.
??
“Father!” Then came the girl’s grievous call.

Reminded, Shi Mu turned to see the mortally wounded man, his daughter leaning on his body trying desperately to stop the blood from springing out of the large holes in his chest, only to be reminded of her vain efforts??by the continual flow of exuding blood. ?

“Young boy, young boy...”

The middle-aged man’s face blanched, but he ignored his daughter and only called desperately to Shi Mu.
????
“Stop talking father, I’ll go find you a doctor now...” The girl cried.

“It’s too late, Xiu Er, even I have some medical knowledge. My heart has no strength now, and I’ll go in a moment. I’ve had all nice things in my life, I won’t hold any regrets dying now. But the only one I care about is you. “ The man smiled in response bitterly, casting an anxious look at Shi Mu.

The girl’s heart was broken at such words.

“Uncle Zhong, do you have any last wishes? “ Shi Mu sighed in despair and finally walked up to him, lowering his body. He was not slow to nose some coming trouble, but it was impossible to sweep it off now.

“Little brother, it must be my lot to meet you here, and now that my life’s ending, I can’t bear seeing my Xiu Er all alone in this world, unprotected, so I would like to have you look after her...” The man began to grasp for breath.

“There’s no need for me to look after your daughter, I guess. Isn’t she engaged to the Wu family? I can escort her there. “ Shi Mu was surprised at the entreaty.

“The Wus? hehe...he...If only I could live I’ll find a way to get her married into the family, but now... They won’t admit the engagement any more. My daughter will only be.......”

“Then I could take her to some other relatives, if you have any.” Shi Mu frowned and interrupted.

“We have no relatives ever since our family became poor. Xiu Er, listen, your engagement with the Wus is canceled now. Little brother, it’s obvious you are no average person...I won’t ask you to make my daughter a lady, but please take her at least as a concubine, make her live, then I’ll rest. Since you must be a warrior, this family heirloom won’t be useless to you, I’ll send it to you as my daughter’s betrothal gift. If ever you harm her I won’t let you off even turning a ghost. “ The middle-aged man spoke such quickly at his last moments, then produced a wooden case from his shirt, thrust it forcibly into Shi Mu’s hand. After a loud cry he was breathless.

“Father!” Hearing her father’s words she was too surprised to cry, but at her father’s death now she could not help but cry her eyes out, leaning on his body.

Shi Mu was speechless with the case in hand, not knowing what to do.

“Gongzi, my father was quite unconscious at his last moments, so don’t take his words seriously. Please still escort me to the Wus in Feng City.” The girl stopped crying after some unknown time, her eyes swollen but her back now straight and firm.

“Miss Zhong, I do think it would be too rude of me to do as Uncle Zhong asked. Also, take back this case. “ The girl’s words made him relaxed a little. He said so with a sigh and passed the case to her, quite embarrassed.

“I’ve never seen this case myself. But since my father has sent you in person I won’t take it back. Besides I’ll be dead if it were not for you.” The girl shook off the offer.

“All right then, Miss Zhong, but don’t call me gonzi anymore, just Shi Mu, my name. Well, the rain has stopped, I’d better bury your father now, or the body may lead animals here.” Hesitating for a moment, Shi Mu said so, taking back the case.

“Then I’ll rely on your help. Brother Shi may call me Zhong Xiu from now on.” The girl, though looked fragile, grew stronger after crying out her grief.

A quarter later, on the hill behind the temple, the girl knelt beside a tomb, made three loud kowtows to her father with suppressed anguish, after then she left with Shi Mu, turning back to see the tomb now and then.

Then the two returned to the temple, only to find that the monster’s body had began to rot in an alarming speed, meanwhile a large amount of green fluids has seeped out, stinking the hall out.

Zhong Xiu was frightened to approach a single step at the sight, while Shi Mu said with a frown,

“It’s unsafe to leave the strange thing here. Miss Zhong, please wait here for a moment while I deal with it. “ The girl nodded her agreement. Shi Mu then walked out of the hall and turned back after a while, some thick huge leaves in hand. He then walked up to the body with the leaves, and after having covered it briefly, he lifted the thing out of the hall.

Pa! A thing fell from the leaves. ????

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 10 - The Wu Family

“What?”

Shi Mu was surprised. He gazed at the thing and found it to be a black iron piece printed with delicate patterns. They looked like characters but Shi Mu could tell not a single one of them.

“Miss Zhong, do you know this thing?” He picked it up in curiosity and studied it thoroughly.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen it. It should belong to the zombie. That’s not strange, zombies used to be humans before they died, it’s normal for them to carry some human things. “ The girl came up and cast a glance at the thing, suppressing her nausea at the stinking smell.

Shi Mu nodded and took the iron piece after a hesitation, then lift the leaf-covered body out of the gate.

Shortly afterwards they were on their way to the city. Shi Mu could not resist asking Zhong Xiu about her shrill that made the zombie fidget. But Zhong Xiu herself was baffled too. Seeing thus Shi Mu would not ask further. Since it was then late in the day and the west gate of the city was already closed, Shi Mu took the girl back to his suburban manor.

......

In the evening Shi Mu rest in his room, observing the iron piece in his hand. At first glance the piece seemed to be made of common black iron, but actually it weighed more than that and was particularly cold. Moreover, the delicate decorations, when looked closely, showed a sense of primitive simplicity not short of mystery and fascination. By then Shi Mu could tell that it was no ordinary thing. But still unclear of its origin after a long time of check he had to put it away carefully. Then Shi Mu took out the wooden case he got from Zhong Ming at his death.

The Zhongs seemed no ordinary family, and the thing, called as a heirloom, should be something special too.

Shi Mu opened the case and found a thick book inside, its pages already yellowed by time, and on its cover four characters “Zhong Gong Mi Dian” - the secret arts of the Zhong clan - was written. A little surprised, Shi Mu still took the book out and began to pursue it.

There were whole three hundred pages in the book, all printed with tiny black characters, some of them vividly illustrated. Only after a brief glance over the first few pages Shi Mu’s face was all expressions of amazement. He sucked back a cold breath, sinking into silence at the book.

This book of secret art was divided into two parts, the former recording a great number of methods to make rare weapons, while the latter telling the make of some delicate tools and poisons. Both the two parts far surpassed Shi Mu’s imagination considering their obscurity and mystery.

For example, there was a weapon named “Poisonous Sword of Black Stone” which was shaped rather ordinarily, while its body inside was actually empty, making it possible to infuse the sword with a large amount of poison. When used in combat the sword would splinter after some movements, splattering the poison to kill the enemy.

There was another weapon - a small bolt named “Bow Bolt” - which was even more vilely made. First, a solid bolt was put at the attacker’s back beforehand; second, he bowed to the person he intended to kill; third, with a slight pull at a secret strap hidden inside his cuff would shoot three arrows to the soon-to-be-killed guy, sending him to death before he was even aware of it.

As to the recorded kinds of poison they ranged from which could send people into unconsciousness directly to those whose deadly effects would only mature in some days. In a word, there was all kinds of poison in the book.

“I really wonder what does the Zhongs do for these hideous things. Seen from its worn-out condition it should be handed down from their early ancestors.” Shi Mu thought to himself. But this book was a real eye-opener. Firmly memorized, it must be useful when it came to deal with people who bore such skills. Some other things recorded also draw his attention. He rolled the pages quickly and then found the illustration of two weapons, one big and the other small, arranged high and low respectively. The upper big one was a slightly arched single-edged knife, its handle the longer of the two, able to be held by both hands. A black string could be seen faintly around the handle. The smaller one looked like a dagger of incredible sharpness, while its size was tiny indeed. Gazing at the illustration, the youth became deep in thought. ?

The next morning.

The blue-robed Shi Mu came to a certain street with the swollen-eyed Zhong Xiu in Feng City. On one side of the street stood a huge manor covering an area of at least one hundred mu, rather eye-catching. After a look at the blue gate and the golden tablet printed a huge “Wu” , Shi Mu walked up to knock at the door.

“Who’s there knocking! The sun’s not up yet!” The door was finally opened; out came a man who looked a servant apparently. After a glance over the two visitors the man said in an impatient voice.

“This girl is one of your relatives, would you please report her arrival?” Shi Mu passed a jade ware to the servant while saying thus.

“Our relative? Wait a moment.” Half convinced, the man took the jade ware and closed the door.

It was only a while before the door was opened again. This time two men issued from within.

The one coming in the front was a long-bearded old man, while the other behind him was a youth of Shi Mu’s age, his looks like the old one’s but was full of pride and rudeness.

“It’s really my niece! Perfect! I’ve been waiting long since I got your letter. But where is my bother Zhong? And this one is...” The pale old man was full of smiles seeing Zhong Xiu, but seemed rather surprised at Shi Mu’s presence.

“This is Shi gongzi, I lost my father on the way. It’s all thanks to Shi gonzi that I could be here now. “ Zhong Xiu greeted the old man politely, in a graceful manner, her eyes shining with tears.

There was a trace of disgust flashing across the eyes of the youth behind the old man as he saw the blue birthmark on the girl’s forehead.

“What? Has some misfortune happened to Brother Wu? I’d like to learn it thoroughly, but this is not the place we can talk. Please follow me inside, niece. “ Apparently the news astonished him; he responded in no time to offer his comfort.

The girl nodded.

“Oh, I’ve nearly forgotten this little boy, thank you for taking my niece here. Here’s some reward for you. “ After another glance the pale old man frowned, passing Shi Mu a silver coin.

“Thanks but I don’t need it. My task’s finished since Xiu Er has arrived safe.” Shi Mu shook off the coin and left.

“What a proud bastard! Dad, I’ve seen loads of them, denying offers of money superficially but deep in heart they are dying for them. “ The youth snorted.

“Brother Shi is definitely not one of them.” Zhong Xiu said lightly.

The pale old man only smiled and led the two inside.

……

Meanwhile, Shi Mu did not leave the city, but crossed some streets before finally reached a building with a tablet saying “Liu Feng Martial Arts Club”. He walked into the gate and saw some ten odd teenage boys doing weapon practice on a ground of blue piles.

“Brother Shi Mu’s here.” At his appearance two youths immediately walked up to greet him. One of the two looked the age of twenty while the other only sixteen.

“Brother Feng, Brother Gao, so you are here too. “ Shi Mu had not expected their presence there, but soon greeted them with much gladness.

”We’ve come to see the newly got cheap medicines for body tempering, wondering if they could be of use so we can buy some. But for Brother Shi there’s definitely no need. You must have finished your body tempering now. “ The elder one looked rather refined as he said so.

“I heard instructor Li said that you’d soon reach level ten, is it true?” The other one asked with some doubt in his eyes. He had a deep knife scar left on his eyebrow.

Shi Mu came to know them only after he entered the club for the first time. The elder one’s name was Feng Li, the younger one Gao Yuan.

“It’s true I’m near level ten, I came here today not for the medicine but for some problems I’d like to ask instructor Li about. “ Shi Mu answered with a smile.

“So the rumour’s true indeed! Seems Brother Shi can acquire qi-sensing at an early age! Instructor Li’s right, you are really a talent! By the way, let’s drink in your restaurant sometime. “ Feng Li expressed his surprise with a sigh. Gao Yuan also showed expressions of admiration.

“Fine, let’s have some drink there.” Shi Mu was all agreement and left after exchanging some pleasantries. But at his departure Feng Li sent him a meaningful look which was received by Shi Mu with mute understanding, his looks only changed for a moment.

Shi Mu then came to a detached yard behind the practice ground where Li Canghai was lying on an armed wooden chair, his eyes slightly closed as if deep in thought. Li showed a smile and rose from the chair seeing Shi Mu come in.

“Master Li, are we going to ask those senior practitioners for help this time?” Shi Mu asked after a bow.

“No need. You are at the crucial moment of reaching the eleventh level, only I can help. Well, you haven’t told others about your real level, have you?” Li Canghai asked unhurriedly.

“Surely not, I’ve been following master’s instructions, making people believe I’m only on the intermediate stage of level nine. “ Shi Mu answered with a smile.

“Good, Good, then you’ll definitely surprise them in the competition half a month later. Our Feng Liu Club will outshine all the other three clubs.” Hearing thus Li Canghai’s cracked a more pleased smile.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 11 - The Fight

Chapter 11 - The Fight

“I feel quite confident in this competition, master Li, only that will you really impart the art of Throwing Knife to me after the match?” Shi Mu gave a quick nod and asked.

“This art of Throwing Knife is the essence of my yearly meditation, I personally think that it won’t come off second-best even among the rare skills held by large families. I had planned to hold it as my trump card, but it you could really gain enough fame for our Feng Liu club in this competition, then why not impart it to you?” Li Canghai sneered.

“Please do rest assured, I’ll use all my strength in the competition.” Shi Mu answered with a smile.

“You are amazing at your body tempering, and to practise with iron sand seems suitable for you enough. But don’t take this competition among clubs lightly. Although all the participators are below the age of eighteen, the students of the other three clubs should not be much weaker either. I know at least some boys of level ten. But if you could reach level eleven before the match then it’ll be easy for you to win.” Li Canghai said with a serious tone.

“If so I’ll practise with all my effort.” Shi Mu answered without thinking.

“I’ll let you accomplish the highest level with the least time.” Li Canghai’s eyes glittered with hope; he then led Shi Mu to a commodious room in the yard. Once having entered it he bolted the door directly. As to Shi Mu, he took off his shirts immediately, a belt of heavy sand thudding down onto the ground, sending the floor into even a light tremble.

Except for baths and sleeps Shi Mu would never take off the belt, even when he was confronting with the zombie in the old temple. Had it not been for the heavy sand belt which he had no time to undo when the zombie appeared, he would have performed with a higher speed.

“The iron sand in this belt does not weigh heavy enough for you. From tomorrow you should wear a belt twenty jin heavier. “At the sight Li Canghai took a stout stick from the nearby shelf which was covered by a thick layer of skin pad at each end. Shi Mu answered obediently and then stomped hard on the ground. He lowered his body firmly and took a deep breath, then clenched his fists, holding his breath.

Li Canghai came up. He moved his arms, pounding at every acupuncture point in Shi Mu’s body heavily. After a long period Shi Mu came out of the room with his clothes on, his nimble feet now looking slightly unsteady, his face somewhat contorted in pain.

Meanwhile Li Canghai was sweating profusely in the room, smiling to himself bitterly.

“This little boy must have a demon-like body! I, the intermediate accomplished warrior, should be exhausted by him! But that’s right, if it had not been for this demon body he could not have finished the iron sand practice in half a year! I’m really looking forward to the competition this time. But by the way, even with the iron sand practice he still seemed too outstanding in completing two levels within half a year. That’s incredible! He can’t really be a blood warrior, can he?” Li Canghai sank into a meditation.

Surely he was hidden from the fact that Shi Mu had not been taking regular rests between each practice of iron sand in the club, with the interval of several days. However, relied on his amazing healing power, he continued his practice during the intervals by hunting wild animals in the mountain, wearing the heavy black armour. Only in this way had he achieved thus far in body tempering.

After leaving the club Shi Mu had covered a treet before he reached a rather nearby delicate manor, walking in directly without hesitation. This retired manor was none other than his sojourning residence in the city. In a while a certain room in the manor was filled with strong smells of medical herbs, steams rolling out of the window.

“It feels so good!” Shi Mu lay in a big wooden basin, immersed in boiling water covered by some herbs. His upper body was outside the water, full of swollen prints, but his face was full of relaxed expressions. Shortly he began to snore away his bath.

When he opened his eyes again the water had already cooled down, and the sky had turned dark outside the window. Shi Mu rose from the basin and had a good look at his body - the scaring swollen prints were nearly invisible now. The special medicine made by Feng Liu club had shown its wonderful effect. Coordinated with his own healing power, he was able to go through the brutal exercise for half a year. After all, not every warrior could stay safe and sound with the heavy punch he had every several days, let alone the wild race in the evening with a heavy armour and iron belt. Correspondingly, he had grown much taller too. Apart from some look of childishness he looked an adult enough, both his stature and his style of talk.

Shi Mu dried himself with a towel near and basin, put on his shirts and the sand belt anew before he left the room.

One hour later Shi Mu reappeared at a certain street in the city’s north district. He then dodged nimbly into an ordinary-looking room where two men were waiting at a square table; the two were none other than Feng Li and Gao Yuan.

“Brother Shi, you’ve come.” As soon as seeing Shi Mu, Feng Li rose from the chair and greeted him, his face radiating with smiles. Gao Yuan also rose to greet joyfully.

“I was sure Brother Feng had some business for me when you made the gesture.” Shi Mu said with a smile.

“Brother Shi’s perfectly right, this time we still need your presence. The opponents are from the Luan Shi [1] sect near Huang Tian. We Black Fox sect has asked them to come here and had a competition tonight, the result will decide who can reign the five streets near North King Temple. The news I got was that they had the help of some experts this time, so please be careful then Brother Shi. “ Feng Li expounded.

“Experts? Don’t you mean the accomplished warriors?” Shi Mu’s eyes flashed with surprise.

“Don’t worry, the small sects like Black Fox and Luan Shi cannot afford the price of accomplished warriors. The experts I mentioned could not be better than some sharp practitioners from the clubs. Luan Shi was made desperate just because Brother Shi helped us last time, which frightened them a lot. With Brother Shi our Black Fox has grown much stronger. “ Gao Yuan curled his lips.

“That’s true. Though it’s not a set rule we small sects can never attract the attention of accomplished warriors. Moreover even if the Luan Shi guys got to know some accomplished warrior, they surely can’t afford the price, it will make them penniless. “ Feng Li smiled with assurance.

“As long as there are no accomplished warriors involved. As usual, three hundred silver notes, and nobody should know I’m in it. “ Shi Mu only rest assured by then, dealing with the situation with great ease.

“Good, then, it’s settled. We’ve prepared the thing for you, and we can set out in a moment.
“ Feng Li promised readily and took out a small package from his shirts, passing it to Shi Mu.

Shi Mu opened the package directly on the table; inside it was a pair of black gloves, a black robe and a silver mask. He dressed them up in a quite proficient manner. Then there appeared a mysterious man in black in the room, as if having emerged out of the void.

“Each time I see Brother Shi in this suit, there’s a feeling in me that our Second Brother had not passed away.” Gao Yuan’s expression became nondescript after seeing Shi Mu in this way.

“Oh, We are so fortunate to have Brother Shi helping us. Ever since Second Brother died in that accident Brother Shi had taken his place in protecting us by carrying forward his ‘Fierce Fists’; or we Black Fox could not have grown so powerful so as to keep our territories. Except for us two, nobody knows that the top expert in our sect has changed.” Feng Li echoed with a sad sigh.

“I’m only doing this to make money for my medicine bath. Beside, you black fox are the more decent sect compared with other nearby sects. If I stand by and see you guys get beaten, ordinary people would suffer too. “ A dull voice came from the musk, completely different from Shi Mu’s original tone.

“Sure, it’s beneficial to both of us. There’s not much time left, let’s hurry.” Feng Li smiled in agreement, indicating his hurry in a polite way.

Shi Mu was not against this either.

So the three soon left the room, disappearing into the end of the street, melting into the dim night.

……

Then in a dilapidated, remote street, two sects of burly fellows with distinct clothes were fighting each other furiously.

One sect was in black, composed of approximately forty guys, while Feng, Gao and Shi stood watching them fight, their arms folded. As to the other sect, they apparently prevailed in number, all members in blue, and were none other than the notorious Luan Shi sect. Behind them some five standers were also watching motionless.

Before long the outnumbered Black Fox was apparently disadvantaged, many of its members bleeding with serious wounds thus had to retire from the fight.

“Brother Shi, Let’s display your skills now.” Seeing such Feng Li’s heart grew heavy and turned to Shi Mu for help.

Shi Mu nodded without objection, rushing forward into the crowds without delay.

Peng! Peng! Two dull sounds accompanied the falling down of two blue-robed men.

“Fierce Fists!” The Shi Mu with silver musk stirred the fighting crowd, scaring them into shrills; meanwhile two burly fellows in blue rushed forward to Shi Mu’s back, wielding their sticks wildly.

Their two sticks cracked into halves as Shi Mu turned unexpectedly and punched at the coming weapons. Before the two opponents could find any opportunity to dodge backward, Shi Mu’s body already moved nimbly again to approach one of them. One fist, one boom, the target was sent darting out for two zhang[2] before he fell down onto the ground like a gunny-bag.

Then after pressing hard at the ground, Shi Mu shoot his body out like shooting an arrow. In the air he lift one of his leg to kick his other target directly out to a distance, stirring a strong wind beside.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Notes:
[1] Luan Shi: “Luan” means disorder and confusion; “Shi” means stone.
[2] Zhang: a unit of length (= 31/3 meters).

[akolaw]

nice to see Wang Yu's work here, keep up the good work.

[xianxiaworld]

Thanks, I will

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 12 - Invincible Bravery

Chapter 12 - Invincible Bravery

In the twinkling of an eye Shi Mu had already downed some seven or eight opponents, as easily as a wolf preying in a flock of sheep, scaring other Luan Shui guys into a hurried flee to both sides of the road. Taking their chance Feng Li and Gao Yuan rushed into the mess and also downed a handful of them with their wild sticks. Seeing thus the watching guys behind had to abandon their watch-and-wait policy in order to reinforce their little army. Led by a middle-aged man who called loudly to fierce fist - the role Shi Mu was playing- the three Luan Shui guys rushed to Shi Mu simultaneously, meanwhile some other two guys stood up barring the way of Gao Yuan and Feng Li, getting them into a big fight.

The four iron sticks in Feng Li and Gao Yuan’s hands would not stop stirring a serious of blow sound as they moved in similar strokes; apparently the two were using the same martial art. Their two opponents had different skills, though they both wielded two flat white weapons with the look of an iron ruler; one moved the ruler in a firm, heavy manner while the other’s movement was quite difficult to gauge, quick and changing. In a word, it was hard to tell which side is better, though.

Meanwhile Shi Mu was confronting the three blue-robed guys - whose skills were apparently far superior to their average helpers - with enough composure. Wasting no words with his opponents, he lift one leg to give a poke to a nearby wooden stick lying on the ground, which, then jumped immediately into Shi Mu’s hand in the next moment safe and sound.

Whiz! Whiz!

The leading middle-aged man was carrying a sharp-looking bamboo knife in each of his hand; as soon as he approached Shi Mu he wielded the knives in a cross, directly sending them into Shi Mu’s chest, forcible and vicious. Even though they were not made of iron, the bamboo knives’ sharpness could really rip one’s chest open once they caught their target. Seeing them, a cold light flashed across Shi Mu’s eyes, but he only shook his wrist once before six shadows of his stick danced wildly in front of their enemies.

“Ah!” The middle-aged man could not hold his astonishment and let out a loud cry. His two bamboo knives were taken back at a lightning speed to resist the wild dance of the shadows. “Peng! Peng!” There came two clear sounds as the man felt a strong shake at his hands, his two bamboo knives already splintered into four broken parts; nearly at the same time an insufferable pain crept upon his chest which forced him to step back. He nearly lost his steadiness in this process, trying hard not to fall on the ground.

At the sight the other two rushing blue-robed helpers immediately pierced their spears into the air right toward Shi Mu. Another opponent shook his wrist and unleashed a slithering whip that looked like a ferocious python. Faced with the attack, Shi Mu let out a low shout and waved his arms abruptly, throwing out the wooden stick like a spear forcibly. A boom then thundered at the stick’s destination. The spear man had no time to resist before the tip of his wooden spear collided with Shi Mu’s projected stick hard-on. The clash sent a nondescript brute force swelling directly along the spear right toward the holder’s hand, while the front part exploded instantly, leaving the holder pained into unconsciousness, both hands bleeding profusely.

Exactly at the same time Shi Mu’s other arm stretched out instantly, and grasped the approaching whip with his gloved hand. This was done in so short a moment that all the actions seemed a blur in a viewer’s eyes.

The whip man blanched at the sight; overwhelmed by the panic he pulled the whip wildly while trying to step back. Shi Mu snorted at his attempt, and gave a gentle pull at the whip’s tip, at which the man trembled uncontrollably, staggering forward like a drunk. “No!” But it was too late for him to flee: the silver musk man was already at his side, having covered the whole distance in a blink; the next moment, he was struck home at his stomach before having fully realized it, his bowls overturned at an overwhelming force, and he could only knelt down right onto the ground almost fainting away.

But Shi Mu would not let him off. With another shake of his shoulders his body flew into the air as a dragon, one of his legs kicked forward as a shadow, sweeping his enemy who blanched at the coming attack like a dead animal. He knew clearly that if kicked at he would at least be half dead given the brute force of his opponent, but he was already made defenseless by last time’s attack.

“Stop it! We admit our failure.”

Just then a terrified voice pleaded to Shi Mu suddenly.

At the entreaty, Shi Mu paused his kick and gave it a thought before at last left the spear man alone, passing right above his head with a stirred puff of strong wind which nearly frightened the man into paralysis with numbed head.

Shi Mu looked to the pleading man through the holes in his musk after landing on the ground. The voice belonged to the middle-aged man, the leader of Luan Shui sect, who only sighed with relief after confirming the spear man’s safety. He then made a gesture of peace with clasped hands [1], smiling to Shi Mu bitterly,

“You really are the Fierce Fist himself! You must rank at the top of all practitioners in Feng City, so why not leave our gangs alone. We are only fighting for some bread, not for other serious purposes.”

Shi Mu stood there without moving a step, his eyes cold and his lips firm. It was Feng Li now walking up to retort,

“Stop the nonsense! Withdraw from the five streets immediately after today’s competition!”

“Surely we’ll withdraw from Fierce Fist’s place since we are no match for you. Let’s go!” The leader decided in a resolute manner, leading his men off after a short reply. Only in an instant there was no Luan Shui men to be seen around the nearby streets, which now belonged completely to the the black foxes! The previously downed black men now were all jumping up in buoyant spirits.
Feng Li and Gao Yuan were also in high and vigorous spirits, busied with arrangement of the newly occupied territories. Just then the “Fierce Fist” played by Shi Mu disappeared from everyone’s sight in complete secrecy, full of mystery.

……

Several days later, Shi Mu returned to his suburban manor with his new black armour ten jin heavier than the previous one. He was stunned at the sight of the beautiful girl waiting at the center of the square.

“Shaoye, Miss Zhong was back here two days ago. Since I have no way to contact shaoye I could only put her up for a few nights. “ Zhang Suo, the manager of the manor, answered in a somewhat terrified voice.

If there was someone fully aware of Shi shaoye’s tricks despite his young age it would be none other than the manager himself. This time he had put up the girl without gaining his master’s consent first, so he was worrying if ever he had made a terrible mistake.

“It’s all right, you can go now. I’ll talk to Miss Zhong myself. “ Waving off Zhang Suo, Shi Mu had fully come to himself now; meanwhile the girl stood mute all the time, her head lowered.

Shi Mu made an inviting gesture as Zhang Suo left, leading the girl to his bedroom.

“Miss Zhong, why are you here now? Do you have anything to tell me?” Shi Mu turned to ask the girl in a rather serious manner.

“Shi gonzi, please do not ask any more. Are you shorthanded here? If not averse to the idea, would you agree to have me here as a servant? “ Zhong Xiu finally had the courage to look up at Shi Mu, biting her lips nervously.

“A servant girl? Miss Zhong, stop the nonsense. I wonder what happened to you at the Wu family, I remember them quite polite to you that time. I’ll be much obliged if you tell me the truth.” Shi Mu knit his brows and pursued his question slowly.

“Me, an ugly girl? What could happen to me at the Wus? They let me in because they thought I may still hold some properties by then, but nobody would accept me once they knew my conditions. I’m penniless now, what could I do if not leave them as soon as possible? Should I wait to be asked out? Believe me, I had no other places to go in Feng City, except here. Or I wouldn’t have the cheek to return.” Zhong Xiu’s eyes shimmered with tears, her voice somewhat choking with sobs. After all, is there another young girl who can still keep cool at her father’s death and her being swept out of her fiance’s house?

“I see, your father was right...Well, don’t mention the servant deal again, just stay here as you are. Although I’m not born with golden spoons I can at least provide you food and bed here. Don’t call me gongzi anymore, Brother Shi is fine. If ever you want to leave someday just leave me a note.” There was still a last grain of stubbornness left on the girl’s face, which reminded him of someone he used to hold dear. Moved by the sight, he finally decide to sweep the stubbornness away by answering her persuasively.

“Thank you so much, Brother Shi!” Filled with surprise and joy, the girl made a grateful gesture with a gentle pull at her dress [2]. During the following period Shi Mu asked Zhang Suo in again to arrange for Zhong Xiu a clean, detached room.

......

Meanwhile, at the Wu’s manor in Feng City, some men including the pale old man were plotting something about Zhong Xiu.

“Second younger brother, are you sure that guy Zhong Ming hadn’t told the secret to his daughter? If anything’s wrong, we’ll suffer a big loss this time.” An old man, apparently in his fifties, was speaking. He shared somewhat similar features with the pale man, but obviously the former had a more imposing manner.

He was none other than the current owner of the house, the leader of the family and the oldest in the three Wu brothers. Besides, he was also the only fully accomplished warrior in his family.

“Eldest brother, if you don’t believe me, why not believe that gadget? It didn’t respond to the girl at all, which proves that she has not inspired her blood yet. If so, why should a penniless girl be married into our Wus? Besides, although the Zhongs have sent us the gadget, they should have died a hundred time if it had not been for our repeated help. So what does it matter, to cancel the engagement?” The pale man, Wu Feng, answered disapprovingly.

“Exactly, eldest uncle. I shall never marry that ugly girl. The one I’m taking a fancy to is Jin Xiuzhen [3], one of the Jins...” The youth listening at their side interrupted with a grudge.

“Stop it, Hua Er! Do you have the place here to interrupt your elders?” The pale man reprimanded his son with much severity, which shut the rude youth’s mouth though apparently the latter did not feel like it.

“Hue Er, it’s not a thing that can be decided according to your likes and dislikes. That girl, though her blood not yet awaken, could still bring us grandchildren of blood warriors. Even by this slim chance I do not consider it proper to let her go, second younger brother. “Wu Liang continued in an easy manner.

“If Hua Er dislikes the girl’s looks, our Wu Xun wouldn’t mind taking her, so there’s no need to drive her away. “The third brother Wu Tong, looking much younger than his two brothers, answered with a smile.


Notes:
[1] The leader of Luan Shui sect is saluting Shi Mu with his hands folded and raised in front of his chest. This is a saluting gesture made between men of the same social status to show respect in ancient China, while kowtow is a salute to someone superior.
[2] Zhong Xiu’s gesture is a salute generally made by women to show respect to others.
[3] Xiu Zhen: “Xiu” means pretty and “Zhen” means precious in Chinese.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 13 - The Art of Firing Spear and the Knives of Sun and Moon

Chapter 13 - The Art of Firing Spear and the Knives of Sun and Moon

“But Wu Xun is born slow and lame! Though with ugly looks Zhong Xiu is actually a proud girl, she would not be willing to marry him.” The pale man answered, shaking his head.

“Unwilling? Do you think she can have her will in our Wus? I’ll let her know the consequences if she’s in my hands.” Wu Tong sneered with his suggestion.

“Don’t you think I’ve thought to use force? Only that the girl was not alone at her arrival, she’s with another guy whom I later investigated, and the result was that the lad had some relations with the Jins,” the pale man sighed his grudge.

“What? Having relations with the Jins? Then we could only let him off this time, as well as the girl. If the matter is revealed and the Jins get involved, we may even lose that gadget to them. As to the blood warrior in Zhong’s ancestors, it may be fabricated by the Zhongs themselves to put feathers in their caps. Even if they did once have a blood warrior in their family, that’s no guarantee for the birth of another, even though we have to admit the higher chance which only happens when large amounts of rare herbs are invested in, following a secret method. To weigh their significance it’s definitely the gadget that counts more to us.” Surprised at Shi Mu’s identity the leader’s attitude soon veered.

Surely the pale man made no objection to the final decision. Then others dealt with some other issues before all left the hall.

“Father, who’s the guy that escorted the ugly girl here? What relation does he have with the Jins?” The puffy youth could not resist questioning his father after they came to another room.

“Oh, you mean the fellow named Shi Mu. Actually he is not born a Jin, but only a remote relative. It’s his nominal mother that counts much as a prominent role. You’d better dodge her in every way.”

“His nominal mother?” The arrogant youth was quite baffled.

“Yes, her name’s Jin Zhen, one character less than your girl’s name, but she’s Jin Xiuzhen’s aunt, and her level far surpassing all her family, as excellent as your eldest uncle. She’s usually hidden from people’s attention, but controls all medicine business of the Jins, having enormous power in the family. What, Hua Er, do you care much about Shi Mu?”

“I heard that the ugly girl turned to Shi Mu after leaving our manor. I have no interest in her at all, but she did have an engagement with me, so now that she’s in another man’s hand, which must shame me a lot! Father, I’d like to teach that fellow a good lesson!” The arrogant youth, Wu Hua, snorted his resentment.

“Well, well, my darling son, seems you’ve forgot what I taught you before. You’ve got to know many Jin fellows while wooing Jin Yuzhen, haven’t you? It’s inconvenient for our Wus to deal with Shi Mu, but it’s a different story with the Jins. It has nothing to do with our Wus if the Jins take care of their own affairs.” The pale man offered his advice after perceiving his son’s intentions, full of affection.

“Thanks, father, I know what to do next.” His father’s instruction life his spirits immensely.

……

“You two idolaters, beaten by a small sect in no time! “ On a fairly large practice ground, a youth in white said coldly in a mocking tone, his eyes fixed on the two young men, a few years his senior around twenty.

The two young men, one with a spear in hand and the other a whip around his waist, though changed into blue shirts at the moment, were exactly the two easily beaten by Shi Mu in the previous fight between Black Fox and Luan Shui sects. The two experts stood in awe facing the youth, sweating profusely.

“Brother...Wang, how did you know about the...event?” The spear man stammered.

“Humph, did you plan to hide it from me? If I had not heard your feats from the others in our club, I guess our club’s reputation would rot in secrecy then.” The youth in white snorted, questioning with a solemn face.

“Surely not, only this time we two were beaten soundly. Our plan is to polish our skills under instructors’ guidance before we challenge the fierce fist again, to save our club’s face.” The whip man answered with his quick wits, wiping the sweat on his forehead.

“So, you really got beaten quickly? Tell me about the details.” Obviously the youth in white was interested in the unknown opponent.

“Yes, Brother Wang, it went like this: we were not the first to fight fierce fist, it was the leader of Luan Shui who...” The two young men hurried their account as if absolved fortunately.

“So I only had my narrow escape when Leader Yu gave up and made the entreaty, or I would not be standing here if I really got that kick.”

“So the ‘fierce fist’ you are speaking of can really crack your spear with a stick, and pull Brother Li to his side with ease? Seems his level in body tempering must have surpassed the tenth. If not he must be born with brute force. No wonder you two are no match for him at all.“

The youth in white, persuaded by the narration, eased his graveness a little.

“That’s definitely true, younger brother. Nobody knows his real looks, and he reached the top seat as soon as he began to fight for the Black Fox. Although he has had many amazing feasts his skills seem to have grown consummate in the past half year, even beating the well-renowned Feng Jun of Tian Lu club, breaking his seven ribs with bare fists and sent him lying in bed even till now.” Brother Li echoed the youth’s words in a hurry.

“You mean even Feng Jun is defeated by fierce fist? He almost got enrolled into Kai Yuan martial arts school last year! Now he must have reached the tenth level in body tempering, and has practised the devil art of iron body. You mean even under such conditions he was still badly beaten and taken to his bed? Now I’m more interested in this mysterious guy!” The youth in white lift his anger; on the contrary, he creased into a hearty smile unexpectedly.

“So brother Wang, you mean to...” The two standing opposite were quite stunned at the sudden change of attitude, one of the attempting a guess, watchful and reverent.

“I don’t care whatever methods you use, but do bring me this guy. I’m going to have a good fight with him, to see if he can take my firing spear.” The youth in white answered unhesitatingly.

“But...”

“Sure, we shall definitely try to bring this guy for you. “The spear man was still in some doubt, while Brother Li promised readily.

At the answer the youth in white left in satisfaction.

“So, are we really going to ask fierce fist out?” The spear man vent his grudge against his company.

“Don’t you know Brother Wang well? Should we not promise him he’d definitely give us a good strike. Take it easy, we only need to deliver a message to one of the Luan Shui guys. As to whether fierce fist would come or not it will not be our business.”

“Yes, indeed! I was being a fool! If fierce fist refused to come, Brother Wang would definitely go for him personally, so that we can have ourselves avenged.” The spear man came to a sudden understanding.

“That’s right, the art of firing spear, though belonging to accomplished level, is one of the few arts that could be mastered by practitioners. Even that fierce fist should get beaten before the skill.” This idea filling the two with expectancy, they left the club in elated spirits.

......

On the other hand, Shi Mu, or the current fierce fist, was quite unaware of the coming trouble.
But he would not care much even if the news came to him. After all such events had taken place not once during the half year’s period as he played the role of fierce fist. One of the events was when Feng Jun of Tian Lu club challenged him after being instigated by a small sect. Shi Mu smashed Feng Jun’s armour within threr strikes, using his Stone-Breaking Fist, thus sending the challenger abed for nearly a month.

Speaking of the reason why he began to play the role of fierce fist, it was rather a simple one. As soon as he joined Feng Liu club he was seen practising his nearly accomplished Stone-Breaking Fist, which amazed Feng Li and Gao Yuan exceedingly, the two catching the opportunity to approach him and eventually having their purpose fulfilled when Shi Mu was persuaded into taking the place of the lately deceased fierce fist, number one practitioner in Luan Shui sect, who had just died of an illness. Shi Mu thus gained a regular income of large amount by protecting Luan Shui sect from the threat of other sects, the money supplying him with frequent use of herbs in medicine bath.

At this moment Shi Mu came into the city again, finding his way to a dilapidated street within Luan Shui’s territory. The street was not longer than thirty zhang, its either side bare without much trading business. Even so, Shi Mu paid his visit there, showing himself in a blacksmith’s shop, casting his expectant look at a burly fellow, his skin bronze, his upper body unclothed while poring over an illustrated paper with eyes wide open. Before long his face puckered.

“What? Even Master Ma is unable to make the pair of weapon?” Seeing his knit eyebrows Shi Mu asked anxiously.

“Its design is so delicate, needs much energy to make, but given longer time I believe I can make it step by step. The key to the whole problem is the requested material, cold iron, which is extremely rare. I only have a small piece of it. Can I use other material instead?” Hearing Shi Mu’s question, the burly fellow had to move his eyes from the paper and gave Shi Mu an answer after some thought.

“Not a bit, this pair of the Sun and Moon knives will be of much use to me; although I don’t expect them to cut gold or jade, nor do I expect them to be cut by any ordinary weapon. Well, I shall give you another five hundred silver notes, could you get some more cold iron from other blacksmiths? I want the pair made complete and sound. As for the time limit, it will be as long as one month. “Shi Mu answered decidedly.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 14 - Wang Tianhao

Chapter 14 - Wang Tianhao

“Well, money buys everything, come get your weapon one month later. “ Hearing thus the burly fellow promised without thinking, full of confidence.

“Then I’ll rely on you, Master Ma, here’s the front money for you. “ At the promise a trace of a smile played across his lips. He took out a bulging bag of silver from his waist, throwing it to the blacksmith without hesitation.

This master Ma was no ordinary blacksmith; he was the only person who knew the true identity of ‘fierce fist’ apart from Feng Li and Gao Yuan. Besides, rumour had it that he was also a remote relative of Gao Yuan, not only skilled at ironworking but also possible to dwarf the well-known masters in Feng City who excelled at forging knives and swords. The silver mask worn by the real ‘fierce fist’ was made exactly by this pair of professional hands; this was the reason why Shi Mu paid his money in advance without any misgivings - he just believed in the blacksmith’s talent. But gone with the bulging bag was all his current money; now his pocket was not bulging at all.

So there must be other ways that money could flow in.

Speaking of his income, Shi Mu had earned a smaller part of it from his well-located ‘Yuan Xiang Restaurant’ [1], whose business surged after he began to bring his hunted animals from the nearby mountain directly there, which in turn provided him with a pure income of at least a hundred silver notes each month. The other half of his income, meanwhile, was gained by playing the role of ‘fierce fist’. As to the suburban fields Shi Mu did not expect much of them, for the managing of the manor would cost at least most of the collected rent.

It seemed now that he could only resort to ‘that thing’, which he had been planning for a while. Thanks to his just accomplished Wind-Blowing Knife Art which enabled him to produce seven cuts within one movement, he could manage - though with much difficulty - to shift the plan to an earlier date. To finish this was almost impossible for average practitioners: after all, the mutation had no longer happened to his body ever since half a year ago; only till then did he start to perceive the truth that it was almost a wonder for any practitioner to do six cuts in a movement! The proof was his limited progress of doing one more cut in a movement at the huge cost of continued daily practice of the Wind-Blowing Knife Art for half a year!

But this was already no ordinary progress, enough to dwarf all average practitioners; after all, even for Li Canghai the instructor, he could only do nine with the aid of his real qi. Poring over his next plan, Shi Mu left the blacksmith’s after some time, and spent half a day making purchases at some other shops in the city before he at last returned to his sojourning place.

The moment he walked into the room, his looks changed, though minutely, as he cast a brief glance at the window with the assumption of an easy manner. The next moment he strode there, fumbled under the half-opened window and found something which turned out to be a paper ball! But Shi Mu seemed rather calm, unfolding the paper dexterously, then laughed delightedly.
“Seems someone’s begging me to take his money.”

After thinking loudly to himself, he stuffed the paper ball to his shirts, climbed into his bed and fell fast asleep.

The slumber nourished him a lot: it was until dusk when he awoke, full of spirits. After taking out a big parcel from underneath the bed he left his residence again.

One hour later, in the backyard of the fairly well-known Tian Wang Temple [2] in Feng City, Black Fox guys were lying all over the ground, nearly covering the whole yard. Every one of them were rolling in agony, moaning and groaning, daring not to take a single stick or knife from a great many scattered beside them. Even Feng Li and Gao Yuan were downed, unable to move, one with bleeding mouth, the other rolling in dust, both gasping with astonishment at the youth standing before them, spear in hand. Though the two leaders of Luan Shui sect had heard of this opponent’s name as well as his talents, his actual strength far outran their expectation to the extent that he could have handled the two leaders - both had accomplished much in their body tempering - as well as the ten odd burly guards outside the yard within a quarter of an hour.

“Wang Tianhao [3], we’ve scarcely read your challenge note before you came here for fight, that’s not fair!” Though with gnawing pains all over his body Gao Yuan still could not resist his protest.

“Humph! What a good-for-nothing you are! Well, you’re good enough at shouting, I’m sorry. I had a bad mood suddenly this afternoon, so I thought, the earlier I come here greeting your ‘fierce fist’ the better, isn’t it! What, do you have a problem?” The youth in white, though looking rather graceful, answered in a cold, rude manner; lifting his foot he thudded Gao Yuan’s head right half into the earth in an instant. The attacked wanted to make a struggle out of his stomp in great fear, but could only swear loudly with his strengthless body.

Hearing the swear, the youth in white gave another heavy stomp without demur, which tortured Gao Yuan into mute anguish. Angered at his deed, though still terrified, Feng Li tried hard to rise and put up a desperate fight; an aborted attempt as a black shadow whizzed toward the youth at a lightning speed.

The youth raised his eyebrows and sent forward his spear made of refined iron with ease, only to find unexpectedly the black shadow exploding at the spear’s handle with a thunderous boom, while myriad splinters were shoot out flying into all directions. The black shadow, smashing the refined iron, should only be a stone the size of a bowl! The youth’s arms trembled, sending a force that made him step back; meanwhile his head tilted aside at a racing broken stone, a shallow trace of bleeding wound oozing out from his face!

“It’s you, the ‘fierce fist’!!”

The youth in white showed no concern to his wound at all; on the contrary, he fixed his eyes at the new comer - a black-clothed man with a silver mask - full of expectant fanaticism.

“So you are the one that sent me the challenge note?” Shi Mu got the full view of the yard through the holes on his mask, asking the white-robed youth in slow voice.

“Shouldn’t you tell who I am?” The white-robed young man was somewhat surprised at Shi Mu’s unawareness.

“Why? Should I know you?” Having a glance at the challenger’s spear in hand, he strode over to the center of the yard. With a single foot he kicked at an iron knife, making it jump up right into his hand.

“Careful, second brother! This man, Tian Wanghao, is claimed to be the top practitioner in Feng City, and a son of the Wangs who have blood warriors!” Feng Li tried to shout his warning before anything happened.

“Top Practitioner in Feng City! The Wangs of blood warriors! “ Shi Mu’s eyes were alight with surprise at the titles.

“Hehe, I did not proclaim to be the top practitioner, only that all who object to that title were defeated by me. As to the other title, though I’m one of the Wangs, I have not inspired my blood yet to be a blood warrior. “ The youth in white smiled with apparent pride.

Shi Mu’s face grew somewhat solemn at the answer; he could not help but ask, “If so, sir, why do you trifle with a small sect?”

“Haha, to challenge the strong guy, of course. Does that need a reason? Since you’ve come I’ll let these trash off to save my energy. Take my first attack!” Wang Tianhao leaped up abruptly after a loud laugh, shook his hands while grasping the spear, rushing right toward Shi Mu to attempt a sudden stab. Shi Mu only felt his sight faint for a moment before he got the time to see five glaring spear tips right in front of him running into his chest brutally.

At the fierce attack Shi My snorted, and after a simple shake of his arms, his iron knife was transformed into five black shadows striking directly forward, stirring several puff sounds. Once the five spear tips met the knife shadows they were smashed and vanished in no time, but that was not the end: with a glitter of a cold light the sixth spear tip appeared as if from no where, slithering forward to Shi Mu’s forehead as a viper. This attack, whether its speed or angle, was so crafty so as to catch Shi Mu unguarded, leaving him no chance to defense with his iron knife at all; so he could only throw away the knife without second thought, his figure taken back a step with a loud shout, meanwhile his two arms clasped forward as two invisible shadows.

There came a dull sound, stunning the youth in white.

Shi Mu’s hands, both in black gloves, should have gripped the thrown spear tip tightly like two giant iron anvils; the spear was stopped already half an inch before his chest!

But seeing thus the white-robed youth only gave an instant sneer. The ‘fierce fist’, he thought, would be completely wrong if he believed that a single pair of palms could press his spear. So before Shi Mu’s next movement, he twisted the tightly held spear abruptly before giving it another forcible pull backward to his side.

There came a loud drone when the youth found his spear handle made of refined iron shaking violently, but the tip was pressed still in Shi Mu’s hands, not moving an inch. Right from the handle a burning pang crept on, stinging his palm. He sucked back a cold breath, knowing that it was now his own overused strength rubbing off his skin.

Just then Shi Mu, at the other end, extended his fingers to hold the tip even tighter with one hand, while pounding at the handle heavily with the other rapidly, the fist clenched. With a clear sound the iron-made spear, its length over one zhang, started to sink right from the middle, meanwhile another brute force found its way along the handle right toward the youth, swelling wildly from his wrist, rushing onward to his arms.

“Shit, this brute!”

Though already made aware of the fierce fist’s great strength, the idea that he could break iron with inhuman force never occurred to him once. He let out a loud swear immediately at the attack, then stomp heavily on the ground with one foot before he was shoot backward after hurriedly unclasping the half handle in his hand.

Boom! The handle hit hard on the ground directly at the brute force, even squashing the ground into a mud pit the size of a basin, and was then sent leaping into the air by the force.

The youth steadied himself back to his feet, but seeing such a sight his face grew extremely embarrassed. “Peng!” Till then Shi Mu threw the already bent iron handle - now looking like a huge bow - unto the ground without extra trouble, then strode over to his opponent immediately.

“I’ll quit the fight! Your strength is quite inhuman, and I’m without my weapon. Now I finally understand the thing my seniors always mentioned, about a ten-fold strength. Now that I’ve seen a muscular guy like you, whom I’m not sure to defeat even with the full power of my firing spear. But it’ll be another story two or three months later.” The white-robed youth waved off Shi Mu’s pursuing challenge with an unexpected laugh.

“You started the fight, now you want to stop it! Do you think you can always have the final say?” Shi Mu refused in a cold, low voice; after a shake of his shoulders he was now about to teach him a good lesson with his brutal fists.

“I’ll compensate your loss with money!”

The answer obviously stunned Shi Mu, amusing and unexpected, which made Shi Mu begin to question his own hearing.

“I’ll pay you, here’s a small bag of golden beans, far enough to cover your medical expenses. But let’s make it clear, I’m not afraid of you, fierce fist! Only that I don’t have the assurance to beat you right now. It’s not worthwhile to fight you with all strength. Sweating all over my body does not look the bearing of top warrior in Feng City. “ The youth in white leaned backward, his hand lift to throw out a cotton bag the size of a palm.

It was the first time for Shi Mu to meet a narcissist of advanced stage; he could only stare in mute amazement. But just then the youth in white turned around running at full speed, stomped midway to produce a bolstering force, with which his whole body should directly fly over the wall two zhang high, only leaving his faint voice floating from the other side of the wall,

“Haha, remember, fierce fist, I’m Wang Tianhao, the one destined to defeat you in the near future.”

Then it was only absolute silence over the wall.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Notes:
[1] Yuan Xiang Restaurant: “Yuan Xiang” means a faraway fragrance, indicating the restaurant’s high level.
[2] Tian Wang Temple: “Tian Wang” means “the lord of the heaven”.
[3] Wang Tianhao: “Wang” is the family name, while “Tian” means heaven and “Hao” means the vast heaven, the two together making a given name.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 15 - Jin Yuzhen

Chapter 15 - Jin Yuzhen

As Feng Li hurriedly helped Gao Yuan back to his feet, Shi Mu had already picked up the cotton bag and unclasped it to steal a glance inside. Seeing the contents he showed an expression of evident satisfaction.

“Second Brother, it’s all thanks to your timely help, or my fellows would all suffer in Wang Tianhao’s hands.” Feng Li gave Shi Mu a bitter smile, his face contorted in pain.

“That’s right, we were lucky to have Second Leader in time.”

“That proud bastard Wang Tianhao could not even stand Second Leader’s two strikes before he begged for mercy.”

“Sure, our Second Leader should have that title of top practitioner in Feng City.”

All the other black fox guys, now fully back to their feet, were so anxious to offer their flattery that even their aching bodies were ignored; every one of them was immersed in a celebrating atmosphere as if their spirits were twice heightened. After all, they heard clearly that their mysterious second leader had just defeat the so-called top practitioner in Feng City, which naturally meant that as long as no accomplished warriors were involved their Black Fox sect could from now on domineer over all the small sects.

“Well, I’ve got other things in hand, let’s call it a day then.” Unmoved by the rapturous crowd Shi Mu took his leave with a wave, not forgetting to stuff the bag into his shirt.

“Hold on, Second Brother, Third Brother and I still have some words with you. “ Upset by his sudden leave Feng Li called to him in a hurry.

“Some more words? Well, then I’ll stay a little longer. “ Tilting his head and giving it some thought, Shi Mu promised readily.

Feng Li was quite gladdened, thus turned to ask his fellows out, “Go and deal with your wounds now.”

Black fox guys were not slow to sense some importance in the private conversation soon to be held among their three leaders, so they all retired one after another. Judging from their excited looks, surely the scene where Shi Mu defeat Tian Wanghao was deeply printed on their minds and would be soon circulating among their fellow members.

“You two were really unkind this time, the opponent’s got such powerful strength, but you didn’t even inform me of that! Or you thought I wouldn’t come if I knew it?” Shi Mu questioned them unreservedly as soon as all had left.

“Brother Shi, please pardon us this time! It’s definitely our fault, we won’t let you go without being compensated.” An embarrassed expression came into Feng Li’s face at Shi Mu’s bluntness.

“But please do believe us Brother Shi, this time we did have difficulties informing you of the details: on the one hand, we had no idea the challenger was Wang Tianhao, only guessing that some proud guy of Jin Gang club was asking for trouble; on the other, Wang Tianhao caught us completely unprepared, leaving us no time to do some previous investigations.” Gao Yuan lost no time providing a convincing reason.

“If so, it is a pardonable offense then, or I should really consider quitting cooperation with you. Well, what did you two want to tell me?” Hearing the explanation Shi Mu nodded, the tensions between the two party eased a little.

“Thank you for your understanding! Brother Shi, do we have the chance to have you as our real leader? “ Feng Li first signed with relief, then asked with a solemn face.

The question did not come as a surprise to Shi Mu; on the contrary, he asked lightly, “So you want to make me the actual ‘fierce fist’, the second leader of the Black Fox?”

“Not the second, but the first, the real boss! Give me a nod and I’ll call all the fellows together to hand over the top seat to you, and will ever since assist you with Third Brother wholeheartedly. “ Feng Li gave a ready answer to Shi Mu.

“Big Brother Feng, that’s not what we’d decided!” Gao Yuan was quite taken aback at such a rash promise.

“Third Brother, haven’t you seen that Black Fox will still exist without the two of us, while short of Brother Shi’s help it would be vanquished within a month by other Feng city sects. Black Fox’s territory has grown nearly four-fold its original size, do you still think we have the ability to manage such a big sect?” Feng Li forced a smile telling the truth, which rendered Gao Yuan mute with a resistant heart.

“I’ll only say sorry this time, I’ve got no intentions to get involved into sects, I can only promise you my limited cooperation. Brother Feng, you should know clearly about my ambition. I’ve devotedly myself wholly to the end of being a warrior, other things will only be a waste of time.” Shi Mu refused decidedly after some thought in silence.

“Brother Shi, are you sure you don’t need more time to ponder over the offer? I know your great ambition, but there will be much more difficulty in the road of a warrior than you have imagined. However, at this moment, your one nod will bring hundreds of fellows at your service, don’t you consider it a perfect bargain?” Although in despair Feng Li still decided to try his luck a second time, in a more compelling tone.

“That won’t make any temptation to me, you may drop the idea forever. Also, the cooperation between us will end as soon as I manage to acquire qi-sensing. “ Shaking his head resolutely, Shi Mu turned to leave without demur, leaving Feng Li and Gao Yuan in a dead silence, their hope failed, while the former tried to say something but only moved his lips in vain.

On the other hand, Shi Mu did not return home thence, but went to Liu Feng Martial Arts club directly after packaging all his role-playing stuff. There in the club he did not leave until went through another time of the devastating exercise - the striking of iron sticks at acupuncture points all over his body, after which he left for his city residence with contorted face and bruised body, bearing insufferable pains.

As he limped over a certain flashy restaurant he was quite unaware of being pointed at by two young girls at the third storey.

“Yu Huan, is that one your nominal elder brother? Why, he looks a wretched cripple! Can’t it be that he was bullied in the club by some strong guys?” An attractive girl in yellow blouse was making the observation, sitting at the opposite of a glamorously dressed girl of her age.

“Nominal? He’s my father’s natural son, so he’s my blood brother of the same father!” The glamorously dressed girl was exactly Shi Mu’s younger sister ‘Shi Yuhuan’, whom he had met only once but now got shielded from censure by her. Yu Huan was obviously irritated by her company’s remark, retorting her with a solemn face after moving her eyes from Shi Mu passing below.

“I’m telling the truth! Apart from Auntie Seven and you, nobody admits him in our family. See his tattered looks, he hasn’t got the makings of a warrior, has he? If so, it’s a shame to give him our only Qi Ling pill!” The girl in yellow blouse made a reply full of overtones.

“Humph, I know there’s some plot or why should you be so nice to invite me here for dinner? Seems someone’s been bought by Uncle Five to be a persuader.” Shi Yuhuan responded with a sardonic snort, perceiving her company’s purpose.

“Cousin Yu Huan, then you are wrong this time. It’s not Uncle Five that asked me here, but his son Jin Tian. Jin Tian was sure that so along as you persuade Shi Mu to give up the pill then your mother wouldn’t say no. Also, Shi Mu will get a big compensation for it. “ The girl in yellow blouse laughed at the missed guess, clasping in pride.

“Though I’ve only met Shi Mu once, I can sense that he is not someone to be persuaded, plus my mother feels sorry for his mother, so she won’t let the Jins bully him without taking any action. Go and tell Jin Tian to give up plotting!” Shi Yuhuan answered bluntly.

“Well, all right, I’m only doing as paid, I’ll deliver your words to Jin Tian,” the girl in yellow blouse was unexpectedly easy to handle; she waved off the topic and did not mention it ever.

“Judging from your temper you won’t do it unless paid a huge sum. “ Shi Yuhuan curled her lips, apparently losing her interest in the various delicious dishes on the table.

“That’s for sure, or who could he turn to except me? I’m the closet to you in our family! By the way, see my new jade hairpin? What do you think of it?” Jin Yuzhen did not care about the aborted persuasion at all, only turning to the new topic in high spirits, producing an extremely exquisite jade hairpin from her sleeves.

Seeing the jade hairpin it was Shi Yuhuan’s turn to be surprised.

“That’s quite strange! If my memory did not fail me, you rarely buy jewelry, always proud of your born beauty. “

“What’s so strange about it? Isn’t there a saying, ‘a girl will doll herself up for him who loves her’!” Jin Yuzhen replied with a thin smile.

“For him who loves her? Don’t you mean Wu Hua?” Shi Yuhuan was stunned, her eyes wide open.

“Wu Hua, that good-for-nothing stalker? How is it possible? I mean Wang Tianhao of Jin Gang club, the son of the Wangs of blood warriors!” Jin Yuzhen answered without thinking.

“Wang Tianhao, the one of level ten in body tempering, and the top practitioner known for his accomplished art of firing spear? Is he going to visit our Jins?” Shi Yuhuan’s eyes were alight with expectancy after hearing the name.

“Mind you, Shi Yuhuan, this Wang Tianhao’s my target, don’t you ever compete with me!” Seeing her company’s excitement Jin Yuzhen became somewhat diffident, lacking in self-confidence.

“Nonsense, I only look forward to seeing with my own eyes if the legendary firing spear deserves its reputation! His title only remains because we experts from the big clans do not pick a fight with him, or how could he get that title of top practitioner that easily?” Shi Yuhuan gave her company a disapproving stare.

“You tomboy! Well, whatever you say Wang Tianhao is brilliant enough, plus his blood of the Wangs. This time our grandfather invited him to our manor personally, so he must be thinking of a marriage. I’ve told you not to compete with me by then, definitely not! By the way, are you sure to take your brother’s side this time, no matter what happens? I’m afraid Jin Tian won’t give up the pill easily.” Speaking of the coming marriage Jin Yuzhen cracked a hearty smile, her face lit up with happiness.

“Go and send Jin Tian a word, even if Shi Mu sucks in skills he’s still my brother by blood. It’s all right if Jin Tian tries some upright ways; but if ever he harbours any evil plans I’ll break his legs right before the enrollment test to Kai Yuan Martial Arts School.” At the her company’s question Shi Yuhuan’s delicate face froze as cold as ice and frost.
Jin Yuzhen pursed her lips seeing Shi Yuhuan’s stern face while vindicating her brother’s honour to such an extent.

Surely Shi Mu was quite unaware of his reduced heroic image in his blood sister’s eyes. Once returned to his residence he immediately immersed himself in the boiling water of medicine bath.

Covering his face with a hot towel, leaning against the basin’s edge, Shi Mu closed his eyes tightly, his mind, however, experiencing upheavals when he rehearsed his long-harboured plan thoroughly again.

“The golden hamster.”

Breaking the silence, suddenly he murmured to himself.

[xianxiaworld]

Chapter 16 - The Golden Hamster

Chapter 16 - The Golden Hamster

Thee days later, early in the morning.

With a huge parcel, the size half the height of an average man, Shi Mu trotted by himself to the rolling mountains where he had hunted wild animals; after climbing over seven or eight hilltops without taking a rest, he eventually reached the fringe of a bamboo forest, which was verdant in an unusual way, shining with a luster of emerald green.

It took him as long as one hour to circle the bamboo forest, its area amounting to a hundred mu, for several times to achieve his laborious investigation: he found the traces left by his target. Only till then he laid down his huge parcel, fumbling out a shovel, not quite big though, to dig a pit in the nearby ground.

But strangely enough, his movements seemed excessively cautious, as if afraid of attracting attention. In this way the pit, as big as a tank, several zhang in depth, was only finished until noon.

This done, Shi Mu then produced some bottles and jars from his parcel, dropped some unknown powder and fluids into the pit, then covered it fully with twigs. Many bamboo leaves were added to the surface afterwards, before he finished his arrangement by scattering some mud onto it.

In this way a delicate trap was finished.

Observing his arrangement from every angle, Shi Mu seemed quite satisfied and content himself, a trace of smile flashing across his face spontaneously.

The arrangement of the trap was learned from Zhong Gong Mi Dian - the secret arts of the Zhong clan - as well as the making of the power and the fluids; without them even if he could produce seven cuts in one movement, his assurance of obtaining his target would definitely be reduced.


After looking up to the sun high up in the sky, he gauged the time and fumbled out a paper ball without hesitation, which, when opened, reveled a dough of golden color. He then poured all the fluids contained in a small bottle onto the mysterious dough; immediately an overpowering smell of nondescript fragrance of meat were diffused into the air.

“Hope that this secret recipe of the bait got from the old hunter in the city could be of use, or even the money I paid for the material would be wasted, as much as thirty liang of silver.” Shi Mu murmured to himself as he shook his wrist, sending the golden dough floating right down onto the center of the trap.

All done, he took out a blackish wooden knife and a profusely large cloak of emerald green, covered himself and then threw his parcel behind a huge rock. Back to his trap, he lowered his body and lay prone beside it, motionless as a dead body.

Seen from afar, it was complete flat ground where the trap was made, nothing abnormal able to be found.

Lying still on the ground, Shi Mu held his breath, the warm air puffed out of his nostrils as thin as invisible; staring hard at the bamboo wood, he barely blinked his eyes while the information he had got flashed across his mind again.

The golden hamster, alternate name medicine-hunting hamster, was a unique animal found only in Quan Zhou, a variation of the common piebald mountain mouse which would bite its brood siblings to death as soon as it was born; at its third month golden down began to appear on its back, after which it had the ability to find and take some medicine needed. One year later, when the golden hamster reached its mature age, its talent would be inspired, leading it to find without difficulty some rare herbs. Hence possessing a tamed golden hamster equaled living with a born master of herbs who could find you rare medicine. However, though offered a whopping price the hamster was rarely seen in the market: few would sell their medicine-hunting masters even if they did have. Shi Mu only found one accidentally when he chased after a wild fox as far as to the verge of the bamboo forest, overjoyed by finding one of this hugely famous animals in Quan Zhou.

But he was too cautious to take immediate steps that time. Though the golden hamster did not belong to the rank of holy animals, it did deluded many by dashing at a lightning speed thus to vanish into thin air, its shadows invisible. Owing to its inherent vigilance, if not caught at one strike, it would be faintly possible to catch it at a second attempt.

Therefore during this period, every time Shi Mu came to the hilltop for practice, he would always come out of the way to observe this gold hamster’s routine. Now that he had progressed to seven cuts in a movement in his Wind-Blowing Knife, plus the trap learned from Zhong Gong Mi Dian as well as the making of the bait, he finally set his mind to put his plan into practice today.

......

Exactly when Shi Mu had finished his trap to hunt for the golden hamster, inside the hall of Jin Gang martial arts club in Feng City, a sandy-haired elder man was reproaching Wang Tianhao standing in front angrily,

“What tricks are you playing this time? I asked you to find a girl to marry in the Jins, not to pick a fight with the Junior Jins, as well as beat them!”

“Uncle Xu, how could you blame me for beating them? It was exactly the juniors who asked me instruct their arts, only that I somewhat lost control of myself. But speaking of the Jins’ skills, apart from Shi Yuhuan, not a single one of them was able to take my first strike. A pack of good-for-nothing idolaters, wasting half of my day!” Wang Tianhao stretched himself with a yawn, a air of complete carelessness.

“You bastard, the Jins are our Wangs’ ally in Quan Zhou, who told you to strike them instead of looking at the girls? Well well, now I’ve got to clear up your messy situation myself, going to their manor to apologize to their eldest. From now on you just stay here, practising your firing spear. Before accomplishing your “Hun Tian art”, you are confined to the club!” Staring at Wang Tianhao with his eyes wide open, the elder Xu ordered him, feeling rather difficult to handle his nephew.

“I don’t care about being confined at all. After all it’s the day of competition only half a month later, I just need time to save my energy. “ Wang Tianhao answered in a gay and boisterous manner.

“Humph, so long as you act inattentive I’d no hope in you at all. “ Uncle Xu snorted.

“Why? You mean there comes some powerful guy from other clubs?” Wang Tianhao sensed some overtones from his uncle’s reprimand, his spirits instead immensely elated.

“You crazy guy! Guess you’d lose sleep if I don’t tell you. “ His nephew’s respond made him rather at a loss whether to cry or to laugh.

“Hehe,I know Uncle Xu knows me best. “ Wang Tianhao offered his readily flattery, his looks now compliant and sweet.

“As far as I know, this time Fei Hong club has asked some genius to help them change their always-the-last-one fate. They say that though the guy is not a blood warrior he has inborn body of ‘solid earth’ ”. Uncle Xu answered, now with a solemn face.

“The body of ‘solid earth’? Is is the legendary body well-known for its defense force, immune to bodily harm?” Till now Wang Tianhao was surprised indeed.

“Hehe, as long as you now it’s rather difficult to handle. Judging from your current skills, I don’t think you able to break his defense with your firing spear. “ Uncle Xu replied with a sneer.

“Maybe I really can’t break the defense of a ‘solid earth’ body, but I know a practitioner in our city who can definitely do that. If he takes part in this competition then there will be something worthwhile to see. ” Wang Tianhao paused for a brief thought, then laughed heartily as something came to his mind.

“Oh? You mean the ‘fierce fist’ you mentioned the other day?” Uncle Xu’s eyes now were alight with excitement.

“Exactly, I’ve seen his skills with this pair of eyes. His strength can reach at least a thousand jin, or he wouldn’t have snapped the iron spear with bare hands. “Wang Tianhao answered without hesitation.

“Well, it seems true according to what you said. This fierce fist could really confront the ‘solid earth’ body to some extent. But it’s a shame competitors should only the practitioners under the age of eighteen. If ‘fierce fist’ is already the leader of a small sect, he must be over the eighteen then. “ Uncle Xu was quite sure of his reasoning.

“That’s true, or I shall not retire from the fight with him. I’ll definitely fight him with all my strength if he’s my age, if only for my title of the city’s top practitioner. “ Nodding his head, Wang Tianhao said in a proud tone.

Hearing such an ambitious proclamation, Uncle Xu lost his words; he was proud of his nice nephew in every way, except his arrogance, he always ready show-off.
......

Whiz! Whiz!

Seven black knife shadows rolled and vanished; after smashing several invisible shadows of light yellow, the knife finally reached the owner of the shadows.

A little golden animal, its size a fist, fell down from mid air after letting out some squeaks, right into the huge pit waiting below. The trap was already half revealed.

Seeing his sudden sneak attack hitting right at the target, Shi Mu was too overjoyed to hold his wooden knife. Throwing it into mid air and grasping it single-handled, a huge silk net was thrown darting out to cover the surface of the pit.

“Peng!”

As the little golden animal tried to dash out of the pit, it bumped against the silk net and could only drop down into the bottom again. After some ten odd times of attempt, the golden animal’s jump grew powerless, then no sound came out of the pit again.

Only till then Shi Mu approached the pit with enough caution, stealing a quick glance into it: the little golden animal, now strengthless, was no longer able to move it body as it was glued to the colorful fluids at the bottom.

At the sight Shi Mu finally set his mind at rest. He turned around to the nearby huge rock, fumbling in his package for a iron wire cage and rushed toward the pit with it excitedly. But as he turned he blanched at what he saw immediately.

Beside the pit, which should be known to nobody, was now standing a blue-robed man with a sword over his shoulder, and the little golden animal was already in his hand struggling fiercely, the man observing it from every angle, rocking his head back and forth: the little one should definitely be the golden hamster previously glued unconscious to the bottom of the pit.

“This elder warrior, I believe the golden hamster should be mine!” Seeing the golden hamster in his hand, Shi Mu’s heart leaped to his throat, but he still managed to contain his anxiety with a deep breath, asking politely.

“Well, young boy, do you consider me a thief grabbing your prey?” The blue-robed man turned his body, said in a cold voice.

Till then Shi Mu could make out that, though apparently in his thirties, and a Taoist priest, his eyebrows had grown so long to his temples, and his eyes as sharp as a knife, showing a fierce assumption, murderous and brutal.

“I can tell in a glance that senior must be an outstanding warrior, but this golden hamster...it’s caught by me with all effort...” Scarcely had Shi Mu braced himself to persuade when he felt an unusual sense of strange coldness rushing unto his face; immediately he was frozen, as though in ice, his whole body cold and numb.

This enigmatic blue-robed man should have resort to violent treachery in no time.

“Why, the notorious Cold Sword should have intended to kill a mere practitioner for his treasure; I wonder who would believe in my story if I make it public...”

Just as Shi Mu was frozen still, nearly falling unconscious, a heavenly, melodious voice came to his ears.