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  1. #41
    Moderator CrazyT's Avatar
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    This is a very intriguing story Tu Vi. Good job. You got a fan in me! <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> Can't wait for your next few updates (as I like to read in chunks). Keep it up.
    I would love to change the world, but they won't give me the source code.

  2. #42
    Junior Member Tu Vi's Avatar
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    to lil-bubble- The Kiet and Mai Tu Diep are essential characters so they will definitely show up again. glad you like this chapter. <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0">
    to Bubeng- welll, i was thinking that they couldn't afford to fight for a long time since their internal energy was rapidly decreasing. They have to hit once and hit hard not to drag out the fight. hope that make sense. and of course, thank you for your honest comment. It helps me improve on my writing. so thank you.

    to zzzbeauty- hope this chapter answers some of your questions. hehe, your sister-in-law? I'll definitely think about it. grin.

    <IMG SRC="smilies/hug.gif" border="0">

    to Crazy T- glad to see another reader. hehe, hope you will enjoy this chapter.

    Tu Vi


    Chapter 12- Dangerous Alliance
    Louis Koo- Kim Bat Pham
    Julian Cheung- Tieu Phong (Little Wind)
    Carman Lee- Nam Cung Hong
    Vivian Leung – Vuong Nha Yen
    Ruby Lin- Lam Tam Nhu
    Nicky Wu- Vuong Nhat Phi


    Lavender twilight settled gently over the small inn and illuminated its roof in scarlet. The wind whispered gently over the swaying trees as the songs of the night crickets rose in perfect harmony. The gleaming sun disappeared behind the blazing horizon. And splashed against the blooming sky, a lone bird cut across the air silently, its thin wings beating almost desperately as it searched for its mate.
    Inside one of the inn’s room, Nha Yen (Vivian Leung) stood, staring out at the brilliant sunset as she listened almost absently to her brother’s explanation.
    “You were the first to lose consciousness because you came into physical contact with one of the butterflies. The coating on its wings immediately entered your skin and reacted against the dormant poison already in your body.” Nhat Phi (Nicky Wu) was explaining to Tieu Phong. “All of the three elements, the food, the flowers and the butterflies were harmless individually but when combined, they became deadly.”
    “The Black Snakes Mistress wasn’t leaving anything up to chance.” Cung Hong said in her melodious voice. She was looking rather fetching, Tieu Phong thought, in a pale blue dress and frilly laces. No, not just fetching, he admitted to himself, incredibly beautiful. And for some odd reason, that annoyed him.
    “Unfortunately, she didn’t consider the Blue Robes and City of Mist.” Bat Pham said as he held a steaming cup of tea in his hand. “Blue Robes, Nha Yen, what do you know about them?”
    Nha Yen turned around, “Blue Robes came into existence ten years ago, ruled by Lanh Nhat Phan (Gilbert Lam), a ruthless swordsman whose identity remained unknown. They mostly concentrated on the business world, ruling the underworld trading both on land and sea. Their foremost priority seemed to be acquiring as much money as possible. They had a few brushes with the government as Ming frowned on any trading that wasn’t done under its control. But the government has never managed to crack down completely on Blue Robes because all of its members are very illusive. They have extensive contact within the pugilist world and there are rumors that they were control by some dissatisfied faction within the imperial court of Ming. Of course, that was never proven.”
    “If they are so interested in money, then why would they care about the Red Script?” Cung Hong mused.
    “Because the Red Script could be sold for a very large sum of money.” Nha Yen answered.
    “Then what about the City of Mist? What happened afterward?” Tieu Phong asked with some confusion.
    “We don’t know. After the Blue Robes had been chased off, the City of Mist simply disappeared.” Nha Yen frowned slightly, “they should have attacked us. It was the perfect opportunity. Everyone was down and they could have easily took the map and yet they didn’t.”
    “The City of Mist never does anything half-way. There must be a reason.” Cung Hong muttered.
    “We simply have to wait and see.” Bat Pham stood up and smiled gently, “we are all exhausted. Why don’t we get some sleep and discuss this tomorrow?”

    It was late. Millions of bright stars sparkled on the black dome of heaven. The moon was but a thin, luminous strip against the velvety sky. Its pale light shone silver on the tiny courtyard and on the lone figure that lay on the roof.
    Tieu Phong frowned in annoyance as a faint fragrance of roses reached him.
    “What are you doing here?” He asked ungraciously as Cung Hong landed next to him.
    “Same as you, enjoying the night.” Cung Hong replied loftily.
    Instead of replying, Tieu Phong merely closed his eyes and willed away her scent.
    “The sky is so clear and close that I feel like I could just reach out and grab a star with my hand.” Cung Hong said softly. She smiled cheerfully, “when I was young, I fully expect my father to do it for me. It was such a disappointing shock that he couldn’t. I remember I cried for nearly two hours afterward because I thought he wouldn’t do it for me.”
    “Why are you such a chatterbox in all the sudden?” Tieu Phong asked.
    “And why are you so grumpy in all the sudden?” Cung Hong asked back.
    “You were a spoiled child, weren’t you?” Tieu Phong murmured after a long moment.
    “Yes.” Cung Hong grinned shamelessly, “and I love it.” She laid down next to Tieu Phong, “what about you?”
    Tieu Phong opened his eyes and stared blankly at the sky, “I don’t remember.”
    “Oh, come on. Everyone remember something from their childhood. Do you have any siblings?” Cung Hong sighed, “I was an only child and was sorely disappointed with my parents as they didn’t produce any brother or sister for me.”
    Tieu Phong didn’t say anything as he watched a star streaked down from the sky and disappeared into darkness. He could almost hear a faraway voice, reciting all the names of the stars to him. “And that one is the maiden with the water. See, it looks like she is holding a jug of water. What should we call her?” A childish yet serious voice sounded in his ears. “Beauty.” He muttered.
    “What?” Cung Hong turned toward him with puzzled eyes.
    “Nothing.” Annoyed at his own weakness, Tieu Phong smiled at her. “You know, you really are beautiful.” He reached out and traced a hand down her cheek, not quite touching her. His smile only widened when he saw the fire heating up in her dark eyes, “you are like the ocean, violent and stormy and yet breathtaking at the same time.”
    “Are you flirting with me?” Cung Hong asked suspiciously.
    “If I am, do you object?” Tieu Phong cocked his head.
    He frowned when he saw her eyes darkened with sadness and something that much resembled pity.
    “It is sad when you have to resort to flirtation to avoid your own feelings.” Cung Hong shook her head and stood up.
    “I have no feelings, at least not the kind that you are talking about.” Tieu Phong merely smiled at her even thought something inside him stilled.
    “You are a fool if you believe that.” Cung Hong said quietly as she flew gracefully down.
    Tieu Phong merely shrugged as he continued to look at the night sky. He hadn’t lied to Cung Hong. After all, the game was no fun if he allowed feelings to interfere with it. And it has just started. He fell asleep with a faint smile on his lips, whether his smile was cynical or wistful, not even he knew.

    On the other side of the inn, near a trickling stream, sat a feminine figure dressed in a pale yellow robe. Nha Yen’s eyes were lost in thought as she stared at the barely moving water. The wind was blowing gently as it tossed up fallen leaves and scattered flower petals. The scent of the night was heady with flowers’ fragrance and musky smell of the earth and green grass. A few crickets chirped cheerfully from their nests but Nha Yen didn’t seem to hear them. She didn’t turn around as she heard the soft footsteps and then his now familiar presence.
    “Beautiful night.” Bat Pham said quietly as he sat down next to Nha Yen.
    “The lull before a storm.” Nha Yen said pensively. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear in a purely feminine gesture.
    Bat Pham blinked as he felt something strange tugging at his heart when he saw her movement. Faintly surprise at himself, he smiled, “we got pass one hurdle today, we will get pass another one.” He plucked a yellow sunflower next to him and handed it casually to Nha Yen.
    Nha Yen nearly gaped in shock. No one had ever dared to give her a flower before. It was far too intimate a gesture for the White Fairy and yet Bat Pham seemed oblivious to what he has done. Smiling, she accepted the flower and twirled it almost absently in her hand.
    “I still haven’t got a chance to thank you.” Bat Pham said suddenly.
    “For what?”
    “For saving my life, as I remembered I managed to pass out at your feet. Not a very pretty sight.” Bat Pham smiled charmingly. “So thank you.”
    Oh, he could be charming when he wanted to. Nha Yen realized, she had thought that it was Tieu Phong who got all the charms in the group but it turned out Bat Pham’s charm was no less potent, but only less obvious. She smiled serenely at the realization. There were more layers to this seemingly gentle, perfect man.
    “You are very welcome.”
    “I still don’t understand why the City of Mist let us go.” Bat Pham frowned slightly. “As Cung Hong said, there must be a reason.”
    “We’ll know sooner or later. What is the point of worrying about it now?”
    “You’re right.” Bat Pham inhaled deeply, “this night is far too perfect for us to be concern with such a bloody matter.” He turned and smiled at Nha Yen and to her shock, a dimple on his left cheek winked at her. The affect was even most devastating than if he had both dimples. She blinked and for the first time in her life, was speechless.
    Unaware of his affect, Bat Pham idly took a tiny stone and threw it into the water. The waves rippled and pushed back toward the shore, “but I suspect that the City of Mist’s action today would have a ripple affect sooner or later. I just hope that we can handle it.”
    “We can.” Nha Yen laid a reassuring hand on his sleeve. He was worry, she knew. As he was the one who her father had given the duty to, he has assumed responsibility over everyone in the group. If it was just himself, he would have brush today’s encounter away but now he was saddled with everyone’s lives. And it was a heavy duty, especially for a man who has lived in isolation for nearly all his life. “I’m sorry.”
    “For what?” Bat Pham looked at her.
    “For this.” Nha Yen spread her arms, “for the duty my father has bestowed upon you.”
    “It is my responsibility.” Bat Pham said simply. He shook his head and changed the subject, “it is late; we should get some sleep.”
    Amused, Nha Yen smiled at him.
    “What?” Bat Pham stood up and brushed away the leave that clung to his robe.
    “Nothing, but sometimes you worry too much.” She too rose and walked companionably with Bat Pham toward the inn, “what do you think is going on between Cung Hong and Tieu Phong?” She asked curiously.
    “A gentleman never discusses his friends’ relationship.” Bat Pham said almost loftily but then he grinned, “but I wouldn’t object to hear what you think.”
    Nha Yen cocked her head and stared solemnly at him, “a lady never discuss it either.” She fingered the flowers in her hand, “but if we combine our efforts together, I think we could figure it out.”
    “All right.” Bat Pham lifted his hand and casually brushed away a strand of grass on Nha Yen’s shoulder. “You have a deal.”
    They grinned conspiratorially at each other.

    “The Golden Lantern” was a very successful inn, perched at the crossroad between the north and the south. Its business was brisk as it catered to all of its customers’ needs. The food was legendary and the beds were soft, the service was impeccable and there was a gaming room tucked discretely at the back of the inn for anyone who had the need to gamble. Its owner was a hard-eyed man with a limp who had a shrewd sense for business and human natures. All of these combinations were enough to make “The Golden Lantern” one of the richest inns in the area.
    It was late in the afternoon when the restaurant underneath the inn was loud with noise and chatters that the group entered.
    “Please, follow me.” The waiter ran up and led everyone toward a large table in the corner. He snapped his towel and wiped the already gleaming surface again. “What will you have?”
    “Your specialty for the day, wine and a fresh pot of tea, please.”
    “Yes, Young Master.”
    After the waiter had rushed off, Cung Hong looked around the inn. There was an odd combinations of every classes in here, from pugilists, businessmen to scholars.
    “Cung Hong, relax, when it hit, it hit. We can’t keep looking over our shoulders everyday.” Nha Yen said softly and placed her hand over Cung Hong’s tense one.
    “You are right.” Cung Hong smiled grimly, “it is just that these past three days have been so peaceful. I am sure that they are still behind us.”
    “Of course they are. We have most of the sects in the mo lam world chasing after us.” Tieu Phong smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes, “there is another way.”
    “Oh?” Bat Pham looked at him.
    “It will take longer.” Tieu Phong dipped his fingers in the cup of tea and drew the map. “According to the direction, we’ll enter Zhou territory in seven days if we keep going in a straight line. But what if we turn and cross through Beijing instead.”
    “But that will take nearly half a month for what could be accomplish in a week.” Cung Hong protested.
    “Ah, but I can guarantee you that we can lose most of the sects chasing after us in Beijing.” Tieu Phong lifted a hand.
    “How?”
    “Remember that Beijing is the home of the most powerful family in the world, the royal family. The defense and guards around the city is so tight that not even a strayed mosquito can enter through. If we go there and create some kind of disturbance, nearly all the sects will be detained by the imperial guards while we can slip through the cracks. With our lightness kungfu, I don’t think that it will be much of a problem. Or if worse come to worse, I can lead you through the secret path.”
    “What secret path?” Cung Hong asked.
    “If I tell you, it wouldn’t be secret now, would it?” Tieu Phong grinned cockily, “but I can assure you that I can lose most of the sects in Beijing.”
    “Why are you so sure?” Nha Yen spoke up.
    “Because I was born a street rat there. I know the passages and streets like the back of my hand.”
    “What does everyone think?” Bat Pham looked around. “Nhat Phi?”
    The silent healer nodded, “I have no objection.” But his blind eyes seemed to pierce through Tieu Phong’s for a split second. There was something infinitely sad in his eyes but then he remained still.
    “Tam Nhu?”
    Tam Nhu nodded, she would have agreed to enter the darkest region of the earth itself if it meant Nhat Phi was with her.
    “Nha Yen?”
    Something indecipherable flickered in Nha Yen’s eyes but she too agreed.
    “Cung Hong?”
    “If everyone agree then..” Cung Hong trailed off and finally nodded.
    “Then it is decided. We will go through Beijing.”

    And that night, in the darkness, a pigeon was released. Its pure white wings fluttered and cut across the dark sky. Two figures, stood in opposite directions, watching its path in silence.
    Though I am old with wandering
    Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
    I will find out where she has gone,
    And kiss her lips and take her hands;
    And walk among long dappled grass,
    And pluck till time and times are done,
    The silver apples of the moon,
    The golden apples of the sun.
    William Butler Yeats

  3. #43
    Senior Member ccsakura's Avatar
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    This Chapter is great, abit shorter then your other ones, but a pleasure to read all the same!! Please Update soon!!! <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

  4. #44
    Senior Member zzzbeauty's Avatar
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    Hi Tu Vi, or should I say future sis in law? <IMG SRC="smilies/naughty.gif" border="0">

    As always, loved this chapter and along with the previous ones. Hmm..I like Nha Yen but I also like Vicky's character too, but who does Bat Pham like?

    Thanks for the update Tu Vi, I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
    where art thou prince? i want to wake up!

  5. #45
    Junior Member Tu Vi's Avatar
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    to ccsakura
    grin, i think that this chapter is a little longer. hope you like it.
    to zzzbeauty- hehe, who Bat Pham like is currently unknown right now. we'll see, right. hope that you would enjoy this chapter.
    Thank you so much for your kind support.
    Love Always,
    Tu Vi

    Chapter 13- Snow Blossoms
    Louis Koo- Kim Bat Pham
    Julian Cheung- Tieu Phong (Little Wind)
    Carman Lee- Nam Cung Hong
    Vivian Leung – Vuong Nha Yen
    Ruby Lin- Lam Tam Nhu
    Nicky Wu- Vuong Nhat Phi
    Vincent Jiao- Chu The Kiet

    It was another dark night where heavy cloud covered the sky and hid the moon. The stars were but sharp, white stripes against the velvety blackness. The wind blew softly, carrying with it the scent of flowers and dust. In a field of utter emptiness, two figures stood still. Both were masked men, broad shoulder and tall.
    “Report.” The first figure said softly, his voice echoing in the vast plain.
    “Master, it is as you predicted. We have found them.” The other man reached for the large bag on his back and spilled the content onto the dirt and grass. A bloody, severed head with gaping eyes stared back at him.
    “His family?”
    “All male were killed. The house was burn down. His wife and four years old daughter were allowed to escape but we have people following them. If they do anything, they will be terminated.”
    The first figure nodded, “how many families are left?”
    “That’s it. After nearly fifteen years, all possible threats have been eliminated.”
    “Destroy our headquarter and move on. Our new mission, Phoenix, have been launched. You know what to do.”
    “Yes, Master.” The second figure bowed respectfully and faded into the shadows. The Master stood there in utter loneliness and then he too withdrew to the darkness where he came from.

    Tieu Phong (Julian Cheung) yawned and stretched out his arms as he walked out of his bedroom.
    “Late night?” Cung Hong asked as she followed him down the stair.
    “No, just have a little bit of trouble sleeping.” Tieu Phong replied as he squinted his eyes against the glaring sun. He broke into a smile when he saw Nha Yen (Vivian Leung) already seated at one of the tables.
    “Good morning, Nha Yen.” He sat down across from her and smiled charmingly, “how are you?”
    “Fine, thank you.” Nha Yen lifted her cup and took a drink while Tieu Phong stared in utter admiration at her feminine gesture.
    “You know, whoever get to marry you will be very lucky.” He said with a sigh.
    “Ignore him, Nha Yen.” Cung Hong suggested when Nha Yen blinked. “So where are Bat Pham and Nhat Phi and Tam Nhu?”
    “Good morning, everyone.” Bat Pham walked in, accompanied by Nhat Phi and Tam Nhu.
    “Good morning.” Nha Yen looked up and smiled warmly at him. Her eyes seemed to brighten.
    Noticing, Tieu Phong bit back a sigh, “seems like I have no chance.”
    “They make a pretty couple, don’t you think?” Cung Hong said cheerfully.
    Tieu Phong was about to retort when Nhat Phi said in his quiet voice, “so how long is it until we reach Beijing?”
    “We will reach the outskirt of the capital this afternoon if we make good time. By tomorrow morning, we should be inside the wall.” Tieu Phong answered.
    “These past few days have been too quiet. Do you think that there is a trap waiting ahead?” Bat Pham frowned slightly.
    “Well, we’ll know it when we face it. No point of worrying.” Tieu Phong said with a smile.

    True to Tieu Phong’s words, by that afternoon, they have reached the outskirt of the capital with the scattered villages and isolated manors owed by nobles and government officials, serving as their summer home and for those who preferred to live outside of the bustle of the city.
    They were walking along a small road, running along the edge of the forest. And somewhere to their left, they could hear a stream running.
    “Wait.” Cung Hong suddenly stopped and held up a hand, “do you smell something.” She sniffed the air.
    Everyone inhaled and an illusive fragrance reached their noses. It was a very strange scent, not from any flowers that they knew of and yet pleasantly sweet and almost otherworldly. With one breath, they could feel their worries and cares slowly lifted away.
    “It smells like roses and orchids.” Nha Yen said, “It couldn’t be..”
    “What is it?”
    “There is a flower that grew in the icy mountains and frozen lakes. It is shaped like a butterfly and is pure white in color. Its fragrance is so strong that birds flew over thousands of miles just to drink in its petals. It doesn’t grow in warm climate, especially in spring and especially not in the capital, where there is too much dust and grass.”
    “Well, there is only one way to find out.” Cung Hong headed determinedly toward the south where the scent came from.
    “Cung Hong, wait.” Bat Pham called out but she had already disappeared. Having no choice, the group followed her.
    They cut through the forest where the sun barely penetrated through the thick trees and foliage. The air was warm with dancing dust motes and the floor was carpeted with wildflowers and fallen leaves. A few squirrels stood and watched the strange humans curiously. From somewhere above them, a bird chirped and sang. The trunks of the trees were gnarled with age and stood with an ancient solidity. And the scent of the flower was getting stronger and stronger.
    At last, they burst through the forest and into a plain where a lone, tiny house stood. A trickling stream gurgled and bubbled its way around it and an arching bridge connected the house to a spectacular garden. Flowers in pure white blazed incandescently, its butterfly shapes nodding sleepily against the rushing wind. Colorful butterflies flickered in and out of its creamy petals. The fragrance was no longer illusive here but a heady scent.
    The house was made up entirely of bamboo with four large windows looking out. Golden silk rustled and fluttered in the passing wind. A wind chime sounded merrily.
    “Wow.” Cung Hong took a deep breath with her eyes wide. “Paradise.”
    “There must be someone living here. It is too empty now.” Nha Yen looked around cautiously. And since she was in the back of the group, when she turned, she found herself looking at a huge stomach. She blinked and looked up, and up, and up. A giant man stood in front of her. His skin was rippling with muscle and he wore a simple robe that allowed his arms to go bare. His face was stretched taut with almost ebony skin and his eyes were but slits against a huge face. He was holding a wicked looking knife, just as big.
    “How dare you to trespass?” He rumbled from up top.
    “Forgive us. We were drawn by the scent.” Bat Pham stepped up and shielded Nha Yen. “We meant no harm.”
    “This is forbidden territory.” The giant said, his voice thundering. “You must die.” His knife moved and for a large man, his movement was remarkably fast. In one split second, he had unleashed at least ten stances. Each of them, fluttering soft and yet deadly. His knife shot toward Bat Pham’s most vulnerable points. The blade gleamed against the bright sun.
    Bat Pham’s feet fluttered and he danced backward. His left hand shot out and he twisted his body in midair. His index finger and thumb pierced with incredible accuracy and caught the incoming knife neatly. His feet stepped on each other, and he shot up, carrying the giant with him. But the huge man didn’t even blink, he released his knife and with his palm, he hit the bottom of the knife. The knife flew up and Bat Pham was forced to follow it. Meanwhile, the giant’s hands came together and a great burst of energy shot out. Bat Pham twisted his fingers and the knife flew out of his hand and shot back to the man. At the same time, he stepped on the incoming energy and floated through it. He twisted his body and landed on the ground, aided by the energy of the giant. The knife by then had pierced through the earth and slid easily into it, leaving only the hilt jutting out.
    The giant stepped forward and his open palm turned into a fist. He aimed it at Bat Pham’s forehead while his other hand slashed at Bat Pham’s throat.
    Bat Pham’s left hand came up and blocked the fist, while his right index finger and thumb turned inward and shot toward the palm. His fingers touched almost gently on the vulnerable point on the giant’s wrist while his left hand vibrated with energy and shot outward. The fist was snapped backward and the giant took a tumbling step back, holding his injure wrist.
    The giant didn’t even pause. He was about to charge again when a powerful voice boomed,
    “No Past!” Everyone turned back and saw a skinny man standing in front of the garden. He was so thin that the wind might just be able to blow him away. His eyes were huge against an almost skeleton face. His blue robe was far too big for him and it danced around his skinny body. His face was cadaverous with deep-set eyes. It was unbelievable that such a man could possess such a powerful voice.
    “Master said to bring them in.” The thin man continued.
    The giant immediately took a step backward. He nodded and gestured for Bat Pham to go.
    “Thank you.” Bat Pham cupped his hands and led the group toward the skinny man. They went up the curving, wooden bridge and through the opened door.
    The room inside was large and airy with only a simple table on the right side with a couple of chairs. The oak floor gleamed and was cooled to the touch. There was no decoration in the room, except for a tall vase filled with white roses. A figure in yellow sat with his back toward the door, calmly pouring a cup of tea.
    “Master, they are here.” The skinny man bowed respectfully.
    The man waved his hand. It was a very elegant hand with long fingers and wide palm without a scratch on it.
    “We sincerely apologize for intruding.” Bat Pham bowed respectfully.
    “Please have a seat.” The voice said quietly but there was such power in that mild voice that Bat Pham was nearly staggered by it.
    “Thank you.”
    The group walked toward the table and sat down across from the man. For the first time, they saw his face.
    He was a tall, elegant man in his late twenties with penetrating brown eyes. It seemed like there were no secrets that could be hidden from those piercing eyes.
    “Tea?” The man asked.
    “Thank you.”
    The man gestured and No Past, the giant, immediately poured the tea out. The delicate looking teakettle was very fragile against his large hand and yet his movements were perfectly graceful. After he was done, he withdrew and stood respectfully behind the man.
    “My name is Kim Bat Pham. This is Tieu Phong, Vuong guleung, Nam Cung guleung, Nhat Phi, and Lam guleung.” Bat Pham introduced everyone.
    “A pleasure, Chu The Kiet.” The man cupped his hand.
    “We did not mean to intrude.” Nha Yen said in her soft voice, “but the Snow Blossoms’ scents drew us in.”
    “Ah, you know what it is.” The Kiet (Vincent Jiao) sounded pleased. “Not a lot of people know of it. You are indeed very well learned, guleung.”
    Nha Yen inclined her head in thanks. “I don’t understand how you could grow the Snow Blossoms in such hot weather.” She confessed.
    “A mere garden trick.” The Kiet stood up and walked toward the door. He looked out at the blooming flowers with something akin to satisfaction in his eyes. “It is true that the Snow Blossoms do not bloom in warm weather but if you walk into the garden, you can feel that the air is not warm, but instead is icy cold.”
    “How is that possible?” Nha Yen asked.
    “A trick, guleung, nothing more.” The Kiet waved his hand and dismissed the entire matter.
    “Since it is our fates to meet, it would be my pleasure if you would stay here tonight and we can get acquainted.” He smiled faintly, “I so very rarely meet anyone around here so this is a very special occasion for me.”
    Bat Pham exchanged glance with Cung Hong and Tieu Phong. Seeing the two’s slight nods, he turned to Nha Yen and smiled.
    Nha Yen immediately spoke, “it would be our honor.”
    The Kiet nodded with no surprise. It was as if he had expected their answer. “No Life, No Past, go prepare the rooms.”
    “Yes, Master.” The two men bowed and silently withdrew.

    That night, after everyone had ate and retired to their rooms, Nha Yen headed toward the garden. Their host, she reflected, was certainly strange. He was a man well versed in literature, poetry, chess and anything that she might think of and there was a sense of ultimate power and command around him. Yet, something was wrong. She couldn’t quite put her fingers on it but she was sure of it. And she knew that Bat Pham thought of the same thing. It would be interesting to see which one of them figured it out first. Since Cung Hong was far too distracted by the scenic garden and the man, and Tieu Phong… She shook her head, who knew what Tieu Phong thought. The man whom the mo lam world thought of as the Rat was far more complex than anyone had ever thought of. She pursed her lips, maybe it was time for her to have a talk with her brother. Even though he was blind, Nhat Phi had an almost uncanny view into the humans’ hearts. He would be able to help her.
    The matter decided, she walked through the gate that surrounded the garden and shivered immediately. Chu The Kiet was right, she thought. The air was freezing cold. And she had just come from the hot, humid air not two feet away. This was odd. She looked down and saw that steam was coming up from the dirt. And it was a very strange dirt, pure white and hard. She leaned and touched it with her fingers. It was ice, she drew back with shock. The dirt was ice.
    “Nha Yen Guleung.”
    The mild voice nearly made her jumped up. She had exceptional hearing and yet she couldn’t even hear his footsteps. She stood up and turned around. Chu The Kiet was standing a few feet away from her. His face was partly hidden by the shadow of the flowers.

    <font size="1">[ February 27, 2003: Message edited by: Tu Vi ]</font>
    Though I am old with wandering
    Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
    I will find out where she has gone,
    And kiss her lips and take her hands;
    And walk among long dappled grass,
    And pluck till time and times are done,
    The silver apples of the moon,
    The golden apples of the sun.
    William Butler Yeats

  6. #46
    Senior Member zzzbeauty's Avatar
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    <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> I can't wait for the next chapters; as always.

    *pouting*

    You're going to turn me into a white hair maiden, by making me think about your characters' past, their identities and possible relationships. <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

    But, I love your story. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">
    where art thou prince? i want to wake up!

  7. #47
    Junior Member Tu Vi's Avatar
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    to zzzbeauty- hello dear. i updated twice in a week. aren't you proud of me??? grin. hope you like this chapter. aw, white hair maiden? poor you, hopefully this chapter will answer some of your questions. thank you so much for your commments and support. <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/hug.gif" border="0">
    Love always,
    tu vi

    Chapter 14- White Swans
    Louis Koo- Kim Bat Pham
    Julian Cheung- Tieu Phong (Little Wind)
    Carman Lee- Nam Cung Hong
    Vivian Leung – Vuong Nha Yen
    Ruby Lin- Lam Tam Nhu
    Nicky Wu- Vuong Nhat Phi
    Vincent Jiao- Chu The Kiet
    Gigi Lai- Mai Tu Diep


    Even though Nha Yen’s heart was pounding, her voice was perfectly calm, “Young Master Chu.”
    “They are beautiful, aren’t they?” The Kiet asked softly. His hand gently touched a quivering petal. “The beauty of this world fade and die but this, this is eternal.”
    “Time fades and time dies,
    But this beauty will remain.
    Oh, where is that faraway house?
    Where the fragrant orchids and haunting flute rose?” Nha Yen muttered.
    A glimmer of appreciation appeared in The Kiet’s eyes,
    “That house in distant forest and
    ancient time. Where the birds sang,
    and willows wept. I must take leave
    and close my eyes for eternal rest.”
    He sighed and with a faint smile, said gently, “Good night, Nha Yen guleung.” And then he was gone; his figure retreated back into the darkness.
    Nha Yen stared at where he once stood for a long moment. Then she shook her head and walked slowly back toward the house.
    “Nhat Phi, what do you think?” The lone candle in the men’s room burned steadily as they sat on their respective beds.
    Nhat Phi leaned back against the pillow and calmly crossed his arms, “we were followed.” He said simply as an answer to Bat Pham’s question.
    “I know.” Bat Pham said, “they were there when we first enter that dirt road. And I think they purposely pushed us toward the direction where the scent of the flowers was the strongest. There were perhaps hundreds of men surrounding that forest. If they did not want us to pass, we would not have been able to be here tonight. At least, not without a battle.”
    Tieu Phong lay down and plumped his pillow, “the map?” He suggested with his eyes closed.
    “If that is what they want, they would have just attack us without going through so much trouble.” Bat Pham answered.
    “Who do you think Chu The Kiet is?” Nhat Phi asked.
    “I don’t know.” Bat Pham replied with troubled eyes, “but regardless of who he is, he wants something from us but I am not sure what.”
    “Did you sense that he was somehow familiar?” Nhat Phi asked unexpectedly.
    Bat Pham sat up a little bit straighter, “what do you mean?”
    “There is something very familiar about him. It is as if I have already knew him from somewhere.” Nhat Phi explained.
    “Why trouble our heads with who he is? In due time, we’ll know.” Tieu Phong yawned sleepily and promptly fell asleep. His soft snore soon filled the room.
    Bat Pham and Nhat Phi sighed resignedly. Bat Pham leaned slightly forward and blew out the candle. The room was immediately plunged into darkness.

    It was barely dawn when Bat Pham walked toward the back of the house. He opened the bamboo door and stepped out into the refreshing air. He was standing on a balcony, looking down at a small lake where water lilies bloomed and splashed their pure white colors against the softly moving waves. A few swans sailed by as they plucked their wings contentedly.
    There was a curving bridge connecting the balcony to the garden, which surrounded the house on three sides. And a small pagoda stood in the middle of the bridge with white roses blooming frantically around it, shaping it into a flowing, luminous rose. Everything was pure white. The fragrances from the roses and Snow Blossoms blended in and created a heavenly scent.
    Bat Pham walked slowly toward the pagoda. The bridge was slowly moving underneath his feet, swinging gently to the waves. When he reached the pagoda, he saw that Chu The Kiet was already there with his two servants standing behind him. The table in front of him with scattered with the black and white pieces of the game “go”. The Kiet was fingering a white piece in his hand as he stared intently at the board. He didn’t look up as he gestured.
    No Life immediately pulled out the chair directly in front of The Kiet.
    Bat Pham sat on it and picked up a black piece. He moved it silently into the center.
    The Kiet nodded and placed his white piece down.
    They played their game in utter silent. There was no sound except for the occasional calls of the swans and the soft mutters of the wind.

    “Papa…” The pudgy baby said fretfully as his mother picked him up from his soft bed.
    Tu Diep (Gigi Lai) smiled tenderly at her son. Even though it was very early, but her baby always woke up at exactly seven o’clock every morning.
    “Papa..” The child repeated against. This time, his voice was rising.
    “Shh. Papa will be back soon. He has to do something.” Tu Diep soothed him as she looked at the door. Her husband didn’t come back last night but she was used to his disappearances. But it was strange that he didn’t come and say goodnight to their son. No matter what he was doing, her husband always stopped by. But it has been a full day and night since she and their son last saw him.
    The baby rubbed his eyes sleepily as fat tears plopped down his chubby cheeks. “Papa!” This time, it was a howl.
    “Shh, see.” Tu Diep walked toward the bedside talbe and picked up a white rose from the vase. “Pretty flower.”
    The child stopped fidgeting and stared at the flower. Something soft and fragrant suddenly dropped out from the flower petals. Curious, Tu Diep bended down and picked it up. It was a piece of paper with an ethereal scent, folded in the shape of a swan.
    “Ducky!” The child yelled gleefully and grabbed it. “Papa.” He said contentedly and held the now smashed swan in his hand.
    Her husband must have been back late last night, Tu Diep realized. He had probably come by and dropped the vase of white roses off when he saw that their son was sleeping. She walked slowly toward the vase and saw ten folded swans resting in a circle around the vase. She blinked back tears as she imagined her powerful husband, sitting there, meticulously folding each crane for their son. No matter what kind of circumstance had pushed them together, she would always be in debt to her husband for treating their son like this. She would always be thankful to him for being such a devoted father even when he didn’t need to be. To her knowledge, his predecessors had never treated their offspring with such love and devotion.
    She hugged her son tight and stared through misted eyes at the empty doorway, and remembered.

    Two hours have passed and yet the game between Bat Pham and The Kiet remained unresolved. They were moving very slowly now, each calculating their next step carefully. When at last, they came to the same conclusion. No one will win this game, unless they both want to spend the next year or so pondering its mysteries.
    Bat Pham dropped his piece into the jade holder and smiled, “it is a pleasure to play against you.”
    The Kiet stood up and gestured, “I haven’t met such a formidable opponent in all my life.”
    Bat Pham too rose and walked companionably with The Kiet back toward the house.
    They halted when there was a shout behind them. Bat Pham spun around and saw a man staggering through the garden and onto the bridge.
    No Past was already moving toward him while No Life stayed behind and guarded his master’s back.
    “Who is it?” Bat Pham asked as he kneeled down next to the injured man when No Past carried him back. The man’s face was covered with blood and there was a gaping wound on his chest. Bat Pham lifted his hand and checked his pulse. It beat weakly and almost unnoticeably.
    “We need to get him inside.” Bat Pham said and The Kiet nodded. No Past immediately lifted the man easily and carried him inside the house.
    Everyone else was already in the living room, brought by the commotion from outside.
    “What is it?” Cung Hong asked and then she saw the unconscious man. “Nhat Phi.” She raised her voice. “There is an injured man here.”
    “Put him on the table.” Nhat Phi directed calmly.
    He touched the man’s pulse and frowned slightly. Then he lifted the soaking robe up and felt the skin around the area of the wound. He took out a blue bottle and shook its powdery content directly onto the wound.
    The next few minutes was passed entirely in silence as everyone watched him. Finally, Nhat Phi bounded the man’s chest tightly with a white, clean strip of linen.
    “He should be fine in a few weeks. Luckily, the knife did not penetrate through his heart but missed it with a very narrow margin. With about a month of resting, he should be back on his feet.” Nhat Phi announced as he stood up.
    Tam Nhu immediately took out a handkerchief and wiped his forehead with it. He smiled gently down at her. And then his eyes hardened as he looked up at The Kiet. His unseeing eyes pinned the man with uncharacteristic intensity.
    “What is the meaning of this?” He asked.
    The Kiet remained silent while everyone else looked confused.
    “Why did you order for No Past to attack this man and yet still brought him here for me to treat?” Nhat Phi asked softly.
    Cung Hong gasped while Bat Pham and Nha Yen looked at each other.
    “How did you know?” The Kiet asked urbanely as he sat down on the chair. The man was already being removed by No Past.
    “When No Past was fighting with Bat Pham, I could hear his stances. If Bat Pham didn’t move in time, his heart would have been penetrated in the same way. And the edge of the knife that the man was attacked with was far too large and blunt. It must have been very heavy and there is only No Past who has the capability to use it around this area. This man has been attacked not far from here since he would not have the strength to make a more than two miles journey. All of this combined together, No Past is the only logical explanation. And he would never attack anyone without your order.” Nhat Phi concluded grimly.
    “Brilliant.” The Kiet applauded. His face showing absolutely no emotions. “You will be a very dangerous enemy to have.”
    “Explain yourself.” Nhat Phi said curtly.
    It was the first time that anyone saw the quiet healer being this furious.
    “Very well.” The Kiet gestured toward the chairs. “Sit down. You are making me crane my neck.”
    Nhat Phi sat down reluctantly.
    “Yes, the man was attacked by No Past under my order. But..” He held up a hand to stop Nhat Phi’s outburst, “he did it willingly. In fact, he volunteers for it. It was his punishment for failing his duty. If he didn’t volunteer for this, then his head would have already been chop off. He did this to try to save his life. Because he might die or might not. It all depended on your skill. It turns out you save his life. And you pass the test.”
    “The test? You use a human life for a test!” Nhat Phi stood up and roared.
    No Past and No Life immediately moved forward with grim expressions. The Kiep held out a hand to keep them back.
    “He would have been dead already if I did not give him this opportunity. I do not tolerate failures under my command.” The Kiet said quietly but there was such power and authority in his voice that everyone blinked in shock.
    “Enough of that.” The Kiet waved aside the matter like it was a pesky fly. “Since you have prove yourself as a healer. I want you to heal someone.”
    “What made you think I will do it after this?” Nhat Phi asked in a dangerously low voice.
    “Because it is your duty and obligation as a healer.” The Kiet replied simply.
    “You are the most cold-blooded man I have ever met.” Nhat Phi said.
    “Many people do call me that. But that is another matter entirely.” The Kiet smiled faintly, “so will you do it?”
    Nhat Phi turned toward the group, “if I agree, our trip will be delay for some time.”
    “I think that saving a life is the most important thing. We can wait.” Bat Pham said. Nha Yen and Cung Hong nodded their agreement and remembered at the last minute that Nhat Phi couldn’t see.
    “Cung Hong and I agree, older brother.”
    “Tieu Phong?” Nhat Phi asked.
    Everyone looked at the unnaturally quiet Tieu Phong. And Bat Pham nearly gasped in shock. There was overwhelming anger and rage in Tieu Phong’s usually cheerful eyes. But then it was gone in a split second and Bat Pham thought that he had imagined it all.
    “It’s fine.” Tieu Phong answered.
    “Tam Nhu?”
    “Young Master, I will support your decision.” Tam Nhu said with a soft smile.
    Nhat Phi nodded and turned back toward The Kiet, “I will do it. But if you ever do something like this again..” He stopped and left the threat hanging.
    The Kiet smiled even though it didn’t reach his eyes.
    “You have my promise.”
    Though I am old with wandering
    Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
    I will find out where she has gone,
    And kiss her lips and take her hands;
    And walk among long dappled grass,
    And pluck till time and times are done,
    The silver apples of the moon,
    The golden apples of the sun.
    William Butler Yeats

  8. #48
    Senior Member Bubeng's Avatar
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    I just got back from a ten day trip. Thanks for the treat of 2 postings of Shadows of the Sword. I really enjoy it.
    Hmm... Tieu Phong is really mysterious. I wondered if there's a connection between him and the releasing of the dove, and now this sudden anger <IMG SRC="smilies/confused.gif" border="0">
    Thanks Tu Vi for updating your story. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">
    There's a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

  9. #49
    Senior Member ccsakura's Avatar
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    Oh what a cliff hanger! Can't wait for the next parts. My favourite character is Tieu Phong, his so mysterious. I also really want to know more about Gigi Lai and Vincent!! This story is becoming really good!!!

  10. #50
    Junior Member Tu Vi's Avatar
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    to Bubeng- hey, hope that you had a really great trip. you are very welcome and thank you for your support. Tieu Phong?? hmm, we'll see. laughing rather evilly.
    to ccsakura - hmm, i wonder why so many readers like Tieu Phong??? very curious. glad that you like the chapter. Gigi and Vincent? grin.
    Thank you so much for your kind support. They really do help me with my writing.
    Tu Vi

    Chapter 15- Whispers of the Past
    Louis Koo- Kim Bat Pham
    Julian Cheung- Tieu Phong (Little Wind)
    Carman Lee- Nam Cung Hong
    Vivian Leung – Vuong Nha Yen
    Ruby Lin- Lam Tam Nhu
    Nicky Wu- Vuong Nhat Phi
    Vincent Jiao- Chu The Kiet
    Gigi Lai- Mai Tu Diep

    Nhat Phi leaned against the rail of the balcony as the sounds of the night crickets rose around him. He could smell the haunting fragrances of the snow blossoms and the roses. Their scents whiffed and danced around him, creating an almost ghostly atmosphere. He could feel the warm air of spring, and hear the cheerful tinkling of the wind chimes hung above his head.
    “Young Master?” Tam Nhu hesitated at the doorway. It was late at night and everyone had already retired to their rooms.
    “Tam Nhu.” Nhat Phi sighed tiredly as she could see the faint line of worry between his eyebrows. He was always troubled by something, she thought. Even in his sleep, he would never be able to rest easily. He always fretted and muttered as if something was chasing after him. She walked out and stood next to him, silently offering her comfort. But she knew that no matter how many times she stood there beside him, she would never be able to give him peace. And the realization brought a dull pain to her heart.
    “Young Master, what is troubling you?” She asked either thought she knew that he wouldn’t answer her.
    But to her surprise, he did.
    “I care more about the life of a stranger than I do about my loved one.” Nhat Phi said heavily. He took a deep breath and stared at the night sky either though he could see nothing. All was darkness to him. “I got furious when Chu The Kiet dared to gamble a human life. A stranger.”
    “But that is your nature, Young Master. You would never let anyone destroy a human life.” Tam Nhu said, puzzled.
    “Is it? Even though I don’t take care of what is most dear to my heart?” Nhat Phi asked and there was a terrible sadness in his eyes. “I am a coward, Tam Nhu.”
    “Young Master.” Concerned by his bleak tone, Tam Nhu put her hand on his arm.
    He reached down and patted her hand almost absently. And her heart jumped.
    “It is late, Tam Nhu. Let’s go.” Nhat Phi said no more and allowed Tam Nhu to assist him to his bedroom.

    The next morning found only No Life in the living room. He explained to everyone that his Master has gone to retrieve Nhat Phi’s patient.
    Tieu Phong excused himself and curious, Cung Hong followed him outside.

    “Where are you going?” Cung Hong asked Tieu Phong as they walked out into the woods.
    “Fishing.” Tieu Phong replied. His eyes were sparkling mischievously but Cung Hong could almost see shadows hovering behind them. She blinked and the shadows disappeared. It was as if she had conjured them up.
    “Really? I have never fish before.” Excited and brushed aside that strange sensation, Cung Hong bounced next to Tieu Phong. “What do we need?”
    Resigned, Tieu Phong only shook his head. But then his mouth curved into a rather devilish smile.
    “First, we go and dig worms.”
    “Worms?” And the brave and ever vigilant Cung Hong squirmed. “Ew!” And for the first time since Tieu Phong met her, her voice took on a distinctively girlish tone.
    “Oh, don’t tell me that you are afraid?” He cocked one eyebrow.
    “Who is saying that I am afraid?” Cung Hong said indignantly.
    “Then let’s get to it.” Tieu Phong kneeled down in a fairly wet patch of dirt in the middle of the forest. “Now if we flip the moss over, we should find some juicy worms.”
    Cung Hong blinked when he looked at her expectantly, ‘what?”
    “Now, your job is to dig out the worms while I find the poles.”
    “Why is it my job to dig out the worms? Why can’t you do it?” Cung Hong demanded.
    “All right.” Seeing Cung Hong’s victorious smile, Tieu Phong continued, “do you know how to find the correct poles with the right length and tension?”
    Cung Hong’s smiled dimmed considerably, “Doesn’t any pole do?”
    Tieu Phong clucked his tongue, “tsk, if you have the wrong pole, you could wait all day long, and no fish would bite.”
    “Are you lying to me?” Cung Hong looked at him suspiciously.
    “Would I ever do that you?” Tieu Phong put a hand over his heart and said innocently. “Now, get to the worms.”
    “Fine.” Cung Hong grumbled, “a few worms don’t scare me.” She could have sworn that Tieu Phong was laughing like a maniac on the other side of the trees. She did hear a distinctive, muffled chuckle. Well, he didn’t think she could do it, did he? She would show him. Determined, she pushed up her sleeves, picked a long, sturdy stick and gingerly flipped the moss over. She nearly gagged when she saw the very wet dirt with the ugliest worms that she had ever seen in her life. Of course, this was her first encounter with this sort of insects. She looked at the brown, squiggly worms with distaste and something akin to horror in her eyes. But the Ice Emperor did not give life to a spineless coward. She was the Ice Princess, for heaven’s sake. And she would do well by her name. She sniffed elegantly and using the stick, moved the uncooperative worms onto a round, green leave. And the worms were being stubborn, she decided. They clung onto the dirt and refused to let go. She huffed and picked up another stick and using the two to maneuver the worms onto their new sanctuary. After a tense, sweaty five minutes, she finally accomplished her goal. She wiped her now dirty hand on her forehead.
    When Tieu Phong got back with two poles, he saw the usually immaculate Cung Hong on the ground with something in her hands.
    “How were the worms?” He asked with his tongue in cheek.
    “Ha! You didn’t think I could do it, did you?” Triumphantly, Cung Hong spun around and Tieu Phong burst out laughing. Streak of dirt and something that he did not want to imagine smeared her face. A blob of something, he was fairly sure that it was moving, was stuck on her nose. And she was holding a large leave in her hand proudly. And she looked absolutely adorable. Struck by the realization, he sobered immediately and looked away.
    “What?” Cung Hong stood up, still carefully holding her prized worms.
    Tieu Phong walked toward her silently. His eyes strangely intent. He leaned closer to her and suddenly; her steady heart beat faster and faster, until she could almost hear its rhythm in her ears. She stared at Tieu Phong’s face and for the first time saw that he has the most secretive eyes that she had ever seen. They were a clear brown and fathomless. She was sure that there were thousands of secrets in there. She jerked when he reached out and touched her nose.
    “What?” She jumped nearly two feet and backed away rapidly.
    “You just have something on your nose.” Tieu Phong held out his now dirty finger. His eyes laughed at her.
    “Thanks to you.” Cung Hong said ungraciously and was thankful that her heart has become steady once more. But she couldn’t help but feel that in that one split second where she stared into Tieu Phong’s eyes, she had for the first time managed to look into his soul. She shrugged off an odd sense of regret and followed Tieu Phong cheerfully as he walked toward the sound of water.

    “Master is here.” No Life said suddenly as everyone waited in the living room. He rushed out of the house and Nhat Phi, Tam Nhu, Bat Pham, and Nhat Yen followed at a slower pace. By the time they went past the bridge and into the opening in front of the house, a very large carriage drawn by six white horses was already there. The carriage was very plain and undecorated. The driver was the giant, No Past. He jumped down and opened the carriage door at the back and a platform was lowered onto the ground.
    A wooden wheelchair came rolling down the platform with The Kiet pushing it. On the wheelchair sat an old man with silvery white hair. His face was crinkled, and his eyes were empty as they stared into the far horizon.
    “My father.” The Kiet’s voice was empty of any inflections.
    “Elder.” Everyone chorused as they inclined their heads respectfully. But the old man didn’t seem to hear for his cloudy eyes looked through them as if they were invisible.
    “It’s cold out here.” The Kiet said abruptly and wheeled his father toward the house.

    “Nhat Phi, what do you think?” Bat Pham asked a few minute later as they settled in one of the spacious bedroom.
    Nhat Phi let go of the aging man’s twist and put it carefully back onto his lap. “It is too early to tell.”
    “You can have all the time that you need.” The Kiet promised him, “but can you heal him?’
    “What happened exactly?” Nhat Phi asked, “I need more information.”
    The Kiet looked at his father for a long moment, “ten years ago, my father suffered a heart attack. When he woke up a week later, he no longer remembers me or his responsibilities. I have summoned the best healers in the Middle Kingdom but all of them claimed that his brain is severely damaged from the lack of air due to the heart attack. And that he is incurable. According to them, he would live like this for the rest of his life, or least until his heart gives out.” His face was carefully blank when he spoke.
    “Ten years.” Nhat Phi muttered, “in that time, he has retreated to a deep corner of his mind where I am afraid that even I cannot penetrate. But I will try my best.”
    The Kiet nodded, “I didn’t expect any less.”
    All through their conversation, The Kiet’s father continued to stare out the window at the blooming flowers. His eyes were hollow and empty as if the man was no longer there.

    “Your line is moving.” Tieu Phong reminded Cung Hong as they sat side-by-side at the shore. He had managed to catch two fishes while Cung Hong was sitting there, mad enough to chew nails.
    “Really?” Cung Hong jumped up and in her haste nearly fell into the water if it wasn’t for Tieu Phong’s fast reflex. He caught her arm and grinned,
    “The fish isn’t going anywhere.”
    “It might.” Cung Hong bit in her lower lip in intense concentration as she snapped the line up. The fish landed on the dirt with a fat plop. Cung Hong immediately ran toward it.
    “Oh, such a pretty fish.” She crooned when she stared down at the silvery, madly plopping fish. “And it is bigger than both of yours combine.” She turned to Tieu Phong and said smugly.
    “No, it is not.” Tieu Phong argued even though he knew that she was right.
    “Do you want to measure it?” Cung Hong asked victoriously. She grinned when Tieu Phong remained silent. “I win, admit it.” She all but sang the words.
    “Such an immature behavior.” Tieu Phong sniffed manfully and turned back to his two pitifully small fishes.
    “I still win.” Cung Hong smiled smugly when Tieu Phong turned back and frowned at her.
    Though I am old with wandering
    Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
    I will find out where she has gone,
    And kiss her lips and take her hands;
    And walk among long dappled grass,
    And pluck till time and times are done,
    The silver apples of the moon,
    The golden apples of the sun.
    William Butler Yeats

  11. #51
    Senior Member lil_bubble's Avatar
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    Wah! So happy reading all that within a short time of each other! But I'm starting to get annoyed at Cung Hung and really interested in Tieu Phong. <IMG SRC="smilies/tongue.gif" border="0">

  12. #52
    Senior Member Bubeng's Avatar
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    Tu Vi,
    You really fooled me this time. I thought that The Kiet would bring Tu Diep to be healed instead of the father <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">.
    Is not that I like Tieu Phong more than the other characters, is just I find him harder to figure out. I can't even tell if he's a good guy or a bad guy yet. He's a rat alright <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">.
    There's a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

  13. #53
    Senior Member ccsakura's Avatar
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    Another great chapter!!! I love reading the parts with Cung Hong and Tieu Phong together. And you fooled me aswell I thought that Vincent was going to bring gigi to heal but once again you suprised us, but that just adds more mystery to whats already questioning me.

  14. #54
    Senior Member zzzbeauty's Avatar
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    Wow, i was only gone for a couple of days and you wrote two chapters. <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> Thanks for the quick updates. Just in case you were wondering, I went to color my hair; I do not look good as Ada Choi with white hair. <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

    I love Cung Hong and Tieu Phong, they're my favorite couple. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">
    where art thou prince? i want to wake up!

  15. #55
    Registered User Danielle Lin's Avatar
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    wow what a great story!!!! i think julian is a very interesting character

  16. #56
    Registered User Danielle Lin's Avatar
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    i remember now weren't you the author who wrote all those stories on sui bing? they were great i liked destiny the best <IMG SRC="smilies/hatoff.gif" border="0">

  17. #57
    Junior Member Tu Vi's Avatar
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    to lil bubble- why annoy at Cung Hong? tu vi looks a little bit confused. but glad that you like Tieu Phong. <IMG SRC="smilies/laugh.gif" border="0">
    to Bubeng- <IMG SRC="smilies/laugh.gif" border="0">, my goal in this fanfic is to do the unexpected. glad that i have succeed with this one chapter. yay. Tieu Phong, wonder what you will think after this chapter?????
    to ccsakura - there are a lot of revelations in this chaper so i hope that it will answer some of your questions. grin.
    to zzzbeauty - hi, dear. haven't seen you in a while. you' re very welcome. Really, what color is your hair now? I always wanted to highlight my hair a little bit but never got the courage. I guess i am just a true nerd.

    <IMG SRC="smilies/nerd.gif" border="0">

    to Danielle Lin - hey, welcome to Shadows. i am always so glad to know that there is another reader. Oh, you read Destiny? very glad that you like it. hope that you will enjoy Shadows as much.

    Love Always,
    Tu Vi

    Chapter 16 - Trap
    Louis Koo- Kim Bat Pham
    Julian Cheung- Tieu Phong (Little Wind)
    Carman Lee- Nam Cung Hong
    Vivian Leung – Vuong Nha Yen
    Ruby Lin- Lam Tam Nhu
    Nicky Wu- Vuong Nhat Phi
    Vincent Jiao- Chu The Kiet
    Gigi Lai- Mai Tu Diep

    It was a hot, humid afternoon where the bees buzzed lazily and the scent of flowers was strong in the air. The blaring sun reflected upon the surface of the still water, creating thousands of dancing diamond. The air was still and silent.
    A lone figure with a large straw hat, lounged under a leafy tree, protected from the harsh glare of the sun. He was holding a fishing pole in his hand and his face was entirely covered the wide brim of his hat. He was motionless as a few flies flapped lazily around him.
    Another male figure walked toward him. He was a very plain looking man with non-descriptive clothes. He stopped next to the lounging figure and looked over the softly churning waves. After a long moment, he finally spoke,
    “The fish has taken the bait.” Then he walked away. His long shadow soon disappeared into the forest.
    The lounging figure jerked his pole and a fat fish flew up, landing on the grass, moving desperately as its eyes glazed over. It was trapped and it knew it.

    Night came stealthily and the stars shone brightly. The full moon sailed up majestically and covered the earth with its silver gleam. The night was quiet except for the soft murmuring of the night creatures. Somewhere, deep inside the forest was the roars of the lions and the frightened shrieks of the hunted.
    The incandescent light of the moon shone on a clearing where a small carriage sat in waiting. Four masked men dressed completely in black surrounded it. They were so still that one could almost hear them breathe.
    A few minutes later, a black figure glided across the trees and grass. It was as if he was sailing on moonbeam. As soon as he reached the carriage, he kneeled down respectfully.
    “Master.”
    “Report.” The voice from within the carriage was curiously empty. It was neither feminine nor masculine. It was simply there, without emotions.
    “The target went into a mansion called Jade Sword and he didn’t came out. He simply disappeared. We entered a few hours later but the mansion was empty. There were no occupants. It was a ghost house.” The man said with his head nearly touching the ground.
    Inside the carriage, a jade white hand with a gleaming black ring on its finger suddenly moved and a great gust of wind shot out. The leaves fluttered violent but didn’t fell down. Blades of grass suddenly shot up and headed toward the western direction with lightening speed. And then all was quiet again.
    One of the servants surrounding the carriage bowed and flew toward the forest. He came back and whispered into the carriage.
    “Destroy the bodies.”
    “Yes, Master.”
    Meanwhile, the kneeling figure was trembling violently as he figured out what had happened. He had unknowingly led the enemies to his Master.
    “You have failed.” The Master said no more and the four men picked the carriage up and flew away. Soon, the carriage was a blur in the distant horizon.
    The kneeling figure slowly drew out his sword, and with a sharp slash he cut his throat. He fell down on the grass with a silent thud as blood seeped into the dirt. A black hand was on his chest.
    Two more men appeared from within the shadow. And in complete quietness, they poured a white powder on the dead man’s body. The body sizzled and soon dissolved into a puddle.

    Cung Hong walked thoughtfully out of the house the next morning. She went past the blooming flowers and headed toward the water. And for some odd reason, when she walked past the place where she had dug up the worms, she stopped and smiled. She didn’t even understand her reactions but strangely, she felt happy here. She shook her head at her whimsical thoughts and was about to walk off when a strange odor reached her. She sniffed the air carefully and wrinkled her nose, as she smelled a faint ,almost fleshy stench. It was nauseating, as if some animals had died. She carefully walked toward the direction where it came from and once she reached a large oak tree where the smell was the strongest, she stopped. She bended down and touched the grass gently. The grass around this area was lush green, but here the tip of the grass was a brown, dull color as if it was burned. She sniffed it and was nearly overpowered by the incredible odor.
    Cung Hong stood up thoughtfully and leaned her hand on the gnarled trunk of the tree. Her fingers brushed past a tiny opening. Curious, she glanced over and peered at the rough surface of the tree. A tiny blade of grass was sticking out. She pulled it out slowly and looked at its crimson color. It looked and smelled as if it was originally covered in blood.
    “Incredible internal energy.” Cung Hong muttered. A person who was powerful enough to threw a blade of grass through someone’s body and then because the force of the energy was so great, the grass kept moving and pierced through the thick tree trunk. She was sure that someone was killed here based on the blood and the smell of the dissolving liquid. It was used to turn a body into liquid. It was her luck that she had caught the smell because after twenty-four hours, the odor would disappear completely.
    “Cung Hong, what are you doing here?” Hearing Tieu Phong’s voice, Cung Hong nearly jerked and the blade of grass immediately slipped into her pocket. She turned around and smiled brightly,
    “I was just enjoying the fresh morning air.” She glanced up at the sky casually. “Beautiful day, isn’t it?”
    “Hm.” Tieu Phong made a noncommittal sound as he leaned against a tree and stared at her.
    Flustered, Cung Hong continued, “if you will excuse me, it is late.” She brushed past him and hurried toward the house.
    Tieu Phong stood there, watching her disappearing figure with a thoughtful expression.

    Twilight came and covered the earth with its soft, mystical glow. The sun retreated back into its bed in the far, exploding horizon. Lavender and crimson softly illuminated a tiny inn, located outside the walls of Beijing.
    Inside, the candles were lit, casting a gentle glow against the incoming darkness. The room was scattered with tables and chairs, with a hunchback man snoring at the front counter. There was only one occupant in the room.
    Tieu Phong cracked a peanut and popped the seed inside his mouth. The table before him was scattered with peanut shells. He rested both of his feet on the table and leaned back comfortably with a large bowl of peanuts sitting on his stomach. His eyes were half-closed as he chewed almost meditatively.
    He didn’t open his eyes as the front door creaked open, bringing with it the warm, spring air.
    Soft footsteps headed toward him, then a chair was pulled out.
    The newcomer reached out and cracked a peanut reflectively as Tieu Phong opened his eyes.
    “We lost them.” Tieu Phong said simply.
    “When?” Chu The Kiet (Vincent Jiao) asked as he propped his feet on the chair next to Tieu Phong.
    “Last night. Two of our best trackers were detected and killed immediately.”
    “You expected it.” It wasn’t a question but a statement.
    Tieu Phong shrugged, “it was too easy in the beginning. I knew something like this would happen.”
    The Kiet nodded, “what about the group?”
    “Kim Bat Pham (Louis Koo) is exactly who he said he is, the only student of the White Cloud Manor. We are still tracing his sifu’s identity. Nam Cung Hong (Carman Lee), the only daughter of the Ice Emperor, never been out in the mo lam world before, objective: unknown. Vuong Nha Yen (Vivian Leung) and Vuong Nhat Phi (Nicky Wu) were adopted by the Cherry Blossoms Manor’s leader seven years ago. Their father was a scholar who died due to pneumonia. Their mother passed away when giving birth to Nha Yen. Both of them were selling paintings for a living when they first met Vuong Thien Ton (Felix Wong). He was impressed by their knowledge and took them to his home. They have been his son and daughter ever since. The maid, Lam Tam Nhu (Ruby Lin) was rescued by Nhat Phi five years ago from robbers. We are still trying to find her martial art teacher.”
    “Hmm.” The Kiet crossed his feet at the ankles and reached out for the cup of wine. “Do we know what the Cherry Blossoms Manor want with the Red Script?”
    “No. I don’t believe Vuong Thien Ton when he said he will destroy the Red Script once it is found.” Tieu Phong said, “no one is that selfless.”
    The Kiet tapped his fingers together thoughtfully, “I only need Vuong Nhat Phi (Nicky Wu). You can take care of the rest. Find the Red Script as soon as possible.”
    Tieu Phong’s eyes glinted, “I know.”
    The Kiet threw away the peanut shell and stood up. Tieu Phong closed his eyes as he heard the door opened and the soft nickering of horses.
    The horses soon thundered away and he was left with utter silence.
    Though I am old with wandering
    Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
    I will find out where she has gone,
    And kiss her lips and take her hands;
    And walk among long dappled grass,
    And pluck till time and times are done,
    The silver apples of the moon,
    The golden apples of the sun.
    William Butler Yeats

  18. #58
    Senior Member lil_bubble's Avatar
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    hmm.. Cung Hong annoy me b/c of how she treats Tieu Phong, especially the fishing part. I don't find that cute.. but don't mind me. <IMG SRC="smilies/tongue.gif" border="0">

    Ah! So.. Tieu Phong and The Kiet is working together.. Interesting..

  19. #59
    Moderator CrazyT's Avatar
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    Very interesting! Also marking my spot so I know where I left off. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">
    I would love to change the world, but they won't give me the source code.

  20. #60
    Senior Member ccsakura's Avatar
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    Yet again another wonderful chapter, but you just put more questions into me mind about Tieu Phong is he a good guy or a bad guy? And what is his purpose?

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