Sunset in the Silk Road

[andrea7974]

Dear Anne,
Thanks for your kind comment.I feel honored that you like my story.

I will answer your question here:

Also you seem to have an extensive knowledge of Jewish culture I'm interested in how you've come to think of using Jewish culture? Also you've done a great job of integrating it into the Wuxia theme.
Keep up the great work!

I'm very interested in history, especially Chinese history and Jewish history. So it is much easier for me to write about Jewish than any other culture besides Chinese. (I'm learning Hebrew also <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">) I found out from books and web sites that the Jewish community was founded in China around Tang-Sung Dynasty era and they gave a lot of influence in Chinese culture also. The Jewish has a very similar culture with the Chinese to a certain degree, that's why the can assimilate with the native Chinese easily. In some of historical research journal I read, some scholars now believed that the Yutai people in China (at that time they were only concentrated in Kaifeng) not only became merchants but some of them also became officers in Tang-Sung dynasty. Some scholars even believed that Judge Bao (Pao Ching Thien) was probably a Yutai (Jewish) or if not, his religion was Jewish, since his house was decorated with Star of David symbols. So..that's the background why I choose the Jewish character in this wuxia story

However, if you give Li Ching and Levi star names eg. Li Ching can be Vicki Zhao and Levi can be that guy who gets together with Zhang ZiYi from 'Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon'. Or you can star him as Alec Su.

I thought about giving the star names also. But honestly I just think that currently there's no actress (IMHO) that can be Li Ching. The one who is suitable to be Li Ching is Brigitte Lin Ching Sia, since she has a beauty and character in her face (also she looks smart). but unfortunately she's not young anymore <IMG SRC="smilies/bawling.gif" border="0"> Probably the one who should play as Li Ching doesn't have to be as cute as Vicky Chao,but she has to be....arogant in her face, show smartness and has a strong character shown on her face.

For Levi, actually last time I already post some names (on this web site also) that I think is suitable to become Levi... they are Aki Avni, Oded Fehr or Sammy Hori (they are all famous Jewish actor) or Raul Gonzales...but he's not an actor (he's a football player, but I think his face and his body shape is very suitable for Levi).
Just think about George Clooney to be Levi ..ha..ha

For Wen Hai Lung, the Chinese hero, I think that young Leslie Cheung is very suitable to be Hai Lung. Alec Su is handsome ..but he's too cute and innocent. I like Jimmy Lin. I think that Jimmy Lin is suitable for Hai Lung <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> as he's very similar with Leslie Cheung when he was young.

I've put my story in winglin also....at www.winglin/fanfic/andrea7974 <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

Thanks for your comment.I really appreciate your comment and input <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0">

PS: I also like Joseph (in the bible) who has a strong integrity and loyalty. His character is both shown by Levi and Hai Lung <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

“I……,” Levi didn’t know what to say. He didn’t want to hurt Hannah but on the other hand he wanted to tell the whole truth to Hannah.

“No. Don’t wait for me. You deserve to have a better man in your life!” said Levi.

Hannah cried when she heard that. “You know my feeling to you, Yacov! And no matter what I still hope that you can love me!”

“I hope that you will change your mind after you take the girl to Xi’An,” Hannah sobbed. Levi hugged her and caressed her hair.

“Hannah, we’ve known each other since we were children. If you open your heart to other men, then you will find out that I’m not the one for you,” said Levi.

“Why don’t you love me? Am I that bad that you can’t love me after so many years?” asked Hannah.

“You are pretty and a very nice girl! But we’re just not match… can’t you feel that after we’ve been together for two years?” asked Levi.

For the past two years, Levi and Hannah were always together and almost never separated. Levi had tried to learn how to love Hannah, since his late father and also Hannah’s father wanted them to get married one day. But Levi had never been able to love Hannah, although he liked Hannah so much.

Hannah cried and Levi hugged her so tight. He had never hugged Hannah like that before. He didn’t realize that someone was watching them from the distant.

“You should go now,” said Hannah. She released herself from Levi. Her eyes were red and teary. Levi used his fingers to wipe her tears on her cheeks.

“Take good care Hannah! Shalom! (means peace in Yutai’s language),” said Levi.

Meanwhile Micha was ready with his horse when Li Ching came to him.

“Good morning Micha!” said Li Ching smiled.

“Good morning, my beautiful lady,” said Micha smiled back to Li Ching.

“These horses are very beautiful and they are bigger than the horses that I’ve ever seen!” said Li Ching. She’s admiring the horses since the horses were much bigger than the average horses in China.

“Persian horses are always the best,” said Micha. “We’re leaving after Yacov is ready. Rabbi had told us to go now before noon time!”

“He’s still busy with his girlfriend! Maybe we should take something to eat first now!” said Li Ching. She saw Levi was hugging Hannah a few minutes before.

“Ah, there he is!” said Micha when he saw Levi’s walking approaching them.

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

“Why don’t we chat there,” said Hai Lung pointing the pavilion in the middle of the lake.

“Okay, let’s go then!” Guo Sing Li leaped to the pavilion using his ginkang.

“By the way, I bring an old wine here. You really have to try it, especially we are now sitting here in JiuQuan (Wine Spring),” said Guo Sing Li when Hai Lung already beside him.

“Thank you Mr Guo,” said Hai Lung.

“Mr Guo, it’s great to meet you here! I think that you should also come with me and infiltrate at the Wong brothers headquarter next week!” said Hai Lung.

“That’s why I’m here! Actually I also have an interesting fact that we can use to break the coalition between Wong Man Siu and The Black Scorpion Sect.

“Oh, what is that?” asked Hai Lung excited.

“That little girl who always chased after you,” said Guo Sing Li winked.

“Wong Chi Lan?” asked Hai Lung disbelieved his ears. “What about her?”

“We can use her as a tool to make Wong Man Siu and Sie Hian Kiat, the big boss of the Black Scorpion Sect, hate and fight each other,” said Guo Sing Li again. He gave a bottle of wine to Hai Lung and he sipped his wine.

“How come? Do you want to…kill that girl and put the blame to Ma Wing Sun or something?” asked Hai Lung curiously.

“Of course not!” hissed Guo Sing Li. “I’m not a crook who will do such kind of cheap trick!”

“Please explain then!” said Hai Lung.

“Sie Hian Kiat’s brother’s in law, Ma Wing Sun, who is the second man in the sect after Sie Hian Kiat…..” said Guo Sing Li with slow voice. He was enjoying his old wine.

“What about him?” asked Hai Lung curiously.

“He’s the real father of that pretty troublemaker!” said Guo Sing Li pointing to Wong Chi Lan who still fainted on the floor not far away from there.

“What?” said Hai Lung with loud voice. “Are you trying to…?”

“Yes, you know what I meant!” Guo Sing Li winked.

“Ma Wing Sun is planning to attend the meeting on the full moon, not only to attend the meeting. Actually he wants to meet Wong Man Siu’s wife, Yu Siu Fung. They were lovers many years ago. But Wong Man Siu used dirty trick that later on Yu Siu Fung’s father submitted the poor girl to Wong Man Siu. Wong Man Siu didn’t know that the girl was already pregnant when he married her.”

“Sie Hian Kiat's sister is Ma Wing Sun’s wife.He wouldn’t let Ma Wing Sun treat his sister like that!"

Hai Lung only listening to Guo Sing Li.
Actually deep in his heart he didn’t want to use Wong Chi Lan to break the coalition between Black Scorpion Sect and Wong Man Siu. But he knew that the situation was crucial. The stronger the coalition between Wong brothers’ gang and Black Scorpion Sect would make a bigger chance for them to find the map. And that meant a disaster for the Song Dynasty.

“Yu Siu Fung was a very pretty girl when she was young,” said Guo Sing Li seriously. “But she and her husband and her ex lover are not good people anyway!”

“Oh… But should we ….reveal that troublemaker girl’s identity? I mean…she’s innocent anyway!” said Hai Lung. “Do we have another way to break their coalition besides it?”

“Ha…ha..ha!” Guo Sing Li laughed. “What’s wrong with you? Do you like her or something?”

“Of course not! But if you reveal that secret, you will break not only Wong and Ma coalition, but also Yu Siu Fung and Wong Chi Lan’s life!” said Hai Lung.

“You’re too kind, young man!” said Guo Sing Li.

“Look, perhaps if they are good people, I won’t do such kind of trick to them! But except for Wong Chi Lan,
they are all not a good people! We don’t even know if Wong Chi Lan is a good girl or not. She’s annoying, but she probably not a bad girl. But who can guarantee that she won’t be a crook like Madame Flower, huh?” said Guo Sing Li again.“Madame Flower was a hero when she was young, not a crook at all. But after she got a broken heart, she turned to be a devil like that!”

Hai Lung said nothing. He knew what Guo Sing Li just said was not wrong either.

“Hai Lung, you’re still very young and very kind also! Someday you will know that the world is not as good as what you thought!” Guo Sing Li sighed.

“When I was young I thought that I want to be a gentleman and a hero! But what have I got?” Guo Sing Li mumbled. “I see that the world was so unfair. I was trying to help the Lin family twenty years ago. But they killed my wife instead of saying thank you!”

Hai Lung said nothing. He heard from his father that Guo Sing Li was a weird man who can’t be said a good or a bad man.

“The same thing happened when I dealt with Madame Flower’s daughter a few years ago. She killed two young men after raping those poor men. I spared her life and let her go after she told me that she would change and wouldn’t do any crime again. But what happened next? She almost killed me using a poison!” Guo Sing Li gesticulated. “I raped her and killed her a year after! And you see…. People like you may say that I’m cruel…raping a girl and killed her. But for ordinary peasant young men, I’m a hero! Nobody kidnap and kill handsome young men again after she died!”

“Life is not a matter of black and white, Hai Lung! Just remember what I said. “

“As for me, actually people will have no choice than to choose between right or wrong. There’s nothing in between right or wrong,” said Hai Lung. Hai Lung was a very straight person like his father. He couldn’t agree with what Guo Sing Li just said.

“I know that you are a very principle person! I admire you for that,” said Guo Sing Li. “Here, let me respect you for your integrity!” said Guo Sing Li giving a toast to Hai Lung.

“If only everybody, especially our officers can be so honest and straight like you,” sighed Guo Sing Li. “Then maybe there won't be any crook in this country.”

--------------------
Thanks for reading <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> and have a nice weekend everybody! <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

[Floo..]

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

It's so beautiful.... (I mean the Li Ching part).

Somehow, I still prefer Micha and Hai Lung. Dunno, Yakov still seem a bit 'confused' to me <IMG SRC="smilies/kiss.gif" border="0">

Will Micha be a strong rival for Yakov? He's not also from Levi tribe, is he?

[Goofy]

I like your characters. they are all strong and know what they want. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

Floo: Micha and Hai Lung will be strong rival for Levi <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> Honestly I feel tired with classical wuxia series which always make a man being surrounded by beautiful girls. So in this story I make something different...a girl with a lot of handsome admirers <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> ha..ha.. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> Micha is not from Levi tribes.

Goofy : Thanks a lot for your comment <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

“Uncle, we are ready to go now,” said Levi to his uncle.

“Rabbi, we go now! Give us your blessing,” said Micha to the old Rabbi.

The Rabbi raised his hands to Levi and Micha’s heads and blessed them with prayers in Yutai language. Li Ching watched them and curious to know what the man was saying.

“Come to me, child!” said Rabbi Levi to Li Ching.

“Me?” Li Ching disbelieved her ears. She walked toward Rabbi Levi.

Rabbi Levi took something out from his pocket. It was a six sided star necklace. “This is called Star of David. I gave it to you and I wish you all the best for your future endeavor!” said Rabbi Levi to Li Ching.

Li Ching was very surprised. “Thank you Uncle! But I’ve done nothing to deserve this,” said Li Ching.

“You’ve done a lot, my child! You just don’t realize it. Elohim yevarech etchem (means: God will bless thee)

Micha became a coachman on the chariot. While Levi stand near the chariot waiting for Li Ching.

“Yacov,” suddenly Hannah ran away from the crowd to come up to Levi.

Li Ching was still standing and talking with Rabbi Levi. But she couldn’t help to see what will happen next.

“My child, remember what I told you last time! I don’t want to see your or my nephew suffer anyway!” said Rabbi Levi.

Li Ching nodded her head. “I know what to do!” said Li Ching.

Hannah gave a shawl to Levi and talked for awhile. Li Ching was using her trained ears to listen the conversation, but although she could hear the conversation, she didn’t understand what they were talking about.

“Okay, let’s go now!” said Micha.

“Okay Uncle, I go now,” said Li Ching. She walked toward the chariot and entered the chariot together with Levi.

The chariot left the troupe. Li Ching and Levi sat inside the chariot saying nothing like two enemies, while Micha was singing and enjoying the trip.

Li Ching didn’t want to say anything to Levi since she didn’t want to ruin Levi’s relationship with Hannah. She knew
The horses ran so fast taking the tree people to Xi’An. They have to reach Xi’An in two weeks or Li Ching would die. They have to travel at least fourteen hours a day in order to reach Xi’An in time.

Li Ching sat on her seat and watched the scenery behind the chariot curtain. Levi sat on the other side, watched Li Ching. He didn’t understand why sometimes Li Ching smiled alone.

“Why you smiled just now?” asked Levi curiously to Li Ching when he saw the girl smiled.

“Oh, I enjoy the scenery from my window,” said Li Ching smiled to Levi.

“Oh, okay. But don’t you think that you should take a rest?” asked Levi.

“I don’t want to sleep all the time,” said Li Ching. Suddenly they felt that the chariot stopped running.

“Hey, wha’ts wrong?” said Levi. He was a little bit worry if there’s a bandit or something. He intended to get out from the chariot when the chariot door was opened from outside.

“Miss Li Ching, I picked some flowers for you,” said Micha who opened the chariot door and extended the flowers to Li Ching.

“Wow, thank you! But no need to be like that, actually you made Levi worried since he thought a bandit might stop our trip,” said Li Ching giggled. “These flowers are very beautiful,” said Li Ching smiled to Micha.

“We have to get hurry, Micha!” said Levi. He was a little bit jealous since Micha was obviously showed his attention to Li Ching.

“Okay big boss, we go now,” said Micha, he returned to his seat and galloped the horses.
----------------

It’s already three days before the full moon. Hai Lung was sitting in the inn while Guo Sing Li and A Man were in the Wine Spring to guard Wong Chi Lan so that girl couldn’t escape and the Wong’s henchmen couldn’t find her.

Hai Lung saw a lady in her forties, wearing flowers as hair decoration approaching the inn. As soon as she entered the city gate, two men wearing black robe approached her and showed her the way. Hai Lung knew that the henchmen were showing the way to the Wong’s headquarter.

Hai Lung didn’t want to tail them, since he had already knew where the headquarter was. Besides, the other big shot, Sie Hian Kiat and Ma Wing Sun had not arrived yet.

Hai Lung was sipping his tea when A Yung came to him in a hurry.

“Master Wen, this is very terrible!” said A Yung.

“We go to my room,” said Hai Lung.

“Tell me now what’s the matter!” said Hai Lung when they had already in Hai Lung’s room.

“You know lately I often gambling around here!” said A Yung.

“I know. And if you loose a lot of money that’s not my business!” said Hai Lung.

“Don’t be negative like that Master Wen,” A Yung frowned.

“Okay, just tell me what’s so important!”

“I have a lot of friends from the Wong brothers’ gang,” said A Yung with short breath. He just ran away in hurry to meet Hai Lung as soon as possible.

“That’s good. And?” asked Hai Lung.

“And I got news…. An Chien Siung’s house has been burnt down! The Black Scorpion Sect did that! They told me that An Chien Siung’s house was plundered and they killed his servant,” said A Yung.

“An Chien Siung is one of my father’s best friends, together with Liu Ching Kang. Is it has any relationship with Liu Chin Kang and his map?” asked Hai Lung.

“The henchmen whom I befriend with didn’t know much about map or things like that. But recently they receive orders from their leaders to watch and plunder any Persian travelers who are entering China. Also they have to watch all Persian men who visit An Chien Siung, your father, or General Yang!” said A Yung.

“Hmm, that’s very interesting,” Hai Lung frowned. He’s trying to find out the relationship between Persian men and An Chien Siung, his father, and General Yang. An Chien Siung, his father, and General Yang were Liu Chin Kang’s friends. It’s quite logical if they were ordered to watch their houses. But why only watched the Persian men who visit these three people? What was the correlation between the three men and Persian men?

“Quite strange! An Chien Siung, my father, and General Yang were Liu Chin Kang’s friends. It’s quite logical if the Black Scorpion Sect or Wong brothers’ henchmen are ordered to watch these people’s houses. But why only watch the Persian men who visit these three people?” asked Hai Lung.

“I don’t know either Master. But one thing I have to tell you: now An Chien Siung is heading to capital city to meet your father! It means that your father is probably one of their target also, Master Wen!” said A Yung.

“I know!” Hai Lung frowned. “A Yung, it’s better for you now to go to back to the capital and alert my father about this!” said Hai Lung.

“What? Master, what about you?” asked A Yung.

“I know how to take care of myself. My father is much important, you go back to him tomorrow,” said Hai Lung.

“Young Master Wen, of course you are more important than Old Master Wen!” said blabbermouth A Yung. “Your father has three sons and two daughters. But you only you…! You have no wife or children. If something happened to you, there’s won’t be any Wen Hai Lung descendant in this world. In this case, I believe that your father will agree if I stay here and accompany you!” said A Yung giving argumentation.

“You just want to see the full moon meeting, huh?” asked Hai Lung shaking his head and laughed. “No need to argue with me! You will have to go tomorrow early in the morning!”

“If the bandits have courage to disturb An Chien Siung’s house, then it is not impossible that they will disturb my father’s house!” said Hai Lung. He was really worried about his father.

[Goofy]

interesting, update soon please. <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

the plot is keeping me on toes. love it.. <IMG SRC="smilies/love.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/love.gif" border="0">

[culturegirl]

Dear Andrea,

Must stop reading otherwise I'll start placing the groceries in the bags under my eyes *hehehe* But seriously thank you so much for replying to my post. I will endeavour to also send you another reply but at present I'm just too busy with work. I'll write to you soon. In the meantime, I'll keep reading your fan fiction. Regards Anne

[andrea7974]

Levi was sitting on the chariot and that day was his turn to become the coachman. He couldn’t understand why Li Ching could chat and laughed with Micha inside the chariot while she’s always sleeping when he’s inside the chariot and Micha became the coachman.

“Is it because she saw Hannah gave me a shawl just before we left?” thought Levi.

It’s already four days since they left the troupe. It was almost late and they were approaching JiuQuan.

“We will stay tonight in this city before we leave tomorrow!” said Levi.

“Agree, we have to buy some foods also!” said Micha.

“I also agree, I miss Chinese food,” Li Ching grinned.

The chariot was approaching JiuQuan, and they could see a high tower near the gate.

“That must be the Drum Tower!” said Li Ching merrily. “We have to visit the tower tomorrow before we leave! What do you think, Micha, Levi!

“As long as you are happy,” said Levi smiled.

“What if we stopped there and eat at that tea house?” asked Micha to Li Ching and Levi.

“Agree,” said Li Ching and Levi.

They entered the tea house near the city gate and ordered some food.
Li Ching was the one who was very exciting. She had missed Chinese food so much.

“Waiter, bring us all the best food here!,” said Li Ching grinned. Levi just smiled as he saw that. He’s happy to see Li Ching was in a good mood and healthy that day.

The waiters brought a lot of foods and tea for them.

“Here, you have to try these,” said Li Ching using her chopstick and put some of the food to Levi and Micha’s rice bowls. Levi and Micha didn’t know how to use chopstick, they had to learn for awhile how to use chopstick.

Li Ching giggled happily as she saw the two men were struggling to use their chopstick. They tried the meal Li Ching already put on their rice bowl.

“Hmm, this is very nice. What is this cooking name?” asked Micha.

“We call that red roasted pork!” said Li Ching while she’s eating her meal.

As soon as Levi and Micha heard the “red roasted pork”, they ran outside the tea house to spit up the meal.

“Hey, did I say something wrong?” asked Li Ching innocently. She didn’t know that the Yutai was forbidden to eat pork, shrimp, seafood, and other food that the Chinese usually ate.

Later on Levi explained to Li Ching that the Yutai was not allowed by their religion to eat pork, seafood, frog, and some other meats. Li Ching just heard the explanation without blinking her eyes.

“How can you don’t eat pork?” asked Li Ching still amazed with the explanation. “Pork is the best meat in the world…. At least in my opinion,” said Li Ching again.

Just when they’re chatting about food, there’s a Persian man came to the tea house in haste. As soon as he saw Levi and Micha, he used Persian language to talk to them.

Li Ching didn’t understand what they’re talking about. She only saw that they must be talking about something serious, since they looked alert and very serious.

The Persian man then talked to the tea house owner and gave a kind of brochures in foreign language before he said goodbye to Levi and Micha.

Levi and Micha said nothing and didn’t continue their meal.

“What’s wrong?” asked Li Ching. Levi and Micha still said nothing.

“Yacov, what should we do now?” asked Micha to Levi.

“One of us has to return to our troupe and tell them about this!” said Levi with serious face and voice.

“I agree. I think that I’d better return to them while you and Li Ching go to Xi’An. But you have to keep in touch with the other Persian merchants to find the safest way to reach Xi’An!” said Micha.

“Okay. Then we should split from now on!” said Levi.

“What are you talking about?” asked Li Ching desperately since Levi and Micha kept on talking in Yutai or Persian language.

“Li Ching, we heard from the Persian merchant who came here just now that some bandit sects are planning to plunder Persian merchants who are entering China at this moment,” explained Levi.

“Last time the bandits had plundered almost all of our belongings, now if they couldn’t find much treasure from us, they probably will kill us!” said Levi again.
“Micha will return to my troupe to tell them about this and to choose another safest route to Kaifeng, while I will accompany you to go to Xi’An!”

“Levi, I’m worry about your troupe! Perhaps we should return to them now! No need to go to Xi’An” said Li Ching.

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Thanks for reading <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0">

[Goofy]

exciting!! I really wish that li qing would get healed somehow (and of course ended up with levi) <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

Update soon, Andrea. <IMG SRC="smilies/love.gif" border="0">

[Shirley]

<IMG SRC="smilies/thumbsup.gif" border="0"> More on Hai Lung please! I'm just so excited about the Moon Meeting. Update faster, I learn a lot from reading your fanfic!!!!! <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

I <IMG SRC="smilies/luv.gif" border="0"> it!!

[andrea7974]

“No. It’s enough for Micha to tell them! I know that they will be fine, but your health can not be pending! We have to reach Xi’An or you will..” Levi didn’t continue his word. He couldn’t say ‘die’ and didn’t want to imagine the worst case!

Li Ching said nothing. She felt sad to hear that the Yutai troupe might have to face difficulties.

“We better finish our meal,” said Micha forced himself to laugh.

About thirty minutes later, the sun was almost set. Micha was ready to return to his troupe.

“Micha, take good care!” said Li Ching.

“Relax Miss Li! I’ll be fine! You’re the one who should take good care of yourself!” said Micha blinked an eye to Li Ching.

“Shalom Yacov! Take good care of Miss Li!” said Micha to Levi. “See you next time!”

Levi and Micha talked awhile in Yutai language before Micha galloped his horse.

“The Persian merchant told me that it’s better for us not to enter the city. We better sleep in that tower tonight!” said Levi pointing at the Drum Tower.

“Okay!” Li Ching smiled.

They both went to the Drum Tower. It’s almost sunset and Li Ching and Levi wanted to see the sunset from that tower. Li Ching and Levi went to the third floor of the tower and they could see the desert and mountains from there.

“Look at the beautiful sunset!” said Li Ching.

“Yes. And the sunset become more beautiful because you are here with me!” said Levi.

“Leading north to the desert, gazing south at the Qilian Mountains, greeting Huayue Mountains in the east and reaching Yiwu in the west!” said Li Ching smiled and admiring the sunset beauty.

“Look at the desert there,” said Levi pointing a desert in the distance, “That is Badainjaran desert! Everynight when we passed that desert, we can hear the wind groan like music,” explained Levi.

“Urgh,” Li Ching blood vomited again. These last few days her wound became more and more severe that she had to take medicament every time she cough to stop her from blood vomiting.

This time her cough didn’t stop after she took her medicament and she vomited a lot of blood. Levi hugged her and massaged her neck. His robe soaked with Li Ching’s blood.

“Your…robe,” Li Ching tried to say to Levi.

“No need to worry about that,” said Levi. Li Ching secreted a lot of blood on Levi’s chest. Her eyes teary and she’s difficult to breathe.

“Li Ching, promise me that you will be strong and recovered soon,” whispered Levi.

“I..I.. I’m scared Levi! I feel very weak these last few days. Levi, will you….. will you do me a favor if in case I can’t survive?” Li Ching cried as she said that.

“I will do anything you ask me! But please don’t say like that! You are a nice person… You will be saved! I’m sure about that! I know that the Almighty won’t let a nice person like you die like that!” said Levi and he wiped tears in Li Ching’s cheek.

“I’ve prepared a letter to my parents in Lin An. In case I can’t survive, you should burn my body and give my ash to my parents together with the letter. I count on you for this!” said Li Ching to Levi.

“Please don’t say that,” said Levi. He hugged Li Ching tightly and laid Li Ching’s head on his chest.

Levi took his outer robe and put the robe to Li Ching’s shoulder. “I’m sure you will be fine again!” said Levi.

“You said that if you pray, your God will hear your prayer. Then you have to pray for me and I will be saved!” said Li Ching tried to smile although she herself became pessimistic.

“I always pray for you since the first we met!” Levi laughed bitterly. “At that time I prayed that your leprosy could be healed by miracle. And later on I found out that you don’t have any leprosy. You’re really a naughty girl!” laughed Levi.

Li Ching also laughed. She still laid her head on Levi’s chest. “My mother or father will surely kill me if they see me being hugged by this cute silly Yutai man!” thought Li Ching. She sighed, “Hmm…I must not a virtue woman like the ancient books said. Huh who cares anyway? He only hugs me, nothing more! A lot of women seem to be a very decent but they do bad things behind. They look like a beautiful tomb with rotten corpse inside. It’s better to be like me,.. Oh? What am I then? I’m not a good obedient girl, yet I’m not a bad girl also?” thought Li Ching. “Hiya, I’m hugging someone else’s fiance! What a bad girl I am! But probably I will die in the next few days! Hannah should not be jealous with me. Besides, I know that Levi loves her although he also cares for me!” thought Li Ching. She felt sad every time she recalled that Levi and Hannah would get married as soon as they reach Kaifeng.

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<IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> btw, do you think that I make Li Ching too 'modern' in her time?

[Goofy]

I like li qing, reminds me of Huang Rong a little. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

She is also like my Ruyu although Li qing is a nicer girl. <IMG SRC="smilies/catroar.gif" border="0">

a good chapter as always, andrea. Keep on. <IMG SRC="smilies/love.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

Thanks Goofy <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> You are right that Li Ching is similar with Huang Rong, although she's a bit nicer <IMG SRC="smilies/laugh.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/laugh2.gif" border="0"> Too many annoying girls in wuxia story, so I decided to make a 'nice' girl <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

And Ruyu <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> I also like Ruyu character on your story <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

[Goofy]

andrea, I would have commented something on the winglin site but somehow could not refresh the page into the recent update so I do it here instead. Hope it is all right.

You can copy my comment and paste it there too, if you like. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/catroar.gif" border="0">

Keep on.. <IMG SRC="smilies/love.gif" border="0">

[culturegirl]

Dear Andrea,
First, I want to thank you for taking the time and effort to reply to my questions as well as giving me such an extensive commentary, in particular the history and culture. You definitely have a sound knowledge of Jewish history. Although, I do not know how to read and write Hebrew; I’ve always been fascinated by Jewish culture and history. However, my source has been always primary – the Holy Bible. With the rest I get from reading ancient civilization books. I have been very fortunate that my parents were western enough to allow me to study whatever I liked at Uni and naturally I chose history and culture. I admit to been a little embarrassed about my lack of knowledge about Chinese history and culture. So, these past few years I’ve been trying to make up for lost time. I guess been so engrained with Chinese custom and tradition ever since I was young, well – like medicine too much of it has its side effects. The side effect I had was to have nothing to do with Chinese culture and it went as far as not wanting to speak it as well. I believe God has a way of knowing our stubbornness and making us deal with it. See, who says God doesn’t have a sense of humour because I could only converse in Chinese to parents. They couldn’t really speak English. So I had no choice but to learn. However, I thank God for that since I find without it I would miss a lot of the humour in TVB ancient series and movies. There’s something about knowing another language that definitely enriches and challenges the mind.

Speaking of Bao Chin Tian – he’s one of my favourite ancient figures. I don’t know if you know Zhou Jie who played him in Young Justice Bao but I already liked his character but seeing how Zhou Jie portray him kind of impressed me more about Bao’s character and dynamic personality. Naturally, I wanted to find out more about this fascinating figure in history. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much online so most of the information I get are from TV series. I know it’s not the best nor is it reliable but it’ll do. What I like most about him is his intelligence and wisdom in handling every situation and I really like his sense of integrity. He didn’t want to save the world that’s too idealistic but he did do what he could and he gave his best. I admire that quality. He always believed in the best of people without being too naïve or innocent. Like Abraham Lincoln, if they were both alive today you could be sure I’ll vote for them. Hey, I just want to thank you for the info about Justice Bao. He reminds me of the ‘Judges’ in the Book of Judges. I wouldn’t be surprised if he has some Jewish descendent in him since he was dark in colouring and appearance. It was also known that King Solomon was also dark in colouring. He certainly wasn’t blond, blue-eyed. Each time I think of King Solomon the image and face of Yul Brunner always comes to my mind.

I understand that you want all the characters fit their faces. With Brigette Lin I know what you mean. There’s so much character in her face and she is very beautiful, I’ve always liked her and her eyes. Boy, when she’s mad and flashes them eyes, I could feel my blood freezing up. Not many women can stop you in your tracks with one look but Ms Lin definitely can pull that off. I really admire her acting. You definitely have my vote there and I know she’s looks much older now but her beauty to me is classic and timeless. I always remember her in Warriors from the Zu Mountain with Adam Cheng. She looked so beautiful and ethereal there. She did look so much like a fairy goddess. The only other person I could think of is Cecilia Cheung and it’s only because she resembles Brigette. Unfortunately, she lacks character and screen presence. Needs to mature and work on her voice. She’s still too girly and sometimes looks too wide-eyed and innocent and I’m afraid she doesn’t have that edge to be Li Ching. Someone unique who will draw a lot of men to her as well as inspire devotion, passion, undying love, friendship and you know someone who you will respect and admire. Like a rare jewel that everyone seeks and desires after. Not anyone can play that role but then it’s understandable since she’s only 23.

As for the male, again I agree with you. I’ve always liked Leslie Cheung and he can really turn on the charm. I’ve always thought he was a pretty boy but when I saw him in Chinese Ghost Story, with Joey Wong, I tell you everyone in the cinema must have swooned several times. He played the charming, gentle and innocent scholar so well I think for many years other actors could not rival him. As for Levi, I still don’t have the face. Actually, I saw the names but since I don’t know any Jewish actors and I didn’t know who they were I kind of just glanced over it. Maybe you can send me a pic? As for George Clooney – the idea is very tantalizing and definitely appealing but I’m not sure about his age. I would have thought someone much younger and perhaps a little more boyish or innocent and definitely one who doesn’t ooze so much sex appeal. You have to admit that man has enough sex appeal to go around to all the Jewish communities. You know the only Jewish actor I know right now is Woody Allen and you can forget it! I’m not going to think about it let alone say it.
Alec Su: Honestly, at first I didn’t think Alec Su was handsome or good-looking at all. He’s certainly boyishly cute but as far as making my heart beat faster - well, 60 beats per minute was about as fast as its going get. However, after watching almost 30-40 tapes of him in Hua Zhu Ge Ge I & II, I really grew to like him - much more than Zhou Jie. He’s still too cute and innocent but I’ll give him another 5 years. The only reason I thought of him because he looks and act so well with Vicki. I have to admit they make such a great couple. They have so much on-screen chemistry and they appear so at ease with each other that you can’t help but hope they’re together off-screen as well.

While we’re on the topic of Jewish culture, I’ve recently found out that there are Chinese Jews. And you can only be Jewish if you’re mother is a Jew. I don’t know how that works. So, maybe you can enlighten me in this area? You also mentioned that there are many similarities between Chinese and Jewish culture. I would really like to hear what you think the similarities might be.

I’m sorry if I talk too much but it’s just that I find your story such a fascinating one and I thought by asking you questions you’ll give me an idea how you think and perhaps a window into your personality. I’ve always found people interesting and believe there’s always a story to tell about our own lives. Not that I wish to know everything but with how the mind works it always compels me to ask, probe and unravel the mystery. And we’ll see glimpses of the God’s reflection in people. Amazing isn’t it?!

As for my input, I really hope it has encouraged you to keep going. It’s not easy being a writer and I know you’ve put a lot of work and heart into this story so I hope you’ll continue your story. Regards Anne

[andrea7974]

Hi Anne,
Thanks for your comment <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> I have replied and answer your question using private message. you can check the message by clicking 'my profile' on the top of this page. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

Thanks for reading Anne! <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

She closed her eyes and let her head rest on Levi’s chest. The wind blow made her sleepy and almost asleep.

“Hey, are you sleeping?” asked Levi.
Li Ching didn’t answer and continue her sleep although she still could hear what Levi said.

Levi smiled and caressed Li Ching’s hair.

“Ani ohev otach!” whispered Levi to Li Ching. (means: I love you, spoken by male to female).

“What is that means?” muttered Li Ching half asleep.

She released herself from Levi’s hug and looked at Levi’s handsome face. Under the moonlight, she saw Levi’s face. He had brown hair and brown eyes, with thick, long and curl eyelashes. Li Ching also saw that Levi had newly grown beard. “How come this man is so hairy?” thought Li Ching. She loved to see Levi’s deep sunken eyes and his high nose. Especially she loved Levi’s brown hair which was soft and had a nice color.

“Oh, eh,” Levi blushed and couldn’t say anything. “That means…that means: have a nice sleep in Yutai language,” Levi lied.

“Okay. Then I should say ‘ani ohev otach’ to you too!” said Li Ching. She walked away and laid herself on the floor. She used Levi’s robe as her pillow.

Levi tried not to laugh. He smiled and said, “You should say ‘ani ohevet hota’ since you are female!’

Li Ching opened her sleepy eyes and sit on the floor. “Why is that? Is it different if female or male who pronounce it?” asked Li Ching curiously.

“Yes, of course different. Our language is different from Chinese language,” explained Levi. He explained the language system to Li Ching while Li Ching listened to him carefully.

The sun was totally set and only the moon shone through the tower windows. They didn’t light any candles since they didn’t want to attract anyone to come to that tower.

Levi sat near Li Ching and gave some water for Li Ching to drink.

“Thank you!” Li Ching smiled. Levi smiled back. Li Ching looked very pale and weak. Deep inside his heart he wanted to hug that girl again.

“Hey, why don’t you tell me a story!” said Li Ching. “I couldn’t sleep! Tell me a story to make me sleepy. Please!” said Li Ching smiled.

“I’m not good in story telling. But I will try. Let me think first!” For a few minutes Levi said nothing. Then he told a story about his childhood, about his parents, religions, and so on.

Li Ching heard the story carefully and sometimes gave comment about the story.

Levi frowned when Li Ching disbelieved and laughed at his story about how the Yutai’s God released the Yutai from slavery in Egypt thousand years before. Levi was a religious man, and he felt sad that Li Ching couldn’t respect or believed in his religion.

“Hm, are you angry with me?” asked Li Ching felt guilty. “I’m not saying that you lied to me….but I just …can’t believe your story! I’m sorry, Levi!” said Li Ching with low voice.

“It’s okay! It is not easy for someone outside Yutai people to understand about this!” said Levi sadly. Deep inside his heart he hoped that Li Ching could be converted to his religion someday.

Levi stood and went to the window. He looked at the moon and stars which shone brightly that night.

“Levi, you’re angry with me!” said Li Ching approaching Levi.
“I’m not!” Levi smiled to her. “Look at the moon! It’s almost full moon,” said Levi.

“Levi, I..,” Li Ching didn’t finish her word. Again, she vomited a lot of blood. The medicament Rabbi Levi gave her couldn’t stop her blood vomiting again.

Levi massaged Li Ching’s neck again. Her white robe, and also Levi’s robe were soaked with blood. Levi looked at Li Ching’s face carefully. She had a long thick black hair, hazelnut shaped eyes, with thin and short eyelashes, high nose and cute lips which looked very pale recently. Levi thought that Li Ching was not only beautiful, but also she’s elegant and cute.

“Levi, I don’t think that I can survive,” said Li Ching. She cried as she really felt pain inside her body. Actually when she was attacked from behind by Madame Flower, it was her back which was hit by Madame Flower. But now the pain not only could be felt on her back, but also on her chest and made her difficult to breathe.

Levi said nothing since he was also worried. “I’m tired but I can’t sleep! Will you sing me a song? Please?” asked Li Ching to Levi.

“What? A song? But I can’t sing,” said Levi.

“I know you can sing! You sang last time on Shabat, and I think you have a nice voice also,” said Li Ching. Basically she’s not a spoilt girl, but because of her bad wound, she thought that she couldn’t have a long life anymore. That’s why she became spoilt and act like a child.

Levi hugged Li Ching and began to sing a song for her. “It’s a psalm to comfort you!” said Levi. [Psalm or in Yutai language called Tehilim are songs in the Jewish bible which used to comfort or to praise God]

Li Ching smiled in her pain when she heard Levi was singing for her. She couldn’t understand what’s the meaning of the song, but she knew that Levi was really cared for her that he wanted to sing for her. Li Ching was almost asleep when Levi finished his song and kissed her on her forehead. She said nothing and pretended sleeping.

“Ani ohev otach,” whispered Levi slowly and he kissed Li Ching or her eyelid. Li Ching still pretended sleeping although her heart was beating so fast like a drum.

They’re both still hugging each other when suddenly they heard a man voice.

“Oh, sorry! I thought nobody was here!” said the man with guilty voice.
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Guess who's coming next! <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

[Goofy]

Hai Long? <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

a good scene there, andrea.

Love your story, update more. <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

[andrea7974]

Goofy, you are right! The next scene is Hai Lung and Li Ching meeting <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">