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Thread: The Curse of the Blade (wuxia fanfic)

  1. #1
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Post The Curse of the Blade (wuxia fanfic)

    殺鋒 The Curse of the Blade

    Characters (and my cast)

    敏騫 Man Hin (Kevin Cheng)
    孟青 Meng Ching (Michelle Ye)
    航鷗 Hang Au (Michael Tong)
    香翎 Heung Ling (Ada Choi)
    江明 Kong Ming (Au Shui Wai)
    慕容烈 Mo Yung Lit (Moses Chan)
    慕容楚秋 Mo Yung Chor Chau (Noel Leung)
    許激 Hui Gik (Derek Kwok Ching Hung)
    初二 Chor Yee (Lee Ka Sing)
    小豆 Siu Dou (Rain Lau)
    馮三朗 Fung Sam Long (Tsang Wai Kuen)
    陸蒙 Luk Mung (Law Lok Lam)

    ----------------
    Okay, I know I am mad to start a new fanfic right now but this has been waiting to be written for so long! I actually wrote the plot to this about ten years ago but never actually wrote it out in full so this should be a very interesting experience. I am totally open to suggestions on this one so if you have any input, suggestions or comments on how the story should run then please tell me as I am sure it will make the plot so much richer!!

    Hope you like it! <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

    [ November 14, 2002: Message edited by: Em ]

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    Hey Em <IMG SRC="smilies/wave.gif" border="0">

    OMG! Another fanfic? You haven't finished the other one yet <IMG SRC="smilies/tongue.gif" border="0">

    Umm...The characters seems appelling. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

    Any chance on a summary on it? Or shall I wait for the 1st chapter to be up first <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

    I <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> on your dedication on writing another fanfic. <IMG SRC="smilies/cool.gif" border="0">

  3. #3
    Moderator Suet Seung's Avatar
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    Talking

    Em!

    Hahah <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> Me too! I was writing my first fanfic then I had another fanfic planned and wanted so badly to start the new fanfic I just had to start the new one. Heheh guess we're just itching to write, write, write! OooO! Em writing a wuxia fanfic! Can't wait to read it! OMG! Are you pairing my Noel Leung with my Derek Kwok? <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">
    I just love how you Captivate My Mind

    Self reminder - Update blog more often and continue editing/writing for TOV fanfic.

  4. #4
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Prologue

    On the edge of a tall, steep cliff top, the gales from the sea blow strong and menacingly as the gulls hurry back to their roosts and the waves below lash against the hard rock face, beating away to the sounds of the powerful waters below pushing against each other, fighting for a space in the swirling depths. A storm is about to break and the charge in the air is deep and intense.

    A single loner waits, standing boldly against the elements, he two legs stand like iron, indicative of his internal power and he does not waiver at all whilst the winds do their best to uproot him. He is dressed as a bounty hunter, in ragged yet functional clothing in greys and blacks so as to blend in with his surroundings. Around his waist he wears a satchel and in his hand, he holds a heavy sword in an even heavier holder etched with pictures of powerful beasts: the dragon, the tiger and the horse. His face is tired yet determined; his eyes deep set and piercing, his beard roughly shaven and his brow containing many experiences and sorrows. His hair is starting to grey and flows freely in the wind.

    The sound of the surroundings hides the sound of the arrival of a second mysterious person, but the hunter can sense his presence.
    “Do you have what I want?” booms the voice of the second man.
    He is dressed more richly and looks much younger in years. His weapon is lighter and shorter yet his strength is just as great as the gales do little to affect his step. He confronts the older man who remains silent and still.
    The younger man reaches for the hunter’s satchel but triggers the motionless arm into action as the hunter pushes his arm away and moves to unsheath his sword.
    Youth and agility makes the difference as the younger man moves away, releasing the shimmering blade of his own sword and taking his stance ready to do battle.

    “I’ll never give you what you want!” screams the hunter as he pulls his sword and leaps over to the other man, striking heavily, with each blow intent on damage. However, this brute strength is of no opposition to the agile moves and the strategic returns of the smaller man with the lesser blade. The sounds of metal against metal can be heard through the roar of the waves as the two find that their skills are evenly matched with each blow being returned in an equal force. The younger man sees his chance to grab at the belt bag and takes it, yanking it away from the hunter and causing a lapse in his concentration. Seizing the opportunity, the first wound is seared as the shorter sword rips through the shoulder of the hunter, who calls out in pain. Without a second thought the younger man calculates his next move and realising how close to the cliff edge they are, he sends a commanding kick into the other man’s chest. He loses his balance for a split second and topples over the side and as he falls, sustains more injuries on the jagged rock below.

    Gasping, but confidently smiling, the younger man admires his trophy and laughs. A shrill, harrowing laugh, which is uncharacteristic of his slight build as he announces loudly to the ocean and his victim:
    “No-one will ever stop me from getting the things that I want!”

  5. #5
    Senior Member Melanie's Avatar
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    Whoa! The writing talent here at SPCNET simply blows me away! Bravo! <IMG SRC="smilies/bow.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

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    Senior Member Goofy's Avatar
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    Cool

    interesting beginning and promising casts. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

    I really have to catch up reading all great fanfics here. <IMG SRC="smilies/wave.gif" border="0">
    "History's third dimension is always fiction."
    -- The Glass Bead Game, Hermann Hesse

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    Em, your description of the older man and the scene reminds me of "The Lone Star." <IMG SRC="smilies/tongue.gif" border="0">
    I'm waiting to find out what is inside the satchel.
    <IMG SRC="smilies/thumbsup.gif" border="0">
    FanSum
    173055138

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    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Thanks for all your encouragement and comments so far. The layout and format of this story will be a little different from SD - shorter chapters and probably a lot less dialogue, but we'll see how it develops.

    The prologue is a little bit irrelevant for the time being, but I must have written it for a reason. <IMG SRC="smilies/wink.gif" border="0">

    Anyway, here is the first chapter... <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">
    --------------------------------------------
    Chapter One - Meng Ching

    In a slight clearing just outside the village of Luk Bor, a merchant is accusing a woodcutter of stealing his jade pendant.
    “I saw you – you intentionally bumped into me and stole my pendant!”
    “No, I did not! You probably never had a pendant and this is a trick. Or maybe you lost it in the village. I don’t have anything of value on my body!”
    “Of course not! Any thief knows not to carry the evidence with them, now give me back my jade or I will be forced to fight you.”
    “I’ll fight you alright – you’ll wish you never stepped out of bed this morning!”
    The burly merchant pushes back his rich, silk robes tucking them into his waist and puts himself in a rather pathetic stance to face his opponent, his belly flopping over a bejewelled waistband. Facing him, the bony woodcutter who has not had a decent meal for days puts up two fists, attempting to tense up his rather limited muscles in his arms. They run towards each other and randomly fling their fists and kicks in no sense of order or discipline, creating more of a tussle than a fight.

    From the branches of a nearby tree, a youthful girl leans back and yawns. As she sits and watches the farcical display of violence below, she swings what appears to be a jade pendant in her hand, wrapping it round her fingers and unwinding it again with another flick. After a couple of minutes, she loses interest and jumps down to the ground, halting the motions of the two tussling men.
    “You guys are so pathetic! I could learn more from watching squirrels fight.”
    “You…”
    “Here’s your jade back – I’m going home.”
    Before the two men have a chance to overcome the shock and respond to this act of defiance, the girl has leapt back into the trees and disappeared into the forest.
    Eager to put the incident behind him, the merchant tidies up his robes and heads back to the village whilst the woodcutter picks up his sticks and turns in the opposite direction to his hut.

    Deep in the densest growth in the forest, hidden among the highest and oldest of the trees are three small tree huts, linked by an intricate network of branches and twigs twisted into small pathways, but still requiring the ultimate skill to navigate between them. This is the treetop mansion, which is the home to the mischievous girl who so easily made fools of the two grown men. She returns from her jaunt and effortlessly leaps up the tree to the lowest of the three wooden rooms. Opening the door and entering the space, the little room houses a table and some benches with some shelves neatly placed against the wall and a window giving a view of lush vegetation and the path below. A little squirrel stores nuts in the corner of the room and the pretty young face of the girl lights up as she sees the cute little eyes looking back at her. She rushes over and picks up the bushy rodent, speaking to it gently as a mother would talk to her baby.
    “Oh, my little one. What have you brought back for me today?”

    The name of this unusual lady is Meng Ching. She has few friends and no relatives, so the animals are her family and she humours herself in her own ways. She is known as the Beautiful Shadow, because of her skills in stealth and her abilities in tracking. The villagers know only that she lives alone in the forest but they know not where as no one has the skill to follow her home. That is until today.

    “Miss Meng!” a bold, masculine voice calls up to the house from below.
    “My master has sent me with a bargain you cannot refuse.”

  9. #9
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Chapter Two - The Transaction

    In the market square of Luk Bor Village, the local tradesmen go about their everyday business and the hustle and bustle of the vegetable sellers and the small handicraft stalls is only momentarily disturbed by the calls of the candied apple seller or the shrill laugh of a gossiping housewife. Standing out from the crowd strolls a confident Meng Ching, clothed in her white muslin dress and light green skirt, which partially conceals a short sword held at her waist and a beautifully embroidered silken purse. She wanders from stall to stall, curiously picking up items to look at enquiringly, paying her respects to some elders but not buying anything and not receiving much acknowledgement back from the people she meets.

    As she meanders through the alleyways, jumping from one stand to the next, a burly villager accidentally trips over an obstacle on the floor and topples towards Ching. With her superb reactions, she instinctively grabs him to secure his balance and helps him back to his feet before asking to make sure he is all right. The man is rather embarrassed and quickly thanks her before rushing away, leaving Ching looking rather bemused. As he hurries round the corner, the man is now rather flushed as he puts his hand into his robe and pulls out the distinctive purse which once belonged to Ching. He bursts with glee as he throws it up to weigh the contents, but his expression quickly changes to one of woe when he tips out the contents to find a pile of grey, rugged stones.

    “A purse for a purse – I think that’s fair!”
    The thief looks up and sees Ching perched on a nearby wall, looking down at him with a smirk on her face. He is obviously new to the village to have chosen such an unfruitful victim. Suddenly, it dawns on him to check his own waistband and he finds that his own money pouch has disappeared. He looks up again, but Ching has long since leapt away as he weeps at his foolishness.

    Back in the alleys of the main street, there is much celebration as each of the beggars and refugees have received a share of the thief’s money. Not caring for the gain of wealth in this way, Ching has distributed all of the coins in his purse to the needy people of the village. For all her eccentricities and the mischief, which she causes, she gains the untold respect of the villagers in this way who in turn keep well clear of her affairs.

    Ching stands back to admire her deed for the day, chuckling to herself but she feels a tap on her shoulder and she turns to see a stranger dressed in a foreigners clothing. He invites her into the teahouse for a meeting with his superior. Without an inkling of fear, she happily obliges and enters the Fragrant Leaf Tea Chamber with him. Upon passing into the room reserved for only the noblest of guests, strewn with pink silk and with a view out into the courtyard and the lily pads, she sees that her host is the young gentleman who had earlier followed her back to the Treetop Mansion. She smiles confidently as she sits down beside him and starts to sip the finest green tea, which has been poured out on the table.

    “So Miss Meng, do we have a deal?”
    The man is dressed as a warrior, but not from the Central Plains. Although not in his armour, you can tell from the leather panels on his clothing and the heavy, wide sword at his side that he yields from a martial background in one of the minority tribes from the West. He is tall and muscular, but wears a slight air of sensitivity and is calm and collected in his speech and manner.

    “You want me to find a map for you? Sure! Where is my deposit?”
    A small bag is dropped on the table with a heavy klunk. It is filled with gold taels as he proves that he means business. Ching looks at the bag with disgust.
    “Is this all you have for me?”
    “What more do you need?”
    The man is a little confused, he is unsure about what this rather unpredictable girl wants from him. Suddenly, without warning, Ching throws the cup of scalding tea at him, prompting him to take evasive measures in brushing away the cup. She strikes at his chest with her unsheathed sword, testing his reaction to the full and as she does so, she makes another attack to his shoulder. He is forced to react with a protective strike as Ching jumps backwards to evade his fist. The second man reaches for his sword, but as he does so, Ching pays her respects to his superior.
    “That’s more like it! Thank you – I have what I want now.”
    The two men look on in awe as she replays the two moves, which her unsuspecting victim used against her. This is the genius that sets her apart from other bounty hunters and the reason why the master of these two messengers need her to perform this mission.
    “Find the map for my master and you will receive the rest of your payment.”
    The rather surprised warrior reaches for his sword and heads for the door.
    “Don’t I even get your name? And how will I find you?”
    “My name is Hang Au – I will contact you when the time is right.”
    Ching picks up the little bag from the table and tucks it into her waistband and chuckles to herself.
    “The Treasure Map of the Murderous Blade – sounds like fun!”

  10. #10
    Moderator Suet Seung's Avatar
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    Hey EM!

    Interesting beginning chapters. Is Meng Ching the main character? It is sure great to take some time to read another writer's work. Anyways, Meng Ching is a very lively character. Hang Au (Michael Tong)!!! <IMG SRC="smilies/blush.gif" border="0">

    Please post more chapters. I'd like to read about our Derek's character as much as I want to read Noel's character. <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">
    I just love how you Captivate My Mind

    Self reminder - Update blog more often and continue editing/writing for TOV fanfic.

  11. #11
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Hey WK! Thanks for reading... glad ur enjoying it! Don't worry - your characters will be introduced soon... will keep you in suspense a little longer! Yep, Meng Ching is the main character in this, but she isn't necessarily the most interesting one though!
    <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0">

    Chapter Three – Man Hin

    To the north of Luk Bor, there is a larger village called Jun Tao, which is a complete contrast to the gentle rural life of its sleepier neighbour. With the recent rumours that the sought after treasure map has links to this region, this centre has attracted more than its fair share of bounty hunters and opportunists all keen to find some clues which will lead them to the promise of riches and fortune. The resthouses and inns are fully booked out and never a day passes without the news of a breakthrough in the search for the map and never a night passes without someone being murdered or being beaten to within an inch of their life for staring too hard or saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.

    This night as is the same as the night before, the Last Stop Resting House is home to a band of travellers who have paid their minimal fare in exchange for a space on the floor of the large room with only straw for their bedding and a measly oil lamp for a touch of light. Packing in as many people as he can, the miserly housekeeper has left barely enough room for each person to sit, never mind sleep in – but these men are hardened and tough enough to bear this little inconvenience in their quest for the gold and jewels. Looking around the room, you can see the well-fed, hog-like build of some men and the thin, emaciated despair of others. Some are dressed well with finely jewelled weapons and others in rags of linen and no shoes on their feet. Only one theme unites this variety of characters and this is their desire to seek the enticements of the treasure and to cast eyes on the Murderous Blade.

    As the night draws in, the men in the dim hall start to drop off and the hum of people muttering and discussing the findings for the day starts to descend into a symphony of snorts and snores. It would appear that there is no trouble for once in this mixture of males. That is until a twitch is felt in the corner of the room near the battered window. A glint of the reflection of the moonlight slivers across the grey-washed walls, which originates from a gem, embedded in the dagger of one of the more well-dressed men. A punch is thrown in the direction of the movement as a boy in his teens feels the pain of knuckles in his eye socket and calls out in agony.
    “How dare you try to steal my dagger!”
    The voice is that of a richly dressed yet strongly built bearded man who stands up and continues to wildly beat the bundle of rags, which has fallen to the ground in agony.
    “It wasn’t me sir!”
    The boy weeps, but the people around him merely move away, packing together tightly to ensure that they are not caught up in the ruckus.

    Up in the rooftop beams of the wooden building, casually leaning against a rafter, a rugged but handsome man in his twenties studies the proceedings. He is dressed simply, but neatly with a couple of suede skins sewn into his clothing. A lightweight sword is tucked neatly into a small backpack and he is smiling coyly to himself. Intently yet effortlessly, he spies his opportunity as the bejewelled dagger is left unguarded in the space next to the half open window. Not wasting a second, he jumps from the beam, landing exactly in the opening and accurately grabs the dagger.
    “Finders Keepers! Good night my good men!”
    He says menacingly as he dives out through the window and runs out into the dark forest. The wealthy thug and his companions chase him out towards the forests, but he is no-where to be seen. Fuming with rage, they angrily return to the rest house and wait until morning. They have fallen victim to Man Hin – the Flying Phantom, he is a skilful opportunist with an eye for detail and an ear for prospect, together with great skill in all the martial arts.

    [ November 21, 2002: Message edited by: Em ]

  12. #12
    Senior Member Swordmaster87's Avatar
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    Cool

    Wow, Em, I just read the prologue but really impressive. I like the first description, about the waves and stuff, really imaginative, good use of words.
    **~~Swordmaster87~~**

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    Chapter Four - Travellers

    Within the village of Jun Tao is situated the Arrival of the Clouds Inn where the more exclusive treasure hunter likes to stay. This particular day marks the arrival of Mo Yung Lit. He is a tall, smartly dressed character but carries a debonair and distinguished aura about him as he strolls over the step and towards the counter where the chubby innkeeper awaits, clasping his hands together and wearing a broad, welcoming smile on his puffy face. Together with him is a young woman who is less confident but attractive nonetheless and looking a little concerned as she follows her brother into the eating hall. Lit places his long sword on the counter as he asks for two rooms. The couple catch the eye of one Miss Meng who is sitting at a table nearby drinking her tea and enjoying a plain bun. She looks up and her glance meets that of the other girl. Meng Ching smiles and raises her cup. Mo Yung Chor Chau smiles back warmly before following her brother and the inn worker up the wooden slatted steps to the guest rooms. Ching continues to watch them as the walk on, paying particular attention to the man. She finds him intriguing and a sixth sense tells her that she can learn something from him.

    Later that day, Meng Ching meets Mo Yung Lit again in the streets. He is now alone and seems to be pacing at speed, eager to reach his destination. She decides to follow him and see what she can find out, after all she is short on clues herself and she thinks that he is onto something. Lit leaves the villages and wanders out towards a secluded area of the forest just outside. Using her superb tracking skills, Ching manages to find herself a good watching point as she watches on, she is surprised as Lit pushes aside some thick bushes to reveal a fair sized settlement of travellers from the Western regions who have moved eastward during the stormy season to enjoy the milder weather. He is met by one of the tribe who has been waiting for him and he is pulled to one side where the other people will not spot them speaking. Being a little distance away, Ching is unable to hear the conversation between the rugged member of the troupe and the dealing martial artist, but from their hand gestures and the arrogant chuckles of Lit, she can tell they are striking a deal. The two men reach agreement and the member of the tribe snakes back to his tent as Lit strolls away. As she prepares to leave as well, Ching loses her balance and cracks a branch of the tree she has been hiding in. Lit shows the extent of his skills as he hears this and shouts loudly:
    “Who is that?”
    Ching jumps out into the path and boldly confronts him.
    “Just me…”
    “Why are you spying on me?”
    “Oh, I was just curious what would be so important that you would leave a beauty all alone at the inn. My guess it is something about a treasure map, I believe that riches are the only thing that would draw a man from a pretty wife!”
    “She is not my wife… and it is none of your business.”
    “…but it is my business. For you and I are looking for the same thing. Would you like to trade?”
    “What do you have to trade with me?”
    Ching pretends to think for a moment.
    “Well, at the moment nothing… except maybe my camaraderie?”
    “I don’t need a partner.”
    “Hey, what kind of gentleman are you to turn down an offer from a lovely girl like me?”
    “You have your search and I have mine. Good day and stop following me!”
    With that response Lit walks away. Ching is chuckling away in her usual irrational way, which sends a chill down the spine of Lit. He finds her very unusual and is very wary about her hidden abilities for he knows that there is much more to her than meets the eye and he must be careful of her actions.

    Darkness falls over the market and the inn and after all the guests have turned in and the innkeeper shuts up his shop front, all is still in the streets of the town. The rustle of the wind blows the dried leaf fall against the walls of the buildings and the only sound to be hears it the knocking of the blocks and clangers of the hour beating warden.
    “Patter patter patter…”
    The gentle sound of running can be heard but no person can be seen on the stones in the roadway. A figure runs across, with the stealth of a fox and the confidence of a cat, jumping over the walls and out of the town towards the depths of the leafy cover and towards the gentle crackling of a dying campfire in the centre of the traveller camp. The dark figure enters one of the tents, carrying what seems to be a piece of burning ember from the fire. Before long the tent is alight and the golden flames are lapping at the sides of the animal hide dwelling. A black shape can be seen against the orange glow, running from the other side. Suddenly his tracks are stopped by the white whisps of Ching’s skirts as she leaps out of her hiding place and comes towards him with her punch. She catches him unaware and he takes a hit on his chest before putting his arms out to block the next hit. She continues her attacks, barely giving the masked man a chance to return and when he does she anticipates them well and even whilst she is fighting manages to learn the moves and overcome them in her own fluid ways. After taking several more hits and realising he is no match for her, the masked arsonist flees. As she goes ahead to chase, Ching’s concentration is caught by the screams of a woman. She is the mother who has escaped from the burning tent and her husband, but their son seems to be trapped and they are afraid to re-enter to rescue him for fear of their own lives. Without a second thought for her own safety, Ching rushes into the tent and with her amazing internal strength easily rescues the screaming child from the smouldering remains of the tent. With the child returned to his family, Ching helps to put out the fire before asking them if they knew who the attacker was. The father of the family shakes his head.
    “There are a lot of family feuds in the settlement, I think it was probably one of the people who have their eyes on my family’s possessions. We are a poor people and when things are scarce then people will fight. They pretend to have information about treasure and bribe the people from the village to do their dirty work for them.”
    “I see… so you don’t really have any information about the treasure then?”
    “No, we are just nomads from the West where the treasure is rumoured to be. I really do not know how to thank you for saving our lives, you are a heroine…”
    “Don’t say that! I was just passing by and heard a cry for help. My name is Meng Ching.”
    “Please, Miss Meng. I have nothing of value for you, but please take this as a token of our thanks – it will protect you.”
    He hands her a small semi-precious orange stone with an inscription on it. She accepts gratefully before wandering over to the sleeping child on the woman’s lap, saying her goodbyes and leaving the settlement, which has once again restored its peacefulness.

  14. #14
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Chapter Five - Lonely Ladies

    In the courtyard of the Inn, the swooshes and whirring of a sword slicing through the air pushed by a great inner energy can be heard as the blade winds cause the rustling of the leaves on a nearby bamboo plant. The slick moves and yet powerful thrusts from the petite form of Mo Yung Chor Chau are awesome as she practices her martial arts in the morning cool.

    The sound of gentle applause breaks the song of the sword.
    “Miss – you have great skill for your young age.”
    It is Ching who has been observing for a while and picking up a few moves for herself.
    “Would you care for some sparring?”
    “Why, I only learn this for my own health – I am not very good! Maybe you could teach me some new moves!”
    Chor Chau is as modest as she is beautiful.
    Ching picks up a short bamboo stick from the ground and bounds down to the centre of the yard. The two girls pay their respects and launch into a training fight with each other. Their ability seems evenly matched as they exchange attacks and blocks, however it would seem that Ching is holding back somewhat.
    Shwap! The sound of metal slicing bamboo can be heard before the end of Ching’s stick clatters to the ground.
    “Oh! I admit defeat! You are better than you seem!”
    “Never! You are just letting me win…”
    The girls laugh heartily and retire into the main dining hall for a rest.

    As they sit together sipping tea and eating sweetmeats, Ching and Chor Chau feel a great kinship to each other as they introduce themselves and tell a little of their backgrounds.
    “My name is Meng Ching – well at least that is what my master called me. He said it was written on a jade tag, which I wore when he found me. I don’t know if that is my real name because I never met my parents. My master said he found me dumped in the forest. He was a loner, cutting wood for a living but he had a deformity on his face which made him shy around other people, so he chose to live in the forest – high up in the trees.”
    “Did he teach you your martial skills?”
    “Yes, he brought me up like his own daughter and taught me everything he knew. He said there was a manual etched on the back of the jade tag, which he interpreted as an inner energy talent so he told me to use it to build my own breed of martial art. After he died, I just pick up what I can. So tell me about yourself!”
    “I am called Chor Chau. My family name is Mo Yung. My parents used to run a courier business, delivering valuable items and protecting them with their superior martial arts skills. They didn’t like to leave my brother and me at home so they often took us along with assignments and taught us to protect ourselves whilst we were out and about.”
    “So where are your parents now?”
    “They were attacked by robbers and in their attempts to protect us, they were slaughtered in the process.”
    “Oh, that is so bad!”
    “We accepted that is part of the risk in the job. Don’t worry about that…
    My brother and I tried to continue the business, but he is too obsessed with finding treasure and becoming rich, we haven’t received an assignment for a long time now. I do worry about him, it feels like I don’t know him any more. He leaves me alone for days at a time and then comes back with some money, but I don’t know what he does and he will not tell me.”
    “I’ll keep you company if you like – just treat me like a sister. I don’t have anything of value to give you as a present. I know, take this.”
    Ching pulls a small jewelled hairpin from her hair and places it gently into Chor Chau’s hand. In exchange, Chor Chau takes a gold leaf-shaped brooch from her waist band and passes it to Ching.
    “Sister!”
    As a new, yet strong friendship is formed between these two lonely, orphaned ladies, a secondary thought passes through Ching’s head. Maybe she can use this acquaintance to her advantage to find some information from Mo Yung Lit and save herself some work…

  15. #15
    Moderator Suet Seung's Avatar
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    Hi Em,

    Ah looks like I have two or three chapters to read now....eh..perhaps later after finals week is over. Well, update soon...would sure like to read more chapters.

    WK
    I just love how you Captivate My Mind

    Self reminder - Update blog more often and continue editing/writing for TOV fanfic.

  16. #16
    Senior Member nickianjo's Avatar
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    Good fanfic you got here Em. <IMG SRC="smilies/smile.gif" border="0"> Update soon.

    NickiX
    "share the glory in the story"

    .

    shut up already

  17. #17
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Thanks WK and Nicki - hope you continue reading!

    Chapter Six - Mo Yung Lit

    As he returns from a morning’s prying, negotiation and investigation, the coldly reflective stare from Mo Yung Lit meets with the eyes of Meng Ching as he walks through the inn and as he passes her, he hastily turns away. It would appear that he is eager to avoid her attention as though he has something he wishes to hide from her. Ever the intruder into other people’s affairs, Ching addressed him with her large, lively eyes and a broad knowing grin appears on her finely featured face. She is a little consumed by the potential gains from this man and she would like to reach a co-operation with him. Lit’s evasion is unsuccessful as he is called over by his chirpy and enthusiastic sister, who rushes over and hurriedly drags him to the table.
    “Elder Brother, let me introduce you to my new friend – this is Miss Meng Ching. Sister, this is my brother Mo Yung Lit”
    “Ah, so you are the hero who Chor Chau speaks so highly of. I am so honoured to meet you Brother Mo Yung.”
    “You flatter me so much Miss Meng – I think I have so much to learn from you!”
    He peers at her enquiringly, but she brushes off the attack with her usual flippant manner. Chor Chau is a little surprised that they already seem acquainted.
    “Oh! Do you already know each other?”
    “Not at all!”
    Ching and Lit answer simultaneously. He looks at her with disdain while she simply smiles at him mockingly.
    “Our paths crossed whilst we were going about our business, it would appear that we are looking for the same thing in Jun Tao.”
    “Miss Meng is quite persistent, I must admit.”
    “Well if you are both after the same thing, then maybe you should work together. It will make things a lot easier..”
    “Well, that would be if Brother Mo Yung would be willing to have me around!”
    Meng Ching doesn’t give him much of a choice as his younger sister looks at him earnestly. He knows how lonely she gets and is pleased that she has finally found a friend. He cannot refuse and changes his mind reluctantly on Meng Ching’s earlier proposition.
    “Well, with Miss Meng’s assistance, I’m sure we should make some progress very soon. If you are Chor Chau’s friend, then you are also my friend.”
    “Please, Brother Mo Yung – call me Ching Yee. I can’t get used to this Miss Meng business!”
    Chor Chau is pleased that the encounter has gone well, but Mo Yung Lit holds back. After their last encounter, he is convinced that Meng Ching knows more about him than she shows and he is very wary of her motives and her intentions against him and his sister. He excuses himself and retires to his room.

    Upon placing his sword on the table in the simply decorated guest room and pouring himself a cup of water, Mo Yung Lit pulls a small bottle of medication from his travel sack. Pulling away the clothing from his chest, he reveals a wound from a small, yet powerful punch. He was lazy at practicing as a child and his internal energy is not as well grounded as his sister and the bruising runs deep into his chest and his ribs are partially fractured. As he rubs on the medication, he smarts from the pain as he thinks back to the events of the night before: his deal to seek revenge on behalf of the tribesman in exchange for information and his failed murder attempt. His injuries had been sustained from his bout with Ching and it is this fact, which places him under much pressure and threat from this forced alliance with her.

  18. #18
    Senior Member C Monster's Avatar
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    Talking

    Great work Em! Your intro and writing style creates an aura of mystery and suspense that is very similar to Gu Long's pen.

    All this intrigue over a "Murderous Blade" have echoes of the "Deer Carving Knife" in Gu Long's "Siu Sap Yat Long." Your characters so far each have a distinct air about them, and I have to credit you with the great casting.

    <IMG SRC="smilies/thumbsup.gif" border="0"> A job well done. Keep it up!

  19. #19
    Senior Member Goofy's Avatar
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    Cool

    sharp writing, Em.

    I enjoy your summaries and fanfic story. <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/clap.gif" border="0">

    <font size="1">[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Goofy ]</font>
    "History's third dimension is always fiction."
    -- The Glass Bead Game, Hermann Hesse

  20. #20
    Moderator Em's Avatar
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    Chapter Seven – Matched Abilities

    Wandering seemingly aimlessly in the busy Jun Tao streets, Meng Ching’s eyes flicker from face to face and item to item as she tries to focus her attentions onto something worth her energy. Her search so far has been rather fruitless, but her pride prevents her from admitting her lack of progress. Suddenly, her train of thought is rather rudely interrupted by the sound of the beating of a gong as the beginning of a great ceremony is announced. Mingling with the wave of inquisitive people, which suddenly gush towards the end of the street, Meng Ching is swept along to the side of a stage set up in the square, where a local merchant Wang Fu is selecting a son-in-law by the barbaric tradition of a grappling tournament.

    In this town full of prospectors and opportunity seekers, spurred on by the promise of a lavish lifestyle, pretty wife and sufficient wealth to fulfil the rest of their days, the offers from fighters are plentiful, but many are reduced to a painful or tearful end after a couple of bouts. Having nothing better to do, Ching decides to stop a while and see if there is anything to learn. As one man after another puts up a display of his best efforts and is rapidly thrown off the stage, Ching sighs as she resigns to the day being fruitless again. Just a she turns to leave, her attentions are recaptured by the sight of the next competitor on the scene. It is the burly victim from the Last Stop Resting House, who is keen to recoup the loss of his jewelled dagger.

    “I am Chun Hung from the Northern Frontiers. Let me fight and show you my worthiness.”

    “Finally, I might actually learn something worthwhile today!”
    Ching thinks to herself as she once again settles down to watch the show. The thuggish brute strength of Chun Hung is too great for the last competitor and with a few flicks of his forearms and a swing from the huge thighs of the man, his opponent is quickly flung into the crowd, crushing a couple of spectators who got more than they bargained for. A few more challengers are quickly overcome, as Ching gets fed up of watching his blind force with little strategy. On the other hand, the merchant is rubbing his hands in glee, as he is pleased with the victor.

    The Master of Ceremonies steps onto the stage and announces:
    “If there are no more fighters, then I will declare Chun Hung the winner!”

    Everyone looks around enquiringly as eye contact is made and quickly averted, those who wanted to have a try are quickly convinced to the contrary and turn away or take a step back. Suddenly, a confident, young voice can he be heard from among the mutterings.

    “I’ll sort him out!”

    The mass of heads turn together to see who is bold enough to take on this task and gasps can be heard as they see a slight figure leap and land on the side of the stage.

    “You? How dare you appear here!”
    “Well, I can’t miss out on a good fight can I?”
    “You are so foolish, but I will not lose this chance to reclaim my family heirloom!”
    “I’m sorry… I don’t know what you are talking about. A dagger you say?”

    Man Hin laughs a cheeky, yet shrill laugh, which intrigues Ching. Hung launches a punch, but the nimble tactics of Hin dodges this easily. As Hung’s temper fires his aggression, more attacks are made with fist and foot in rapid succession, yet without the need for retaliation, Hin jumps around untouched. In a final act of contempt before launching his first attack, Hin turns to Hung and pays his respects and then repeating this with the audience, who return this with loud cheers of enthusiasm and support. A swift kick to the abdomen assists in launching the height of Man Hin’s attack as the next kick can soon be felt to the side of Hung’s face. The great internal energy transmitted sends him flying to the ground as the lighter man lands neatly on his feet. The crowd are ecstatic as they see this bully being taught a lesson and Ching is totally captivated.

    Hung scrambles to his feet, very shaken and unable to believe what he has just experienced. Eager to regain some dignity, he rushes towards Hin once again like an agitated bullock. His blows do little damage however as Hin blocks these attacks with extreme ease, followed by another return with a punch to the chest which sends Hung taking several steps back. Like missiles from a cannon, further fists can be felt against the hefty body of Hung before another kick to the head sends him once again to the ground. Unable to draw himself up once more, his faithful companions run up to him and drag him from the stage as the appearance of many wounds start to emerge on his body.

    The wealthy merchant runs forward to proclaim Man Hin the worthy winner and to greet his future son-in-law, but Man Hin bluntly refuses his offer, much to the merchant’s dismay.

    “Master Wang, I am sorry but that was not the reason for my fight and my apologies for spoiling your party. I must leave now – why don’t you start again?”
    And with those words, Man Hin leaps off the stage and walks off, pulling the stolen dagger from his belt and admiring it as he heads down the street. The merchant and the crowd are stunned, but Ching is very interested in this showy character and she follows him quite openly as he goes on his way.

    Man Hin notices this little shadow he seems to have adopted and ignores her then tries to shake her off with a little flying and leaping exercise. He is no match for Ching’s stalking skills and after a while, his curiosity gets the better of him as he turns to her, a little unnerved by her consistent mysterious half-smile and asks:

    “Miss, you have been following me for a while now. I know I am handsome and appealing, but you have to give me some breathing space!”
    “I want to know your name.”
    “A name is but an expression, what importance does it bear?”
    “You weren’t easy to follow, I would like to know who it is who is able to put me through a decent challenge for once.”
    “Oh?”

    Man Hin chuckles to himself as he relishes in the interest which Ching is showing him. An instant rapport and mutual respect seems to have established between the two, yet neither are willing to show this to the other, before they have had a chance to further compare their talents. He has an idea.

    “I have a deal for you.”
    “Tell me, I drive a hard bargain!”
    “If you are still on my trail in three days time, then I will tell you my name.”
    “Three days? That should be no problem at all… you’d better have a good name to tell me then!”

    Meng Ching accepts a challenge which she is confident she will complete, but the cunning Man Hin will certainly not make things easy for her.

    <font size="1">[ January 29, 2003: Message edited by: Em ]</font>

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