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

[Anh Nam]

Thanks Justin

[Justin13]

Sighing to himself, Xiang Shaolong knows that another set of troubles await.

Xu Yizhe came to visit him in ordinary clothes and without any followers. His entourage is completely different from Lord Longyang and the others.

It has been years since they last met and the wrinkles on his face have increased considerably, signaling a tormenting lifestyle.

After exchange pleasantries, both men sat down according to their status as host and guest. This famed General of Yan lamented: “Today we may be pouring our hearts out to each other but tomorrow we could be meeting in the battlefield. This is truly dreadful.”

Xiang Shaolong can comprehend his emotions and enquired about Prince Dan’s situation.

Xu Yizhe sighed: “With wolves and tigers as neighbours, who can enjoy a day of peace? Great General should be aware of Qi’s ambitions towards our territory. This time round, we initially did not wish to send anyone over. However, Guo Kai kept egging Prince Dan, promising that if we can support Tian Jian and suppress Tian Dan, it will result in a different outcome. Thus, here I am. And I have discovered that regardless of whoever is in power, halting these ambitions is simply impossible.”

Xiang Shaolong sighed to himself. The people of Zhao and Yan are mired in gratitude and hatred themselves. In the same year when he took the time machine and travelled to this era, the Yan invading army has just been freshly defeated by Lian Po, who subsequently attacked all the way to the capital of Yan. At that time, Wei, Han, Qi and Chu joined hands in pressuring Zhao, forcing them to withdraw. Taking advantage of the situation, Qi invade Yan and this time round, Chu came in to attack Qi from the back, as the Three States are unable to cope with Qi due to the fierce threat from mighty Qin.

The entire history of the Warring States is a record of large States conquering the smaller States. Every State has its expansionary policy and increased its own strength by absorbing territory from other States. If they do not increase their own strength, they would be conquered by others to be used to increase the strength of others. For example, if Yan is a bigger state than Qi, the people of Qi would be the ones feeling depressed now.

Ever since their crushing defeat at the hands of Zhao, Yan has been struggling at the brink of extinction. If not for Prince Dan who sent Jingke to assassinate Xiao Pan in the later years, probably nobody would have a deep impression of Yan.

Xu Yizhe added: “Prince Dan is currently based at Wu Yang, it is a developed city beside River Wu and it is nearer to the South border in preparation for any threats from Qi. If Great General can spare the time, Prince Dan would love to meet his old buddy.”

Xiang Shaolong bitterly laughed: “Now, I am not even confident if I can make it safely back to Xianyang alive and would not burden myself with other matters.”

Xu Yizhe officially state: “Is Great General referring to the duel with Cao Cuidao? I am certain it is Tian Dan and Lu Buwei fanning the flames from behind. Great General must exercise caution when dealing with it. We did send a few top swordsmen to challenge Cao Cuidao, hoping to ruffle the feathers of Qi. Unexpectedly, they could not even overcome Zongsun Xuanhua, causing us some distress.”

Xiang Shaolong is conscious that his present predicament is indirectly caused by Han Chuang. Not wishing to discuss any further, he changed the topic: “When is Brother Xu going back to Yan?”

Xu Yizhe answered: “I had planned to leave the next morning after the birthday banquet but right now, I would only leave after witnessing Great General triumph over Cao Cuidao.”

Xiang Shaolong shook his head: “Brother Xu is expecting too much from me.”

Xu Yizhe was slightly stunned and queried: “The match has not yet begun. Why is Great General already feeling disillusioned?”

Xiang Shaolong obviously could not tell him he had experienced Cao Cuidao’s prowess before and could only mutter some gibberish and changed the topic again.

After some idle chatter, Xu Yizhe finally brought up the topic that Xiang Shaolong feared most of all: “Besides paying my respects to Great General, Xu Yizhe has a special request.”

Xiang Shaolong could only respond: “Brother Xu, please speak without any reservations.”

Xu Yizhe solemnly explained: “Although we took part in the allied campaign and attacked your State, we did so reluctantly and were in fact forced by circumstances. Otherwise, we would be helpless and alone the next time Qi attacks us. If we can get rid of this thorn in the flesh, I guarantee that my State will never participate in any allied campaigns.”

Xiang Shaolong frowned: “This is a high level decision. Can Brother Xu have the final say?”

Xu Yizhe sighed: “This is no longer regarding who has the final say but this is the dream of the key decision maker. Now that Tian Dan and Lu Buwei are in cahoots and the might of Qin military is suppressing the Three States (Han Zhao Wei), causing them to be unable to divert any resources to the north, giving Tian Dan the opportunity to occupy our territory. All I ask of is for Great General to hint Qi that Qin will not sit by and watch while Qi expand their borders. With that, even if Qi has all the guts in the world, they would not dare to be complacent. With just one sentence, Great General shall win the friendship of my State on behalf of your State.”

This is the first time Xiang Shaolong found himself in such a complicated dilemma. Although he could influence Xiao Pan, that is purely because he does not possess any selfish motives and is always thinking from Xiao Pan’s point of view.

Ever since Qin implemented Shang Yang’s reforms, they have a policy of befriending distant States while invading neighbouring States. For example, they maintained cordial relations with Qi and Chu while making inroads into the lands of the Three States. With regards to Yan, Yan did enjoy a glorious period when King Yan Zao constructed a Golden Pavilion to recruit famed generals such as Le Yi who successfully repelled the Qi army. Presently, Qin cannot be bothered with pathetic Yan, which is situated in the desolated northeast. Therefore, Qin would never forsake their relationship with Qi for Yan.

From another angle, he has to make provisions for Shan Rou and assist Xie Ziyuan in regaining Tian Jian’s cooperation. To a certain extent, he has to match the same promise Lu Buwei has committed to Tian Jian. The promise naturally involves Yan, this juicy piece of meat.

He knows better than anybody that he is not someone who is suitable for political work. Of course he could easily win the affections of Xu Yizhe by pretending to agree first and subsequently doing the opposite. However, this is something his conscience would never allow.

Xiang Shaolong bitterly smiled: “It may appear easy for me to accept your proposition and just mention this one sentence; however, I am afraid it cannot be done.”

His countenance slightly altered, Xu Yizhe admitted: “Then it must be my imperfect judgment, assuming that Great General is a true friend of Prince Dan.”

Xiang Shaolong clarified: “Brother Xu is mistaken. Friends are friends. This fact would never change. The problem is that I am not officially visiting Qi on behalf of Qin and with Lu Buwei posing an obstruction, it would be challenging for me to put your message across. Therefore, I dare not recklessly agree. Can you give me some time to think this through?”

Sighing, he added: “If I succumbed under Cao Cuidao’s sword, all my undertakings would be meaningless.”

His expression turning warm, Xu Yizhe was slightly embarrassed: “It is me who had jumped to conclusions. We shall speak again after Great General return victoriously from Qixia College.”

Xu Yizhe concluded his visit, standing up and bidding farewell. After sending him off at the Villa entrance, Li Yuan happened to come along.

In the past, Xiang Shaolong has the free time to take an afternoon nap. Presently, he is handling one appointment after another, working himself to death.

Firstly instructing Li Yuan to wait for him in the main hall, he proceeded to put his signature on the letter Xiao Yuetan had prepared. While he was rushing towards the main hall, Little Ping’er detained him, demanding: “Mistress is urgently looking for you and insists that you see her at once.”

Witnessing the melancholic and pitiful glow of her eyes, Xiang Shaolong can feel his heart grinding with agony. However, there is nothing he can do about it as he had made up his mind to refrain from taking another wife or concubine. Love is in fact the greatest burden of all. Since the passing of Princess Qian, the only women who have moved his heart are Qin Qing and Li Yanyan.

Xiang Shaolong was in a fix: “But Li Yuan is waiting for me in the main hall!”

Little Ping’er declared: “Nevertheless, you must visit Mistress first because Lady Qingxiu has sneaked into her bedroom.”

Only now did Xiang Shaolong knows Lady Qingxiu and Feng Fei are acquainted. After weighing his options, he hurriedly made his way to meet this gorgeous lady.

As anticipated, Lady Qingxiu’s face is covered with several layers of veil as she refuses to let Xiang Shaolong view her actual face. After Feng Fei knowingly excused herself, Lady Qingxiu went straight to the point: “Does Great General knows that you are in an extremely dangerous situation?”

Nodding, Xiang Shaolong quizzed in a deep voice: “What updates does Your Lady have for me?”

Lady Qingxiu enlightened: “Chancellor Li naturally would not talk to me about his affairs. However, I did send someone to keep an eye on him. For the past two days, Han Chuang visited him several times and held secret discussions. Great General yourself is an observant man and should be aware that Han Chuang’s character is deplorable. All along, Chancellor Li does not have a high opinion of Han Chuang. When they are suddenly behaving so intimately, I sense something is afoot. ”

Xiang Shaolong sighed: “I understand. Thanks so much Your Lady. I am extremely grateful.”

Lady Qingxiu simply state: “I am doing this for Yanyan; otherwise she would certainly blame me. We are just ordinary women and in our eyes, Great General has done Chancellor Li a huge favour and Chancellor Li would be at fault if he repays your favour with evil. We do not care about other details. I dare not hold Great General back from your official work anymore. Great General, please help yourself.”

Xiang Shaolong is used to her icy demeanor, seemingly putting an enormous chasm between her and everybody else. He paid his respects and bade farewell before heading to meet Li Yuan.

Sitting alone in the main hall, Li Yuan was sipping his tea in silence. Wearing a look of anguish, it may be due to the fact that he is betraying Xiang Shaolong, causing his mind to be turbulent.

Settling down by his side, Xiang Shaolong can feel his anger rising. He coldly hissed: “I shall have to trouble Brother Li to inform your best friend that I have decided not to leave tonight.”

Li Yuan shuddered forcefully: “Is Brother Xiang leaving tonight?”

Observing his body language, Xiang Shaolong deduced that he is not putting on an act. Mystified, he wondered: “Didn’t that ingrate Han Chuang tell you about it?”

[ycb5959]

Thanks for a weekend piece!

[Gubrak]

Weekend surprise!
Thanks Justin

[wuxiacrazy]

Thank you again, Justin

[Clown Prince]

又是第四了！ 哎••••••

[Anh Nam]

Thanks Justin

[Justin13]

Li Yuan swore to heaven that he was wronged: “I really do not know about this matter. I came to look for you today because I wanted to tell you that the fella Han Chuang has convinced Guo Kai to get rid of you and frame Lu Buwei for it, causing internal strife within Qin. Hey? Are you assuming that I am in the same league as him? If I really stoop so low, can I, Li Yuan, be considered a human being? Yanyan will hate me for life.”

His thoughts jumbling up, Xiang Shaolong can no longer discern who is a friend or foe. He disputed: “Why didn’t you visit me over the past two days? If I had tried to leave tonight, wouldn’t I be falling into Han Chuang’s and Guo Kai’s trap?”

Li Yuan was guilt-ridden: “Han Chuang did approach me consistently over the past few days. I did intend to stay out their affairs but eventually, I could not answer to my conscience any more. Shaolong, please do not blame me. It is Little Brother who is lacking in willpower.”

Xiang Shaolong sighed: “Did it ever cross your minds that as long as I am alive and confining Lu Buwei in a power tussle, it would be unlikely for Qin to attack your States with its full potential. I am certain all of you can imagine what would be the alternative if I am not around.”

He could not help but recall Xiao Pan’s identity crisis again. This event would cause both him and Xiao Pan to be at a severe disadvantage. Even if Lord Changping and the others continue to express their support for Xiao Pan, he would have lost the legal and moral right to rule.

Li Yuan bitterly smiled: “Essentially, Lord Longyang could not bear to betray Shaolong too. Due to a moment of carelessness, he did mention to Han Chuang he once saw you in Daliang. After the incident, he did not make a report to Wei. Thus, he was blackmailed by Han Chuang into cooperating with him because this information could lead to the annihilation of his clan. His affections towards you is deeper than any one of us and he is naturally experiencing the most agony. Brother Xiang should understand what I meant.”

Xiang Shaolong was incensed: “This fella Han Chuang has gone overboard. On the surface, he is spouting all kinds of friendship and integrity quotes. No wonder he has a special fear of me; his conscience is overpowered by guilt. Aye, since he could feel pangs of guilt, that means his personality is not completely evil.”

Li Yuan bitterly smiled: “I cannot imagine that Brother Xiang is still in the mood to joke. Han Chuang is indeed exceedingly troubled. Part of the reason behind his actions is due to pressure from Guo Kai. The loophole is that someone from Han Chuang’s entourage is a spy of Guo Kai, causing this information to be leaked out. Currently, Han cannot afford to offend Zhao and Han Chuang himself is terrified of Han Jing. If she lodges a complaint against him to the King of Han, he would be in hot soup.”

His anger faintly subsiding, Xiang Shaolong chuckled: “If I had knew about this earlier, I should have killed Guo Kai when I had the chance. It will save me from facing all these problems.”

Li Yuan reminded: “Even if it was somebody else, there would be no difference because in order to survive, men have been known to use all forms of despicable methods. However, this is simply against my conscience. In my opinion, even without your intervention, Han Chuang would terminate his scheme to escort you out of Lin Zi tonight. Using Cao Cuidao’s sword to get rid of you is surely better than getting his own hands dirty.”

From this sentence, Xiang Shaolong is confident that Li Yuan did not participate in this scheme; otherwise, he would be aware that Lord Longyang was the one escorting him away. On the surface, Han Chuang is supposed to be ignorant about this arrangement.

His mood improving, Xiang Shaolong perceived: “In this case, I should be safe before my duel with Cao Cuidao.”

Li Yuan sighed: “Logically, that is correct. However, I am concerned that the idle swordsmen of Lin Zi may be eager to challenge you and assess your swordsmanship beforehand.”

Xiang Shaolong coldly snorted: “I am in a terrible mood right now; they had better not mess around with me.”

Li Yuan wondered after some contemplation: “Cao Cuidao is truly a brilliant and exceptional swordsman. There has never been a swordsman as skillful as him. Does Shaolong have the confidence to defeat him?”

Recalling Xiao Yuetan’s ‘Ten Strokes’ proposal, Xiang Shaolong immediately felt better and nodded: “I should have no difficulty in defending myself.”

Li Yuan was amazed at his reply and did not probe further. Just as he was about to continue the conversation, Xie Ziyuan came looking for Xiang Shaolong. Knowing that it is inconvenient for him to stick around, Li Yuan swiftly left.

As Xiang Shaolong welcomed Xie Ziyuan into the hall, the latter bitterly laughed: “The appointment is fixed. However, Little Brother is facing a new setback. My wifey does not believe that we are going out together tonight and must witness your presence before she will give her approval.”

Xiang Shaolong is conscious that Shan Rou is only making up an excuse to see him. He bitterly smiled: “This time round, I shall fetch Brother Xie at your residence.”

Xie Ziyuan was elated: “Brother Xiang is a true friend indeed. When Second Prince knows that he is finally meeting you, he was overwhelmed with happiness. He states that in front of Yingzheng, a word from you is way more effective than ten words from Lu Buwei.”

Xiang Shaolong secretly felt that the eventual demise of Qi is precisely due to this kind of mindset.

Xie Ziyuan fantasized: “Once again, we must get Soft Boned Beauty to accompany us tonight. It is an incredible sensation to feel her leaning onto my body.”

Xiang Shaolong was alarmed: “Isn’t she working for Tian Dan? It would be inappropriate for her to overhear our conversation!”

Xie Ziyuan assured: “You can put your mind at ease. She is famous for not meddling in political affairs. Moreover, our discussion is not fully confidential. We mainly need to make it clear to the Second Prince that you are on our side.”

Recalling the incident this morning when the King of Qi scolded the First Prince Tian Sheng without mincing his words, he could comprehend why everybody is having a better opinion of Tian Jian and his higher chances at the throne.

Suppressing his voice, Xie Ziyuan clandestinely revealed: “It is rumoured that the Great King will announce the Crown Prince succeeding his throne during the birthday banquet. It will unquestionably be Second Prince. As a result, we need to borrow Brother Xiang to ruffle the feathers of Tian Dan and Lu Buwei.”

In his wildest dream, Xiang Shaolong could not imagine pitting himself against Lu Buwei and Tian Dan in this political struggle. It clearly demonstrates that political battles can kill without shedding blood.

From being an ‘insignificant’ being, he is now a Qin political heavyweight and can even influence the political outcome of other States. Life is truly beyond anticipation.

After informing him the appointed time, Xie Ziyuan speedily left to update Zongsun Long father and son.

Retrieving the Hundred Battle Sabre which he had securely hidden in his room, Xiang Shaolong hung it around his waist. In his mind, he decided that in the event that Cao Cuidao refuses to accept the ten-stroke proposal, he would immediately flee with Feng Fei once the festivities of the birthday banquet have been completed. Staying alive is of utmost importance. The swordsman’s glory is only secondary.

Reminiscing Cao Cuidao’s amazing swordplay, all his fighting spirit drummed up earlier by Xiao Yuetan disappeared without a trace.

But if Old Cao is willing to accept the ten-stroke limit, he does not mind giving it a go. No matter how inferior he is, he can surely defend against ten moves.

He obviously understood that Xiao Yuetan is thinking from his point of view. Fleeing from a duel will leave a huge blemish on his celebrated life as a warrior. It is considered an unwise move, especially during this period when Xiao Pan is undergoing an identity calamity.

Nevertheless, no one understands him better than himself. Cao Cuidao’s sword cannot be defended with pure strength alone. Dying in such a manner is not worthwhile, causing him to think of ways to avoid the fight. In addition, he cannot afford to leave his wives and child behind.

Until now, he is still unsure if Lord Longyang has betrayed him or not. The truth will come to light depending on whether he will cancel the arrangement to leave Lin Zi tonight or not.

He felt inclined to practice his sabre moves in the garden but on hindsight, if Old Cao is unwilling to accept the ten-strokes suggestion, all his practice would be meaningless. Absorbed in his thoughts, a fragrant smelling Xinyue suddenly squeezed herself into his arms and embraced him tightly. She faintly panted: “Great General has thoroughly deceived us!”

Hugging her enticing, curvaceous body and facing her attractive features, Xiang Shaolong is speedily losing his self control. However, he does not wish to hurt her feelings and could only quiz: “Doesn’t Miss Xinyue need to participate in the rehearsal?”

[teteq]

thanks for the update.

[wuxiacrazy]

Thanks Justin, real bonus for us

[ycb5959]

Thanks! 2 for the weekends!!!

"His thoughts jumbling up, Xiang Shaolong can no longer discern who is a friend or foe"

Neither can we

[Clown Prince]

I also panting..... Thanks Justin!

[r_aribawono]

Thanks! 2 for the weekends!!!

"His thoughts jumbling up, Xiang Shaolong can no longer discern who is a friend or foe"

Neither can we

Thanks for the update Justin! You're the best!!
I was thinking that everyone is in cahoot to deceive XSL.. but now.. I am not so sure..
But looks like no matter what, Han Chuang is one of the bad guy..

[Gubrak]

Thanks Justin

[Anh Nam]

Thanks Justin

[balikpapan]

Great week end. A United win, and 2 long and nice updates. Thank you, Justin! You're the man.

[Justin13]

Xiang Shaolong is asking this question because he can occasionally hear traces of music coming from the garden.

Her eyes shining and gazing at him, Xinyue cajoled: “First Mistress is currently tutoring Second Mistress in her singing methods and hand gestures. I was pining for Great General and took this opportunity to slip away and look for you!”

A beauty is always hard to resist and moreover, Xiang Shaolong does not bear any ill feelings towards this particular courtesan. Unable to harden his heart and reject her outright, he could only distract her by questioning: “Will you continue to pursue your art and assist Second Mistress?”

Xinyue articulated: “Of course I will. As touring courtesans, we have an unspoken tradition: Never marry into a rich family. If we must marry, we would rather marry into a common family or stay single for life. Aye, we have seen all kinds of men while plying our trade. We no longer believe in true love.”

Initially shocked, Xiang Shaolong was comforted and sighed with relief: “Nonetheless, courtesans like you who are able to decide your own life journey is limited in numbers. The courtesans who are employed by the rich have no say in their future.”

Kissing his lips, Xinyue coquettishly smiled: “When I was still misled that you are Shen Liang and knowing that the Song & Dance Troupe is disbanding in the near future, it did cross my mind to marry you. But right now, I can only do my best and serve Great General. Shall I come to your room tonight? You are much more dashing than before.”

Xiang Shaolong is greatly tempted but felt that he would be letting Ji Yanran and the others down. Thus, he politely rejected: “At this point in time, I have to preserve my strength in order to face that old fella Cao Cuidao in a showdown. If I managed to survive, I would approach you even if you did not approach me.”

Xinyue was thrilled: “It’s a deal!” Serving up another fragrant kiss, she was highly alluring.

After her departure, Xiang Shaolong took a glance at the sky. Instead of moping and wasting his energy on mindless thoughts, he might as well stroll along the streets and enjoy the sights, eventually walking to Xie Residence to see Shan Rou and Xie Ziyuan.

Making up his mind, he changed into a warrior uniform and wore a long sleeved cotton windbreaker on the outside. Completing his attire with a cap, he slipped out to the streets.

The weather is fantastic and the sun is about to set behind the western mountains. The streets are exceptionally lively and packed with pedestrians and carriages.

Now that his sword injury is almost healed and with Hundred Battle Sabre by his side, he could survive any encounter unless he happened to be surrounded by a huge body of warriors. However, no one would dare to openly make a move on him. If a single challenger approaches, it would be an excellent opportunity for him to practice his sabre moves.

Initially, he was on full alert mode but after utilizing various methods to test for stalkers, he concluded that no one is trailing him. Finally letting his hair down, he turned his focus towards the sights and sounds of this ancient capital as he leisurely strolled along.

The open-mindedness of the Qi lady is ranked third after Qin and Zhao.

Inheriting the uncivilized behavior of barbaric ancestors, the womenfolk of Qin are largely gypsies by nature. Due to a lack of men in Zhao, the royal family is encouraging the population to procreate. As a result, the ladies of the two States Qin and Zhao are unafraid of men. Bubbly and full of passion, they have been known to flirt unabashedly with strangers they met on the road.

On the other hand, the typical Qi lady is born with inherent passion. It is not known if such a nature is consistent with people who are born in a State next to the sea. They seldom exhibit signs of bashfulness.

Walking alone on the streets, Xiang Shaolong would occasionally encounter groups of Qi ladies who would bat their eyelashes continuously at him or gaze at him meaningfully, resulting in a romantic and amorous ambience.

Of all the places he has visited, the ladies of Chu are the most conservative. The extreme ones would be someone like Lady Qingxiu who would not even expose her true face to men. In addition, from her bearing and speech, one can sense her aloofness and inapproachability.

He could not help but think about Lady Zhuang. She originates from a southern minority race and is much more direct in her advances.

With light-hearted steps, he stepped into Xie Residence. Without the need to relay his arrival, the servant brought him straight to Shan Rou’s residing courtyard.

Dragging him to the side hall, Shan Rou loudly wailed: “How can you accept Master’s challenge? Have you already forgotten that he stabbed you a few days ago?”

Xiang Shaolong bitterly laughed: “He is now the provocateur; Little Brother is just the innocent victim.”

Furiously stomping her feet, Shan Rou cursed: “You fool! You think I, Shan Rou, is unaware of your, Xiang Shaolong’s, skill level? This is as good as committing suicide. Go ahead and lose. It’s no big deal anyway.”

Xiang Shaolong sighed: “I am now representing the glory of Qin’s swordsmen. I am not committing suicide as not all duels have to end with the death of the loser right?”

Shan Rou was hopping mad: “You do not understand Master. With a sword in his hand, he becomes void of emotions and no one can influence him. His past opponents were either killed or seriously injured. You have no idea how lucky you are to be able to escape with a minor sword wound the last time round.”

She added: “Earlier, I visited Master and pleaded with him to retract the challenge. However, he mentioned that it is rare for him to encounter a worthy adversary like you and refuses to change his mind. It is truly maddening.”

Xiang Shaolong could not bear to see her in a worried state of mind. He first made her promise to keep it an absolute secret before telling her about Xiao Yuetan’s ten-stroke proposal.

After learning about this, Shan Rou exhaled with a cold breath: “Master has always overpowered his enemies within a few strokes. Do you think these ten strokes are easy to defend?”

Patting his baby around his waist, Xiang Shaolong proudly assured: “If I had failed to withstand ten strokes from him, I would not be alive and standing here at the receiving end of your anger.”

Noticing his Hundred Battle Sabre, Shan Rou’s pretty eyes started to glow and she vulgarly grabbed it from him and began to toy with it. She gleefully exclaimed: “It has been a long time since I exchanged moves with an expert. Let’s see how you fare.”

Xiang Shaolong obviously recognizes her prowess and hurriedly countered: “It is not a good time to fight now. Please grant Little Brother one more night of rest. When I have fully recovered from my injury, I shall then pit my skills against yours.”

Shan Rou viciously declared: “I shall look for you tomorrow. If you are still making lame excuses, I shall give you a trashing.”

Finishing with a ‘Pu Ci’, she broke out in a string of giggles and is as mesmerizing as ever.

Xiang Shaolong sighed to himself. Shan Rou is one of the ladies he would sincerely love to retain by his side. However, she is now the wife of another man, resulting in another one of life’s helpless regrets.

Compared to Chu Empress Li Yanyan, he already foresee that it would be a simple one night stand and was mentally prepared. Thus, he was not the least bit upset.

He even retains wonderful memories of their rendezvous.

Leaning slightly closer to Xiang Shaolong, Shan Rou solemnly described: “If you can cause Old Thief Tian (Dan) to lose power, it would make him much more miserable than just killing him. It is as good as avenging my family. That is why I have never permitted Ziyuan that scoundrel to work hand in hand with him. It is amusing how Zongsun Xuanhua develop the mistaken impression that I have a favourable opinion of him and his father.”

Xiang Shaolong nodded: “I got it. Despite all obstacles, I will accomplish this mission for the sake of Sister Rou.”

Laughing like a blossoming flower, Shan Rou guffawed: “All along, I knew you are a good man!”

At this juncture, Xie Ziyuan returned to the residence and had a change of clothes. Sending them off at the gate, Shan Rou reminded Xiang Shaolong that she would look for him tomorrow for a sparring match.

As the carriage drove out of Xie Residence, Xie Ziyuan warned: “Within Lin Zi, almost every swordsman has suffered at the hands of my wife. Even Zongsun Xuanhua is afraid of accepting her challenges. Brother Xiang had better be careful.”

Xiang Shaolong sighed: “If I cannot even overcome her, I can forget about dueling with Senior Cao Cuidao.”

Thinking back, Xie Ziyuan thought so too and laughed at himself for being muddle-headed.

Listening to the light hoof beats, Xiang Shaolong closed his eyes and was instantly teleported to his warm and inviting home in Xianyang.

[ycb5959]

Thanks - that's 3 updates for the weekend!!!

[szfong]

Thanks for the update..

[Gubrak]

Well, really fast !
Thank you Justin, as always.