7-2 -- 7-5

Book 7 Chap 2 – Guest from afar

Under everyone's gaze, Li Yuan, who was dressed in grand robes and looks about 25 or 26 years old, stepped into the hall suavely under the accompaniment of Zhao Mu's attendant.

Undeniably he is a very good looking man, fresh but with character. He has broad shoulders, slender waist, long legs, standing straight and tall with a long sword hanging from his waist, giving one the impression that he's well versed in both scholarly pursuits and martial arts.

His eyes were alert and lively; obviously this is an intelligent person and not someone to be belittled.

Xiang Shaolong's heart started pounding.

He has so many things to worry about that he's not even sure himself.

The worst thing is that he may be able to tell from just one look that he is not the horse fanatic Dong Kuang, by then he can forget about leaving the Marquis residence alive.

Secondly is his relationship with Zhao Mu. If Li Yuan is the person sent by Chu's Lord Chunshen to secretly liaise with Zhao Mu, then Zhao Mu will immediately realize the trap that Xiang Shaolong has set for him.

Besides, if Li Yuan knows that the Chu envoy still has not reached Handan, he'll definitely guess that something happened along the way and this will arouse his and Zhao Mu's suspicion.

Any one of these problems is enough to make their whole group perish.

Hai! How did someone like this end up appearing out of nowhere?

Li Yuan stepped into the hall, listening as Zhao Mu spoke to him and at the same time suavely acknowledging the guests seated on both sides with a slight smile.

Xiang Shaolong wished that Li Yuan would never finish his walk.

Ji Yanran is was alert and had long noticed that his expression seemed strange so she said with a smile, "Mister Dong! The State of Chu is really filled with talents. Not only has it produced a horse expert like you, there's also the extraordinary Mister Li Yuan who is famed for his intellect and swordsmanship. His younger sister Li Yanyan is the latest beloved concubine of the King of Chu and I heard that she's now pregnant. If she can bear a son, he will become the Crown Prince of Chu, so now everyone thinks that his future is limitless."

Xiang Shaolong understood that it's because of the maids behind hindering them, she deliberately used such a method to drop hints on Li Yuan's background. She went to Chu before arriving in Handan, so naturally she knows about the latest news from Chu.

But he felt that when she mentioned Li Yuan's name, her expression looked a little unnatural.

When Li Yuan saw Ji Yanran, his eyes immediately brightened and he came to their table and politely greeting Xiang Shaolong, "How do you do, Mister Dong! We may both be from Chu, but I did not expect that we only have the chance to meet here in Handan, which is a thousand miles away."

Xiang Shaolong was slightly relieved that the most urgent problem is solved so he rose and returned the greeting.

Zhao Mu suddenly made a strange look at him, then looked at Li Yuan with a flash of murderous intent in his eyes.

Li Yuan was not too concerned about Xiang Shaolong as his gaze turned towards Ji Yanran, immediately filled with a captivating light as he said, "Miss Ji left without a word, giving me much grief."

He lowered his voice so that other than Zhao Mu and Xiang Shaolong, other guests still thought that he was making polite talk.

Another load was off Xiang Shaolong's mind as he realized that this Li Yuan is actually harassing Ji Yanran and it seems that they were once together in Chu, otherwise Li Yuan would not have spoken with such jealousy. It seems that this Li Yuan is a born romantic, otherwise why would be run after her through mountains and lakes all the way from Chu. Once he thought of this, he feels troubled again. Ever since Zhao Ya betrayed him, he no longer has the blind faith he used to have towards women. This Li Yuan is an outstanding person and so passionate about love, how would he know if he would be able to snatch Ji Yanran away from his hands. If this really turns out to be the case, the blow to him will be even harder than the one Zhao Ya gave him.

After Ji Yanran stole a peek at Xiang Shaolong, she replied with a smile, "Mister Li, you're too harsh with your words, how can Yanran bear it."

Zhao Mu said with a smile, "So you two are old acquaintances, now that everyone is in Handan, why worry that there'll be no time to catch up. Why don't Mister Li join my table and enjoy the performances by the song and dance courtesans."

Li Yuan smiled suavely and after giving Ji Yanran a meaningful look, followed Zhao Mu and seated himself between Zhao Mu and Zhao Ya.

Ji Yanran seems to have been moved that Li Yuan ran after her all the way to Handan. She lowered her pretty face, her eyes looking lost.

Xiang Shaolong started feeling even more uncomfortable.

The music started, a group of over a hundred song and dance courtesans came to the middle of the hall and started singing and dancing with their colorful outfit flitting in the air, giving both auditory and sensory entertainment.

"Hey!"

Xiang Shaolong was slightly startled, only to see Ji Yanran looking at him deeply with the corner of her eyes, filled with her love and longing.

At this time the dancers have blocked the view from the direction of Li Yuan, Zhao Mu and Zhao Ya and everyone else were concentrating on enjoying the performance. The music also helped to cover their conversation so that others can't hear them. It is indeed a good opportunity to talk secrets.

Xiang Shaolong revealed a slightly unnatural smile.

Ji Yanran rolled her eyes at him and said, "Can you not show me such a lack of confidence? You don't know how much I've been missing you!"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly thinking that this is called 'once bitten, twice shy'. He asked quietly, "Where are you staying?"

Ji Yanran quickly told him and added, "Don't look for me, let me look for you. Lord Longyang has always suspected that there's something going on between us so there's still people watching me even here."

Xiang Shaolong knows that she is smart beyond others and has excellent ways of accomplishing things so he's not worried that she will slip up. He nodded his head in agreement.

Ji Yanran suddenly stopped talking and recollected herself.

Xiang Shaolong was alert and immediately pretended to be totally engrossed with the performance.

It turned out that the dancers have now gathered to the middle of the hall into a small circle inside a larger circle, curving and flexing their bodies into various attractive poses, so the line of sight between Xiang Shaolong and Zhao Mu is now unblocked.

Zhao Ya is obviously quite interested in Li Yuan, constantly trying to make him talk. Xiang Shaolong was secretly livid on seeing it but even he does not know why he still has such feelings of jealousy towards her.

Li Yuan conversed with her politely but most of the time he was looking at Ji Yanran.

The Marquis of Pingshan, Han Chuang is obviously interested in Ji Yanran as well, looking at her intensely from time to time, as if he wants to eat her up.

All of those who had thought of wooing this world famous Learned Lady felt inept once they saw the appearance of Li Yuan and gave up the idea of wooing her. Besides, Ji Yanran seems a little interested in him as well. If not for Li Yuan's unique status and his extremely excellent swordsmanship, maybe someone would have wanted to kill him long ago.

Right until the end of the feast, the two of them could not find another opportunity to speak.

Ji Yanran left first with Zou Yan and was resolute in her rejection of Li Yuan's offer to accompany her. Of course she's making use of this to illustrate her stand towards Xiang Shaolong, which makes Xiang Shaolong and others who are interested in her extremely happy.

After Li Yuan left dejectedly, Xiang Shaolong was thinking of slipping off but was dragged by Zhao Mu to accompany him on sending off the guests at the main door.

Before Guo Zhong left, he reminded him about the feast at his house the next night.

When it came to Zhao Ba and Zhao Zhi's turn, the latter took a deep look at him before leaving with Zhao Ba whereas Lord Longyang's flirtatious look as he left gave him goose pimples.

In the end only Zhao Mu, Zhao Ya, Guo Kai, Le Cheng, Han Chuang and Xiang Shaolong were left.

It seems that Han Chuang is waiting for Zhao Ya and Xiang Shaolong can't help but feel furious, deliberately choosing to ignore Zhao Ya whose pretty eyes kept flitting over to him.

Han Chuang told Zhao Mu excitedly, "Besides the State of Yan, everyone else is here."

Although what he said seems to be without any head or tail, Xiang Shaolong knows clearly what he meant and also knows that he has mistaken Li Yuan to be the representative from Chu who has come to discuss how to attack Qin in the meeting held by Lord Dongzhou.

The situation is actually very interesting.

Amongst the 6 states, the ones who places the most importance in joining forces are naturally the states of Han, Zhao and Wei who are at the forefront of strong Qin.

Qi is also very anxious over the plan to join forces against Qin, because if the 3 states fall, the next target would undeniably be Qi, before the Chus.

Now that Han Chuang thinks that even Chu has sent an envoy over, of course he'll be ecstatic over it.

As for Yan, it is still recovering from the attacks launched by Lian Bo of Zhao, and their position has fallen greatly in the eyes of the other states so it doesn't matter if they come or not.

Zhao Mu gave a cold snort, "I'm afraid Li Yuan's trip here has got nothing to do with the secret meeting."

Han Chuang laughed, "He is now the most popular person with the King of Chu and I heard that his sister's beauty can take down a country. The King of Chu has no son yet so if she manage to give birth to a Crown Prince, Li Yuan will become the uncle of the future King. Therefore if he can help put in a few good words, do we need to worry that the King of Chu won't take part in the grand scheme this time."

An icy cold look flashed past Zhao Mu's eyes again, even the scar on his face looks a lot deeper.

Xiang Shaolong could see everything clearly as a bystander and knows that Zhao Mu is filled with unhappiness and hatred towards Li Yuan.

Guo Kai said with a smile, "Is Lady tired? Let Marquis Pingshan send you back!"

Han Chuang said to Zhao Ya politely, "I wonder if I can have the honor?"

Guo Kai and Le Cheng both understood his meaning and smiled. Han Chuang's question is akin to asking Zhao Ya if he could have the pleasure of her company again tonight.

Zhao Ya seemed a little embarrassed and looked towards Xiang Shaolong.

Whereas Xiang Shaolong looked towards the square outside the door, where 4 horse carriages and numerous Zhao soldiers were respectfully waiting.

Zhao Mu remembered that he had promised Xiang Shaolong to help him with Zhao Ya and even if tonight is not the night, but if he allows Han Chuang to 'take away' Zhao Ya in front of him today, it'll be a loss of face as well. So he said, "Marquis Pingshan please return early to rest, I have to enter the Palace with Lady later to meet his Majesty."

Han Chuang has no choice but to leave.

Zhao Mu told Guo Kai and Le Cheng, "I still have some things to discuss with Mister Dong, both of you can leave first!"

Guo Kai made an eye at Xiang Shaolong behind Zhao Mu's back, asking him to be careful before leaving with Le Cheng, laughing and chatting as they walked.

Only Zhao Mu, Zhao Ya and Xiang Shaolong was left and the atmosphere was a little awkward.

Zhao Mu told Zhao Ya, "After I finish a few words with Mister Dong, he'll accompany you back to your residence!"

Zhao Ya's pretty face changed as she pouted, "Don't I know how to go back on my own?" After which she stared angrily at Zhao Mu and Xiang Shaolong before she stepped out of the door, into her carriage and left, leaving behind Zhao Mu and Xiang Shaolong looking at each other, both suffering a great loss of face.

Zhao Mu smiled wryly, "Some women are like a wild horse that can never be tamed, very difficult to ride on."

Xiang Shaolong agreed, "Only such women are challenging enough."

Zhao Mu pulled him away and they walked along the corridor that's leading towards the inner residence. Although it's now deep into the night and very quiet, the Marquis residence is still brightly lit, and looks as if it's still day.

They only sat down when they reached the inner hall where Zhao Mu had shared with him the Yue beauties, the sisters Tian Zhen and Tian Feng, in the past.

After the maids served them tea, they retreated.

Zhao Mu seemed troubled and said after a moment of silence, "You should know the relation between my father and Li Yuan, right!"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly lamenting that he is now impersonating as Lord Chunshen's trusted aide, who is here to help Zhao Mu dream about being King so of course he can't say that he has no idea. But the only thing he knows is that Li Yuan's sister is called Li Yanyan, and he could only remember her name because the two words in her name is the same as Ji Yanran, otherwise he would have forgotten even her name as well.

He went on bravely, "Is Marquis referring to Lady Yanyan's matter? I have always been doing work for his Highness, so I have never met Li Yuan. All these were told by his Highness personally."

Unexpectedly Zhao Mu actually nodded his head and sighed, "It's exactly this matter. Don't think that Li Yuan looks good and nice, but his level of manipulation, even all the thousand odd men and guests under my father's residence cannot hold a candle to him. And don't think that he only came here because he was chasing after Learned Lady Ji and have the mistaken impression that he is a hopeless romantic. I'm sure there is a reason behind this. No one else is more manipulative or ambitious than him. Humph! Seems that Father did not reveal to him the secret about me, luckily so!"

Xiang Shaolong knows that the danger is not over and if he lets Zhao Mu ask him a few more questions, his identity will immediately be revealed. So taking the hint from what was said, he added, "I really have no idea why his Highness would trust Li Yuan so much?"

Naturally these words would not let any cat out of the bag.

Zhao Mu gave a cold snort, "Father is what you'll call 'an intelligent man will ultimately make a mistake due to too many responsibilities', and the bottom line is all about women. That's right! You just came from Chu, did Li Yanyan give birth to a boy or girl?"

Xiang Shaolong now has some vague understanding but is unable to describe the whole thing so he can only say, "I only heard she was about to give birth."

A dangerous cloud loomed over Zhao Mu's face as he said angrily, "I did not expect Li Yuan to actually use the same devious trick as Lu Buwei. Father refused to believe my words. If Li Yuan gains power in future, how could he possibly agree to let Father control court affairs. This time Father is really letting the wolf into the house."

If Xiang Shaolong still does not understand, then he's better off staying at home. Zhao Mu talked about women hindering matters, and said that Li Yuan is copying Lu Buwei's plan and Lord Chunshen letting the wolf in. With these clues, he can make an accurate guess as to what is happening. He hurriedly sighed as well and said, "And who knows if this Li Yanyan is really Li Yuan's sister."

Zhao Mu replied, "That seems to be the truth. Besides when Father was on close terms with Li Yanyan, Li Yuan has no chance to meet Li Yanyan at all and Father had sent people to check on their relationship as siblings as well." He looked at him suspiciously and added, "You should be knowing all these!"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly cursing, so it turns out that the child in Li Yanyan's stomach does not belong to Li Yuan, but to Lord Chunshen. Da.mn! How could he have known that the situation is so full of twists.

He replied calmly, "How could I not know. It's just that the person in charge of the investigation is called He Quan, and this person is only good at bootlicking. He's quite slipshod when it comes to other matters so I was afraid that he'll be tricked by Li Yuan."

All these are just nonsense he made up, but the aim is to gain Zhao Mu's trust. There's even the name of a person, so Zhao Mu would certainly believe him.

This evil fiend was indeed taken in and said sternly, "That is not where the problem lies. There should be no doubt that they are siblings. I didn't expect Father to be so careless."

This time Xiang Shaolong is really enlightened and have figured out the relantionship between Li Yuan, his sister and Lord Chunshen.

This Li Yuan is really formidable. He first offered his sister to Lord Chunshen and after she became pregnant, let Lord Chunshen gave this beauty who is pregnant with his child to the King of Chu who is without a son. Then the child that will be born will have a bigger chance of becoming the Crown Prince. They are re-enacting the plan of Lu Buwei giving Zhu Ji to King Zhuangxiang.

After he got this clear, Xiang Shaolong was relieved and said, "Now that Li Yuan has offered himself here, this is a great chance to get rid of him. By then Li Yanyan won't be able to escape from his Highness's clutches."

Zhao Mu said seriously, "This can never be done, otherwise it will create an avalanche of problems and even I will not be able to extricate myself. Besides his swordsmanship is excellent and extremely cunning. The family warriors accompanying him this time are all highly skilled. If something goes wrong and your man gets captured by him, even I will not be able to save you."

Xiang Shaolong smiled icily, "Do not worry, I will wait until he leaves the border of Zhao before I strike."

Zhao Mu saw how much effort he is making and clasped his shoulder joyfully, saying with a frosty smile, "One need not necessarily use swords to kill, let me mull over this matter. That's right! Do you really understand the nature of horses, otherwise you may reveal your shortcomings tomorrow in front of Learned Lady Ji. Hai! This is the first time I've met such a beauty, a pity…"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "Marquis please do not worry, how can I pretend to be a horse fanatic if I know nothing about horses?"

Zhao Mu replied, "I'm afraid Zhao Ya is not possible tonight, why don't I send you a few other beauties!"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "Forget about it for tonight, we still have to go to Learned Lady Ji's place early tomorrow morning. Are we going separately?"

Once Zhao Mu remembered that he can see Ji Yanran again tomorrow, he was immediately energized and said, "I'll pick you up to go together." He added with gratitude, "All thanks to you for today."

Xiang Shaolong knows that he was referring to the female assassin and after saying a few humble words, bid his farewell.

Zhao Mu sent him right to the main door and only turned back into his residence when he saw him going up the carriage and riding out under the accompaniment of his family warriors.

Book 7 Chap 3 – The Night is Painfully Short

The horse carriage trotted past the quiet streets of Handan, illuminated by the lanterns in the dark night.

As the carriage bumped around, Xiang Shaolong's thoughts were bumpy as well.

Right until this point in time, he has yet to think of any good way to capture Zhao Mu alive and cut down Le Cheng's head before escaping from Handan safely.

There was just an assassination attempt on Zhao Mu tonight so he'll definitely be extra careful in future and security will definitely be tightened. Under such circumstances, it won't be easy to kill him, much less capture him alive.

Now that the envoys from the 6 states are arriving one by one, the Zhaos, in order to keep this a secret and to prevent Qin spies from infiltrating the city, have now stepped up the defenses of the city by ten, or even a hundred times. Even sending someone to slip out of the city is a dangerous mission because they are now keeping detailed records of the people coming to and from the city.

Besides, his time here is limited. If the Zhaos realize that his promise of a large batch of warhorses arriving in Handan is not materializing, his situation would be far from optimistic.

Luckily a few hundred warhorses will be arriving in a few days' time and hopefully that will ease some of the wait for the Zhaos.

Being with Zhao Mu is an extremely dangerous affair; just one word spoken wrongly and he can be defeated or humiliated.

As for his personal relationships, everything is in a bigger mess.

Firstly no one can guarantee that Ji Yanran's heart will remain unchanged. With the lesson from Zhao Ya, his confidence in himself with regards to such matters is no longer the same as before.

As for his entangled relationship with Zhao Ya, he is even more bothered about it. Sometimes he finds her pitiful but most of the time he finds her hateful.

Hai! Forget it!

Just forget about her.

She is indeed a flirtatious woman, falling for every person she sees.

If that Li Yuan were to hook his finger at her, she would throw herself into his arms too.

Once he thought about this, the fire of revenge burned in him again, making him even more confused.

Zhao Zhi has obviously seen through something. A person's heart is unfathomable and if she wants to betray them, their outcome will be tragic. To be able to die in battle would be a good ending, for what they fear most is to be captured alive, for that will be a fate worse than death.

He finally returned to his residence that used to be the Hostage Residence.

Xiang Shaolong left the carriage and walked into the house.

Teng Yi, Wu Zhuo and Jing Jun were all waiting for his return and followed him straight into the house with high walls, which was used to put the fake Ying Zheng in house arrest.

The 3 of them saw that he didn't look happy but none dared to ask any questions, only following him into the secret room then used for discussion.

After the 4 of them were seated, Xiang Shaolong turned his icy face towards Jing Jun and said, "Xiao Jun! What exactly have you revealed to Zhao Ya? Do not try to hide anything."

Teng Yi and Wu Zhuo's expressions both changed.

In this dangerous place where enemies are everywhere, they are like walking on thin ice, one wrong step and their lives would immediately be in danger, not to mention if their background has been leaked.

Jing Jun was startled and lowered his head, asking in fear, "Third Brother has seen Zhao Zhi?"

Xiang Shaolong did not reveal that Zhao Zhi did not expose him directly in case Jing Jun tried to deny anything, but just nodded his head.

Teng Yi banged the table and cursed, "You're an ignorant fool who knows not the consequences. Do you want everyone to perish because of your stupidity. We have already warned you long ago."

Jing Jun smiled wryly, "That warning came too late, I've already told her long ago that we will be returning in the near future."

Wu Zhuo asked lividly, "Don't you know that Zhao Zhi is a Zhao? If her love for her country is more than her love for you, what would be the consequences."

Jing Jun replied dejectedly, "She doesn't love me at all, she only loves Third Brother."

All three were stunned.

Teng Yi furrowed his brows, "Don't sprout nonsense in order to wriggle yourself out of this."

Jing Jun said miserably, "She only regards me as a mischievous little brother. She's willing to talk to me only because she wants to know more about Third Brother."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "What did she write in her last letter to you?"

Jing Jun replied haltingly in shame, "She asked when we'll be coming to Handan and if we to be received. Ai! It's not that I have not thought of the problem that she's a Zhao, it's just that she told me she has a deep enmity with Zhao Mu, that's why I believe she will not betray us."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned. On the surface Zhao Zhi and Zhao Mu seemed to interact harmoniously, even training his courtesans for him. He can't tell anything out of the ordinary at all.

Why would she have a deep enmity?

Wu Zhuo asked, "What enmity does she has with Zhao Mu?"

Jing Jun shook his head, at a loss, "She refused to tell."

Teng Yi hesitated, "Maybe it has something to do with a woman's chastity."

Wu Zhuo asked, "Who else is there in Zhao Zhi's family?"

Xiang Shaolong and Wu Zhuo both revealed a look of attentiveness. This question is the key to everything. If Zhao Zhi has a large family in Zhao, why would she sacrifice her whole clan because of a man. At least she cannot leave behind her birth father. But if she wants her father to leave together with her, she will never get his approval.

Jing Jun replied, "She seems to live with only her Father, I… I don't know anything at all."

Teng Yi was flabbergasted and sighed, "You're really messing things up." Jing Jun joined because of him, so it makes him feel he needs to be responsible for everything that Jing Jun does.

Wu Zhuo asked, "Didn't you send her a reply? What did you write in the letter?"

Amongst all three, Wu Zhuo is the calmest now and all his questions are pin pointed on the most crucial aspects.

Jing Jun is after all still a child so he sobbed out his reply, "I told her we will appear in Handan in disguise, and will find a chance to make contact with her after we arrive."

Xiang Shaolong can't bear to see him thus so he patted his shoulder in consolation, "The situation is not that bad. Although she seems to have recognized me, firstly she's still not too sure, and secondly she did not call my bluff. There's still a chance to turn the situation around. But I really do not understand, since you know that she only regards you as a younger brother, why do you still want to become entangled with her?"

Jing Jun choked, "I don't understand too. But if she becomes your woman, Xiao Jun would never have an ounce of unhappiness."

Teng Yi said calmly, "We must not let our fate be under the control of a woman's hand. Xiao Jun, show me the way, I will kill her personally to prevent any unforeseen problems."

Jing Jun's body trembled violently, his eyes wide opened in shock.

Wu Zhuo nodded his head, "This seems like the only solution."

Among the four, two has already agreed to silence her. Jing Jun was so startled that he forgot to cry but only looked pleadingly at Xiang Shaolong.

Xiang Shaolong thought secretly to himself that if they want to keep this a secret, they'll have to kill Tian Zhen as well and how can he bring himself to do it? He said calmly, "By doing this we will see the harm first before we see the benefits. Zhao Zhi spoke to me many times tonight and was taking special notice of me and others may have seen this happening. If she gets killed tonight immediately after seeing me once, someone will eventually pin it down to me."

Wu Zhuo said icily, "Then the other way is to turn her into your woman, so we will be able to totally control her and at the same time check her background."

Xiang Shaolong took a look at Jing Jun and saw that he was keeping silent with his head lowered and felt pity for him. He said with a sigh, "Xiao Jun is my good brother, how can I take his love away?"

Jing Jun said with gratitude, "With Third Brother's such words, Xiao Jun can deeply feel the brotherly love we share. The truth is Third Brother has already let me enjoyed wealth and fame but I have yet the chance to repay you. This time it is I who have made the mistake and almost implicated everyone."

He suddenly knelt down and kowtowed to Xiang Shaolong, "Thried Brother please do whatever you have to towards Zhao Zhi, I will sincerely accede to anything."

At this point all three knew that Jing Jun is truly in love with Zhao Zhi. In order to preserve her life, he'd rather give up his right. Seen from another point of view, it also means he's automatically giving up in order to fulfill Zhao Zhi's love towards Xiang Shaolong.

Xiang Shaolong replied with a wry smile, "Although I have a liking for this beauty Zhao Zhi, I've never regarded it as a relationship between a man a and woman, so it's difficult for me to switch my mindset so quickly. Besides, it seems a little like I'm snatching my own good brother's woman."

Teng Yi said seriously, "Everyone knows that Shaolong is doing this for everyone's safety so there's no need for any doubt. If there's a problem, we'll have no choice but to be heartless for it's better than sitting and waiting to be killed."

Jing Jun exclaimed, "Third Brother! I'll bring you there immediately!"

Xiang Shaolong felt a headache coming on and tried to delay by revealing, "I've made contact with Ji Yanran!"

Everyone was overjoyed and pressed for news.

Xiang Shaolong told them everything that has happened during the feast. The three of them furrowed their brows deeply on hearing it. Now that there is a sudden appearance of Li Yuan, it will only bring more hindrance than help to their mission and ahs made the situation even more complicated.

Just as they were feeling troubled, there was a knock on the door.

Wu Zhuo revealed a look of unhappiness. Who dares to interrupt them while they are in secret discussion. Jing Jun was about to open the door when the alert Teng Yi grabbed him, afraid that others will see his swollen eyes from crying and opened the door himself instead.

The leader of the elite troops Wu Guo said at the door, "A guest who refused to reveal his identity is here to look for Master and is now waiting in the hall."

He then described this person's dressing and looks.

Everyone thought that this person could be a girl in disguise after hearing the description and they looked at one another. Could it be that Zhao Zhi has found her way here.

Xiang Shaolong stood up and said, "I'll take a look!"

Xiang Shaolong stepped into the hall and on seeing the person dashed forward happily.

The beauty who was wrapped from head to toe in a huge robe ran forward without a care into his arms, her dainty body trembling from excitement and joy.

It turns out to be the famous Learned Lady Ji Yanran.

As Xiang Shaolong felt the youthful, fiery and alluring body in his arms, all the worries and fears tonight were thrown immediately into the back of his mind.

He lifted her hood, letting her thick luscious hair fall down like waterfall as he uttered, "I didn't expect Yanran to come looking for me tonight, Xiang Shaolong is startled by such feelings."

Ji Yanran ignored the dumbfounded Wu Guo standing next to them and used all her might to hug his solid neck as she replied, "Yanran cannot wait a moment longer. Every day felt like an entire year during this half year as I suffered the pangs of missing you. If not for the fact that I could still talk about you with Mister Zou, I would not be able to tolerate it."

A beauty's generosity is immeasurable. Xiang Shaolong carried her up by her waist and told Wu Guo, "Let them know who has arrived!" and walked towards his bedroom.

Ji Yanran's pretty face immediately burned a fiery red right to her ears and although she buried her embarrassed face into his neck, the frantic beating of her heart could not hide the mix of shyness and happiness that she really felt.

But she did not make any show of objection, her dainty body so soft that other than panting hard, she could say nothing else.

Although Xiang Shaolong is not a person who is usually in such urgent need for lust, firstly he really misses this pretty and loyal beauty a lot, not to mention that she's extremely alluring. Most importantly he now has the intention of striking while the iron is hot, to quickly possess this beauty's body first. This is to prevent any potential problems from arising, like giving the scheming Li Yuan the chance to take advantage or if he were to use some devious methods to snatch Yanran away.

He originally had a good impression of Li Yuan, but after finding out how he and Lord Chunshen made use of his sister Li Yanyan, his impression totally changed.

The distance from the hall back to the bedroom felt as long as a whole century.

The two of them were so nervous that none spoke a single word.

After they closed the room door, Xiang Shaolong sat with her on the bed, using his strong arms to surround her so that her alluring body is sticking close to him with no space in between at all.

Xiang Shaolong kissed her slender neck and tiny ears gently, even boldly nibbling at her tender earlobes.

Ji Yanran totally melted under his ministrations, her mouth giving out alluring and soul-catching moans as her beautiful body rubbed against him.

Xiang Shaolong proceeded to caress her fragrant lips. Ji Yanran could take this no more and her fair arms entangled themselves around him as she reacted passionately.

All the suffering that came with missing him has been redeemed at this instant with the most alluring sweetness.

At this point in time both of them totally forgot about themselves, their senses in disarray as they tangled passionately. Under Xiang Shaolong's teasing, Ji Yanran's flames of desire were fanned to a peak.

Xiang Shaolong was forceful and audacious, caressing every spot, exciting her so much that her dainty body trembled and her blood surged.

She can only hear her beloved saying gently in her ears, "Yanran! Xiang Shaolong is very grateful for your love, you're so good to me."

Ji Yanran responded with a whimper, which quickly turned into moans. This man's hand has already slipped into her clothes expertly, caressing at will the forbidden places that no one has ever invaded before.

Then the clothes on her body were slowly removed piece by piece.

Ji Yanran's lids were half closed, allowing Xiang Shaolong to do as he please. Sometimes she will unintentionally block him, but it was just a symbolic show of resistance and has no actual effect at all.

Under the light from the burning red candles, her fair, flawless and beautiful body was finally revealed totally under the eyes and hands of Xiang Shaolong.

Xiang Shaolong had to choose this time to nibble her earlobes and ask, "Will this be all right?"

Ji Yanran languidly opened her eyes that was filled with passion and rolled her eyes at him before nodding her head, her heart filled with willingness. She closed her eyes again. Such alluring attraction is enough to make Xiang Shaolong increase the activities on her dainty body.

After the gloriously naked body was lying flat on the bed, Xiang Shaolong stood up, admiring this beautiful body that all normal men in the world wants to possess and at the same time removing his own clothes.

Ji Yanran suddenly turned over on the bed, lifting her pretty face with much shyness as she peeked at him with lovelorn eyes and a slight smile.

Xiang Shaolong laughed, "Heaven is so unfair. Yanran has seen my body long ago, but I had to wait a painful 6 months before I have the chance to even the score."

Ji Yanran pouted, "I only treated your injuries. The most embarrassing parts were all take care of wholly by your Princess Qian. It's not like how you're facing me right now at all!"

Xiang Shaolong revealed his perfectly muscular and alluring male body and said with a smile, "Has Learned Lady Ji finally regained her ability to talk?"

Ji Yanran objected, "You only know how to tease me." She really wanted to turn her head around so that she won't see this man embarrassing her but her eyes just won't listen to her and they couldn't move away from Xiang Shaolong's masculine body and neither do they not want to see him.

Xiang Shaolong knelt next to the bed, lowered his head to look at her and at the same time his hands caressed her fair back and pert bottom, saying with a sigh, "Heavens! This work of Heaven is really a very moving piece."

Ji Yanran moaned in response to his interesting and alluring words of love as she pouted, "Xiang Lang! I still have to go back before the day breaks!"

Xiang Shaolong replied with a laugh, "Then aren't you going to turn yourself around?"

This time, Ji Yanran did not obey him submissively, instead she wished that she could burrow into the bed and hide herself.

Xiang Shaolong sat on the bed and gently flipped her over.

Ji Yanran's eyes were tightly closed, her cheeks red. Her radiance was glaring, and extremely adorable.

Xiang Shaolong pressed down on her, their bodies touching without any gap in between at all and immediately this couple's temperature was raised continuously.

In the warm bedroom, rolling around under the blankets, Ji Yanran's virgin passion was ignited and she welcomed and entwined herself around Xiang Shaolong without a care.

It was only now that Xiang Shaolong was totally assured of Ji Yanran's love as he got what everyone has admired and coveted, which is Ji Yanran's precious virginity.

After the tumultuous affair, Ji Yanran's limbs were still tightly entwined around his body, her eyes closed tight and pure bliss written all over her face.

Xiang Shaolong can feel how deeply in love this beauty is with him and how much she trusts him and he can't help but feel guilty that he had ever doubted her.

Xiang Shaolong pressed his face against hers and asked gently, "Happy?"

Ji Yanran hugged him with all her might, opened her pretty eyes which showed the satisfaction and sweetness after a tumultuous night as she sighed, "I did not expect that there will be such alluring experience between a man and a woman. Yanran feels as if my life before this has been lived in vain."

Such alluring words filled with so much love is more effective than any aphrodisiac and it immediately caused another storm.

At this point in time both of them were in perfect harmony, with no hindrance at all.

Xiang Shaolong can clearly feel his intense love for her, that's why he was nervous and troubled over Li Yuan's appearance.

Ji Yanran suddenly kissed him and asked, "Are you afraid that I have fallen for that Li Yuan?"

Xiang Shaolong nodded his head in embarrassment.

Ji Yanran replied tenderly, "You think too lowly of Yanran. I've seen countless handsome men but none other than you can make my heart beat faster. Xiang Shaolong can get Ji Yanran's heart, is not totally because he is more good looking than others, but because of his generosity, spirit, extraordinary intelligence and a heroic aura that is irresistible to others." She lowered her head and continued quietly, "And now there's the addition of the love and entanglement, the joy between a man and a woman."

Xiang Shaolong almost wanted to start round three with her but sadly the night is painfully short and with the urgent crows of the cockerel, he helped her with her robes and at the same time continued with his entanglements.

The big house that Ji Yanran is residing in is the residence of Handan's famous scholar Liu Huasheng, which is only 2 streets away from Xiang Shaolong's residence. Xiang Shaolong accompanied her back, choosing side streets and alleys to avoid the patrolling city guards.

Ji Yanran slipped back into the house from the back garden. Xiang Shaolong still wanted to kiss and caress her, and only released her after this beauty was suitably blushing. Only the both of them can experience the feelings of entanglement between them.

As he walked back, Xiang Shaolong was filled with the intoxicating feeling of sweetness and warmth.

Suddenly, all the worries and danger became inconsequential matters.

Book 7 Chap 4 – Love and Hatred

With the strong will trained from the days in the Special Task Force, Xiang Shaolong forced himself up from bed and went to the hall to see Zhao Mu.

Zhao Mu's attitude was warm as he said, "Come! Let's have a good talk."

Xiang Shaolong pretended to be dismayed, "Shouldn't we be heading to Learned Lady Ji's place immediately?"

Zhao Mu forced a smile, "This morning she sent to inform me that she's feeling a little unwell so the appointment to see the horse will have to be postponed. Hai! A woman's heart is most unfathomable, especially such a rare and haughty beauty."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly laughing and thinking what could be so unfathomable? Ji Yanran was just following his instructions to cancel the appointment to avoid any embarrassment when they meet. It's just that he did not expect Zhao Mu to come and inform him personally.

After asking the servants to leave, Xiang Shaolong sat down next to him and asked, "Did Marquis have a good sleep last night?"

Zhao Mu sighed, "I almost even didn't close my eyes. Too many things happened during the feast and even when I told myself not to think about it, my brain refuses to obey." He continued in a quiet voice, "This time Li Yuan has brought with him a huge group of people. Those that can be considered experts are already more than 30 and they are all famous Chu swordsmen that he recently recruited to be his family warriors. Usually he keeps a very low profile in Chu in order to avoid raising Father's suspicions but he's revealing his true self once he arrived here."

Xiang Shaolong replied, "Marquis, do not worry. I am confident that he will not able to return to our Great Chu alive."

Zhao Mu was visibly touched as he looked at him and said, "Father has indeed chosen the right person to come. What is your real identity? Why have I never heard anyone mention you before."

Xiang Shaolong already has a script long prepared so he replied calmly, "My real name is Wang Zhuo, a hunter from the Xiutu Tribe. His Highness came to hunt near where I lived once and met with a pack of wolves and I saved him. Ever since then his Highness has specially groomed me and allowed my clan to enjoy wealth and riches. He is my benefactor. His Highness wants me to help you accomplish the plan of becoming the King of Zhao, therefore he has never taken me back to the residence. My trip to Handan this time is to work together with Marquis and to act when there's a chance. Won't the world belong to your Huang family sooner or later? My men are all from the Xiutu Tribe and absolutely trustworthy, so Marquis can put your mind at ease."

Zhao Mu's heart was fluttering on hearing this, thinking to himself that his Father really knows how to use people. This Wang Zhuo is not only intelligent but bold as well, not to mention his excellent swordsmanship. With this person's help and with Le Cheng's coordination, the position of Zhao Ruler will certainly belong to him. The biggest obstacles will be the two fellows Lian Po and Li Mu.

Zhao Mu said, "I've been thinking the whole night and finally thought of a workable plan, but now the time is not yet ripe. I will discuss with you again at a later date. As that muddleheaded King Xiaocheng has very high expectations of you, you'd better show some results as soon as possible."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly laughing that the most important part was his last sentence. He stood up and said, "Thank you for the reminder. I will immediately bring my men to the new farm outside the city to discuss how we can set up the place."

Zhao Mu's original intention was to look for him to pay a perfunctory visit to Lord Longyang, who was interested in Xiang Shaolong, so as to avoid incurring the displeasure of this powerful man from Wei. On hearing this he had no choice but to stand up as well and said, "Don't forget about Guo Zhong's feast tonight, you must come back before dusk."

Xiang Shaolong acknowledged a reply and sent him off before setting off with Wu Zhuo and the rest towards the outskirts of the city.

Wu Zhuo, Jing Jun and most of the others stayed at the Hidden Army Valley where the new farm will be, setting up tents, chopping down trees, repairing bridges and roads, pretending to be preparing for everything. Actually, they are just establishing a foothold, so that not everyone will be captured if anything happens and at the same time to prevent Jing Jun from losing patience and looking for Zhao Zhi on his own.

Before dusk, Xiang Shaolong, Teng Yi and 30 odd highly skilled men from the Elite team rushed back to Handan.

They had just arrived at the city gates when the official on guard duty told him, "His Majesty has orders that Mister Dong enter the Palace immediately to see him."

Xiang Shaolong and Teng Yi exchanged looks, both feeling that something is not right for the King of Zhao would not summon him for no reason.

After they exchanged a few words, Xiang Shaolong went to the Palace to see King Xiaocheng under the escort of the Zhao soldiers.

Cheng Xu personally brought him to Wenying Hall, the place where King Xiaocheng usually work in and the person accompanying him turns out to be Guo Kai and not Zhao Mu.

Xiang Shaolong saw that Xiaocheng's expression remained normal and put his mind at east. After paying his respects, he sat down at his lower left, facing Guo Kai.

Cheng Xu went to stand behind King Xiaocheng.

Guo Kai gave him a look, indicating that he is taking care of him.

After asking a few questions about the farm, King Xiaocheng sighed and said, "About the farm, it's best that Mister Dong slow down the progress for the moment and try your best not to reveal anything."

Xiang Shaolong was surprised and replied, "Your subordinate will certainly obey your orders, but I wonder what is the reason?"

King Xiaocheng smiled wryly, "It is a must to establish the farm, it's just that there's a sudden setback. Let Mister Guo relate this to you!"

Guo Kai gave a dry cough before speaking with his weird voice, "It's all that Li Yuan's fault. Who knows how he managed to find out that Mister Dong trip this time is to return to your home country. When he met his Majesty this morning, he said that although you are a Zhao, you're still a subject of Chu and if we allow Mister to stay in Zhao, it will have negative impacts on both country's relations."

Xiang Shaolong is so angry his lungs are almost bursting. This Li Yuan is obviously jealous to see Ji Yanran seated on the same table as him last night and talking to him so closely, therefore he's deliberately spoiling his plans. Without a doubt, he must have said other bad things about him as well. Luckily King Xiaocheng is really in need of him, otherwise he may very well bind him up immediately and send him back to Chu.

King Xiaocheng said seriously, "Of course I will not take his comments to heart, it's just that the situation now is very delicate. His sister is the beloved concubine of the King of Chu and when the time comes for the powers to unite, if he says anything to the King of Chu and advises him not to send troops to deal with the Qins, then our 'alliance' this time will fail. That's why at this point of time we have no choice but to condescend to him."

Guo Kai added with a laugh, "Once Li Yanyan gives birth, there'll be no use even if Li Yuan talks to the King of Chu."

Xiang Shaolong laughed together with them.

Of course he knows that Guo Kai is inferring that the King of Chu is someone who will never make a woman give birth to a boy, so Li Yanyan will be no exception. But he knows that the real person who did it this time is Lord Chunshen and not the King of Chu, so there's at least a 50 percent chance that it will be a boy. Guo Kai's assumption may not be accurate. But of course he cannot be blamed, for who would have expected such a twist in this.

Xiang Shaolong had a thought and asked, "Should I keep away for a while?"

King Xiaocheng replied, "You must not, for it would mean that I would have to act according to Li Yuan's likings. I told him at that time that Mister Dong has not decided whether to stay or leave, and managed to drag this matter for now. That's why now I'm asking Mister to keep a low profile for the time being and only start on the foundations after Li Yuan has left."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly overjoyed but pretended to be helpless as he replied, "In that case I'll have to send someone out to stop the delivery of the horses which are now on their way here. But I'm afraid the earlier batch would have already arrived at the border."

King Xiaocheng replied, "If it has arrived then so be it! We do need to increase our number of warhorses, as for the rest we'll just do according to your plan."

Xiang Shaolong was just worrying that he has no excuse to send people back to Qin to report, so he hurriedly agreed.

King Xiaocheng was silent for a moment before he asked with some hesitation, "Last night the Marquis of Julu asked Mister to stay behind after the feast, what did he say to you?"

Xiang Shaolong quietly shuddered as he secretly thought this exciting. He did not expect that King Xiaocheng would actually be suspicious of his 'lover', and of course that conniving devil Guo Kai must have been stirring things up so he pretended to be surprised and exclaimed, "Is there a problem with Marquis?"

Guo Kai reminded him, "You have yet to reply to his Majesty's question?"

Xiang Shaolong pretended to be frightened and after expressing his apology, replied, "The Marquis of Julu opened his heart to me and said he'll take care of me so that I can work my full potential. He also said, hai…"

King Xiaocheng furrowed his brows, "Even if it involves bad things about me, Mister Dong please go ahead and repeat without fear."

Xiang Shaolong replied, "It's not really bad things, the Marquis only said that if he were to put in a few good words for me in front of your Majesty, I'll definitely enjoy riches and wealth. Ai! I am just a boorish man and my only wish is to rear my horses in peace and to contribute some small effort to my beloved country! Not to mention riches and wealth, even life and death is of no consequence to me."

When King Xiaocheng heard how Zhao Mu tried to bribe him, he gave a cold snort. But when Xiang Shaolong 'bared his soul' in the end, he looked touched and kept nodding his head, expressing his admiration.

Xiang Shaolong continued, "The Marquis even wanted to make me stay at his residence and help me find a courtesan to spend the night with, but I thought that business is more important and adamantly refused."

Guo Kai said, "His Majesty is very impressed with Mister's devotion to work, but for the next few days you'd better just go around enjoying yourself. We have a few famous official brothels in Handan, why don't I bring you there to join in the liveliness tomorrow!"

After some idle talk, King Xiaocheng instructed him not to reveal the contents of their conversation to Zhao Mu before Guo Kai accompanied Xiang Shaolong out of Wenying Hall.

As he walked on the familiar corridors past the buildings, Xiang Shaolong's feelings can't help but well up as he thought of the tragic Lady Ni. He didn't even concentrate on Guo Kai's continuous babbling next to him.

Guo Kai saw that he looked distracted and thought that he was unhappy about Li Yuan so he consoled him, "Mister Dong, don't be affected by people like Li Yuan. That's right! Don't you have to attend Guo Zhong's feast tonight?"

Xiang Shaolong was startled awake, secretly reprimanding himself for having mood swings at this point in time as he exclaimed, "Aren't you going as well?"

Guo Kai smiled, "I've already rejected the invitation. Ever since the arrival of the important officials from the eastern states, I've been so busy that I can't breath. Just the writing of the proposal for his Majesty is enough to make me lose sleep for a few days."

Xiang Shaolong was about to reply when a group of horsemen surrounding a horse carriage slow rode towards them from the road on the left.

A lewd look appeared on Guo Kai's face as he said quietly, "Lady Ya is here!"

Xiang Shaolong had already recognized Zhao Da and his men and has already stopped to let the group past first.

Zhao Da and the rest all paid their respects to Guo Kai.

Just as the horse carriage was about to turn into the square, the curtains of the carriage was raised, revealing a pale and tired looking Zhao Ya who is obviously lacking sleep. When she saw Xiang Shaolong, she did not reveal any look of surprise, as if she already knows that he is in the Palace. She cried out daintily, "Stop the carriage!"

The carriage and her men stopped.

Zhao Ya's pretty eyes, which were still alluring, first landed on Guo Kai's face as she said with a smile, "How are you, Official Guo!"

Guo Kai was captivated as he replied, "How can I be good when I have not played the zither or chess with Lady for such a long time?"

Xiang Shaolong was livid on hearing it and wished that he could give Zhao Ya a tight slap for she is really not showing any self-respect at all.

Zhao Ya saw Guo Kai flirting so outrageously with her in front of this horse fanatic and replied with embarrassment, "Mister Guo must be joking." Her eyes turned towards Xiang Shaolong's face and asked gently, "Is Mister Dong going to the Guo residence. If you don't mind, why don't you go together with Zhao Ya!"

Xiang Shaolong replied icily, "Thank you Lady for your kind invitation, but I feel like walking alone so that I can think about some matters."

Guo Kai thought that he was still troubled over Li Yuan's matter so he didn't feel anything out of norm. Zhao Ya guessed that he was taking revenge on her because she had rejected him so rudely last night. She was secretly cursing this person for being so stubborn, which is so much like Xiang Shaolong.

Her heart softened as she said lightly, "In that case I will not force Mister."

The horse carriage slowly rode towards the gates of the Palace.

Xiang Shaolong rejected Guo Kai's suggestion of taking the same carriage, saying "I love riding horses, and can only feel safe and satisfied on a horse's back. Mister, please ask your guards not to follow me, let me stroll around on my own and at the same time think about some matters."

Guo Kai asked with doubt, "It's the first time you've been to Handan, how would you know how to go to the Guo residence?"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly startled, for he knows that it's easiest to let the cat out of the bag with inconsequential details such as this so he replied offhandedly, "Please do not worry, I have already asked for directions."

He jumped up his hose and left, waving his hand.

Once he left the Palace gates, Xiang Shaolong allowed his horse to stretch its legs and in a short moment, he has already caught up with Zhao Ya's carriage.

Lady Ya heard the sounds of the horse's hooves and saw him riding majestically towards her. Her pretty eyes can't help but light up, but a cloud quickly came over them again.

Ever since Xiang Shaolong left Zhao, she has felt pain that was never felt before with guilt and regret biting her heart and soul like poisonous snakes. In order to forget this man who has taken her heart, her actions became even more brazen than before but Xiang Shaolong has always been in a deep corner of her heart, a position that cannot be replaced. During this time she got close with Han Chuang, thinking that she can successfully forget about Xiang Shaolong but the appearance of this Dong Kuang has ignited a wondrous excitement and memory, making her lose interest in Han Chuang.

Xiang Shaolong deliberately refused to look at her and in an instant has left her far behind.

The houses in Handan are all lighted up by now and as it's right after dinnertime, there's not much people and carriages on the streets. Everywhere was quiet and peaceful.

Xiang Shaolong thought of his beloved wives and maids in faraway Qin and felt warmth in his heart. He wished that he could capture Zhao Mu alive immediately, kill Le Cheng and return home.

While traveling up the hilly road leading to Guo Zhong's residence, he heard the sound of hooves behind him and on turning back for a look, it turned out to be Zhao Zhi coming after him.

Once Xiang Shaolong saw that it's her, he remembered Jing Jing as well as Teng Yi and Wu Zhuo's suggestion and immediately felt a headache coming on as he slowed down.

Zhao Zhi was next to him in an instant and rode together with him, looking at him deep in the eyes and said, "Mister Dong seems to be very familiar with the streets of Handan!"

Once she said that, Xiang Shaolong immediately know that she has been following him for a distance, only choosing to catch up with him now. He was secretly lamenting as he replied, "Before I came, someone has already pointed the way here to me. Is Miss Zhi going to the Guo Residence for the feast as well?"

Zhao Zhi did not answer him but just stared at him and said, "I'm afraid Mister is deliberately lowering your voice and making it sound hoarse!"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly lamenting. If she is sure that he is Xiang Shaolong, a mere fake mask won't be enough to trick her. This time he has no choice but to use love to get what he wants. He sighed and executed his special move, pressing his hand on the horse's back, jumped up into the air and just as Zhao Zhi was gasping in surprise, he landed neatly behind her. His hands went forward, tightly hugging her tiny waist that has not an ounce of extra fat, pressed his face against hers and said, "Miss Zhi's words are really strange. Why would I deliberately make my voice sound like that?"

Zhao Zhi was greatly embarrassed and she struggled hard for a while but under such a situation this would only serve to increase the contact between them. She exclaimed in surprised anger, "What are you doing?"

Xiang Shaolong chortled as his hand reached out and grabbed her chin to turn her pretty face, giving a fierce kiss on her dainty and wet lips.

Zhao Zhi moaned, as if lost in his manliness and flirtation, but was suddenly conscious as she elbowed him hard on his vulnerable armpit.

Xiang Shaolong groaned as he flipped over the horse's butt. Although it was indeed painful, it was not as bad as he exaggerated, for he just wanted to giver her an opportunity sooth her ego.

Zhao Zhi was so frightened that she turned her horse around and rode back to where Xiang Shaolong was lying. She jumped down the horse, knelt next to him and cried out, "Dong Kuang! Are you alright!"

Xiang Shaolong opened his eyes, his arms reached out and hugged her close to his body again before turning around, pressing her down on the grass at the side of the road.

Zhao Zhi's body went weak with his hug yet she is unwilling to be taken advantaged of by him. Most importantly she is still not sure if he is Xiang Shaolong, so if she allows herself to be kissed again, then won't she be betraying the man she secretly loves. Hot tears ran down her eyes as she cried out, "If you molest me again, I'll kill myself!"

Xiang Shaolong did not expect her to be so protective of her chastity and formed a newfound respect for her. However he knows that if he were to leave her now, the situation would be even more embarrassing and before knowing if she ahs found out the truth, he cannot reveal his real identity. Therefore he can only press her down hard and asked gently, "Do Miss Zhi hate me?"

Zhao Zhi feels as if her body has no intention of rejecting him at all and was feeling both angry and troubled. She closed her pretty eyes, allowing the tears to flow freely as she said weakly, "Let me go quickly, if someone passes by and sees us, I'll be finished."

Xiang Shaolong lowered his head, kissing away one of her teardrops before hugging her into a standing position and said, "Miss is too alluring, please forgive me for being unable to control myself."

Zhao Zhi seems shattered as her tears flowed like the river, shaking her head piteously and saying, "You're just making fun of me. Why do you still want to lie to me, I know that you are him."

Xiang Shaolong secretly sighed and still continued talking gently in his hoarse voice, "I'll come to your house tonight to look for you, all right?"

Zhao Zhi snapped her dark eyes opened in joy and nodded her head vigorously.

Xiang Shaolong used his sleeve to wipe away her remaining tears and felt a little guilty as he said, "Come! We'll be late if we don't start moving."

Zhao Zhi struggled out of his embrace and said quietly with her head lowered, "Zhao Zhi will wait for you at home tonight."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned, "Aren't you going?"

Zhao Zhi smiled and pouted, "You've made me look like a mess, how can I go and face others."

She jumped up her horse's back and rode out a few steps, her head turned around and hands waving, a sweet smile on her lips. The look of love on a young girl's face made Xiang Shaolong's heart skip a few beat faster.

Until she disappeared from sight, Xiang Shaolong recollected his thoughts and went towards the Guo residence to attend the feast.

Guo Fu's feast tonight has a lot less guests. Besides Zhao Mu, Le Cheng, Han Chuang and Zhao Ba, there's Li Yuan whom Xiang Shaolong does not wish to see at all and adding him and Zhao Ya, there's only 7 people. Guo Zhong's 2 sons did not attend, for maybe they are working elsewhere.

Guo Zhong is not as warm to him as last night, instead focusing his attentions especially on Li Yuan, as if he is the main guest.

Xiang Shaolong is already used to seeing how capricious people can be and knows that Guo Zhong is deliberately treating him coldly so that he could get into the good books of Li Yuan, who can possibly become Chu's most powerful man.

Li Yuan maintained his politeness towards this love rival but Xiang Shaolong can clearly feel the hatred from him.

That's understandable, for he witnessed last night during the dance performance how Ji Yanran was talking closely with him. With his intelligence and understanding of Ji Yanran, it's not difficult for him to see that this rare beauty has an interest in him.

After some idle talk, Zhao Mu made an excuse and pulled him aside, asking in a low voice, "Why did his Majesty summon you?"

Xiang Shaolong was waiting for this question and replied, "They asked me what have you told me last night. Of course I won't reveal the truth so I only said that we were discussing about matters concerning the setting up of the farm. Marquis! It's not I who is overly worried, but that muddleheaded ruler King Xiaocheng seems to be suspicious of you, I think Guo Kai must have secretly betrayed you!"

A frightening icy glare shot past Zhao Mu's eyes as he said with a cold snort, "I will show them my prowess at a later time!"

Xiang Shaolong knows that he has already forced Zhao Mu up the path of rebellion. Right at this time Zhai Ba walked over and they hurriedly changed the topic to more idle talk.

Zhao Mu said with a smile, "Your pretty disciple is not accompanying you to tonight's feast?"

Zhao Ba replied, "She should be coming, I've just sent someone to look for her."

The sounds of accessories clanging were heard as Zhao Ya floated over.

Guo Zhong expressed his apology to Li Yuan, Le Cheng and Han Chuang before going to receive her.

Zhao Ya's eyes first landed on Xiang Shaolong before moving to where Han Chuang and Li Yuan stood. She hesitated for a moment before walking towards Xiang Shaolong.

Xiang Shaolong deliberately refused to look at her, his eyes turned to look at other places.

The layout this time was the same as the one Ji Yanran used during her feast in Daliang, with a big round table in the middle of the hall with 10 seats.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly counting in his heart, even if they included Zhao Zhi, there's still an extra seat, so he wonders which esteemed guest has yet to arrive.

A fragrance wafted close and after Zhao Ya greeted the various people, she commented to Xiang Shaolong just as he turned his head back, "Mister Dong's horse is really fast, you arrived so much earlier than me."

Xiang Shaolong smiled suavely, as a form of reply.

Just at this time, someone arrived.

Under the accompaniment of 2 maids, a pretty young girl who has taken much care to dress up walked in gracefully. Zhao Mu and the rest all looked surprised, obviously no one knows who she is.

Guo Zhong personally unveiled this mystery. The merchant chuckled and said, "Xier'er! Come and greet our important guests." He then told everyone, "This is my youngest daughter Xiu'er!"

Zhao Mu exclaimed in surprise, "So it's Master Guo's treasured daughter. Why have you kept her away for so long, only giving us the pleasure of seeing her today."

Xiang Shaolong had a thought, and guessed that Guo Zhong has the intention of marrying his daughter to Li Yuan so that if Zhao falls into trouble in future, they can hide in Chu, who would not be at the forefront of Qin's attack and continue with his trade.

A great merchant like Guo Zhong whose trade is in making steel and weapons will be welcome in any country but with the protection of a powerful official like Li Yuan, things will run a lot smoother for him.

With the situation now, besides the 3 states, Chu is the furthest away from the invading Qins. Qi is near 3 states, so they face the danger of close proximity, and as for Yan, after the defeat by Tian Dan, have become weak. Only the state of Chu, which is at the far north, is still strong and still safe for the time being. As long as the 3 states are still around, the Chus need not worry that the Qins would risk engaging in war with another state.

The Wu family has successfully migrated to Qin, so Guo Zhong, as an astute businessman, would naturally have to plan for himself.

At this time Guo Xiu'er daintily walked to where everyone was and paid her respects.

This young lady who is not older than 16 is slim and attractive with an egg-shaped face with delicate features. Her pretty eyes look as if they could talk and as clear as autumn's water, which added to her allure. The corners of her mouth curved up slightly in a shy smile, her face radiant. Her beauty is almost comparable to Wu Tingfang. Everyone was attracted, including Li Yuan.

Guo Zhong saw what was happening and was extremely pleased so he waved and said, "Xiu'er, come quickly and greet Mister Li."

Guo Xiu'er's pretty eyes saw Li Yuan and they immediately lighted up but her head lowered shyly as she moved towards them.

Everyone immediately had the feeling that they have been disregarded while Zhao Ya's expression looked unnatural.

Zhao Mu gave a sideways look towards Li Yuan, a flash of murderous intent flashing past which he quickly covered up but it did not escape Xiang Shaolong's sharp eyes.

Zhao Ya can feel her heart inclining towards this Dong Kuang whose crudity and gentleness cannot be deciphered. She moved nearer to him and said, "Would Mister be free to come to my place to take a look at the horses I keep, so that Zhao Ya can seek your advice on rearing horses."

Zhao Mu thought that she has finally decided to obey him and get close to this 'Wang Zhuo' so he said with a smile, "It's rare that Lady has given her invitation, so let me accept on his behalf."

There's no way Xiang Shaolong can make Zhao Mu lose face in public so he had no choice but to nod his head.

Zhao Ya saw how hesitant he was in agreeing so she rolled her eyes at him but did not talk about the date or time.

The gong sounded and it's time to be seated for the feast.

Book 7 Chap 5 – Mad with Envy and Hatred

Either deliberately or coincidentally, Xiang Shaolong's seat was placed next to Zhao Ya, and on the other side of Zhao Ya was Han Chuang, Guo Xiu'er, Li Yuan, Guo Zhong while on Xiang Shaolong's right there were Zhao Ba, Le Cheng and Zhao Mu. Zhao Zhi's seat has been taken away.

Now everyone knows that the real main lead is Li Yuan, who is seated between Guo Zhong and his daughter. This person is a good talker and in no time at all, Guo Xiu'er was constantly covering her mouth and laughing lightly very amicably. It seems that as soon as Li Yuan is willing to nod his head, Guo Xiu'er will belong to him.

Han Chuang is obviously very interested in this outstanding and pretty young girl but because he has to regard the State of Han's foreign relations, he dare not pit himself against Li Yuan. He concentrated on having a private conversation with Zhao Ya whereas Zhao Ya was deliberating ignoring the horse fanatic as she talked to Han Chuang in an intimate manner, constantly letting out tinkling laughs, which brought much gaiety to the feast.

In order to create more opportunities between Li Yuan and his beloved daughter, Guo Zhong, after making small talk with everyone at the table, turned to face Zhao Mu and Le Cheng who were seated on his left and engaged them in small talk, the topic of conversation always about the officials and wealthy in Handan.

Zhao ba and Guo Zhong were personal friends so he joined this circle of conversation as well. Although Xiang Shaolong pretended to be interested and listening intently, it was obvious that Guo Zhong was disregarding him.

Xiang Shaolong knows very well that Guo Zhong has changed so quickly because Li Yuan has influenced him and from this he can see that this great merchant is feeling pessimistic about the situation in Zhao and is already having thoughts of leaving.

This thinking naturally cannot be hidden from the King of Zhao and Guo Kai, that's why the latter had reminded him to be careful of Guo Zhong.

With the Wu family gone, the State of Zhao seems to be coming to the end of her days and weakening immediately.

What is Zhao Ya's future plan?

At this time the maids came forward to pour wine for everyone.

Li Yuan turned away from Guo Xiu'er to look at Xiang Shaolong and said, "Brother Dong has traveled such a long and arduous journey to come here and I wonder for what reason?"

Everyone could hear that his tone was filled with antagonism so they all stopped talking to see how Xiang Shaolong would respond.

For the first time Guo Xiu'er raised her pretty face and eyed this burly and boorish looking man who is even bigger sized than Li Yuan.

Xiang Shaolong was calm and composed as he narrowed his eyes to look at him, replying offhandedly in his hoarse voice, "What Brother Li loves is beauties, what I love is handsome horses. Brother Li will go wherever the beauty goes while I will go to wherever there are fertile land and water. If Brother Li were to think about your own attitude, you will understand my attitude even more." His reply was just appropriate.

Guo Xiu'er thought that the beauty Xiang Shaolong is talking about refers to her and was so shy that she lowered her pretty face.

The others all did not expect that this boor's argument would be so formidable and were all secretly surprised and at the same time feel a little embarrassed for Li Yuan.

Only Zhao Mu was secretly happy, for he cannot offend Li Yuan so it's most appropriate that Xiang Shaolong does it for him.

Li Yuan's expression changed slightly as a murderous look flashed past his eyes and he said coldly, "Is Brother Dong implying that the water and land in Chu cannot be compared to here?" He had just spoken the words when he realized that he has been caught off balance, for everyone at the table are Zhaos with the exception of Han Chuang, so how can he say such words.

Indeed Le Cheng, Zhao Ba and Zhao Mu, who has long since regarded himself as a Zhao all furrowed their brows.

Xiang Shaolong saw that just a few words could force Li Yuan to stumble and was secretly overjoyed and continued nonchalantly as if he could not see Li Yuan's anger, saying "Brother Li thinks too far ahead, I'm just making an example. Actually all land has their advantages and disadvantages. The weather down south is temperate and easy to rear horses but the horses reared there may look handsome but are not strong and stout enough and cannot tolerate harsh winds, rain and snow; it's difficult to rear horses in the north but the horses reared there can take hardships and there are less chances of horse plague happening there. That's why the horses of the Xiong Nus are the most famous, precisely because of the cold and hard climate that resulted in the rich quantity of excellent horses."

Everyone was impressed and did not expect Xiang Shaolong to have such insight. He also managed to insinuate with sarcasm that Chu, which is in the south, are engrossed in merrymaking and doesn't strive for improvement at all whereas the states in the north, including the formidable Qin, may be engaged in wars year after year but this has made them groom many a talent and their reputation is higher than the once powerful Chus.

This is indeed a fact. Ever since the tiny Yue successfully attacked Chu, their pride has taken a beating. Adding on to this is their constant failures in their strategies that made their situation go on a downturn.

The first time the 6 states joined forces to attack Qin, it is King Huai of Chu who takes the lead but in practice only Han and Zhao are taking part in the war. The 2 states were greatly defeated by the Qins at Xiuyu, which was within the Han borders while Qi turned around and attacked Zhao and Wei, creating internal strife. Hence Qin took the opportunity to eliminate Ba and Shu, thus increasing their territory twofold, making it close to the size of Wujun and Qianzhong in Chu. Thus the nightmare of the Chus began, letting them taste the bitter outcome of being just 'onlookers'.

All along, the Qins are most worried about Qi and Chu joining forces, therefore the Qins ceded some territory to cajole King Huai of Chu to break his friendship with the Qis. However, they went back on their words once they got what they wanted, greatly defeating the Chu army at Danyang, where 80,000 people were killed and took over Hanzhong in Chu. They then proceeded to take over Zhaoling, making them totally lose control over the northwest areas of Yingdu.

This is not the only insensible act committed by King Huai of Chu. Just as he has agreed to work with Qi again, he was again enticed by the Qins and once again changed his mind suddenly, even to the extent of having a marriage agreement with the Qins.

Qi, Wei and Han were furious and sent their troops to attack Chu for going back on the treaty and King Huai was so astounded that he ordered the Crown Price to go to Qin to ask for Qin reinforcements. The 3 states then had no choice but to retreat. Later the Qins found an excuse to attack Chu and using coercion and persuasion, managed to trick this brainless King into Qin and imprisoned him. He failed in escaping and ended up dying of illness in Qin.

When his son King Qingxiang of Chu ascended the throne, he tried to seek revenge and after being threatened by the Qins, he was immediately scared shitless. Not only did he beg for reconciliation, he even asked for a marriage agreement with the Qins. Like his father, he added another muddied event in their history.

Therefore Xiang Shaolongs words hinted at how the Chus have destroyed their own country because of the people and not because of wars. The most impressive part was that he was insinuating that although Li Yuan looks able, he is in fact a useless man and cannot survive any setback.

Zhao Ya and Guo Xiu'er, eyed both of them with their sharp woman's intuition and they could feel that Li Yuan is like the good looking horses of the south whereas this Dong Kuang is an excellent horse from the north that can withstand hardship. The impression of Li Yuan dropped by a few notches in their hearts.

Guo Zhong looked at Xiang Shaolong in surprise as he reconsidered if it is really most appropriate to hide from Qin in Chu.

Xiang Shaolong argued from an irrefutable point, proving the Chu's fatal weaknesses are indecisiveness, irresoluteness and fear of hardship, each point of his argument drawing blood.

Li Yuan's face alternated between turning red and pale but he was speechless.

What can he say when on the surface, the other party is talking about horses?

Guo Zhong chortled as he tried to smooth things over and said, "Mister Dong's words are always about horses, a horse fanatic indeed. Come! Let's drink a toast."

Everyone raised their cup with the exception of Li Yuan, who was stony faced and did not follow suit, giving others the impression that he was being petty.

After Zhao Ba finished his drink, he raised his cup again, which has just been filled by the maid. He raised his cup towards Li Yuan and Han Chuang and said, "To the cooperation between Han, Chu and Zhao, let us drink a toast!"

Li Yuan seems to have thought of something and his expression returned to normal, looking calm and suave as he raised his cup and drank with a smile. Only then did the tense atmosphere relax a little.

Han Chuang said, "I heard that the King of Qi placed much importance in this meeting in Handan and the Premier Tian Dan is rushing here personally. He'll be here within these 2 days."

Zhao Mu and Le Cheng already knew about this long ago but for the rest it's the first time they've heard of it and they were all excited.

Tian Dan can be considered the real ruler of Qi, without the title and his reputation is comparable to Prince Xinling of Wei.

8 years after the death of King Huai of Chu, the State of Chu was getting weaker while the State of Qi is shining bright, stable enough to fight Qin as an equal. Right at this time, the Qis fell into the Qin's trap and accepted King Zhaoxiang of Qin's suggestion to regard the King of Qin as the Emperor of the West while the Qis will be the Emperor of the East. Meaning that Qin and Qi will split the world equally.

Although 2 days after declaring himself Emperor, the King of Qi was persuaded by his officials to rescind the title of Emperor, but it did nothing to quell his ambition. He subsequently invaded towards the north and south, first destroying Song, then swallowing up a few small states, taking over lots of land but the country's resources were greatly depleted as well due to the invasions, giving Qin, Chu, the 3 states as well as Yan the opportunity to invade Qi. The Yan general Yue Yi invaded Linzi* and within 5 years took over 70 odd cities, leaving only Ju and Jimo.

*Linzi – Capital of Qi

Tian Dan is a person who rose up in fame during such difficult times. He was a distant relative of the King of Qi and was initially a minor official in the Palace. Before the Yan army invaded the city, he told his clansmen to saw off the ends of the carriage axles so that when escaping, the carriages will not break down due to the constant knocking against each other and thus successfully escaped. Just this trick of his has revealed his potential of being wise and calm in the face of adversity.

When the Yans attacked Jimo, everyone supported him to be the Commander and right at that time King Zhao of Yan had just passed away and the new King of Yan fell into Tian Dan's scheme, replacing Yue Yi with a useless general. Once this person came, Tian Dan easily swept the Yans out of their borders, and his most famous maneuver was using the Fiery Cow Formation to greatly defeat the Yan army.

Although Tian Dan's fame spread because of this, the State of Qi fell into difficulties, barely surviving until now.

Xiang Shaolong wanted to continue listening when Zhao Ya who was next to him took over the wine bottle from the serving maid and topped up Xiang Shaolong's empty cup with the fragrant wine, her eyes bright as she said softly with a smile, "Mister Dong! If there is anywhere Zhao Ya has offended you, please accept this cup of wine as apology!"

Han Chuang was still talking and did not take notice. Only Li Yuan's eyes flashed a strange glint as he started thinking.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly furious. This woman is really fickle. She was just being all over Han Chuang earlier and now that she was moved by his words, she's trying to get into his good books. However, he has not reached the stage where he would be so ill mannered as embarrass her publicly so he raised his cup and said without feelings, "Lady thinks too much, how could you have offended me! Let me drink a toast to Lady!"

Zhao Ya's pretty eyes looked at him deeply as she raised her cup to drink.

Only now did Han Chuang notice that the secret undercurrent between the 2 of them and a look of unhappiness flashed past his face. If they are in Han, with his position, he'll definitely teach Xiang Shaolong a good lesson but now he can only seethe in his heart.

Li Yuan chortled and said, "Lady! I have yet to offer you a toast today." He raised his cup and offered her a toast from afar.

Although Zhao Ya's good impression of him has been slightly reduced, she still has a slight liking for him. This person's attitude was cold to her last night and yet now he is making the first move to flirt with her and she can't help but feel pleasantly alarmed as she raised her cup in bewilderment and drank.

Xiang Shaolong knows that Li Yuan is making use of Zhao Ya to give him a blow but he still felt fury rising from his heart, hating Li Yuan and at the same time angry with Zhao Ya for her lack of self respect. Of course on the surface he did not reveal any of his feelings at all.

Li Yuan is not willing to let the matter pass so he continued his flirtation with Zhao Ya, "Lady is such a good drinker. Why don't we find a night and I'll drink with Lady, let's see who will get drunk first."

Once he said that, among the 9 of them seated at the table, 4 of them had an uneasy expression on their faces.

The ones who look most affected was Guo Zhong and Guo Xiu'er, for they both felt that he is not showing them respect by publicly flirting with this beauty who is famed for her wantonness.

Han Chuang transferred his jealousy towards Xiang Shaolong to this newly appeared love rival.

Zhao Mu's expression was also very unnatural, staring at Zhao Ya angrily, wanting her to say something to reject him.

Zhao Ya did not expect the other party to be so bold as to openly invite her for a night of tryst during the feast. Reject? But she can't bear to. Accept? This man who seems even more charismatic than Li Yuan would look down on her. Her intelligent eyes rolled and she replied, "Since Mister Li is in such high spirits, Zhao Ya will find a day to throw a feast at my residence. Mister must not say that you are not free when the time comes!"

Her pretty eyes then surveyed everyone else as she continued with laughter, "All of you will come and bear witness as to which of us will become drunk first."

Li Yuan was slightly taken aback, for he did not expect this s.lut to actually reject his advances and can't help but seriously take a look at her for the first time.

Ever since his heart and mind has been taken over by Ji Yanran, he rarely pays any attention to other women. Now that he's looking in detail, he realizes that Zhao Ya is like a fresh flower that has bloomed, with indescribable charm and style and extremely alluring. Such mature beauty is of another description altogether. And on the surface she may look like a flirt and extremely radiant but there's an underlying grace and elegance that no one will dare to belittle. He can't help but feel tempted and only now did he understand why Han Chuang would be so enamored with her.

Li Yuan smiled suavely, "Once the date is set, please send someone to inform me."

Right at this time Zhao Ba interrupted them and everyone started talking about other topics.

Zhao Ya leaned towards Xiang Shaolong and asked quietly, "Satisfied?"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly feeling smug, knowing that this wanton woman has once again surrendered to his alternate identity but before he had a chance to talk, Guo Xiu'er stood up and said with a wooden expression, "Sorry! Xiu'er feels a little unwell and would like to go back to my room to rest."

A look of unhappiness showed on Li Yuan's face but he did not say anything.

Everyone knows that this rich young missy is throwing her tantrum at Li Yuan.

Guo Zhong said helplessly, "Help Miss back to her room!"

Immediately the maid came forward to escort this pretty girl out of the hall.

The atmosphere is once again awkward. Without Guo Xiu'er, the feast has lost some of the festivity. Luckily, there is still Zhao Ya to hold the fort.

Zhao Ba had a drink too much and his suddenly felt like talking. He made Xiang Shaolong talk with him about what he feels about swordplay, saying "People learning swordplay nowadays, many of them are anxious for quick results, having only the style but lacking the coordination stability and foundation. They don't even place much importance in training the strength around their waist. They are strong with their arms but weak in their wrists, not knowing that the combination of waist, arms, wrists and foundation are essential in exhibiting the essence of swordplay. Knowing how to make use of strength is the most important requirement."

Li Yuan was proud and obviously holds no regard for this highly respected swordsman of Zhao as he said nonchalantly, "I think it's useless to have only brute strength, otherwise Xiao Weimou won't be killed by Xiang Shaolong!"

The name 'Xiang Shaolong' is now a taboo topic for everyone in the city and with the exception of Han Chuang, everyone else was taken aback.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly alarmed to hear his name being mentioned. He glanced quickly towards Zhao Ya only to see her expression darken as she fell into a daze.

Han Chuang said arrogantly, "A pity he escaped to Qin, otherwise I definitely want to try how formidable his swordplay can be."

Zhao Mu replied through gritted teeth, "Won't you have the chance once we attack Xianyang in future?"

Zhao Ba was unhappy with Li Yuan's interruption but he could not win the argument so he said solemnly, "Mister Li is famous in Chu for your swordsmanship. I wonder if you can find a day to come to my school so that it can be an eye-opener for me."

Li Yuan's eyes flashed as he nodded his head, "Every time I go someplace, I like to find the most famous swordsman of that place to exchange pointers. Headmaster Zhao's suggestion is precisely what I would have wanted."

This time even Le Cheng was annoyed by this person's arrogance and said to Zhao ba with a laugh, "Mister Li is so valiant. Headmaster, please set a date and time so that we can admire Mister Li's excellent swordplay."

Zhao ba was obviously secretly livid as he said, "I am getting a little impatient, why not do it tomorrow! We shall see what time is most convenient for Mister Li."

Li Yuan replied smugly, "Not tomorrow, for I've made a date with Miss Ji Yanran to tour Handan. Why don't we change it to noon the day after!"

Everyone was taken aback and all of them looked both envious and jealous.

Xiang Shaolong's heart sank and turned cold. Why did Ji Yanran agree to accept this person's invitation? He must get an explanation from her.

Zhao Ya's expression was wooden. Naturally she would not feel good to have her thunder stolen by Ji Yanran.

The atmosphere of the feast is now broken beyond repair and Zhao Ba was the first to give an excuse to leave, followed by Zhao Ya.

Han Chuang stood up and said, "Let me accompany Lady Ya back!"

Zhao Ya was troubled and creased her brows as she replied with a shake of her head, "I appreciate Marquis Pingshan's kind intentions, but Zhao Ya's head is feeling a little heavy and would like to have some peace alone."

A look of unhappiness flashed past Han Chuang's face as he said icily, "Whatever Lady wishes then!"

Zhao Mu stood up and said, "Let's leave together! I'm in the mood for talk, so who is willing to share my carriage." He gave Xiang Shaolong a look.

Xiang Shaolong hurriedly nodded his head and said, "I'm the only person who came alone, let me accompany Marquis then!"

Zhao Ya looked at Xiang Shaolong with puzzlement, feeling dubious about their relationship.

Everyone bid their farewells and left the Guo residence separately.

Inside the carriage, Zhao Mu said, "I did not expect Mister to have such a sharp tongue, even the glib tongued Li Yuan couldn't fend you off. I wonder if you're confident of winning the sword in his hand. From what I know this person is truly skilled."

Xiang Shaolong furrowed his brows, "Confidence is besides the point. It's just that only wooden swords are used to exchange pointers in the dueling ring, not as if there's a fight for life and death at all…"

Zhao Mu interrupted him, "I just want to put him down a peg or two, not kill him. That fellow is too detestable, if I capture him, I'll definitely f*ck him until he feels that death would be a better choice."

Goose pimples rose immediately on Xiang Shaolong's skin as he gave a cold shiver.