8-2 -- 8-4

Book 8 Chap 2 - Duel at the School

(From translation thread - Translated by slyphiad...)

Next was riding and archery performance, all were brilliant and pleasing to watch. It could be seen that Zhao Ba took painstaking care to train all of his swordsmen.

Xiang Shaolong thought that it's a pity, if it wasn't because Zhao had a muddleheaded king like Xiaocheng, it would have a bright prospect.

Ji Yanran leaned near his ear and said intimately, "I don't care anymore, from today onwards, I will follow you."

Xiang Shaolong exclaimed in surprise, "Isn't it too quick? Did you see that Lord Longyang is staring at us?"

Ji Yanran chuckled, "He's not suspicious of us, but just jealous of Yanran, everyone knew that neither man nor woman fellow loves unrefined and straightforward men like Mister Dong. If you speak vulgarity with him, he'll be really excited!"

Xiang Shaolong gave a wry smile, shook his head, "Let me chase after you for another two to three days! Otherwise if a beautiful woman like you can be subdued by a man with just two or three tricks, it could really damage your Learned Lady reputation."

Ji Yanran pouted, "Whatever suits you then! But I want you to accompany me every night."

Xiang Shaolong joyfully replied, "Of course, it's all that I wish for!"

Suddenly, applause could be heard non-stop, the school's swordsmen returned successively to the seats opposite the stand, leaving only Zhao Ba standing in the center of the field.

Everyone stopped talking and looked at the owner of the training school.

The applause swiftly stopped.

Zhao Ba raised his voice, "Our training school was able to invite the famous master swordsman, Mister Li Yuan, to give us instructions on our swordsmen's performance, it is indeed our honor. We hope that Mister Li Yuan won't be stingy in giving us his advice."

Guo Zhong chuckled and interrupted, "This time it's all about exchanging pointers, everyone should control the force exerted, I don't wish to watch any heart-stopping scenes like bones or flesh torn today."

He and Zhao Ba are close friends, naturally he could tell that Zhao Ba was really furious about Li Yuan's arrogance, so he made use of his status to advice both parties.

Li Yuan smiled, "Mister Guo, you can relax, I only came here with the intention of having fun, besides, there are also four beauties here! Mister Guo, relax."

Once he said that, all of the school's swordsmen were burning with anger. During this period, martial arts was blooming, everyone regarded martial arts and sword skills as a prestigious and important matter, but he instead said that he only considered it as a game, meaning that he holds no regards for his opponents.

Zhao Mu leaned his head toward Ji Yanran and enquired her intention, "Miss Ji, don't you think that Mister Li Yuan's words are a bit unwarranted?"

On the other side, Han Chuang snorted, "Mister Li is too arrogant."

Ji Yanran smiled, "But his abilities are truly extraordinary, he wasn't lying."

Those two people didn't expect that after she had publicly shown her liking towards the Horse Fanatic, she would still defend Li Yuan and were both momentarily rendered speechless.

Xiang Shaolong knew about Ji Yanran's independent thinking, she wasn't going to change her mind because of other people. Unless he could win Li Yuan publicly, otherwise in her heart, he, Xiang Shaolong, will never be on par with Li Yuan in this aspect.

Therefore, for this beauty that always had strict criteria for her husband, this will always be a form of regret.

While he's pondering, that school's first instructor had already entered the field and raising his hands in greeting towards Li Yuan, said, "I am Dai Feng, please grant me your instruction, Mister Li."

Li Yuan sized up Dai Feng and blandly replied, "Dong Luzi, come down and have some fun with Brother Dai Feng!"

The crowd's uproar rose from all directions, no one could believe that Li Yuan only sent his man to accept his challenge, obviously showing that Dai Feng is not qualified to challenge him yet.

Everyone from the school, from Zhao Ba all the way down, were all indignant.

Zhao Mu whispered towards Xiang Shaolong, "Oh no! If Dai Feng lost, Zhao Ba probably wouldn't be able to hold back his anger and will personally challenge Li Yuan."

While Ji Yanran whispered in Xiang Shaolong's ear, "This Dong Luzi and Lou Wuxin are Li Yuan's most reputable and great swordsmen. They are very famous in Chu."

Le Cheng who was sitting behind leaned forward and said, "I also heard about this Dong Luzi, allegedly he's from the Chu Mohist and had travelled to Lie looking for teachers and visiting friends, can't believe that he's become Li Yuan's man."

At this time, 20 odd year old man who is tall and thin like a pole, with a pale face and no moustache, walked down the stand from the seats on Li Yuan's side towards Dai Feng and said gently and politely, "Brother Dai, please give direction!"

After Dai Feng returned the greeting, the youngsters brought out the wooden swords and helped both swordsmen wear the armors that protected their head, chest and vital spot at the lower body, as swords are merciless and may cause accidental injury. But this is only effective if the fighters control their force. To an expert swordsman, even if it's only a wooden sword, it still has the capability to kill and no armor can stand against it.

Two swords met in the air, testing the opponent's arm strength, then retreating back, demonstrating the sect's stance.

Applauses were suddenly heard, then stopped.

The crowd all held their breath in silence, looking on in concentration.

Dai Feng stepped in his battle stance, probing and moving towards the opponent, waving the wooden sword energetically, displaying impressive strength.

In contrast, Dong Luzi held his sword and stood erect, immovable like a mountain, only staring coldly at Dai Feng.

Dai Feng retreated two steps back and suddenly roared as he moved forward as quickly as lightning, the sword blade slashed swiftly up into the air, emitting a whistling noise as it sliced thru the air with an unbelievable strength.

Han Chuang and the rest started cheering him on. The warrior school's swordsmen were even more excited, giving out thunderous support. On the contrary, on Li Yuan's side, everyone sneered, showing extreme confidence.

This time, Zhao Zhi, who was sitting on the other side of Li Yuan, started to feel regretful. She was purposely being affectionate with Li Yuan, partly because she was indeed charmed by Li Yuan, but mainly because she was trying to anger Xiang Shaolong. But ultimately, she still belongs to the school and naturally she won't want her own side to lose, but because she was sitting beside Li Yuan, she's too embarrassed to cheer loudly and is now in a dilemma.

Li Yuan clearly understood her troubles so while everyone's attention was still on the field, he quietly stretched his hand over and held her slender fingers which she had placed on her thigh, leaning near her ear and spoke softly, "On Miss's account, Li Yuan definitely won't hurt anyone from your school."

Zhao Zhi's tender body trembled and in her confused state of mind she actually allowed him to freely hold her hand.

Zhao Ya noticed their odd behavior and got closer to them, saying with a slight pout, "Mister Li, you are so caring!"

Li Yuan who has often frequented brothels, was secretly happy as he said with a smile, "Didn't Lady like my playboy style?"

Zhao Ya shot him a condescending look and sat straight; her heart was again filled with Dong Kuang's unparalleled heroic spirit and couldn't help but sigh. She secretly pondered why when she saw Li Yuan fooling around with other women, she didn't care much about it, but when she saw Ji Yanran only sitting beside Dong Kuang, her heart felt very uncomfortable.

There was a sound "Dong!", Dong Luzi lifted his sword to parry, at the same time moved diagonally, avoiding Dai Feng's second attack which came one after another.

Zhao Mu, Han Chuang, Le Cheng and the others are all expert swordsmen. With one look, it was easy to know that not only was Dong Luzi's arm strength not inferior to Dai Feng's, he's also a very good strategist, deliberately not fighting head on so that he can erode Dai Feng's strength.

As expected, Dong Luzi followed by putting a defensive stance, under his opponent's chain of relentless attacks, repeatedly dodged. On the surface, it seemed like Dai Feng has the upper hand but in reality, Dong Luzi was in no danger at all, only waiting for the opportunity to counterattack.

A round of supports could be heard from all corners, cheering for Dai Feng.

Zhao Zhi suddenly came out her daze and wanted to pull her hand back but did not expect that Li Yuan would hold her hand tightly and not let go. He even placed the back of his hand on top of her thigh and spoke in her ear, "Do Miss Zhi dislike me?"

Zhao Zhi developed a sense of guilt for betraying Xiang Shaolong and Dong Kuang and looked down, "Other people can see us, you know?"

Li Yuan loftily replied, "A true man stands upright in the world, why should he be afraid of others' gossip, as long as you don't dislike Li Yuan, I can assume responsibility for everything."

This person is very good with words, and also understood how to flatter women. Even Ji Yanran nearly fell in love with him. Zhao Zhi's does not have much experience about men-women relationship, furthermore, she was angry about Dong Kuang's heartlessness, so her heart was momentarily confused, thus allowing him to take advantage of her.

Li Yuan knew that they are in public and thus he cannot go overboard so he was secretly thinking of bringing her back to his residence later for some fun. Therefore he did not molest her further.

Guo Xiu'er, who was sitting beside Zhao Zhi, was paying attention to Li Yuan and on seeing that he was flirting with Zhao Zhi, her pretty face changed and felt resentful.

During the warring states period, the distance men and women had to keep from each other was very different from the period after Han Dynasty, where strict Confucian teachings was flourishing. However, it's still not considered proper etiquette for men and women to flirt in public and Guo Xiu'er couldn't help but discount her good impression of Li Yuan.

At this time, Xiang Shaolong's suddenly decided to turn and look at Li Yuan and as luck would have it, Li Yuan was also looking at him. Even though they were separated by 10 more seats, Xiang Shaolong could still clearly see that Li Yuan was holding Zhao Zhi's hand, and he can't help but flash a look of hatred through his eyes, extremely furious.

Li Yuan was pleased with himself on seeing that and smiled and nodded at him.

Zhao Zhi followed Li Yuan's gaze and looked over, straight into Xiang Shaolong's eyes and she was suddenly reminded of Xiang Shaolong. Her heart shuddered and she forcefully pulled away her hand away from Li Yuan's devilish grasp.

Li Yuan of course didn't know about the complicated relationship between Xiang Shaolong and her, and only thought that she was embarrassed for being caught in the situation with him. Instead he gently rubbed her bountiful thigh, before sitting properly and ignored Xiang Shaolong to continue watching the competition.

Xiang Shaolong's face was furiously stern as he turned back towards the fight on the field, fury burning inside. For the first time, he started to feel the need to challenge Li Yuan.

Ji Yanran saw everything and whispered, "Don't act impulsively, if you're hurt by Li Yuan, you'll have more to lose."

These few words was like pouring oil into fire, Xiang Shaolong made an effort to push down his anger, after mulling over things for awhile, turned towards Zhao Mu, "Can we send someone to invite one of my family warriors?"

Zhao Mu immediately understood and after asking clearly who this person was, he ordered someone to summon him.

At this moment, Dai Feng had at least given out 40 more moves, and yet he still couldn't do anything to that Dong Luzi, even the supporting cheers slowly died down.

Dong Luzi knew that the opportunity had come, looked up and smiled as he changed from the defending position to the attacking position, erecting his wooden sword to force his way into his opponent's sword formation, executing an exquisite and magnificent sword move. He dispelled each move as it came and he kept his sword attacks in a very tight circle such that Dai Feng's is unable to properly execute his way of brash fighting which uses wide sweeps of his sword.

Zhao Mu and the others all sighed in despair, even Zhao Ba who had absolute confidence in Dai Feng's skills was frowning.

Zhao Zhi, who was sitting beside Li Yuan, saw that her side was facing danger, came totally to her senses. She secretly blamed herself for not keeping a line between friends and enemies, even letting Li Yuan take advantage of her and felt ashamed towards her Teacher and school. However, if she leaves now, it would be too obvious and she was in a dilemma.

The two fighters on the field exchanged a few more moves. Dai Feng's previously awe-inspiring performance was never seen again as he constantly retreated in defeat.

Dong Luzi roared loudly, the sword's shadow flashed by, breaking through his opponent's flaw, quickly entering the inside of the opponent's sword moves, heading directly towards Dai Feng's chest.

Dai Feng was shocked but was unable to retract his sword in time as he abruptly stumbled backward and barely missed this severe blow.

However Dong Luzi is someone who can be merciless once he gains the upper hand. His feet flew and kicked towards the groin and if not for the armor, this kick would have made Dai Feng a eunuch. Nevertheless, it was enough to give him much pain as he cried out in pain, his hand dropping the long sword as he staggered and tumbled, with his hands gripping his groin.

The crowd did not expect that Dong Luzi, who looks so gentle and refined, can be so ruthless once he has gained the upper hand. They all stared at him shell-shocked and for a moment, the whole field was so silent that one can even hear a pin dropped and only the sound of Dai Feng's moans were heard.

Zhao Ba's face paled as he stood up and shouted, "Isn't anyone helping instructor inside to tend to his wound?"

Instantly, they all scrambled forward to help bring Dai Feng inside.

Dong Luzi didn't look at all regretful; instead he jauntily bowed towards both sides, handed over the wooden sword and returned to his seat.

Zhao Zhi had always had a good friendship with Dai Feng, so she can no longer be bothered with Li Yuan as she glared hatefully at him before quickly following Dai Feng inside.

Li Yuan didn't even care about Zhao Zhi at all as he smiled suavely, "It's hard to avoid injury during a martial arts competition, if Master Zhao is afraid of more accidents happening, let's just stop it all here and let me play host tonight as an apology?"

This time even Ji Yanran could not tolerate what has happened as she quietly cursed, "Li Yuan, you're too overbearing!"

Zhao Ba's huge, round eyes were glaring with murderous intent, obviously he was seriously infuriated. Xiang Shaolong was really afraid that he will volunteer to enter the fight himself, so he quickly pushed Han Chuang forward.

Han Chuang understood his meaning and made a hand signal towards his own chosen warrior whom he was planning send for the duel to come forward.

That warrior, called Fu Jianyin, obeyed the order and jumped off the stand as he called out, "Fu Jianyin would like Mister Li Yuan to give me some pointers!"

The whole field solemnly waited in silence to see if Li Yuan would personally accept the challenge.

Fu Jianyin's stature wasn't tall but he was strong and stout, his face has some crisscross scars. His appearance looked a little bit scary, but this is exactly the ironclad proof that he had fought in many battles.

Li Yuan displayed a condescending attitude as he languidly leaned half his body against the table next to him and said nonchalantly, "Wuxin! Why don't you go and learn from the expert?"

The crowd had already guessed that he wouldn't find the opponent to be worth his time, so they weren't surprised.

The robustly built Lou Wuxin slowly walked down the stand, briefly bowed and straightened himself arrogantly. After accepting the wooden sword, he brushed off the person who was about to put the armor on him, "It's not even a battlefield, why do we even need this useless thing?"

On seeing that, Fu Jianyin said loudly, "Since Brother Lou is not wearing armor, I'll dispense with it too."

At this time, Lord Longyang stepped in behind Xiang Shaolong and Ji Yanran and delicately whispered, "In this world, is there anyone more arrogant than the Chus? We don't see such arrogance coming from them when they were facing the Qins. Will Sister Yanran be participating?"

Ji Yanran sighed, "Yanran also find this difficult to accept, but I know that I cannot win against Li Yuan, so there's nothing I can do."

Lord Longyang gave an icy snort and did not speak as he returned to his seat. He knew that he himself would be on par with Ji Yanran, so if even she said that she couldn't beat Li Yuan, there was no way that he could win. At the same time, he decided not to let his chosen Jiaoxu fight so that his man would not be beaten and humiliated.

Zhao Mu turned towards Guo Kai and Le Cheng and sighed, "If Fu Jianyin loses as well, we can only rely on Luo Xiang to redeem our face, otherwise we'll have to let the Master of the School fight, but I am really reluctant to let this happen."

Guo Kai replied, "Li Yuan is the number one swordsman of Chu. His men are already so formidable, it's not hard to imagine the level of Li Yuan's sword skills."

At the moment, everyone felt helpless.

Even though Zhao Mu was a master swordsman, but due to his status, it's not convenient for him to join the fight as it might create a discord between the two countries.

Li Yuan was lucky that he does not hold any official post, otherwise he would not be allowed to fight others on a personal basis without the orders of his King.

************************************************** *

The two fighters on the field shouted out loud simultaneously and violently attacked the other side. Lou Wuxin's sword moves like the wind, sweeping widely and the sword aura is like the mountain, extremely mighty and ferocious. Almost as soon as they made contact, Fu Jianyin fell into the situation of being badgered.

Xiang Shaolong at this moment caught sight of Teng Yi galloping on the horse, passing through the gate, he reached out and pushed Han Chuang on the back, saying "Go and stop this duel quickly!"

Han Chuang looked like he was in a dilemma because this Fu Jianyin was passed off as a Zhao to enter the fight. If he says anything, wouldn't it be obvious that Fu Jianyin is actually his man.

Both sides were watching the fight quietly, it wasn't like before where everyone was screaming their support, the tension was as tight as a drawn bowstring.

Right when Han Chuang was still hesitating, the winner emerged.

Fu Jianyin lost in strength, as he stumbled slightly, Lou Wuxin swept towards his shoulder with the sword and the sound of bone breaking could be heard. As he groaned in pain, Fu Jianyin tumbled forward, and when he got back on his feet, the pain is already causing his face to be wet with cold sweat.

Lou Wuxin laughed out loud, "Thank you for giving way!"

Xiang Shaolong gestured towards Teng Yi who was walking towards them after getting off the horse. The latter understood his intention and shouted loudly from the distance, "I'm Long Shan, Dong Kuang's family warriors, this brother looks very familiar, would you mind giving me a few instruction?"

The crowd at this time can't be bothered to find out how Fu Jianyin was being carried out, neither did they notice that Zhao Zhi has just returned to the field and was seated amongst her senior and junior brothers, they were all focused on sizing up this uninvited warrior.

Lou Wuxin looked Teng Yi up and down disdainfully and coldly replied, "If you want to fight, you have to use real swords to able to display real skills." Teng Yi laughed, "Why not? But Mister Li better send another fighter for me to tire me out a little bit before we can fight or so that it'll be fair when I fight with you."

Zhao Mu sighed, "Is your family warrior a moron, he didn't even know how to take advantage of the situation?"

Ji Yanran smiled, "A Master will have a servant who behaves like him, and this is what a true hero is about."

Zhao Mu couldn't help but give an embarrassed laugh, angry at himself for showing that he is not a hero at all.

Li Yuan was afraid that Lou Wuxin didn't have time to regain his breath yet and when he saw that at Xiang Shaolong did not show any reaction, happily said, "Definitely hero material!" He made a gesture and one of the warriors behind him whose face looked like an ancient copper obeyed his order and stepped out.

Xiang Shaolong turned towards Ji Yanran, "Who's this person?"

Under the crowd's expectant gaze, Ji Yanran shook her head bewilderedly.

That person came in front of Teng Yi, and very calmly said, "I don't like to use fake swords too, what is your opinion?" Teng Yi frostily replied, "Brother, how may I address you?"

That person calmly replied, "My name is Yanfu, I am just a nobody!"

Once everyone heard, not one of them didn't get stirred.

Xiang Shaolong of course didn't know who he is, his questioning gaze turned towards Ji Yanran for clarification.

Ji Yanran looked solemn as she replied, "He was originally a famous swordsman from Qin but ran away to Chu because he killed someone. I did not expect him to join Li Yuan. From this, it could be seen that Li Yuan's influence in Chu is growing by leaps and bounds, no wonder he is so arrogant."

Han Chuang and the rest started to worry for Teng Yi.

"Clang!"

Yanfu pulled out his glimmering sharp sword, fell back two steps, pointed at Teng Yi and shouted, "Still haven't pulled out your sword yet?"

Teng Yi was expressionless but a coldness radiated from his eyes as he unhurriedly said, "When the time comes, the sword will naturally be pulled out of its sheath!"

Yanfu was furious as he roared, straighten up the sword and attacked.

Instantly, a cold glare flared, blinding everyone's eyes.

No one could have expected that the friendly competition between influential officials could turn into a real life and death fight.

Book 8 Chap 3 - Awe-inspiring at the Field

(From translation thread - Translated by slyphiad...)

Once Yanfu attacked with his sword, everyone could tell he was formidable.

No matter the angle or the speed, technique or footwork, all these can be clearly seen in this simple looking sword execution that was moving like a swimming dragon, indeed deserving of his great reputation as a master swordsman.

The most exhilarating part was he borrowed the twisting power of his waist and legs to exert his moving strength, creating a powerful stab that pooled the energy in his whole body, moving as fast as lightning, with no warning sign in advance. It was really instantaneous, seemingly like a volcanic eruption and in the blink of an eye, the sword point arrived only a foot away from the unmoving Teng Yi's chest .

The crowd imagined themselves in Teng Yi's position. At the moment, the only path left was to retreat and pull out his sword, but this would only boost the opponent's dominance, the offensive attacks will come in waves and he may even perish under the sword. In other words, whatever happens, it's only because Teng Yi's did not draw out his sword first and thus lost his chance to act first.

A small smile escaped from the corner of Teng Yi's lips as he swiftly drew out his sword without even retreating a step.

The crowd was secretly alarmed. Guo Xiu'er and Zhao Ya were so scared that they shut their pretty eyes, unable to bear watching the tragic outcome of this hero when he spills his blood.

"Clang!"

While everyone was stupefied, Teng Yi drew out his sword to about two feet from the sheath and actually accurately blocked the edge of Yanfu's sword with his sword handle.

Even if Yanfu was stronger than Teng Yi, but the power emitted from the sword's edge is incomparable to the power emitted from the flat side of the sword handle, especially since Yanfu's arm strength simply wasn't on the same level as Teng Yi.

Ever since Yanfu started to appear in the pugilistic world, he has never seen anyone who from the start could beat an enemy using the sword handle only. He had placed his full power to attack forward, and he could not stop his momentum and was heading towards Teng Yi as if he is throwing himself into his embrace.

Just as he realized his mistake, Teng Yi's iron fist loomed in front of his eyes.

"Bang!"

Fresh blood spurted from Yanfu's mouth and nose as he stumbled backwards, unexpectedly knocked out by Teng Yi's left fist, whereas Teng Yi's sword was only half out of the sheath.

"Clang!", the sword slid back into the sheath.

Silence reigned on the field, before the swordsmen from the training school burst into loud cheers which filled the whole field, amazed by Teng Yi's skills and also ecstatic because he had gotten revenge on their behalf.

Li Yuan did not expect that Teng Yi could be as skillful as this, his face turned green as he shouted, "Carry that useless guy out!"

Once this word was out, even Zhao Ya, who was sitting beside him furrowed her brows, could feel that this person, Li Yuan, is an unkind and fickle person, showing no sympathy at all towards a subordinate who has failed.

Yanfu was quickly carried out of the field.

Teng Yi pointed towards Lou Wuxin, "It's your turn now!"

The crowd's eyes all fell on Lou Wuxin, waiting to see if he dared to accept the challenge.

Xiang Shaolong is the only one in the field who can predict the result of the fight. After Teng Yi received his instruction from the 'Mohist Swordplay's Addendum', his sword and martial art skills improved exponentially, even he himself couldn't be sure to win against him, much less Yanfu. This time he laughed out loud, "Brother Lou, if you still have not rested enough to get your breath back, we can ask Brother Dong Luzi or others to fight first."

Once this was said, there was no way for Lou Wuxin to avoid this any further, he stood up, snorted and walked out towards the field.

Everyone immediately quieted down.

Ji Yanran whispered in Xiang Shaolong's ear, "I have never seen anyone with such queer sword skills as your Second Brother, he not any more inferior compared to Li Yuan ."

Zhao Mu was instead elated, secretly thinking that it's no wonder that this "Horse Fanatic" is so boastful, so it turns out that he has a subordinate who can fight against a hundred fighters singlehandedly with his out of the world sword skills.

"Clang," Lou Wuxin pulled out his sword and assumed a stance, yet he didn't immediately attack, quietly studying his opponent's sword movement and techniques. Teng Yi faced the sky and laughed aloud, his right hand holding the sword handle, stepped forward and looked as if he was going to pull out his sword.

Lou Wuxin felt awestricken by his imposing manner and actually took a step back, so that a gap of seven to eight steps still remained between them. Teng Yi dashed like lightning forward towards Lou Wuxin's left side, the long sword slid back in and then out of the sheath again, creating the unbelievable illusion of countless seemingly real sword sparks, looking like an attack but yet not an attack, and poisonous snakes in a pit, rearing their heads and sticking out their tongue so thatat any time, it could fiercely attack its enemy with one bite, but it would definitely be a merciless killing move.

Xiang Shaolong slapped his thigh and cheered. This move that Teng Yi used was based on defending in order to attack, beyond doubt that it has reached perfection, completely utilizing the essence of Mohist Swordplay's Addendum.

Lou Wuxin was completely baffled by the opponent's sword movement, even though he shouted and assumed a fierce posture but in the end he still moved back a step, everyone could see that he had been intimidated.

When master swordsmen were pitted in a battle against each other, how can one constantly retreat.

With wondrous instinct, Teng Yi's sword suddenly moved widely, changing from defending to attack into attacking to defend, waving his long sword seemingly like a rainbow, accompanied by refined and intricate footwork, dashing forward to Lou Wuxin's left, taking him by storm.

"Clang!" Lou Wuxin strenuously tried to block Teng Yi's sword, which has reached perfection regardless of technique, posture, strength or movement. Teng Yi sneered, "Is this all you have?"

The long sword slid out, and quickly morphed into a sweep.

"Clang!"

Lou Wuxin raised his sword in trepidation to block, only to be swept away by Teng Yi and there was no way he could retaliate at all.

Not one of them from Li Yuan's side that didn't turn pale, for it must be known that Lou Wuxin's arm strength is the best amongst them all but it turned out that this "Long Shan" can easily beat him.

By this time, everyone knew that Teng Yi plans to subdue and humiliate this person in terms of strength.

Zhao Ba was ecstatic, but also secretly alarmed. He was always self-assured that his strength was unbeatable, but now looking at Teng Yi's might, he realizes that there will always be others who are better.

Le Cheng who was sitting at the back moved forward, "Your family warrior's superhuman strength was just astonishing, I won't be surprised if it's comparable to Xiao Weimou."

Xiao Shaolong secretly snickered, if Le Cheng knew that Xiao Weimou was killed by Teng Yi, who knows what would he think about it?

History is being repeated again. Earlier it was Fu Jianyin who was beaten senseless by Lou Wuxin till he cannot retaliate at all and ultimately lost; this time it's Teng Yi slowly pressing forward, making Lou Wuxin sweat with effort, continuously retreating.

This Lou Wuxin can be considered as awesome as he could ward off Teng Yi's unfathomable 25th sword stance before he lapsed and thus creating a flaw in his defense.

Teng Yi moved forward like a lightning kicking his lower abdomen.

Lou Wuxin scrambled backward holding the sword, curled up on the floor from the pain. Besides moaning, he had no more energy to get up anymore.

The crowd was awestruck by this terrible sword move that all have forgotten to cheer.

Li Yuan completely lost face. After ordering someone to move Lou Wuxin, he saw that everyone and that Long Shan's eyes are on him, he secretly groaned. If he joined in the fight, even though he might not necessarily lose, he didn't have the confidence to get the upper hand, but at this time the situation is such that there's no other way out so he snorted, "So Mister Dong has such a skillful subordinate, from this we could infer that Mister must also be an expert, why don't we use this time to play a little bit, so as to avoid others speaking badly of me for taking advantage of your subordinate when he is tired from all the fighting."

Even though his words sounded reasonable, but everyone knew that he is in fact extremely wary of Teng Yi.

Xiang Shaolong waved to Teng Yi to come back to the stand, before standing up slowly and replying calmly, "Regarding my skills, Brother Li should already have a clear understanding of my level from your family warriors, but how can listening be compared to watching. Since Brother Li is in a mood to play, I would of course love to accompany you."

Li Yuan did not expect that he'd be willing to fight, and his joy plummeted.

This time, besides the men on Li Yuan's side and Teng Yi, everyone else was worried for Xiang Shaolong. Li Yuan is known as Chu's number one famous swordsman, just by looking at Lou Wuxin and the others' skills, they can all deduce his formidability. Dong Kuang, this 'Horse Fanatic', wasn't well known for his sword skills, so it's not too hard to imagine who'll win or lose.

Ji Yanran was anxious to the point where her brows all furrowed together, if Xiang Shaolong lost, even though Li Yuan wouldn't dare to publicly kill him, but he will definitely injure or maim him.

Xiang Shaolong took off his precious sword Bloodwave and gave it to the person beside him as he smiled at Li Yuan, "How can we follow these youngsters and compete with our lives. We can dispense with the armor, but we will still use wooden swords to exchange pointers and hold our strength in check, all should be carried out in the spirit of a friendly competition." Even though Li Yuan was reluctant, he couldn't openly show his desire to kill his opponent, so he smiled calmly, "Since this is Mister Dong's suggestion, I will naturally agree."

Xiang Shaolong secretly grinned, he is someone who's used to using wooden sword. Just on this point alone, Li Yuan is destined to lose. After accepting the wooden sword and testing the weight, despite it only weighing about 70% of his Mohist sword, it's still much heavier than the average iron sword.

Li Yuan used both hands to wave the sword around, pondering if he could just blind the other party in one eye, it would be most ideal.

Xiang Shaolong suddenly shouted, "Master Zhao, let's play some drums to add to the atmosphere!"

While everyone was stunned, the drummer responsible for this had already started drumming like a violent rain producing earth-shaking drumming sounds.

Li Yuan's handsome face turned cold and ruthless as he held his sword and stood erect. With his tall and graceful stature, and suave appearance, he truly had an extraordinary posture.

Xiang Shaolong placed his sword in front of him, staying as still as a mountain, both eyes shining sharply like eagle, focusing on the opponent.

The both of them stood facing each other, immediately revealing the air of an expert. Everyone was filled with tension, anticipating the coming storm, for that moment everything was silent.

After spending the past six months training intensely, Xiang Shaolong has changed from being blindingly brilliant to being calmly unwavering, even someone like Zhao Mu and the rest who had seen him fight several times in the past couldn't link through his movement that he is the Xiang Shaolong of the past.

Ji Yanran is an expert swordsman, with just a glance she can see that Xiang Shaolong's casual stand has the aura of an immovable mountain. She was inwardly surprised, could it be that the last time they fought, he didn't fight with all his might? She could never have guessed that his improvement in swordplay was all due to finding the Mohist Swordplay's Addendum.

In Zhao Zhi's eyes now, there is only Dong the Horse Fanatic who has that natural, graceful bearing of a hero, to the extent that even the handsome looking Li Yuan seems to pale on comparison.

Zhao Ya looked at Li Yuan, and also looked at Xiang Shaolong. She felt that although both parties had their own powerfully attractive qualities, Xiang Shaolong's uniquely alluring enigmatic and mysterious quality is something that Li Yuan cannot give.

Guo Xiu'er felt something altogether different.

Li Yuan was truly the ideal husband of her dreams, talented in both literature and martial arts. He is dignified and graceful, at the same time he has status and power. Despite knowing that he's a playboy, but that's the way of all men, so she could only resign herself to this fate and obey her father's command to marry this Lord.

But the appearance of Dong Kuang allowed her to experience the lure of another type of man, unrefined and straightforward yet revealing a thrilling wisdom and extraordinary thinking, making her willing to be conquered by him. This dilemma of choosing between them is making this young girl's heart disconcerted, unable to make a choice.

Now that the both of them are finally competing to decide their superiority, would it help her make a decision? During this warring period, everyone knows martial art, sword skills has long become the standard in judging someone's skills. An expert swordsman will naturally be regarded as important and admired.

Li Yuan and Xiang Shaolong stared at each other unwaveringly, and said in a frosty manner, "Brother Dong's horse rearing skills are unparalleled in this world, I really would like to see whether Brother Dong's sword skill is comparable to your horse rearing skills."

He lowered his body to assume a stance, waving the sword and pointing at Xiang Shaolong, repeatedly shaking.

Everyone in the audience broke out into cold sweat on Xiang Shaolong's behalf, no one had expected that Li Yuan's sword skills to have reached such high levels. Even when using the wooden sword, he's still able to create ingenious changes, confusing the audience to the point where one can't be sure where the attack will be coming from.

Xiang Shaolong was still standing stiff like a pillar, the corner of his mouth revealed a mysterious smile as he blandly replied, "What are you waiting for, Brother Li?"

His words were imbued with strong confidence, everyone can clearly feel that he's not even a little bit intimidated.

Li Yuan definitely proved himself to be worthy of being Chu's number one swordsman, he wasn't at all provoked by these words. He smiled and swiftly attacked. When Xiang Shaolong raised his wooden sword, pointing at him diagonally, he retreated and returned to his previous position when they were facing each other, the distance between them totally remaining unchanged. It can be seen from this how precise Li Yuan's footwork was. Just based on this point, Ji Yanran's earlier conclusion that Li Yuan's sword skills were above Xiang Shaolong was definitely not without evidence.

Zhao Zhi was thinking that if Xiang Shaolong's sword skills is on par with that Long Shan, these two people together would be enough to carry out the secret task of assassinating anyone. She can't help but feel resentful towards Xiang Shaolong's heartlessness.

Teng Yi concentrated on watching both of them, with their swords drawn and poised to attack. He was originally confident that Xiang Shaolong would undoubtedly win, but when he saw Li Yuan's expertise when testing the water and his intricate and harmonized footwork, he couldn't help feeling a little bit worried.

On the contrary, the one with the most confidence was Xiang Shaolong himself, not because he was underestimating his enemy, but because he had entered the state of Mohism protection, a state where there are no others and no self, yet at the same time his opponent's intent cannot escape his observation at all.

He knew that Li Yuan is luring him into attacking first, but he was totally unmoved. If both sides are not striking at all, the one who will lose face wouldn't be this 'Horse Fanatic' but the arrogant Li Yuan who had made his boast earlier.

While training in the 21st century, they really focused on the psychology of warfare and he is currently applying what he has learnt, intending to strike at Li Yuan's weak points based on his character.

After facing each other for awhile, sure enough, Li Yuan couldn't endure any loss of face and got impatient. He gave a cold snort, single-handedly lifted his sword overhead and leapt forward. As the long sword was about to violently strike Xiang Shaolong, his left hand grabbed the sword handle as well, and the power was intensified as now he is wielding the sword with both hands instead.

Even though many disdained Li Yuan, but on seeing this outstanding move, everyone can't help but be impressed. Furthermore, this move was extremely severe and violent, gathering the power in the whole body's strength to the arms. If Xiang Shaolong raised his sword with one hand to block, then it very possible that this single move will determine the winner.

Xiang Shaolong still looked as calm as still water. He only raised his brows, turned his wrist, and actually used only one hand to block Li Yuan's move.

Ji Yanran was so astonished that her heart was beating rapidly, her slender hands rose to cover her gasping mouth that was about to scream.

In the past, she had fought both of them separately so she naturally understood that their arm strength were comparable. But this time Li Yuan is using both hands to attack and he has the added power from the running momentum so it's not hard to know who would be stronger.

Ai! How can Xiang Shaolong be so reckless?

Everyone there can only hear the swooshing of Li Yuan's sword cutting thru the air and could tell the ferocious power behind it, all couldn't bear to see the happening of another tragic ending.

Li Yuan saw Xiang Shaolong trying to block with a single hand and was secretly happy so he intensified his strength into the strike.

Who knew Xiang Shaolong could suddenly change from blocking horizontally to flicking his sword up, heavily pushing aside his opponent's move that was bearing down on him with the weight of a mountain. The hard block changed into deflecting the enemy's blow using its own momentum.

Li Yuan watched helplessly as a surefire move was deflected to the side by Xiang Shaolong, and it went off target a little to only chop down towards the empty spot where Xiang Shaolong's left shoulder used to be.

Cheers reverberated around the field.

Even Zhao Ya and Zhao Zhi, these two beautiful ladies who hated Xiang Shaolong, enthusiastically clapped their hands and cheered. Luckily, this time Li Yuan cannot afford to be distracted, or else he would have died of anger on seeing this.

Everyone thought that Xiang Shaolong will take this advantage to attack first, who would have guessed that he would instead move back a step, his wooden sword moving in a bizarre and mysterious path, moving backwards and forward in front of his body, floating and waving around randomly.

Even with Li Yuan's sword skills and experience, he still cannot determine which moves are true and which are fake. With no alternative, he was forced to retreat but tried to look as if he is arranging a forbidding defense. However he is not as commanding now as he was before.

Teng Yi felt relieved, knowing that Xiang Shaolong had guessed correctly that in Li Yuan's had wanted to impress Ji Yanran with his martial prowess so he purposely made him lose face, provoking him into being more impatient and reckless so that he'll lose his advantage. He's truly brilliant in strategy.

Ji Yanran is no longer worried about her lover, her eyes were shining with love and affection, looking at Xiang Shaolong's vigorous body emitting an imposing aura and indomitable charm.

The autumn sun was shining high above the sky upon the field filling it with life.

There's another person who cannot 'refrain himself from liking' Xiang Shaolong, which is Lord Long Yang. From the first moment he saw this stout and forthright man, 'his' heart was stirred. Now that he witnessed his splendid sword performance, his heart was sent into disorder and he was secretly determined to captivate Xiang Shaolong into becoming his love slave.

On the other hand, those family warriors under Li Yuan were so astounded they remained silent, they couldn't believe that even with Li Yuan's amazing sword skills, he still couldn't even get a little bit of upper hand.

Li Yuan forced himself to concentrate, the wooden sword slashed up and down, forming his second attack.

Xiang Shaolong returned to his original spot, standing still like the mountain, not even moving a little bit.

Now, no one would think that he was too self assured and belittled his opponent.

Li Yuan softly said, "Who would have thought that Brother Dong is such an expert, be careful!"

With a diagonal forward attack, he moved around towards Xiang Shaolong's back in an instant.

Not only did Xiang Shaolong not turn around to receive the attack, instead he quickly moved forward towards Li Yuan's last position before turning around, the wooden sword pointing at the opponent, his steps steady and his bearing confident, with the posture like an erect mountain. One look is all it takes to know that he did not flounder at all despite his enemy's tactical attack.

Li Yuan missed his intent and landed at Xiang Shaolong's original spot and it seemed like the two of them made an agreement to exchange places.

The spectators didn't dare to take a breath, afraid that it might influence both parties on the field who are caught in a deadlock.

Xiang Shaolong wasn't without his own difficulties, for it is hard for him to go all out and fight. If he did not rein himself, it would be difficult to conceal his moves and it may even trigger the memory of those who have seen him fight in the past. By then, even if he killed Li Yuan, the loss will still outweigh the gain.

Li Yuan saw that both his moves has failed and lost his patience. He waved his sword to attack again. The sword point trembled like lightning, relentless, ruthless and flawless.

Xiang Shaolong knew that he was anxious for victory and was secretly delighted. Just before the sword touched his body, he coolly deflected to the side. The move was truly as calm as an immovable object yet as swift as an escaping rabbit. Besides, his movement was suave and unrestrained as well, thus attracting the cheers of others.

Li Yuan saw that he was evading the attack and happily thought there was hope. He shouted and waved the sword quickly.

Xiang Shaolong laughed aloud, drawing out his wooden in a flash, turned around and flew forward, continuously blocking the opponent's five sword strikes without retreating a single step. His defense was as solid as an iron bucket, while his every move contained possible hidden changes thus causing Li Yuan to be hesitant about advancing rashly.

The clash of the wooden swords rang continuously non-stop.

The crowd was so focused on the fight that they forgot to cheer for their own side, only seeing both parties' sword skills soaring powerfully without constraints, fluttering and flashing indefinitely. Not only were they marveling at Li Yuan's unparalleled moves, but also astonished at Xiang Shaolong's unfathomable moves.

Zhao Ya felt that this Horse Fanatic is just like his character, unfathomable. Judging from his appearance, anyone would have guessed that Xiang Shaolong is a proactive person and who would have thought that in actuality it was the other way around.

Even though Li Yuan is always the initiator of the attacks, yet his opponent's defensive yet seemingly offensive moves is restricting him the use of the full strength of his skills. At the same time, the opponent displayed a strong will and tenacious power and he cannot help but feel discouraged. This is also the negative aftereffect of his two failed attacks; otherwise he wouldn't have this feeling of discouragement.

His sixth attacks haven't come out and yet the opponent's wooden sword suddenly created numerous shadows, confusing him such that he has no idea where the attack will be coming from. Li Yuan was alarmed and naturally he retreated.

Xiang Shaolong laughed out loud, placing the flat side of the wooden sword on his shoulder, appearing calm and composed, said to Li Yuan who has retreated close to ten steps away from him, "Brother Li's sword skills are indeed ingenious, I think that it will be extremely difficult for me to win, let's just quit while we're ahead and call off the battle at this point, what do you think, Brother Li?"

Li Yuan stood frozen on the field, his handsome face flitted between turning red and pale. Even though it was still not clear who will be the winner and the loser, but everyone saw that all of his three attacks were nullified by this Horse Fanatic, how can he lift his face up again?

But if he insist on continuing the fight, firstly, it will show his lack of bearing, even more importantly, he had lost his confidence and all of his fighting spirit had been dispelled.

While he was still hesitating, Guo Kai, who was worried that Xiang Shaolong will really injure Li Yuan, stood up, "Let's consider this fight is a draw, today is indeed an eye opening experience for all of us."

Li Yuan secretly hated this but he had to maintain a smiling front, accepting other people's congratulations together with Xiang Shaolong. Ji Yanran greeted Xiang Shaolong and said tenderly, "Mister Dong, from today onwards, you can be considered equally brilliant in both horse rearing and sword skills. I wonder if you would be willing to visit the place where I'm putting up for the moment to take care of my sick horse?"

Everyone who heard this envied him.

Although she's using to the horse as an excuse, but her invitation came publicly after his incredible performance of martial prowess so everyone knew that this peerless beauty known for her heart of stone is no longer concealing her feelings towards this Horse Fanatic whom had stirred her heart.

The other three girls who were rushing to congratulate Xiang Shaolong, felt snubbed as Ji Yanran snatched their chances and quietly withdrew.

Li Yuan was the one who felt the worst. Originally he thought that today he would be able to impress everyone during the martial arts competition, instead he ended up with two of his famous subordinates seriously injured, while he himself could not win the fight, which is a total loss of face. The hardest hit was Ji Yanran is actually making giving an invitation to his biggest rival right in front of his eyes. His felt a strong hatred and hurriedly left with his subordinates.

Zhao Ba was ecstatic and said as he pulled Xiang Shaolong and Teng Yi, "No matter what, I want to invite both of you to become our honored guest instructors. Please do not decline!"

Zhao Mu sighed, "If Mister Dong and Brother Long was here a year earlier, that fellow Xiang Shaolong would not be able to leave Handan alive."

Xiang Shaolong and Teng Yi exchanged glances, both felt very amused.

Amongst all the uproars, Xiang Shaolong finally was able to extricate himself to leave with Ji Yanran under everyone's admiration gaze.

Book 8 Chapter 4: Isolated Without Support

Ji Yanran, accompanied by Xiang Shaolong and Teng Yi on her right and left, galloped out of the school.

As Xiang Shaolong remembered Zhao Ba's invitation for them to become the honored guest instructors, he couldn't help be reminded that Lian Jin must have received the same treatment when he was alive, therefore he had the opportunity to become closer to Zhao Zhi thus evoking their short affair.

Maybe Zhao Zhi is fickle in love, for her first lover was killed and she instead fell in love with him, the person who killed her lover, but because of her relationship with Jing Jun, he didn't dare to accept her love. However, if she threw herself into Li Yuan's embrace out of anger because of this, it could really make one feel resentful.

Li Yuan will definitely not appreciate or care for the fairer sex for he is too selfish.

Returning to the busy town centre, Teng Yi said, "I want to go to the Hidden Army Valley to see them, I may not be able to return by tonight."

Xiang Shaolong nodded in agreement, replied offhandedly, "Have you sent someone to see 'Father'?"

'Father' was Lu Buwei's codename.

Teng Yi replied, "Sent the day before!" After requesting leave of Ji Yanran, he rode towards the city gate direction. They have been granted the Pass Document so they could leave the city at anytime without any problem.

Ji Yanran begged, "I want you to stroll around town with me, will you agree?"

Xiang Shaolong joyfully agreed and they rode back to his residence first, before going out to leisurely stroll around town.

After walking for only a while and Ji Yanran couldn't take it anymore because every on the street were staring at them in surprise, making her feel uncomfortable, so she had no choice but to drag Xiang Shaolong and slipped back into the borrowed residence she's currently residing in.

The owner, a great Confucian Scholar in Handan, Liu Huasheng was playing chess with Zou Yan and when the two of them returned, they were delighted.

Liu Huasheng and Zou Yan were old friends who had known each other for thirty more years and they treated Ji Yanran like their own daughter and everyone was talking joyfully.

So far, Zou Yan hadn't gotten a chance yet to speak of old times with Xiang Shaolong. He urged Ji Yanran to take his place playing chess, while he and Xiang Shaolong walked together into the quiet and secluded back garden, and sighed, "Since the Prince of Ping moved to the east, it's been more than 500 years where there's no true leader. There had been continuous wars, and who else but the common people suffered, luckily, we now have you as the new Saint to become our hope of ever stopping these wars."

Xiang Shaolong wouldn't dare to underestimate this wise 'Five Elements' School founder, because truly without him Xiang Shaolong, Emperor Qin who united the six countries wouldn't exist. But he still didn't know how to answer his question, the only way left was just to stay quiet.

Zou Yan was intoxicated inside his own vision of vast and broad history and softly said, "I know Shaolong is someone who pursues peace, but true peace can only be achieved through war, there's no other way beside this. Otherwise with these seven states continuously fighting, sooner or later, we'll be attacked from the tribes in the northwest who are watching intently for the right opportunity to invade the mainland like locusts coming to destroy our civilization."

Xiang Shaolong was suddenly startled, Zou Yan's words were like a blow to his head, getting him to think of problems he didn't think of before. All along, he had deliberately avoided having a hand in any wars; however, he never thought that it'd be better to suffer momentarily than to suffer long-term pain, employing war as a way to bring peace. This was mainly because of his foreigner mentality.

But this problem is in fact his problem now as he had become a member of this era so naturally he have to accept the responsibility that comes with staying in this time period.

Even if Qin didn't dispatch soldiers to go on an expedition, the other six states also won't let Qin off, this is basically a time period where the strongest rules.

Instead of allowing the flames of war to reign free indefinitely to the point of flashing an open invitation for the outside tribes to invade, it'd be better to use the Qins' might to unite the whole country earlier. If he leads the army, at the very least, he can reduce the senseless massacre to the bare minimum thus reducing the burden of war on the people.

Once he reached this conclusion, his heart stirred to passion.

Zou Yan measured him with rapt attention for a while before grinning, "The universe undergoes thousands of changes constantly, but is always connected to the activities of the five elements – gold, wood, water, fire and earth. The heaven is five elements, people are also five elements. Even though from outward appearance the usage is always full of changes, on the inside the essence stays the same. If heaven and people are always interconnected, every time there's a rising energy, when both of them are taking turns, an auspicious omen can be seen. Wherever auspicious omen is, that is where the master of the new time period is. For example, the time of King Zhouwen, there was a red crow holding a red book in its beak which flew down to the sacrificial altar, signifying the time for them to develop the unification plan."

Xiang Shaolong couldn't help himself asking, "So where is the auspicious omen now?"

Zou Yan joyfully replied, "Did you remember that I once mentioned to you the appearance of a new star? Half a year ago, Shaolong left Zhao and went towards Qin, that star immediately vanished. Just when I was confused, I saw on the sky where the position of Qin is, a bigger and brighter new star appeared, glowing in the night sky. Now I am positive that the one who will unify the whole country must be a Qin and will have a direct relation to you."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned speechless, with this he can no longer underestimate the authority of this ancient astrologer.

Zou Yan extended his hand and placed it on his shoulder, saying sincerely, "For the sake of the well being of the people in the whole world, Shaolong, you must accelerate the Qins unification plan or else the fate of the new star might suddenly become gloomier. Do not worry about how others will see you, as long as you grab tightly to your ideals and do your best, you wouldn't disappoint the expectations placed on you by Heaven. The unification plan must start with you and this is something I am very sure of."

Xiang Shaolong's heart was stirred, only now did he understand how open Zou Yan's heart is, filled with passion and love for the universe and mankind.

His opinion is aimed at the current actual situation, unlike Confucius and Mencius who could only talk about virtue and morality, while hard reality pointed out that near expiring State of Lu can only perish.

During this warring period, the only way to fight violence was with violence.

Zou Yan continued, "Yanran always had this idea, she wish she can support a brilliant leader to unify the whole country and stop the war."

Xiang Shaolong bitterly smiled in his heart, the path to attaining this goal is very long and arduous, but without Great Qin, it would not be possible for the following period of the two Han Dynasties to have peace, even more so for China to exists in the 21st century. When he thought of this, he abruptly resolved to cast aside his own moral principles and see if he can help Xiao Pan a little.

At the same time, he secretly sighed. For someone like him who views all wars are evil, it wasn't easy for him to suddenly change his ideology.

Right at this moment, Ji Yanran and Liu Huasheng came out side by side.

Zou Yan laughed, "How did it go?"

Ji Yanran blushed, "Scholar Liu saw that I am not in the mood for war so he let me off this time!"

Everyone laughed.

That Liu Huasheng didn't know Xiang Shaolong background and only regarded him as horse fanatic Dong Kuang. After some small talk, he and Zou Yan went back inside to continue contending for supremacy on the chessboard while Ji Yanran happily led Xiang Shaolong towards small building she's temporary residing in.

Two beautiful servant-girls opened the gate and welcomed them in. Xiang Shaolong recognized them and suddenly felt a surge of familiarity.

Ji Yanran took him upstairs to her room. After waving away her maid, she sat on his lap and gave him a scorching kiss.

Both of them felt like they were transported to another world.

Yanran pretended to be solemn and asked, "Brother Dong! May I dare to ask when will you officially take Yanran as your wife?"

Xiang Shaolong grinned, "Since Miss Ji is asking this question, hmm, let me inspect you first to see if you are good stuff!"

He extended his hand and start stroking her bosom.

Ji Yanran melted into his embrace, but still stubbornly asked, "I am being serious now. When I can't see you, that longing feeling is truly tormenting for me."

Xiang Shaolong felt deeply touched by her love for him, sighed, "If everyone knows that I have won you over and even sleeping together with you, it'll be difficult for me to move around. By that time, everyone will pay attention to us even you surely will lose your position and status as a detached girl free from all manly and womanly lust. This will be detrimental towards my operation here in Handan."

These few days, Ji Yanran has fallen head over heels in love and has forgotten everything else. Now that Xiang Shaolong has reminded her, she pondered and nodded, "Yanran's too reckless, forgetting that you are in a dangerous situation, I understand now!"

After a short discussion, the two of them reluctantly parted.

Xiang Shaolong leisurely walked back to his residence instead of riding.

Wu Guo interrupted him at the entrance, "Lady Ya and Miss Zhi are both waiting for you. I brought both of them separately to the east and west room respectively."

Xiang Shaolong felt a headache coming as soon as he heard this. His hasn't even gotten any headway for his proper work, instead he got himself entangled with relationship problems and he couldn't help but feel discouraged by this. After considering for a minute, he decided to see Zhao Zhi first.

When he entered the west room, Zhao Zhi was well-behaved and quietly sitting in the corner staring blankly. She looked down as she heard the footsteps, not sure if it means that she's still annoyed at him, or because she felt ashamed that he saw her allowing Li Yuan to be frivolous with her.

Xiang Shaolong sat down beside her, "Miss Zhi, don't you have to accompany Li Yuan?"

Zhao Zhi paled and bit her lips, not answering the question at all as she replied, "Teacher asked me to invite you to our school."

Xiang Shaolong understood that she is just using this as an excuse to come see him, otherwise why would Zhao Ba task a beautiful girl like her to come alone to invite him for it just doesn't conform with the etiquette. He sighed, "How are you these last two days? Now, my heart is very troubled."

Zhao Zhi still looked down, whispered like a fly, "What are you troubled about? You have just flaunted your abilities today and also won the talented Lady Ji's favor. I thought you won't be home so early."

Xiang Shaolong suddenly understood her intention for coming here looking for him. She wanted to show him that she didn't give in to Li Yuan. Coming from such a proud and arrogant beautiful girl, this is already a large concession. It can also be seen that this girl had fallen hard for him to the point of losing her self-control.

Zhao Zhi slowly lifted her head, sadly watching him, "You can do whatever you like to me, hit me, scold me, because it's Zhao Zhi's fault."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly lamenting, when a beautiful girl is willing to allow him to punish her, it's an equivalent to allowing her husband free reign to handle her. If he still rejected her, there's no other way for her to redeem her pride besides suicide. He couldn't help getting a headache and stood up.

Zhao Zhi watched him in trepidation.

Xiang Shaolong said, "Miss Zhi, just sit here first, I will be back with you right away."

He hurried over to the east room.

Zhao Ya was leaning on the window blankly watching the garden outside. Under the evening sun, the flowers and trees gave out a thick autumn feeling.

Hearing his footsteps, Zhao Ya trembled slightly, turned around and smiled, "Talented Lady Ji did not invite you to spend the night?"

Xiang Shaolong snorted, "Did you think her a wanton girl? I didn't even have the chance to touch her little finger."

Zhao Ya knew that he taking the opportunity to blow this up and being sarcastic that she's making herself easy for Li Yuan. She looked down in shame and sighed, "I come here now to apologize to you. Will Mister accept my apology?"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly lamenting, he really shouldn't have fought today. During this period where they value martial prowess over literature, there are no beautiful girls who won't admire heroes with superb sword skills. Just because he wanted to gain a momentary pleasure and although he put managed Li Yuan down a little, he also made two girls fall head over heels over him and now he's at a loss as to how to handle them.

At the moment where there is a lot of urgent business for him to handle, he didn't have any more free time to cope with them two.

Zhao Zhi's much easier to handle, Zhao Ya on the other hand gives him a headache and he is in a dilemma.

The biggest problem was that he himself still held a residue of love towards Zhao Ya and still crazy about her arousing body, so it's easy for him to feel jealousy and resentfulness towards her. On the whole, Zhao Ya's not a bad person, it's just that she does not have a strong will. But it's impossible to forgive her, besides he didn't dare to trust her anymore, it's just that sometimes he doesn't have the heart to hurt her excessively.

He exclaimed, "Don't joke with me, Lady. You have never offended me the slightest bit so there's no need to apologize at all."

Zhao Ya gracefully walked over towards him till her chest was nearly touching him, before gazing up tenderly, "Can Zhao Ya stay here tonight?"

Watching her lips spew out these luring words, breathing in her orchid-like scent, he felt like he was brought back to the happier days when they were still delightfully entangled and for a moment, he forgot where he was.

Zhao Ya saw his indecisive expression and moved half a step forward, throwing her slender body into his embrace, her soft perky bosom pressing tightly against him and enchantingly asked, "Do you really disdain me, Mister?"

Xiang Shaolong was shaken awake, secretly relieved that he had applied the sap from the Love Plant, otherwise Zhao Ya might have recognized him. He reached out and grabbed her shoulder. With strong willpower, he hardened his heart and pushed her away a little to avoid being tempted by her enticingly soft breast.

His eyes sharp, he laughed, "Why would Lady have such a thought? Any normal man would not have let you go."

Zhao Ya bashfully replied, "What are you waiting for then?"

Looking at her laying out the obvious, a look of wantonness which hinted that he can do anything to her, Xiang Shaolong was tempted but also angered. His eyes wantonly roved over her beautiful, heaving breast, and asked with a wry smile, "If Li Yuan wants you to sleep with him tomorrow night, will Lady be able to reject him?"

No one understood her wantonness and weak-will better than himself. Even when she was deeply in love with him in the past, she still couldn't resist Qi Yu's seduction and slept with him. After she broke off her relationship with Zhao Mu, she was still willing to allow herself to be toyed by this traitor. So these words are like a stab to her vital point.

Indeed Zhao Ya instantly was dismayed and she looked down, "Can you not ask me this kind of question! It's difficult for me to give you an answer."

Xiang Shaolong was indescribably furious, turned around and walked out as he replied icily, "Lady, please return to your residence! I still have other guest that I need entertain!"

Zhao Ya cried out piteously, "Dong Kuang!"

Once he heard how miserable and sorrowful she sounded, his heart softened and he stopped, replying with a deep voice, "Is there anything else you wish to instruct me, Lady?"

Zhao Ya went behind him and discarding all etiquette, she hugged his waist holding tightly, melding herself to his back and suddenly cried desolately, her cries filled with untold misery.

Xiang Shaolong fears neither Heaven nor Earth but he is most afraid of women crying. Remembering their past love, he embraced her and used his sleeves to frantically wipe her tears away.

Who would have known that her cries just kept intensified unstoppably, making his sleeve wet with her tears.

No matter how much Xiang Shaolong hated her, at this moment, he couldn't bear to chide her anymore.

After a while, Zhao Ya calmed down and slowly removed herself from his embrace. Her puffy red eyes glanced mournfully at him and she whispered, "Zhao Ya's leaving!"

Xiang Shaolong was stunned and he had a distinct feeling that her loss of composure was probably due to remembering him, Xiang Shaolong, and the sadness just welled up in her. At the same time she is no longer interested in other men so for that instant she did not know what to feel.

He nodded, "I'll send you out to the main door!"

Zhao Ya woodenly replied, "Mister, don't stand on ceremony!" She turned around and hurriedly left.

Xiang Shaolong returned to the inner chamber and changed his clothes. In the meantime, he also sent someone to invite Zhao Zhi who had been waiting for awhile to come to the inner hall.

He felt thirsty, so he asked someone to pour him two cups of hot tea, enjoying it together with Zhao Zhi, who sat across from him.

Zhao Zhi felt slightly flattered by his treatment and occasionally stole a glance towards him.

Xiang Shaolong's heart started burning up and secretly thought that if he wanted to take her, she definitely will not refuse. Precisely because of this tempting thought, he had to make a lot of effort to rationalize his mind and forcefully control his impulses.

Zhao Zhi, at this moment in time, displayed a pitiful expression.

Truthfully, he himself didn't understand why he had not touched this beautiful lady, for it seems that Jing Jun is not enough reason for a deterrent, because it was apparent that she didn't fall in love with the boy.

Zhao Zhi whispered, "That traitor has entered the city!"

It took a while before what she said dawned on Xiang Shaolong and he asked in bewilderment, "Traitor? Oh! You mean Tian Dan?"

Zhao Zhi looked down, "I am afraid that Sister Rou might go and assassinate him without much thought."

Xiang Shaolong's heart skipped a beat, "You need to warn her not to be reckless in doing things, otherwise it will be too late for regrets."

Zhao Zhi was pleased, "So you do care about us."

Xiang Shaolong knew he had accidentally betrayed his intention and smiled wryly, "From the start, I have always cared about you two."

Zhao Zhi's pretty face seemed suddenly revitalized as she rolled her eyes at him, "But why are you always so indifferent and ruthless towards us?"

Xiang Shaolong replied exasperatedly, "That night, I wholeheartedly thought that I would be able to enjoy the night Miss Zhi, but instead I got ambushed from the back and nearly lost my life, how much nicer do you want me to treat you?"

Zhao Zhi is after all an unmarried maiden and to hear him speak so honestly, both her cheeks blushed but on the inside she was deliriously happy as she said with embarrasment, "Sorry! That was just a misunderstanding. Zhao Zhi will now bow and apologise to you, alright?"

Surprisingly, she really did kneel down.

Xiang Shaolong was so surprised that he jumped out of his seat and to help her up.

Zhao Zhi allowed him to grab her shoulder and pressed her to her seat again. With a blushing face, she raised an eyebrow at him and asked sadly, "You're no longer angry with me?"

Xiang Shaolong felt her delicate body trembling under his hands like a frightened little bird and a surge of sympathy welled up as he said gently, "Why torture yourself like this?"

Zhao Zhi's eyes reddened as she mournfully said, "Zhao Zhi has been unlucky since young, my whole family either separated or dead. Sister Rou is constantly thinking of revenge, so my temper can be quite bad sometimes, consequently offending Mister."

Xiang Shaolong sympathized even more with her as he secretly thought that he was the one who made her say all those heartless and obstinate words. He suddenly couldn't help but feel apologetic towards her as he reached out his right hand to hold her chin up and smiled, "Let's stop with the blaming game, from today onwards, why don't we forget all about our old and new hatred forgotten?"

Zhao Zhi face turned redder as she lowered her long eyelashes and with half-lidded eyes, nodded her agreement. Who wouldn't be affected by that kind of tender expression on a young lady's face?

Xiang Shaolong can't help but leaned closer and lightly kissed her lip.

Zhao Zhi's body trembled and even her ears turned red. Her reaction was more intense than the last time when Xiang Shaolong forcefully kissed her while on the horse.

Xiang Shaolong almost wanted to press her down on the bed on impulse to copulate with her but there was still an ounce of clarity in his mind as he reluctantly released her and asked, "Where will Tian Dan be staying and how many people will be coming with him to the city?"

Zhao Zhi heard Tian Dan's name and became clearheaded again, "He's staying in the Zhao Palace. I'm not sure how many people will be coming with him, but usually, regardless of where he's going, he'll have many bodyguards around him."

She added, "Tonight, the King of Zhao will hold a banquet to welcome this traitor, and all the envoys have been invited to attend."

Xiang Shaolong knew immediately that he's not invited again. The King of Zhao is obviously on Li Yuan's side and deliberately giving him the cold shoulder.

Zhao Zhi asked shyly, "Would Mister mind going to advise my Sister Rou? In my opinion, she will definitely listen to your words."

At any rate, Xiang Shaolong couldn't allow Shan Rou to take the risk in trying to assassinate Tian Dan so he readily stood up and said, "Alright! Let's go see your sister."

Xiang Shaolong and Zhao Zhi rode their horses out of the residence. From far away, someone came riding towards them and shouted, "Master Dong, please wait!"

Both of them looked over in surprise and it turned out to be Pu Bu.

Xiang Shaolong seized the chance to tell Zhao Zhi, "Go home first and wait for me there!"

Zhao Zhi meekly nodded and left immediately.

Pu Bu stopped beside him, panting, "Marquis has invited Mister Dong to see him at once!"

Xiang Shaolong nodded his agreement and followed him back towards the Marquis' residence.

He had on several occasions wanted to reveal his identity to Pu Bu, but in the end he bit back his words. After all, a person's heart might have changed within the last half year.

Xiang Shaolong met Zhao Mu inside the secret room in the Marquis' residence.

This traitor's expression was stern as he grimaced, "Li Yanyan has indeed delivered a crown prince!"

Xiang Shaolong took a moment to understand his meaning before he exclaimed, "That's not good!"

Zhao Mu clenched his fists and stamped his foot on the floor, "This time, that little thief managed to take full advantage of us. He can openly become crown prince uncle whereas my father has to worry that the King of Chu will find out that the baby is actually his son. Just based on this alone, father is already at a disadvantage. Moreover, Li Yanyan's relationship with my dad is just based on beneficiary gains and there's no real love at all. Now with her raise in stature, she can easily manipulate the King of Chu. Li Yuan will be able to get whatever he ask for in Chu."

Xiang Shaolong remembered Li Yuan's scheming character and asked in shock, "Would Master be in danger?"

Zhao Mu was deeply worried, "You figured this out as well, now Li Yuan's biggest obstacle is my father. If I am Li Yuan, the first person I would deal with is the King of Chu. The King's health has never been good so as long as Li Yanyan leads him down the path of destruction, it's guaranteed that he wouldn't last much longer. Once the King of Chu is gone, Li Yanyan and Li Yuan would be able to legitimately control Chu's politics thru that bastard. Father has not taken any precaution against this, still thinking that the pair of siblings are still pawns that he can control but it would be so easy if those wretched siblings wants to harm him."

Xiang Shaolong calmly replied, "The only way to handle this is to use the opportunity for me to completely eliminate Li Yuan when he leaves the country by posing as horse bandits."

A shadow hung over Zhao Mu's expression and he did not speak for a long moment. Finally he sighed and said, "I'm afraid it won't be so easy. Li Yuan alone has incredible sword skills and this time, inclusive of his family warriors and attendants, he has close to five hundred people with him, even more men than you've got. Especially now that his worth has increased so much, King Xiaocheng will surely send his army to escort him back to Chu. Even when passing through Wei, the Weis will do the same too. If you act rashly, you won't gain any advantage at all."

Xiang Shaolong secretly smiled as he thought that it's a good thing that traitor knows this because it would spare him a lot of problems.

Zhao Mu was obviously very worried and after sighing in despair, he asked, "Do you have any other better strategy?"

Xiang Shaolong deliberately replied, "Let me quickly go back to Chu to report to the Master so that he would be able to take some precautions."

Zhao Mu unhappily replied, "But then who'll help me take care of things here. Besides, Father often disregard me, his own son's words so why would he listen to an outsider's advice?"

Xiang Shaolong had known for a long time that he is a selfish person, who wouldn't care about family. That's why he certainly won't let him leave. But by pretending concern like this, he will gain more of Zhao Mu's trust. He replied, "Then we have to move faster, otherwise without Master's support, even if Marquis ascend the throne, it will only attract other country's intervention."

Zhao Mu's expression was heavy as he creased his brows, "I want you to investigate for me one thing."

Xiang Shaolong said, "Marquis, please give your orders."

Zhao Mu dejectedly replied, "This last six months, King Xiao Cheng has been giving me the cold shoulder. For example he recently had a few secret discussions with Li Yuan and also today, when he received Tian Dan, he wouldn't let me attend. There must be a problem somewhere."

Xiang Shaolong also found this to be odd, but hasn't gotten a chance to consider it deeply so he said offhandedly, "Could it be because Guo Kai is carrying tales?"

Zhao Mu replied with disdain. "Guo Kai is a useless man, and does not possess the ability to create friction between me and the Zhao King. I suspect it to be Zhao Ya. She bears a heavy grudge because I ruined her relationship with Xiang Shaolong. I wonder what evidence does she holds against me that the Zhao King trusts her so much."

Xiang Shaolong broke out in cold sweat. Despite his careful planning, he has neglected the fact that he once mentioned to Zhao Ya the possible relationship between Zhao Mu and the Chu spy. Looking at things, it is likely that Zhao Ya has told this secret to King Xiaocheng, raising his suspicions about Zhao Mu. Therefore, King Xiaocheng must have bribed Guo Kai to his side and gave him promotions and responsibilities. This is to make him stronger in order to counter against Zhao Mu. Le Cheng would also have been bribed to turn against Zhao Mu. Otherwise, how can King Xiaocheng allow him to continue serving as Handan City's chief military commander?

A twist of events has made the simple task complicated beyond measure.

It is impossible to Zhao King to bring down an established senior official like Zhao Mu overnight. He has to work in the background, slowly removing his power, disallowing him access to state secrets, breaking up his connections with other important ministers and generals. This is to minimise any further chaos in the country. Alas, after the departure of the Wu family, this country can no longer suffer another blow.

Xiang Shaolong ponders: How would I act if I was in his shoes? The best way would be to ignore all the rules. Summon Lian Po or Li Mu (Zhao's best generals) back to Handan City to assist in bringing down Zhao Mu. This would guarantee success! With these two capable and famous generals protecting Zhao, any invaders will have to pay a price for their attack.

However, Lian Po and Li Mu are busy battling the Yan people and the northern Xiong Nu. If not, Zhao Mu would be finished by now. The day either general can return to Handan City is the best time to deal with Zhao Mu.

Realising the serious danger he is in, Xiao Shaolong recalled Guo Kai's initial warning about Zhao Mu. Zhao Mu is indeed someone you should not be on friendly terms. In case the relationship sours due to the smallest circumstances, you may even have your entire household annihilated.

Even more complicating is that Li Yuan is now the Imperial Uncle of Chu. With his huge increase in status, King Xiaocheng has to give in more to his demands. Who can tell if this muddle-headed king will even sacrifice his horse breeder (Dong Kuang, Xiang Shaolong) to please him? Thinking of this will only bring more headaches.

Zhao Mu watched Xiang Shaolong's deep thinking and his expression switching between both hope and dismay. He thought Xiang Shaolong is worrying about both of them. He spoke in a low voice: I can tell that Zhao Ya is smitten with you. Based on your intelligence and interaction with her, see if you can deduce any information about what she is holding against me. If we cannot salvage the situation, we will kill that weak King, control Handan and handle Lian Po and Li Mu after that.

Xiang Shaolong is awe-struck. Judging from the tone of this Zhao traitor, he seems to have a ready plan to overtake the Zhao King but is not anxious to be the Zhao King himself. Reflecting on this point, he could help but remind himself of Zhao Queen.

Zhao Mu is proficient in medicine/poisons and can enter the Zhao inner palace without obstacles. If he can work together with the Zhao Queen who has been tolerating her anger at the Zhao King, it would be not be too difficult to overthrow the Zhao throne.

Riding on the momentum, Xiang Shao Long asked: If such a day were to come, who will be assisting Marquis in Handan City?

Zhao Mu hesitated for a moment, said: The only trustworthy fellows are Le Cheng and a few of my warriors personally trained by me. Luckily, I have you to help me as well. In addition to my 2000 family warriors, we should be able to attack the palace easily. We will use this plan as a last resort. Before he gave me the cold shoulder, I can kill King Xiaocheng as easy as lifting my hand and no one would even know that I did it. Nowadays he keeps guarding against me so killing him would be much harder.

Continuing his excited tone: By now, you should know who is Xiang Shaolong, right?

Xiao Shaolong had a big fright, just nodded his head to express a positive answer. He wonders why Xiang Shaolong was suddenly mentioned.

Zhao Mu continued: I just got word from Qin. Xiang Shaolong is leading a force here to seek revenge. I will enter the palace and report this to King Xiaocheng later. However crafty is Xiang Shaolong, he will never expect I have a spy in Xianyang (Qin capital).

Xiang Shaolong is dying to know who is the spy but he suppressed this unwise emotion. He pretended to be surprised and quoted: What has this got to do with our rebellion?

Zhao Mu replied: There is a big connection. Long Shan (Teng Yi) and your physical body resemble that of Xiang Shaolong. We can prepare wooden swords for you and disguise as him to kill the Zhao King. After "escaping", the public opinion would put the blame on Xiang Shaolong, our scapegoat. This way, we will not bear the crime.

While thinking secretly what a close shave he had, Xiang Shaolong displayed an admiration for the flawless plan: Marquis is thorough indeed. If King Xiaocheng has any plans to leave the palace, let me know the time and place beforehand. I will do a clean job, including leaving the necessary "evidence."

Zhao Mu grew happier and said: From today onwards, we should avoid seeing each other unless absolute necessary. You have to be careful about Li Yuan. Not only has King Xiaocheng changed his treatment, even Tian Dan has distanced himself from me and build ties with him after knowing that he is now Chu's Imperial Uncle. You may not be familiar with Tian Dan. This man is much more powerful and scheming than Prince Xinling. Definitely not an easy man to handle.

Xiang Shaolong discovered that today is all problems upon problems.

During the expedition to steal the Lu Gong Manual, he identified Chu and Qi people are very secretive and scheming. Now that Li Yuan has the opportunity to be the most powerful man in Chu, Tian Dan would collaborate with him due to common interests in trying to break up the Three-States Pact. This will make his own life more perilous. If both Li Yuan and Tian Dan exert pressure on King Xiaocheng, Xiang Shaolong may be a sacrificial lamb.

What can be done to handle such a dangerous trap?

Zhao Mu keep reminding Xiang Shaolong to check what is Zhao Ya up to before releasing him.

Xiang Shaolong secretly sighed. He can no longer avoid seeing Zhao Ya. With Zhao Mu numerous Handan City spies, he will know and be suspicious of Dong Kuang (Xiang Shaolong) if he never visited Zhao Ya.

Adding another worry is whether Zhao Ya will spill the beans on what Xiang Shaolong told her about the suspicion between Zhao Mu and the Chu spy. If Zhao Mu hears of this, he will be prone suspecting the Dong Kuang is a fake. Thinking about how Guo Kai promised to bring himself to the official brothel but has yet to fulfil his word, he must have been influenced by Li Yuan. Since King Xiaocheng's attitude has changed, and Guo Kai being the apple-polisher, he will naturally stay away from Xiang Shaolong.

Suddenly, he felt that he has lost the advantage he had in Handan. He felt cornered and attacked from all four directions. He bitterly suffers his isolation.