Fang Xiang

This is both a work of science fiction and an exploration of the meaning of life, love, literature and art. Brainpower is no longer the main ingredient for being human in this far distant future world.  Spirituality, physical balance, and diligence all come together as integrity for Chen Mu, the Card Apprentice.  The cards which Chen Mu masters in his own scrappy way, distill all the powers of the cosmos –  human and nonhuman –  into something that is not a book, not technology, and neither art nor magic, but is these and more.  Learn about these strange cards, which can embody everything you might imagine for the future of technology, but also a future beyond technology which promotes the best, and sometimes the worst, from mankind’s past.

The Card Apprentice

A mask? Tan Yumin was astonished, and curiosity filled her pretty eyes. Who could still wear a mask at such an occasion?

Tai-shu Shen giggled and said in an unnatural way, "The White Commander is the new general manager of guards recruited by my third brother."

Tan Yumin's doubts didn't reduce but instead increased; why would a general manager of guards remain seated there with a mask on his face? That puzzled her. No matter how, though, she was an exquisite person. There was still a smile on her face, and she didn't lack etiquette. "Nice to meet you, White Commander!"

"You're being polite, Miss Tan," Chen Mu replied. A minute ago, he had inadvertently thought of Copper, causing him to become worried. Tan Yumin's charm seemed to be faded in his eyes. Having great insight, he stayed calm.

The Former Glory