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

"Mmm..." Zara muttered. She didn't dare lift her head. After hesitating for a moment, she softly replied, "The Xishan clan is large, although it suffered a serious defeat, there must be some people who survived. I am the last royalty of my clan, I..."

She looked up without avoiding Chen Mu's direct eye contact.

"There is no one strong in the clan. If you stay here, you will only be bullied."

Chen Mu noticed her stubbornness through her pale face; which was the result of the injuries underneath her mask. Even so, her face was full of pride and determination.

The Gift