A Step into the Past

Book 6 Chap 3 – News from afar

The following 10 days, Xiang Shaolong spent the most relaxing time ever since he arrived in this ancient era.

Together with his wives and maids, Teng Yi, Jing Jun, Wu Zhuo and the thousand family warriors who followed him from Handan, they went to the Wu family’s newly established farm at the outskirts to rest and relax.

The farm is very big and on a fast horse it takes at least 2 hours to ride from one end to the other and it has 18 simple but well equipped houses. They chose a courtyard next to a pretty valley and named it ‘Hidden Dragon Courtyard’.

Every morning when they wake up, he will ride with his wives and maids on the open plains and at the same time practice his archery. He also got the 3 highly skilled fighters Teng Yi, Wu Zhuo and Jing Jun to duel with him and practice the use of various weapons as a warm up practice for the duel with that still unknown person whom Lord Yangquan and the rest are going to choose.

The ‘Elite Soldiers’ have expanded to 300 men from the original 77 men and they practice day and night to prepare themselves so that they can be chosen to return to Handan in future to capture Zhao Mu alive.

With a real special task force warrior like Xiang Shaolong heading the unit, this batch of people improved by leaps and bounds and learnt the various spying and tactics used once they have infiltrated the enemy camp.

There are a lot of people in the Wu family and some of them are craftsmen who know how to work with metal. Following Xiang Shaolong’s instructions, Wu Zhuo set up a workshop for the blacksmiths and they made secret weapons like climbing hooks and flying needles according to his designs. 

Xiang Shaolong also did not forget to meditate according to the instructions on the scroll taken from the Mohist token. Teng Yi was very interested after he found out about this and learnt the technique from him and he practices it with greater effect than Xiang Shaolong.

Xiang Shaolong might as well just give him the scroll so that he can study the military and sword fighting techniques on the scroll on his own. Their relationship is now even closer than real brothers.

Just as they were enjoying the bliss, Tao Fang came.

Everyone gathered in the hall for a meeting.

Tao Fang exclaimed excitedly, “There’s news from Handan and it’s really exciting.” But he did not immediately continue with his story.

When everyone saw him trying to keep them in suspense, they were so anxious. The only exception was Teng Yi who remained unmoving and calm as usual.

Tao Fang said with a laugh, “Let me tell you one issue at a time! This time the person who was most affected by us is Zhao Mu. Only when the Zhaos found our secret tunnel that led to outside the city did they realize they have been tricked. Later then received news that the real Ying Zheng has reached Xianyang and King Xiaocheng was so upset he fell sick and also gave Zhao Mu a terrible scolding, refusing to see him for one whole month. Their relationship only improved a little recently but Zhao Mu’s influence is not as before. Instead that Guo Kai must have said something and managed to trick that muddle headed King Xiaocheng into trusting him.”

Xiang Shaolong can’t help but ask, “How is Zhao Ya’s situation?”

Tao Fang knows that he has not forgotten this capricious beauty and said with a sigh, “She fell very ill as well. That Qi Yu still wanted to look for her but she chased him out of her residence and many people saw that!”

Wu Zhuo asked in bewilderment, “The King of Zhao did not blame her at all?”

Tao Fang said with a sigh, “It seems that she had once tried very hard to persuade the King of Zhao not to deal with Shaolong so now the muddle headed ruler is now feeling a little regret over that and she is so seriously ill as well. It could be due to these reasons that Zhao Ya’s standing is not very much affected. Now everyone in Handan is fearful, worried that we will lead the Qin army to attack Zhao. Recently King Xiaocheng has sent envoys to the various states hoping to join forces with them to deal with the Qin’s invasion. What a joyous outcome.”

Teng Yi asked, “What’s the fate of the fake Ying Zheng?”

Tao Fang shook his head and sighed, “Executed by Zhao Mu. He was so furious and he can only take it out on this innocent and pitiful person.”

Although Xiang Shaolong felt a little sad about this, but it’s something that cannot be helped.

Tao Fang suddenly reached out and put his hand on Xiang Shaolong’s shoulder and said quietly, “Let me tell you something but you must not get angry.”

Xiang Shaolong was stunned and asked, “What’s the matter?”

A strange look passed over Tao Fang’s eyes as he said solemnly, “There’s news of Mei Canniang.”

Xiang Shaolong’s expression changed as he asked, “She’s dead?”

Tao Fang shook his head, “No! She married to another village nearby and even has a son now. Her husband is quite a famous hunter and it seems that he’s quite in love with her.”

Xiang Shaolong was stunned for a moment, and felt more relaxed instead. He thought of their parting and maybe at that time Mei Canniang has already made up her mind not to leave that peaceful place. That’s good too! Most importantly she has found someone good.

Jing Jun went to stand next to Tao Fang and whispered, “Did you send my letter to Zhao Zhi?”

Teng Yi was shocked and exclaimed, “Did you reveal in your letter that we will be returning to Handan?”

Teng Yi was startled and replied, “Of course not, how can I not know the severity of this matter.”

Tao Fang took out a letter and pressed it into Jing Jun’s hands and said with a laugh, “It seems that Zhao Zhi is a little interested in you!”

Jing Jun exclaimed with joy, turned 3 somersaults and dashed off in a rush, causing everyone else to laugh at him.

Tao Fang saw that even after hearing the news about Mei Canniang, Xiang Shaolong still remained calm so he was assured and continued, “The man we sent to Daliang has returned with news, it seems that Learned Lady Ji has gone to the state of Chu.”

Xiang Shaolong was stunned, “Oh no! She must be going to Handan to look for me.”

At the same time everyone understood his meaning. Naturally Learned Lady Ji cannot go directly to Zhao to look for him so she can only go to Chu first and then travel to Handan via Qi.

In ancient times communications is not very convenient and most likely Ji Yanran is still unaware of what has happened in Handan.

However Xiang Shaolong could not think straight due to his concern and said with determination, “We’ll go to Handan immediately!”

Tao Fang replied, “We have to at least wait until the day after. The Qins have already selected a person to fight with you for the position of the Crown Prince’s Grand Tutor and the duel is set for the day after in front of his Majesty. Anyone who has some status will be there to watch the duel.”

Wu Zhuo asked, “Who is that person?”

Tao Fang replied, “I think he’s called Wang Jian!”

Xiang Shaolong was greatly stunned and thought how can there be such a coincidence.

Xiang Shaolong sat alone to think next to a tiny waterfall near the farm.

In this Warring States era, there is indeed paradise everywhere, just like the rare scenery right before his eyes. The mountain peaks standing in line, strange and unique rocks, clear water flowing in between, waterfalls and ponds and the moving water reflecting the rays of the sun. One can never grow tired of seeing this scenery. 

He sat next to a pond, listening to the musical sounds of the waterfall falling into the clear pond, looking at the lush green bamboo trees next to the bank waving in the wind. The scene is filled with the sense of spring, life and growth and he can’t help but feel energized.

But once his attention turned to the duel the day after, he’s filled with gloom again.

No matter which one of them wins, he’s afraid there’ll be a problem. 

The problem is whether he can change history.

If the answer is no, he can then not bother himself with anything and retire to the woods happily, enjoying life with his wives and maids everyday and Xiao Pan will naturally become the first Emperor of China.

The frustration is that he cannot be sure.

If he wins Wang Jian, will the other party still become a key official in unifying the 6 states in future?

This is really a test to his brains.

But he cannot lose as well, otherwise the Wu family warriors will be badly affected and it’ll also be a great blow to Xiao Pan and even his trip to Handan may be affected as well.

Just as he was feeling troubled, the sweet laughter of young girls can be heard.

Hidden amongst the trees, the 2 pretty maids Cuitong and Cuilu, each carrying 2 small wooden pails, came to fetch water. They were talking and laughing softly and did not notice the presence of Xiang Shaolong.

The 2 girls came to the side of the pond and put down their small pails.

Cuitong sat down on a rock while Cuilu took off her shoes, revealing her pretty naked feet and stepped into the water. She was relaxed and occasionally let out a tinkling laugh.

Xiang Shaolong remembered how he flirted and had fun with Mei Canniang at the lake in the valley and a wave of emotions came over him.

Cuitong suddenly asked, “Has Young Master hugged you before?”

Cuilu giggled and asked her back, “What about you?”

Cuitong blushed and nodded her head. She looked bothered as she said, “Hai! He just lightly put his hand around my waist and kissed my face, that’s all.”

Cuilu laughed, “Our little lass is in love.”

Cuitong said angrily, “You’re not much better than me, you were calling out for Young Master last night in your dreams.”

Cuilu cried out with embarrassment, “Don’t say anymore!”

Looking at the 2 girls, the troubled Xiang Shaolong can’t help but feel his heart lurch and stood up from where he was hidden.

The 2 girls suddenly saw that there’s a person and turned their heads around. When they saw it was Xiang Shaolong, they were initially shocked, which quickly turned to embarrassment as they blushed, not knowing where to hide themselves.

Xiang Shaolong was afraid they’ll run away out of embarrassment and quickly moved to their sides and grabbed their soft hands.

The 2 girls’ bodies went soft immediately as they collapsed onto the ground next to the pond and refused to get up, their heads bowed so low that it seems they’re trying to hide them in their bosoms.

Xiang Shaolong’s lust was ignited on seeing this and asked with a laugh, “You refuse to move? Then we can just have fun here in this pond.”

The 2 girls were greatly shocked and cried out in unison, “No! We’ll be seen.”

Xiang Shaolong threatened them, “You don’t want to be seen? Then come with me obediently!”

The 2 girls stood up helplessly, filled with embarrassment and joy. 

Xiang Shaolong pulled the 2 girls along, stepping on the uneven rocks as they walked along the river upstream and after a short wile came to a small pond at the highest level. It offered them a bird’s eye view of the pretty scenery down the valley.

He told the 2 girls to sit down next to him and with his arms around their shoulders, they admired this fairy-tale like scenery.

The 2 girls can’t help but lean towards his embrace, their fragrance intoxicating him.

Is civilization a good thing or a bad thing?

Man is caught in his own trap by the technology 2000 years later by constantly spoiling this beautiful nature. If anyone could have come to his era like he has, they will certainly be filled with regret that nature has changed so much.

Cuitong asked quietly, “Has Young Master been sitting there all this while earlier?”

Xiang Shaolong replied mischievously, “I was sleeping and didn’t hear anything about a light hug, kissing faces or someone talking in their dreams last night.”

The 2 girls were immediately shamefaced and groaned as they buried their pretty faces in his arms.

Xiang Shaolong was secretly commending that men in this era is really fortunate as his hands caressed their soft cheeks, massaging them gently.

The 2 girls were trembling under his touch as their breathing quickened.

At this point in time, there is no need for words.

Xiang Shaolong lowered his head and as if looking for a treasure, searched for Cuitong’s fragrant lips and he kissed her hard.

Whereas his other hand started his invasion towards Cuilu.

Cuilu has no defense against his expert caresses and teasing so she moaned in protest, “Young Master!”

By now the sun is slowly setting and a white cloud happened to float across and became a bright red fireball hanging in the sky under the reflection of the setting bright sun.

Xiang Shaolong left Cuitong’s fragrant lips and this pretty young girl who was aroused gave a soft moan and turned around to hug his strong waist.

He lowered his head towards the blushing Cuilu whom he was caressing. This pretty girl was sneaking peeks at him and on seeing his direct gaze she became totally embarrassed. That captivating look made Xiang Shaolong unable to control himself and he asked with a laugh, “With the grass as our bed and the sky as our blanket, will the 2 elder sisters object?”

The 2 girls were moaning so much that they couldn’t speak.

That night Xiang Shaolong thoroughly enjoyed himself but even when he was being captivated, images of Ji Yanran, Mei Canniang and even Zhao Ya flashed through his mind.

The women all knew that he will soon be leaving for Zhao and in their sadness, they tried even harder to make him happy, unable to bear the parting with him.

Time seems to past especially fast under such situations and they left this pretty little valley 2 days later to return to Xianyang City. With the exception of Jing Jun, Teng Yi and Wu Zhuo both stayed behind to continue the training of the elite troops.

They have just reached the Wu residence and Wu Yingyuan has already dragged him aside, saying seriously, “Tu Xian has done a check on that Wang Jian. It seems that not only is this person’s swordsmanship is the best in Qin, he is most formidable in horse riding and archery. He can fire 3 arrows consecutively and he uses an iron bow with copper string. No man or beast within 500 steps can escape.”

He thought of that irritating Lian Jin, whose archery skills may not even be better than this person’s, Xiang Shaolong can’t help but feel his head grow numb as he asked, “How old is this person?”

Obviously Wu Yingyuan is worried for him and said with a sigh, “He should be around 20 this year and it seems that he has quite gentle and scholarly features. No one would be able to guess from his looks that he is so formidable.”

He continued somberly, “Tu Xian found out that Lord Yangquan and Wang He have already decided long ago that he will duel with you but they dragged it for so many days so that he can make use of this time to practice harder. These people are up to no good and knows that you have been separated from your wives for so long, you’ll certainly expand a lot of energy between the sheets. To think that they can even think of that. Even Premier Lu is very worried now!”

Xiang Shaolong remembered his amorous night and felt guilty and at the same time thought that he is indeed belittling his enemy.

Wu Yingyuan tapped his shoulder and said, “Try to conserve your energy as much as possible. I will explain to Fang’er.”

Xiang Shaolong returned to Hidden Dragon Abode and hid himself in the Solitude Room to meditate according to the Mohist instructions and in no time he was deep in meditation, forgetting about everything else.

“Kok! Kok!”

The sound of the door being knocked woke Xiang Shaolong up abruptly.

Xiang Shaolong hurriedly opened the door only to see Wu Tingfang’s looking distressed and stammering, “Xiao Jun has been beaten up and he’s quite seriously injured!”

Xiang Shaolong was shocked and hurriedly made his way to the main building. Wu Yingyuan and Tao Fang were all there as well as the 2 Wu family’s resident physicians who were helping to stop the bleeding and bandaging Jing Jun.

Xiang Shaolong squeezed his way to Jing Jun and after instructing everyone else to stand back, he began to inspect his injury.

He has at least 7 to 8 stab wounds and the most serious was the one on his left chest, which almost pierced his heart. The other injuries may look scary but they’re all superficial woulds. However, 2 of the stab wounds were so deep that his bones can be seen and his flesh and skin is opened wide, looking extremely frightening.

Jing Jun lost too much blood and is now in a semi-conscious state, his face contorting in severe pain occasionally.

Although Xiang Shaolong was upset, he knows that he should be able to survive this. He retreated to stand between Wu Yingyuan and Tao Fang and asked, “Who did this!”

Wu Yingyuan replied, “We’ve already informed Tu Xian, they will send someone to investigate. Luckily this lad has a strong constitution. He’s so seriously injured yet he only collapsed after he dragged himself back. He’s really formidable.”

Tao Fang said, “These people are obviously after his life.”

The guard was heard calling out, “Premier Lu arrives!”

Everyone did not expect Lu Buwei to visit personally and they turned around in surprise to welcome him.

Lu Buwei walked in under the escort of a dozen odd bodyguards and after taking a close look at Jing Jun’s injuries, he walked to one corner to speak with the 3 of them. He said seriously, “This must be the ploy of Lord Yangquan and his men. They want to kill Xiao Jun so as to affect Shaolong’s mind. Shaolong you must not be tricked.”

Xiang Shaolong said calmly, “Obviously they’ve underestimated Xiao Jun’s ability to escape. As soon as Xiao Jun wakes up, we will know who did this.”

Lu Buwei replied, “No matter who did this, we will settle everything with our enemy after the duel with Wang Jian tomorrow. As long as Shaolong gets the title of Grand Tutor, I will give Shaolong all my support to help Xiao Jun claim this blood debt and let everyone know that Lu Buwei is not someone to be bullied.”

Xiang Shaolong is in a dilemma. He does not want to be on such close terms with Lu Buwei but it seems that if the situation were to continue developing like this, he will become Lu Buwei’s party sooner or later.

This is not the problem. He’s most afraid that once everyone develop feelings for one another, it’ll be a headache in future.

Jing Jun groaned and regained consciousness.

Everyone rushed forward.

Jing Jun only saw Xiang Shaolong and he exclaimed angrily, “Big Brother! They were so vicious!”

Xiang Shaolong reached out to press his shoulder down, “Don’t move!”

Lu Buwei asked quietly, “Who did this!”

Jing Jun calmed down a little and gritted his teeth in pain, saying, “There were 20 odd people, I only recognize one of them as ‘Scarface’ Guoxing.”

After Lu Buwei gave instructions for him to be carried to the room to tend to his injuries, his eyes gleamed murderously as he said, “This Guoxing is quite famous in Xianyang and is one of the 3 main tutors in Weinan Martial Arts School. The principal Qiu Risheng is quite close with the military and has never given any respect to my men. Shaolong, help me kick that school down at a later date. I want the Qins to know that they won’t have a good life if they offend me. How many people will you need? Just say it out.”

Xiang Shaolong secretly sighed and thought that he wants them to be his fighter and replied, “This is just a small matter, we have enough resources to deal with this.”

Lu Buwei exclaimed happily, “With Shaolong around, our entire situation is changed. If Lord Yangquan and his men were not afraid of Shaolong, they would not have resorted to such tricks.”

He paused and continued, “I will come and meet up with you first tomorrow before we enter the Palace together. I am confident that Shaolong will not disappoint.”

Xiang Shaolong had a thought and he made some eye signals with Wu Yingyuan and Tao Fang first before saying, “Let Shaolong send Premier Lu out!”

Wu and Tao understood his meaning and let him send Lu Buwei to his waiting carriage outside alone.

Lu Buwei is an extremely astute man and he asked quietly, “Is there something Shaolong wants to say?”

Xiang Shaolong just smiled without talking, until they came to the carriage before he said, “Not a moment during the last 10 days have Shaolong not been thinking hard for Premier Lu and I think that it’s not a very good idea to continuously oppose the local Qin power. Maybe in the end both sides will be seriously wounded.”

Lu Buwei sighed, “Congeniality should be the key to everything. I’ve thought of this as well but the Qins have always been suspicious of outsiders and no one will believe that I’m sincerely giving my best for the state of Qin.”

Xiang Shaolong said calmly, “Since they joined forces because of mutual benefits, then we will split them up by luring them. For the hardcore people like Lord Yangquan or Weinan Martial Arts School, we will destroy them heartlessly and make use of the opportunity to stand our ground. But for people like Wang He who are not doing this for personal gains entirely, we can try to bribe him into joining our side.” 

A strange light came over Lu Buwei’s eyes and after eyeing Xiang Shaolong intently, he nodded his head and said, “Shaolong seems to have a plan, say it out quickly!”

Xiang Shaolong gave a short summary of his plan.

After hearing it, Lu Buwei said, “Naturally it’ll be good if this can be done but I’m just afraid that if we’re not careful, things can become worse and lives will be sacrificed in vain.”

Xiang Shaolong said calmly, “The Wu family is hugely indebted to Premier Lu, so what’s the big deal even if I have to take some risk?”

Lu Buwei chortled and grasped Xiang Shaolong’s shoulders tightly before leaving.

Xiang Shaolong knows that he has gained Lu Buwei’s trust and he turned back to look for Jing Jun.