Book 7 Chap 9 – Despicable Fiend
Xiang Shaolong arrived at Zhao Ya's main hall, which he first came when newly arrived. Those decorations and trinkets were still placed on the shelves like before, but his state of mind has changed totally.
Why didn't she invite him to that quiet and elegant little building at the garden, allowing Li Yuan that favor but treating him so shabbily. If that's the case she might as well not ask him to come so early.
Character aside, Li Yuan is indeed the dream man in a woman's bedchamber and even Ji Yanran was once impressed by his poetic skills. A pity he is of such character.
Just as he was deep in thought, Lady Ya arrived. Her ladies-in-waiting took their leave after paying their respects.
Xiang Shaolong was secretly wondering why Xiaozhao and the rest of the maids were missing. Lady Ya came to sit down next to him and said, "Mister Dong is so nice to agree to come earlier, your presence brings glamour to my humble abode."
Xiang Shaolong looked towards her. This mature beauty is glowing, a look of flirtatiousness between her eyes, her body soft and dainty and extremely alluring.
The more beautiful and enchanting she is, the angrier he felt, guessing that she must have enjoyed Li Yuan's care, that's why she has returned to her flirtatious behavior.
He said roughly, "Lady's residence is even better than the residences of those Princes and Marquis, so how can I bring more glamour."
Zhao Ya's dainty brows frowned on hearing this. How can there be anyone who takes such polite talk to be the truth and although she felt a little displeased she did not flare up so easily like she did in the past. Of course this is because right now her heart is still filled with Li Yuan's loving so she did not take it to heart as she replied, "How is the progress of your farm at the Hidden Army Valley?"
Xiang Shaolong was taken aback. An astute person like him, on seeing Zhao ya's mannerisms, already knows that Li Yuan has successfully obtained her heart, to the point that she has temporarily forgotten about 'Xiang Shaolong'. That's why she has regained her lost sophistication.
This should be something worth being happy about, at least Zhao Ya won't be harassing him now that her heart is with someone else. However, he still feels very unpleasant, and wants to hurt her and see her upset.
He suppressed this urge and asked with a smile, "Let's not talk about business today. Why does Lady want me to come earlier?" This time it was Zhao Ya's turn to become speechless.
Of course she's doing this because she has a slight interest in this horse fanatic, but right now Li Yuan has suddenly barged into the picture and taken her heart, at least for now, so she no longer has the earlier feelings of lust.
She sent someone to pick up Xiang Shaolong earlier because deep in her heart she thirsts to be with him. This Dong Kuang has an unusual aura of being rough and at the same time filled with philosophical thoughts, overbearing yet gentle and when combined, gave her a refreshing yet exciting feel. When with him, she never knows what he will say next or if he will do anything surprising. And his attitude towards her blows hot and cold, as if he doesn't care about her but yet as if he is very interested in her. In short, with him around, she has no time to think of anything else.
This is a feeling that Li Yuan is unable to give her.
While she was enjoying herself with Li Yuan, she can't help but pretend that he is Xiang Shaolong but with this unrefined man who bears a little resemblance to Xiang Shaolong, can make her forget everything instead.
What would it be like to be intimate with him?
Once she thought of this, she shocked even herself and secretly reprimanded herself. Why is it that after seeing him, her original strong memory of Li Yuan immediately faded?
Xiang Shaolong saw her hesitant look and his fury soared and he stood up immediately. Zhao Ya was startled and lifted her head to look at him quizzically.
Xiang Shaolong said in a serious tone, "Has Lady fallen for that fellow Li Yuan, that's why you've become so cold towards me?"
Zhao ya's delicate body trembled as she exclaimed, "Ah! No!" By now she cannot guess at all how the other person managed to say out what is in her heart so accurately.
Xiang Shaolong smiled, "That's all right, but if what Li Yuan stole was my precious horse, then I will never let him off." He stretched lazily and with a laugh, said, "I better take a walk around the streets, I'll come back later to join in the feast so that we need not sit in awkward silence wondering what we should talk about."
Zhao Ya was totally lost as she stood up and pouted, "Mister Dong! Can't you show me some consideration? Am I incomparable to a horse in your mind?" Once she said that, she knows she has made a freudian slip because won't that mean that she is regarding herself as his horse? Xiang Shaolong looked at her nonchalantly but was secretly gloating. He turned around and started walking towards the door and said offhandedly, "That fellow kept pitting himself against me. Fine! Then let me do something and snatch Ji Yanran over, that will give him a taste of having his beloved taken by others."
Zhao Ya wanted to run after him but stopped when she heard the 3 words Ji Yanran.
But she dare not laugh at him, because his words revealed a great confidence, making one feel that once he says something, he'll definitely accomplish it.
By the time Xiang Shaolong disappeared outside the door, she was still thinking about the 4 words 'beloved taken by others.
Hai! The fresh and interesting terms he used can be comparable to Xiang Shaolong. Suddenly, she knows why Li Yuan still cannot totally replace Xiang Shaolong.
Once she thought of this, her mood dimmed and she refuses to think further.
Walking alone at the streets of Handan, Xiang Shaolong thought of the wars that will occur after Xiaopan ascend the throne and can't help but feel melancholy.
This vast land, after hundreds of years of war has finally come to a point in history that they must rejoin after being separated for so long and him as an 'outsider' had a hand in this change. If he did not come here, does it mean all these would not have happened? No matter how intelligent he is compared to others, this is one question that can give him a headache just thinking about it.
"Brother Dong!" He heard the call and was first at a loss for he momentarily forgot that he is supposed to be Dong Kuang. He turned around after recollecting his thoughts.
It turned out to be the Marquis of Pingshan, Han Chuang with 7 to 8 personal guards whom one can tell at a glance that they are highly skilled. All of them looked energetic and were stoutly built. Although they were not as tall as Xiang Shaolong, they still looked imposing.
Xiang Shaolong exclaimed in surprise, "I thought I was the only one who loves a stroll, I did not expect Marquis of Pingshan to enjoy this too."
Han Chuang's expression was serious and he did not reply immediately. Only when he came up next to him did he grab his arm warmly and said as they walked along, "Come! My guesthouse is just around the corner, we'll speak at my place."
Xiang Shaolong was surprised by the sudden warmth for he did not expect his attitude to suddenly turn 180 degrees from his original frosty behavior.
He can't help but follow him back to the guesthouse and even after he sat down in the hall, the 10 over swordsmen still stood around them and did not leave, making the atmosphere extremely serious. It seems like secret society bosses out for negotiation.
Han Chuang dispensed with the usual polite talk or serving drinks and said solemnly, "D.amn that Li Yuan, not giving both of us any face at all. He publicly shaved off my eyebrow, how extremely hateful."
Xiang Shaolong suddenly understood. So he has been sending people to keep an eye on Zhao Ya and saw that Li Yuan has gone to look for her and stayed for a length of time which is sufficient for them to do a lot of things before leaving. He was therefore livid and is now regarding him, the other love rival, to be on his side as well. However, it can be said that Han Chuang felt that regardless of looks, status or power, he surpasses Xiang Shaolong so he does not regard him as a strong foe but as for Li Yuan, it's another matter.
From this he can see that Han Chuang is serious about Zhao Ya, to the extent that he'll like to bring her back to Han so that he can enjoy her freely at home but his dream is not shattered by Li Yuan.
He could not find anything to say in response in such short notice. Han Chuang's eyes gleamed fiercely as he said, "Why is it that Brother Dong slipped out so quickly?"
Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that he must be on his way to look for Zhao Ya to ask for an explanation when he saw him walking out, therefore he changed his mind and went after him to drag him home.
He gave a cold snort and said, "What I cannot stand the most is being treated coldly and rudely. If I don't leave, what else can I do there, da.mn his grandmother!"
Han Chuang shared the same thoughts and snorted, "I, the Marquis of Pingshan, has seen many people in my life, bit I've never seen such a conceited fellow. Who does he think he is? It's all because of his sister's connection. I really don't understand why Lord Chunshen thinks so highly of him. If Li Yanyan can't give birth to a son, let's see how smug he can be."
Until now Xiang Shaolong has no idea why he was pulled here. A person like him with such a high status, there's really no need for him to find someone like him just to pour out his complaints.
Han Chuang's expression looks clouded as he said angrily, "In order not to offend the Chus and affect the grand plan for cooperation, I am already controlling myself not to fight with him over Learned Lady Ji, but he won't even let off Zhao Ya. No wonder ever since he came, that s.lut Zhao Ya started ignoring me."
Only now did Xiang Shaolong understand how deeply Han Chuang is mesmerized by Zhao Ya so he sighed, "There are many beauties in the world, why don't Marquis just ignore her. That's why I prefer rearing horses. If you treat a horse well, they will treat you well without any other thoughts, unlike women and conniving people who are hard to keep."
Han Chuang was silent for a moment before he actually laughed and slapped his shoulder, saying, "It's really interested talking to you, but I must get back at him. Li Yuan was such a brag, I'd like to see how formidable his sword skills are."
Xiang Shaolong was startled and exclaimed, "Marquis, you're not thinking of personally dueling tomorrow?"
The corners of Han Chuang's lips curved up into a sinister smile, his eyes turning icy as he lowered his voice and said, "Why would I do such a silly thing. I've already made preparations, even if Li Yuan is taught a lesson, he won't be able to know that I was behind it."
Xiang Shaolong knows that people like him who use underhand methods will never reveal all the details, and seeing that he is willing to tell what his plans are, it's obvious that he's already regarding him as one of them. He pretended to pander to him and said, "People who offend you are really fools."
Han Chuang suddenly leaned back against the chair and said feebly, "We have long given up on the Chus. All along, the three of us have been fighting hard against Qin and they are always tripping us up from the back. Who can guarantee that Li Yuan won't inform the Qins of our intention to cooperate and by that time if the Qins decide to strike first, the first to be attacked will be my country. Hai! I really do not understand why the King of Zhao would pander to him so much?"
He looked at him and asked, "Does Brother Dong know why King Xiaocheng has suddenly become so cold towards you and did not even invite you to the feast last night?"
Xiang Shaolong pretended to look angry and nodded his head, "Isn't it all because of that fellow Li Yuan!"
Han Chuang actually slapped his back like they're old friends and said, "If this place is not for you, there will always be other places who will welcome you. Our doors will always be opened to welcome Mister Dong. If you want to deal with Li Yuan, I can be your back-up."
Xiang Shaolong was secretly laughing, for this is his aim in trying to pull him to his side, which is to make use of him to deal with Li Yuan. He pretended to be grateful and said, "I will remember Marquis's words."
Han Chuang sulked, "I think Yanran will ultimately fall into his hands. If we can snatch this beauty from his hands, it will make him feel even worse than killing him."
Xiang Shaolong sighed, "Learned Lady Ji is not that easy to win, I don't think that Li Yuan will succeed."
Han Chuang smiled sinisterly, "If you want to make a woman yield, there are a lot of ways. For example letting her try a little aphrodisiac, that will make sure she throws herself at you. It's definitely not easy to find a chance to be along with Ji Yanran but she seems to be impressed with Brother Dong's skills with rearing horses, so maybe… heh! Do you understand my meaning!"
Xiang Shaologn was secretly livid, thinking that he is really despicable for this would not only harm Ji Yanran but also himself. Of course! That is only if he is the real Dong Kuang.
A learned lady like Ji Yanran who has the respect and admiration of everyone in the world, if anyone were to do such a beastly thing to her, then won't he end up being the enemy of everyone? It'll be a surprise if Han Chuang is willing to take him in at that time.
Just looking at the plan of making use of him to kill others, he can see how evil hearted this Han Chuang is.
Now he's beginning to understand why the 6 states will ultimately be destroyed by Qin. With a person like Han Chuang in an important official position, representing his country to come to Handan to have the secret discussion to deal with Qin, instead of tending to business, he is spending his efforts on his jealousy.
For now he has seen that the 4 states Han, Wei, Zhao and Chu are all filled with manipulative people and cannot be used by great men like Li Mu, Lian Po and Lord Xinling. He wonders how the situation is like in Yan and Qi.
Han Chuang gave a hand signal and someone immediately sent in a small bottle. Han Chuang stuffed it into Xiang Shaolong's hands and said with the most sincere expression, "I am counting on Mister to help me get my back at him. Women are very strange, no matter how fiercely they protect their chastity, but once you get her body, most will become very meek towards you. Ji Yanran is a woman so she is no exception either! Heh! I'm really envious of Brother Dong!"
Xiang Shaolong was secretly cursing but he asked about the instructions to use the thing and stuffed the small bottle into his clothes and said, "I still have to see what the situation is like. Hai! I'm really not that interested in women. How can women be compared to horses?"
Han Chuang persuaded him again and after saying a lot of good words, went with him to Lady Ya's residence for the feast.
Xiang Shaolong waited for Han Chuang to enter the residence first. He strolled outside for a while and strutted into the residence slightly later.
The square outside the main building was filled with carriages. After Zhao Da brought him into the residence, he said quietly, "After you left just now, Lady sat there looking very miserable for a long time. She even refused to see Guo Kai when he came. Master Dong is indeed good."
Xiang Shaolong knows that he still has not given up hope that he will reconcile with Zhao Ya but how can spilt milk be recollected.
The feast is being held at an elegant looking square room in the side of the main building. The layout is the same as what the Guo family used the other night, a huge round table placed at the center of the hall with more than 10 seats around it.
All those who attended the feast at the Guo family were here, including that pretty Miss Guo.
Xiang Shaolong thought that after that night, Guo Xiu'er would refuse to see Li Yuan but now it seems that she's behaving as if nothing is wrong.
Besides these people, there are 4 more persons.
The first is of course Ji Yanran, as well as Zhao Zhi and Guo Kai and a 40 odd year old man who was dressed splendidly with an imposing aura. However his eyes kept flitting around, giving one the feeling that he is someone who likes to plot.
It was not yet time to start the feast so the 8 folding doors at the side of the hall were all opened and they could all see the huge garden outside filled with flowers and trees, with a dozen odd lanterns hanging from the branches, illuminating the whole garden into a colorful array, giving it a dreamy feel.
Xiang Shaolong was the last guest to arrive and most of the people are already in the garden admiring the lanterns leaving only Zhao Mu, Guo Zhong, Le Cheng, Zhao Ba and that anonymous man talking in the hall.
Zhao Mu saw Xiang Shaolong and chortled, "Why is Mister Dong late, I must punish you later and make you drink up 3 cups of wine. Come! Meet Mister Ji Zhong."
Xiang Shaolong was secretly startled, so this is the special envoy representing Lord Dongzhou to unify the 6 states to deal with Qin, and he hurriedly rushed over.
Ji Zhong places a lot of importance on protocol so Xiang Shaolong had to pay his respects according to court customs and after some polite words, Ji Zhong may seem courteous and respectful but it was obvious that he pays no heed at all to someone who rears horses. He turned back to the topic they were discussing earlier, talking about how useless King Zhuangxiang of Qin is to place such importance on Lu Buwei, and about how Qin will definitely suffer from internal strife.
Xiang Shaolong is not in the mood to listen to him at all and after excusing himself, he walked towards the garden. He had just stepped into the garden when 3 pairs of pretty eyes flitted towards him.
Ji Yanran's pretty eyes can't help but light up on seeing him; Zhao Ya turned her head away after staring at him angrily, obviously still upset; Zhao Zhi has been waiting for his appearance all along and her pretty face beamed as she said happily, "Mister Dong come quickly, we were just discussing a very interesting question!"
Xiang Shaolong looked over and saw that everyone was gathered around the stone bridge at the center of the garden, a clear stream flowing windingly below it and towards a lotus pond a slight distance away where a strange rock was placed right in the middle and the whole layout looked extremely interesting. From this one can see that besides being a s.lut, Zhao Ya is also a woman that has aspirations.
Ji Yanran was leaning over the bridge in a relaxed manner while Li Yuan who was next to her was pointing at the various fishes swimming beneath, trying to get into her good books.
Guo Xiu'er and Zhao Zhi were the most familiar, sitting together on a large, smooth rock a short distance away and they looked like they were admiring this pretty garden filled with lanterns. The former is eyeing him right now.
Han Chuang and Guo Kai were accompanying Zhao Ya and standing on the middle of the bridge, behind Ji Yanran and Li Yuan.
Xiang Shaolong walked towards the stone bridge and first greeted Guo xiu'er and Zhao Zhi. Zhao Zhi forced herself to return the greeting while Guo Xiu'er gave him an additional sweet smile.
Although Xiang Shaolong's heart was stirred, he knows that he must never touch this girl for after all the Wu family and the Guo family are arch enemies.
When he stepped up to the stone bridge, Ji Yanran ignored Li Yuan and turned around, saying with a smile, "Mister Dong! We were just discussing about the meaning of life and death, I wonder what your thoughts on this are?"
Xiang Shaolong knows that this pretty lady loves a discussion, from ruling a country to things like this, whether life has any meaning. And this is an era where everyone is fighting for a chance to speak and where ideologies are expanding like an explosion.
The mood for such idle discussions are mostly found in the noble and scholarly circles, just like Confucius and his peers not too long ago who loved to talk about life and philosophy all day long. A pity that he's not too knowledgeable in this area so although he knows that Ji Yanran is giving him a chance to show off so that he can smoothly start his pursuit of her, there is nothing he could do. He replied with a wry smile, "I'm just an unrefined man, how would I understand such profound ideologies?"
Ji Yanran thought that he was pretending to be modest before expounding his ideas but before she had a chance to reply, Li Yuan interrupted, "A pity that Mister Zou is not here, otherwise he will certainly give a very remarkable view. Heh! Why don't we seek Mister Dong's advice on rearing horses!"
Anyone with a brain would know that he was putting Xiang Shaolong down, implying that besides horses, he knows nothing else. And in this era, rearing horses is considered a lowly occupation so he was deliberately jabbing at Xiang Shaolong's status.
Xiang Shaolong was secretly furious but he was even more worried that he'll press on to ask questions about horses. Although he had crammed some knowledge in this area, his expertise is still very limited. He pretended to be nonchalant and said, "I'm sure you've come out with a conclusion after discussing for so long, why not enlighten me on this."
Guo Kai, the conniving Confucian scholar said, "I still believe in Confucius's words 'if you cannot serve men, how can you serve spirits', so I might as well not think about anything beyond life and death."
Zhao Ya was apparently in high spirits as she laughed, "Scholar Guo is really wily, only knowing how to avoid and refusing to face this most important lesson in life."
Li Yuan said proudly, "Whatever we do, there must be a goal so why do we only choose to ignore the question of our existence. Since heaven has given us precious life, we should burn brightly and warmly just like the colorful lanterns hanging high on the trees, only then will our lives not be lived in vain."
Xiang Shaolong has to admit that there is some truth and imagination behind this person's words. He looked at the ladies around, Zhao Ya's eyes revealed a look of intoxication, Ji Yanran was concentrating very hard on his words too while Zhao Zhi and Guo Xiu'er paused in their private talk to listen intently.
Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that this doesn't look well so after searching through his mind, he said, "What Brother Li said is just an attitude towards life, but it's not a conclusion about the meaning of life and death." Guo Kai and Han Chuang both revealed a look of surprise for they did not expect this unrefined man's mind and observation skills would be so intricate.
Li Yuan chortled and said, "Well said Mister Dong, but just like what Zhuang Zi said, 'when man take what is small and try to fill up what is great, they will end up confused and will not achieve their end'. As long as we're being restricted within life and death, we can never find the answer about life and death, just like the snake in summer will not know what is the snow and ice of winter. So the only thing we can do is to have an attitude to achieve something so that we will not waste our short lives.' He spoke flowingly, melodiously and with such feelings that he really has the charisma of a debater that will stun others into admiration. No wonder even Ji Yanran is looking at him differently. For the moment Xiang Shaolong was speechless.
Li Yuan saw his expression and was secretly laughing. There's no way he will let him off so he pretended to be humble and sought his opinion, "And what is Mister Dong's attitude towards life?"
Of course Xiang Shaolong can randomly find some words to say but if he wants make it sound even more impressively than this person, there's no way he could even if he wanted to.
Han Chuang is now on the same side as him so he helped ease the situation by saying, "Tonight's discussion is really unique and interesting, why don't we pause for now and continue during the feast!" Zhao Ya said unhappily, "It was such an exciting discussion yet you're in such a hurry to start the feast. Zhao Ya still wants to hear more of Mister Li's excellent theories!"
Ji Yanran said gently, "We haven't given Mister Dong the chance to speak?"
Looking at Ji Yanran's expectant eyes, he remembered his mission to pursue her publicly so how can he make himself look so useless? Just as he was lamenting, he suddenly had an idea and remembered that he once heard of a story in his era, and maybe he can use it to reflect the situation now. He walked to the bridge and came next to Ji Yanran. He first looked deeply into her eyes before revealing his white and perfect teeth to Zhao Ya in a slight smile before he turned around and placed both his hands on the side of the bridge, lifting his head to look at the night sky. The moon up in the sky was pure and bright, round and so far away.
Everyone knows that he has something to say but they have no idea what kind of insight he could give that can be better than Li Yuan's so they all breathed steadily and quietly, getting ready to concentrate on his words.
The corners of Li Yuan's mouth curved up into a slight sniggering smile.
Ji Yanran closed her beautiful eyes, she is confident that Xiang Shaolong will certainly say something philosophical that will make one contemplate over. To her, nothing is more interesting than contemplating over life's questions and this is also the reason why she became good friends with Zou Yan. She fell in love with Xiang Shaolong because his words are refreshing and exceptional, different from the others.
Xiang Shaolong's hoarse voice said slowly, "A tourist was walking in the desert, when suddenly a pack of hungry wolves appeared behind him, running after him so that they could feast on him."
Everyone was alarmed but at the same time they felt a great interest for they did not expect him to suddenly tell a story. Just like how Zhuang Zi likes to use fables to portray his thoughts.
Xiang Shaolong's voice reverberated through the quiet night, giving it an inexplicable feeling of mystery and power, especially when the topic is about the unfathomable question of life and death.
He continued in a very slow tempo, "He was startled and started running madly, fighting on for his life."
Guo Xiu'er exclaimed 'Ah' and said, "How can he run faster than hungry wolves in the desert, he will certainly die!"
The rest of them smiled on hearing that but did not say anything because they all want to continue listening, even Li Yuan was no exception. But when he saw how pretty Ji Yanran looked with her eyes closed, looking so obedient and concentrated, he can't help but feel jealousy burn in him.
Xiang Shaolong smiled and said, "No need to panic! Just as the hungry wolves were about to catch up with him, he saw a well in front which he has no idea how deep it could be and jumped in without a thought."
Zhao Ya heaved a sigh of relief and asked, "The well is certainly filled with water, right?"
Xiang Shaolong looked at the little stream below him and shook his head, "Not only is it dry, there's also a lot of poisonous snakes and on seeing that there's food being delivered right to their door, they all raised their heads and hissed, waiting in anticipation."
This time it was Ji Yanran's turn to exclaim 'ah!' as she opened her pretty eyes and turned her dainty body around to look at him and ask, "What should he do? Why don't he turn back and fight with the hungry wolves for poisonous snakes are more frightening than wolves." Han Chuang laughed, "Women are all afraid of snakes and Miss Ji is no exception."
Xiang Shaolong looked at Ji Yanran and said gently, "In his panic, he started grabbing around for something that might save his life and unexpectedly, heaven is fulfilling his wish and he grabbed a small tree that was growing horizontally between the well so he was suspended in midair." Everyone remained quiet for they knew there will be more to the story.
Zhao Ya's eyes lit up for in this instance, her heart only sees this man who is even more special and unfathomable than Li Yuan.
Xianf Shaolong continued, "Therefore the hungry wolves are above and the poisonous snakes are below. Although that person is in a dire situation where he can neither advance nor retreat but at the moment at least, he is safe."
Everyone started to have some understanding. What Xiang Shaolong said is the reflection of life for when between life and death, who would not be in the situation whereby he cannot advance or retreat?
He continued, "Just as he was heaving a sigh of relief, he heard a strange noise. He turned towards where the noise was coming from in fear and was shocked to see a large number of rats chewing on the roots of the tree with their sharp teeth. This life saving tree has not much time left." Guo Xiu'er and Zhao Zhi both cried out at the same time.
Xiang Shaolong looked deeply into Ji Yanran's eyes, as if he's telling this story only to her, "Just at this instant between life and death, he saw in front of his eyes on a leaf, a drop of honey. Therefore he forgot about the hungry wolves above, the poisonous snakes below and the small tree that was almost gnawed in half by the rats but closed his eyes and extended his tongue, totally concentrated on tasting that drop of honey."
The bridge was so still that there was no noise at all except for the faint rush of the stream flowing past.
Xiang Shaolong stretched lazily and said, "And to me, that drop of honey is the meaning to life!"
No one spoke for even people like Guo Kai and Han Chuang who only knows how to hanker after wealth and fame, had their worries stirred up and they could relate with him.
Li Yuan saw that everyone was touched by Xiang Shaolong's extremely deep thoughts on this matter and was feeling upset so he broke the silence and asked, "Where did this fable come from?"
Xiang Shaolong smiled and said, "The horses told me!" He then chortled and said, "I'm hungry!"
Book 7 Chap 10 – A drop of honey
Ji Yanran personally lifted the wine flask and stood up, coming to kneel in front of Xiang Shaolong. There's no need for her to pretend, for the look of admiration is naturally revealed in her eyes as she said gently, "Yanran have just heard the most moving fable in my entire life and there's no way I can repay you, except to make use of this fine wine to thank Mister Dong." With a graceful and breath-stopping pose, she poured the wine into Xiang Shaolong's cup.
Everyone was astounded.
Zhao Mu said in bewilderment, "What kind of fabulous fable did Mister Dong said, to make our Learned Lady Ji bow down and serve him wine personally?"
Ji Zhong revealed a look of surprise.
Li Yuan's face darkened, a look of hatred and jealousy in his eyes that he cannot hide.
Zhao Ya looked intoxicated as she repeated the story.
Those who have not heard were all impressed.
Ji Yanran went back to her seat and lifted her cup, "Ji Yanran offers Mister Dong a toast."
Although Han Chuang is secretly feeling extremely jealous, he was also happy that the hateful Li Yuan has been given a blow so he joined in and said, "Let everyone have a toast!"
Everyone toasted one another and although Li Yuan was extremely unwilling, he had no choice but force himself to drink this bitter wine.
Xiang Shaolong looked closely at the ladies. Ji Yanran obviously cannot hide the overflowing love that he has incited whereas Zhao Ya kept making eyes at him, trying to covey her thoughts with her eyes. Even Zhao Zhi who was still angry with him changed her attitude towards him, sneaking peeks at him frequently. Most surprisingly is that Guo Xiu'er was also looking at him with admiration. He was secretly counting his lucky stars. If not for the fact that he can make use of other people's intellect, he'll certainly make a fool of himself tonight, and it definitely won't be this outcome, where he stuck 4 birds with a stone.
Ji Zhong said, "I didn't expect Mister Dong to have heard such impressive and moving fable, this is really incredible." He turned to Li Yuan and said, "Mister Li has such intelligence, you'll definitely have your views about this."
His words are meant to put down Xiang Shaolong subtly while obviously complimenting Li Yuan and from this one can see that this person will stoop to all means just to achieve his goals. To him, Li Yuan, who can influence the King of Chu, is naturally more important than Xiang Shaolong.
Han Chuang chortled and interrupted, "That was a fable that Mister Dong inferred from the horses, but I do have another view. If everyone in our 6 states forget ourselves in that drop of honey which can only offer us an instant of sweetness and join forces to deal with the Qins who are like the tigers and wolves, we will definitely be able to extricate ourselves from danger."
These words are obviously meant for the Chus, because time and again they have betrayed the other united states just because the Qins gave them some benefits and in the end they lost their own troops as well.
Zhao Mu and the rest were secretly gloating as they look at Li Yuan's expression change slightly.
With Ji Yanran around, Li Yuan refuses to make himself look bad so he quickly smoothened his expression and changed the topic.
Xiang Shaolong knows that the more one talks, the more likely mistakes are made so he buried himself with food and drinks. He ignored Li Yuan who was trying to get on Ji Yanran's good grace, and once in a while would engage Zhao Ya and the other ladies, behaving like a suave flirt. If not for the fact that he was put down earlier by Xiang Shaolong, he'll definitely be a woman's ideal lover.
However Ji Yanran is not in the mood to bother about him, constantly looking at Xiang Shaolong instead, wishing that she can throw herself into his arms immediately.
The hostess, Zhao Ya, who was seated next to Li Yuan, was forced to down 3 cups of wine and her pretty face started turning an alluring red. She gave a flirtatious laugh and asked, "Have you not forced enough drinks on me today yet?"
Everyone was startled and looked at the two of them.
Zhao Ya knew that she has let the cat out of the bag and quickly lowered her head.
Li Yuan was feeling extremely embarrassed. He came to look for Zhao Ya secretly today partly because he wanted to put Xiang Shaolong down but the main reason is that he is feeling lusty. Although Zhao Ya does not have Ji Yanran's unique grace, she is still a rare beauty and it's a waste to give up this chance. He just did not expect Zhao Ya to leak out this information during the feast.
He coughed dryly and said, "Didn't we agree last night we'll have a wager on who can hold their drinks better?"
Zhao Ya took a glance at Xiang Shaolong only to see him staring at the fine wine in his cup, as if he doesn't mind at all. She felt a little relieved but at the same time felt a tinge of regret, hating herself for being unable to withstand Li Yuan's lure.
Besides Xiang Shaolong, Li Yuan is the only man after him who could make her heart flutter and he even said he can take her away from this sad place to go to faraway Chu. But she has no idea why, this horse fanatic with the strange ideas in front of her, the way he moves and speaks, a person with a mixture of intelligence, coarseness and rashness, is make her feel more excitement than the more handsome Li Yuan. She is struggling, caught between the desire to fight back and to give in, feeling both pain and happiness.
Ji Yanran took a look at Xiang Shaolong and told Li Yuan indifferently, "This is what's called, famous men since ancient times have too much love to share!"
Li Yuan was secretly cursing himself and before he had the chance to explain, Zhao Ya lifted her pretty face and said with a smile, Miss Yanran is mistaken. Mister Li only came to discuss poems with Zhao Ya, and only drank a little wine to liven the mood!"
Obviously Guo Xiu'er has an interest in poetry so she asked Xiang Shaolong, who is now a great philosopher in her heart, "What does Mister Dong think about poems?"
Once she said that, everyone's attention turned towards Xiang Shaolong.
Guo Zhong was secretly feeling alarmed, has his beloved daughter taken a liking to this unrefined man? Zhao Zhi remembered Xiang Shaolong's horrible handwriting and was secretly sighing.
Ji Yanran and Zhao Ya were energized as they waited excitedly for this person to say something marvelous.
The odes passed down since ancient times, after many modifications by Confucius and his disciples, totaled more than 300.
These odes, in this era, have a very practical value, especially amongst the nobility. It has become a part of life and if one cannot recite some odes during social activities, he will be looked down upon. There's even a form of welcome address that uses purely odes that is called 'Composing a Poem' and the poem used in reply is called 'Reply Poem'. Therefore those who are not familiar with odes will embarrass themselves easily, like the saying 'One who does not learn odes, will have no words to reply'.
Xiang Shaolong is considered lucky but his luck has apparently run out by now. He's finally come face to face with this unsolvable problem.
Odes are not only a decorative façade and a tool to express one's upbringing and cultivation but 'discussing odes' is also a popular activity of this era. For example the ode 'Charming smile, enchanting eyes, plain background for colors' can generally mean a beautiful woman but can also mean the application of make-up *. Zigong therefore asked Confucius and he later added, "A painting will have to be done on a plain white background.' Because of this he gained Confucius's admiration, saying that he is qualified enough to discuss odes.
(*ode from the analects of Confucius)
Therefore, discussion of odes is a very common affair during feasts so Guo Xiu'er was not deliberately making things difficult for this man who has garnered her interest.
Xiang Shaolong almost wanted to cry for help but he said calmly, "I am after all an unrefined person, how can I be qualified to talk about insights?" Guo Xiu'er did not expect this exceptional man to give her such a disappointing answer so she lowered her pretty head and spoke no more.
Ji Yanran had a look of bewilderment.
To her, having Xiang Shaolong woo her openly is a very interesting game for it can allow her to understand more about her beloved ability. She did not expect him to reveal his sharp wit only to shrink back again, and now she cannot admire his talent. She did not expect Xiang Shaolong to be even worse than a simpleton in this aspect.
Ji Zhong revealed a look of despise and he is even surer that Xiang Shaolong must have stolen the fable earlier from someone else and used it as his own.
Guo Kai and Han Chuang revealed a look of surprise, for Dong Kuang's father and grandfather used to be court officials, so how can Dong Kuang know nothing about poems at all? Whereas Zhao Mu guessed that he did not want to show off under such circumstances so he chortled and asked Zhao Ya, "I wonder what is the topic that Mister Li and Lady discussed today?"
Li Yuan saw that Xiang Shaolong had been embarrassed and was secretly ecstatic as he replied, "I was discussing with lady the relationship between poems and joy. As the saying goes 'The mind thrive with the Odes, Propriety is established through rites, The ending is accomplished through music' so I gave Lady the music I composed for her input and luckily she did not make fun of it."
Most interactions between the nobility and the officials cannot escape from poetry and music so Li Yuan is making use of this to show Ji Yanran that there is nothing else going on between him and Zhao Ya.
Zhao Zhi who has been silent all this while spoke up, "Mister Dong seems to hold no regards for music and poems at all!"
Xiang Shaolong almost felt like strangling her. Naturally she was secretly being sarcastic to him for his rude behavior towards her last night and at the same time jealous that Ji Yanran has expressed a liking for him so she was trying to put him down.
Li Yuan was overjoyed on hearing this and said with a laugh, "At least Mister Dong is happy being with horses, so of course he need not bother about anything else."
Ji Zhong has always been aware of his own status and he had no choice but to be seated together at the same feast with a unrefined horse trader so he was already feeling unhappy. However he is a very deep person who will not reveal his thoughts. This time he made use of the opportunity to pander to Li Yuan and said, "Mister Dong is famed for rearing horses while Mister Li is well versed in poetry and music, so to each his own."
Xiang Shaolong had no intention of being a busybody but once he heard that, fury just rose up within him and he said, "Please forgive an unrefined person like me for nto understanding, among the 7 states, the Qins can be considered the worse in terms of popularity of philosophical discussions and importance of rites and music, but why is it they are the only one who can be the biggest threat to our 6 states?"
Once he said that, everyone's expression changed, and they were speechless. Because this is a fact that cannot be debated.
Xiang Shaolong said icily, "Some people may look down on horse traders like me, and deride me for not understanding odes, but I can make the country and home strong with my horses and fight against external enemies. The Qins are strong because they place more importance in military contributions, all other matters are put aside."
Everyone knows that he is angry and they just listened quietly.
Xiang Shaolong continued, "As a part of life, poetry and music is good in molding a person's temperament and beautifying things. But with such a situation now, the more important thing is a rich country and strong soldiers. Food and clothing is more basic than honor or disgrace. If one cannot even protect the country, why bother talking about poetry and songs. In the past King Goujian of Yue slept on sticks and ate gall and persevered, so he was finally able to take revenge. After I came to Handan, I find that everyone is engrossed in eating, drinking and having fun. With such environment, no matter how much you support poetry and music, sooner or later you will become slaves of a fallen country."
The one who felt the worse was Zhao Zhi, to be reprimanded in her face by him so she lowered her pretty face quietly.
Li Yuan and Han Chuang's expression became uneasy for they are indeed more engrossed in play and had totally ignored the grand plan of dealing with the Qins.
Zhao Mu remembered that 'he' grew up in the wilderness mountainous areas so he did not feel at all bewildered, even secretly thinking that when he becomes the King of Zhao in future, he must give more important duties to this practical person.
The feelings of the other 3 ladies were not as direct for in this world where men are leaders, it is naturally the duty of men to protect the country. Instead they find him to be extraordinary for it seems that everyone else is intoxicated but he is the only sober person.
Ji Zhong smiled coldly and said, "Who will know who the last one standing is until the very end?"
Xiang Shaolong is already feeling very irritated with this person that Lord Dongzhou had sent. He eyes flashed icily as he stared at him and said, "People say that a normal person will only think of today's matters, a fool will only remember yesterday's matters and only the intelligent will have a open mind and think about tomorrow, or even possible events that will happen one year or ten years later and start making plans today. If one has to wait until a winner is found which by then will be too late for regrets, he might as well go home now and hug his woman and get as much sleep as possible."
Ji zhong's expression changed as he said angrily, "What does Mister Dong mean by those words? Who does not plan for the future, or are you the only intelligent one?"
Zhao Ya tried to play the peacemaker but Xiang Shaolong raised his hand to stop her. He smiled calmly and said, "Mister Ji thinks too much. I am only stating facts, so please do not think that I was pinpointing at anyone. I am a straightforward person and now I'm sharing weal and woe with everyone here so I hope I can offer my help to protect the country and her peoples. But look what kind of reception I received. Anyone with eyes will know who will be the last one standing. This is not a time for argument, but a time to cast aside our preconceptions for only by knowing oneself and one's enemy, will we be able to stand a chance at fighting Qin."
Guo Kai and Le Cheng exchanged looks, finally understanding the reason for his anger, for he is blaming the King of Zhao for ignoring him because of Li Yuan.
Zhao Ba exclaimed "Excellent!" and turned towards Ji Zhong, saying "Horse Fanatic Dong is a straight forward person who speaks his mind and I like that. Mister Ji please do not blame him, his words are a reprimand for everyone at this table, including me. But his lecture does indeed set a person thinking."
How can Li Yuan be appeased, so he said with an icy smile, "Since that's the case, Mister Dong can jolly well not attend such a merry making feast, so why is he saying one thing, but doing another thing altogether?"
Xiang Shaolong smiled slightly and replied, "Mister Li is mistaken. A feast is a normal social activity, and the Qins have never banned feasts. I'm just making use of the topic being discussed to point out that some people are abandoning and ignoring the most important matters and only cares about having fun, or because of their own selfish gains, are doing things that will only harm others but benefit themselves."
He stared at him, lifted his arms and tugged at his collar, pulling down his top to reveal his bandaged shoulders and asked nonchalantly, "Can Mister Li tell me, who caused these sword injuries?"
Ji Yanran exclaimed 'Ah' and looked towards Li Yuan.
Li Yuan was caught off guard and was stunned, unable to speak.
It was only now that the others understand that these two person's enmity is so deep to the extent that weapons are now being used.
Xiang Shaolong rearranged his clothes and said with a smile, "Naturally Mister Li would not know who did this and anyway I can't be bothered with such lowdown people who use despicable means. I just want to prove to everyone here that I am not shooting people down without a reason."
Xiang Shaolong's word were meat to establish his image of a straightforward and open person and at the same time attacking Li Yuan so that this person would not dare to strike him again. Otherwise it'll be a big problem if he wants to distance himself from the attack.
Li Yuan's expression now looked as horrendous as anyone can imagine.
Zhao Mu said, "Mister Dong can relate your attack in detail to General Le, he'll definitely help to give you justice."
Xiang Shaolong guffawed in reply, "Such insignificant matters, why talk about it. Come, let me offer a toast to Mister Ji and Mister Li to thank them for listening to the complaints of an uncouth man like me."
Everyone lifted their cups so Ji and Li had no choice but to lift their cups and drink up as well.
They had just put down their cups when Zhao Zhi offered a toast to Xiang Shaolong, "I was ignorant and caused Mister Dong to be so angry, let me make use of this wine to offer my apologies."
Zhao Zhi has always been known for being stubborn and for those who know her well, this is the first time they see her being so meek.
Xiang Shaolong said with a smile after he drank up, "It's my fault, how can it be blamed on Miss Zhi."
Ji Yanran's eyes were exceptionally bright as she offered a toast to him, "Not only are Mister Dong's words surprising, but thought provoking as well. You will definitely have a great future."
What followed were toasts being offered to one another and the atmosphere returned to normal, at least it seems so on the surface.
Li Yuan was constantly disadvantaged tonight and Xiang Shaolong gained all the upper hand so he was anxiously talking to Ji Yanran who was sitting beside him, hoping to get back into her good grace. A pity that Ji Yanran now knows that he is so despicable as to send men to ambush Xiang Shaolong and she wished she could kill him instead. Therefore she only gave him a few polite but icy replies.
Han Chuang who was seated beside Xiang Shaolong tapped him twice under the table to express his admiration. Zhao Mu gave him a look, to show that he is satisfied with his performance.
Guo Kai looks like he's deep in thought, obviously because Xiang Shaolong is not as simple as he thought, so he's now reevaluating him. Zhao Ya became quiet.
She too did not expect Li Yuian to have such deep enmity with this Dong Kuang to the extent that he'd send killers. She is an intelligent person so she guessed that this is because of jealousy, and he came to pander to her maybe because he had the intention of getting back at Dong Kuang. Although up to this point of time she has nothing to do with Dong Kuang at all, she was being made used of by Li Yuan. Once she thought of that, she can't help but feel a little regret.
She saw Xiang Shaolong stand up and looked at him in surprise.
Xiang Shaolong bowed suavely and said, "I thank Lady for this unique lantern feast, but I am used to sleeping early so I'll have to make a move first."
Everyone tried to make him stay, of course with the exception of Ji Zhong and Li Yuan.
Xiang Shaolong bowed again and retreated out of his seat.
Zhao Ba stood up and said, "The sword discussion meeting tomorrow, Brother Dong please remember to come on time."
Xiang Shaolong looked at Ji Yanran who was looking at him with a heated expression and asked, "Will Miss be gracing the sword discussion meeting with your presence?"
Ji yanran replied gently, "Since Mister Dong will be attending, how can Yanran not be there."
Once she said this, Li Yuan was immediately fuming while the other men all looked astonished.
Xiang Shaolong bid his farewell to them one by one and when it came to Guo Xiu'er's turn, this dainty lady exclaimed, "Xiu'er wants to go tomorrow to learn more as well."
Xiang Shaolong and Guo Zhong's brows both furrowed deeply at the same time on hearing that.
As for Zhao Zhi, he deliberately tried not to look directly at her but just bowed hurriedly and turned towards the main door.
The sounds of clothes and trinkets rustling were heard coming after him and Zhao Ya rushed up to his side and said, "Let me send you off!"
Xiang Shaolong knows that he won't be able to reject her so he said graciously, "Lady is too polite!"
Zhao Ya accompanied him quietly along the long corridors in the residence. Since she is not talking, naturally Xiang Shaolong would not start a conversation as well.
Zhao Ya suddenly tugged at his sleeve gently and stopped walking.
Xiang Shaolong halted in surprise and lowered his head to look at her.
Zhao Ya looked extremely lost, her pretty eyes alluringly sad as she lifted her pretty face to look closely at his face.
Xiang Shaolong felt goose bumps rising under such scrutiny so he asked in puzzlement, "Lady, what's wrong!" Zhao Ya shook her head slightly and said dejectedly, "I can't help but keep thinking of you as another person, only when I look closer did I realize that I was wrong."
Xiang Shaolong was secretly startled and he took the opportunity to change the topic and said coldly, "I don't think I have much similarity with Li Yuan! But luckily this is so."
Zhao Ya still held on to his sleeve as she lowered her head dejectedly and said, "Mister Dong please do not laugh at me, Zhao Ya is just that pitiful girl who is constantly looking for that drop of honey! Why is Mister always treating me so cruelly?"
Xiang Shaolong's fury rose as he secretly thought that since she has found him, that drop of honey, then why is she so hard hearted as to betray him. He replied with a laugh, "Your two drops of honey are in the great hall, please forgive me for not being able to stay." With a wave of his hand he dislodged her hold and walked away.
Zhao Ya looked as he disappeared behind the door and felt as if the world has suddenly lost its color. Right at this time, she knows that after Xiang Shaolong, this is the first time she has really fallen for another man but immediately she was grumbling in her heart, 'Who cares who you are? Am I, Zhao Ya, one who can be rejected by you so easily."
She stomped her feet and returned to the hall.
Xiang Shaolong walked out of the residence and the night breeze blew in his face and he was immediately energized.
He was really furious earlier. Those idiots from the 6 states only know how to fight amongst themselves but have no idea that big trouble is almost upon them.
At the same time he was in a dilemma. Although he is now the enemy of the 6 states, yet he still has some feelings for Handan, making him worry about the fate of this ancient city.
Then he thought of his own problem. What had seemed so easy originally, has not become extremely complicated. With the situation now, if he wants to capture Zhao Mu alive and send him back to Xianyang is quite impossible. And if he has to kill Le Cheng, this general who wields the military power of Handan, that would be even more difficult than ascending heaven. The strong confidence he had when he first came is starting to waver.
An extra day in Handan will mean an extra day of danger. The biggest problem is of course because the important officials and famed generals of the other 5 states are concentrated here, the security and vigilance in Handan has risen greatly. Capturing Zhao Mu is not difficult, but to send him away will be fraught with difficulties.
Once he thought of this, he can't help but heave a great sigh.
Sounds of hoof beats was heard coming nearer, and slowing down as it neared.
Xiang Shaolong had already guessed who has come after him so he said without even turning his head, "How do you do, Miss Zhi!"
Zhao zhi's crisp voice immediately replied, "How did you know it was me?"
Xiang Shaolong turned his head sideways to look at the gallant Zhao Zhi astride her horse and said with a smile, "Other than Zhao Zhi, who else would dare to come and meet my bad temper alone."
Zhao Zhi was originally looking down and staring at him but when she heard that she lifted her pretty face to look at the night sky above the streets of Handan and said with a pout, "Wrong guess! Zhao Zhi has no time to bother with people like you."
Xiang Shaolong knows that she has already surrendered half her heart to him but she just cannot admit to it. However his heart can only contain Ji Yanran now, besides Zhao Zhi is Jing Jun's beloved so there's no way he can snatch someone's love away. There's really no way he can do this to his own brother. How awkward would it be between him and Jing Jun in future then? The way he forced her to leave last night, he didn't feel too good about it either.
The Zhao Zhi at this instant is especially alluring.
He chortled and asked, "Then why do you have the leisure to accompany me on my night tour of Handan?"
Right at this time a group of soldiers rode over in the quiet street, reminding them of the war which has not stopped in hundreds if years and which can still start at any time. Those patrol soldiers saw Zhao Zhi and greeted her respectfully.
Zhao Zhi nudged her horse forward to walk alongside Xiang Shaolong and said nonchalantly, "Don't you think you've offended everyone tonight?"
Xiang Shaolong replied, "Why does it matter, didn't your people Meng Ke said 'They may be thousands of people against me, but I will go forward'.
*Meng Ke - Mencius
Zhao Zhi looked down in surprise, "Why would Meng Ke be ours?"
Xiang Shaolong almost wanted to slap himself. Up to this point of time he still regarded himself as an outsider so he said with embarrassment, "No real meaning to that, just a slip of the tongue!"
Zhao Zhi stared at him with unsure suspicion and surprise and took some time before she uttered softly, "Get up my horse!"
Xiang Shaolong was stunned, "Where to?"
Zhao Zhi asked icily, "Afraid?"
Xiang Shaolong chortled, "Sharing a horse like that, Miss Zhi should be the one who is afraid."
Zhao Zhi replied evilly, "You didn't seem to be that considerate for others that night? Are you a man or not, get up the horse quickly!"
Xiang Shaolong knows that she was being sarcastic about that night when he jumped up her horse and took advantage of her so he shook his head and said with a wry laugh, "Your mouth is truly formidable. But since you've had experienced it before and knows that I am not a gentleman who can keep his hands to himself, with such a warm and soft body, my disobedient hands will enjoy themselves on Miss Zhi's alluring body!"
Zhao Zhi's pretty face tightened as her long, pretty eyes stared at him fiercely, "Who cares what you want to do, get up the horse quickly!"
Xiang Shaolong exclaimed, "My god!". When a woman obviously knows that you have the intention of taking advantage of her, and yet insist on giving you the chance no matter how fierce she looks on the outside, what can this be other then she is secretly in love. This is indeed extremely alluring, and enough to make his head ache terribly.
Now it's as if he is riding on a tiger, unable to advance or retreat. He sighed and said, "It's so late! Can we talk about this tomorrow? I'd better go home and sleep!"
Zhao Zhi was so furious her face turned pale and she whipped her horse forward to block his way. With her hands on her hip, she pouted angrily and said, "I didn't expect you to be such a wishy-washy person. If you don't come up, I'll harass you the whole night so you won't be able to get a good sleep!"
When a woman gets angry, they are the most unreasonable. Xiang Shaolong stopped walking and said with a sigh, "Doesn't Miss already has someone you like? The way you are giving me such a bargain, I'm afraid it's a little… heh! A little 'that thing'!"
Zhao Zhi's delicate body shook on hearing this as her pretty face suddenly turned dark. It took a while before she gritted her teeth and uttered, "I do not belong to anyone. Dong Kuang! Are you coming up or not?"
Xiang Shaolong was secretly lamenting, it seems that Zhao Zhi has given her heart from 'that Xiang Shaolong' to 'this Xiang Shaolong'. It seems that this time the tables have turned on him. His hands turned up in a helpless pose, he hardened his heart and said, "You asked for it!" Before he finished his words, he has already leapt up the horse behind her back.
Zhao Zhi exclaimed softly and her long legs lightly clasped the horse's belly and the handsome steed started running. Xiang Shaolong's hands went forward and held her narrow belly which does not have an extra ounce of fat, his body at the same time pressed against her back and shoulder. This feeling of excitement immediately stirred Xiang Shaolong's lust.
However Zhao Zhi looked as if she felt nothing at all, her face still looked icy as she concentrated on riding, turning left and right on the quite streets of the ancient city, towards an unknown destination.
Xiang Shaolong leaned his head forward and inhaled deeply near her neck, then leaned into her face and said, "Miss's body is so fragrant!"
Zhao Zhi's expression looked wooden but made no show of any unhappiness of rejection. Of course it does not mean she approved or encouraged it, but just pursed her lips, as if she's made up her mind not to talk.
Xiang Shaolong became more outrageous as he moved his lips along her smooth face and said resolutely, "If you don't talk, I am going to take advantage of you."
Zhao Zhi said icily, "Aren't you already doing that?"
Even saints have a temper. Xiang Shaolong's 'temper' rose, as one of his hand rubbed her belly while the other moved up towards her twin peaks, slowly advancing threateningly.
Her muscles are full and supple, giving him much enjoyment.
Zhao Zhi's pretty face started to turn red as her delicate body trembled a little yet she continued to grit her teeth, not making any objections at all.
Xiang Shaolong's lust may be burning but Jing Jun's presence seems to be blocking between them like a ghost. He sighed dejectedly and gave up the grand plan of invading her chest as his hands returned to her belly. He even left her face and sat straight. The bamboo forest appeared in front, it turned out that Zhao Zhi is bringing him to her home.
Zhao Zhi reined her horse silently when she saw the bamboo forest, looking at the dim light that is flickering in her home up ahead as she made fun of him and said, "So Mister Dong is actually a gentleman?"
Xiang Shaolong was exasperated as he pulled her back hard. Zhao Zhi exclaimed softly as she fell into his arms.
In the darkness of the bamboo forest, they can't see each other at all but could smell each other. The excitement of their bodies touching was instead heightened because of this 'darkroom' surrounding.
Zhao Zhi leaned her head languidly against his broad chest, so nervous that her lips can't help but pant quickly. Xiang Shaolong only have to shift his head down slightly and he would be able to enjoy her fragrant lips and he is sure that she will not resist at all.
Such a thought is indeed enticing. Xiang Shaolong's reason was swinging dangerously over the side of collapse when he sighed and said, "Aren't you that Xiang Shaolong's little lover? The way you and I… heh…"
Zhao Zhi's reply still sounded cold, "I've not fallen in love with you, so why does it matter?" Xiang Shaolong exclaimed hoarsely, "Miss Zhi seems to be unaware that you are in my arms, yet you can say such words."
Zhao Zhi argued back, "I'm not as strong as you, you forced me into your arms, so what could I do?"
Xiang Shaolong chuckled, "Then why are you stopping your horse here? I didn't force you to do that!"
Zhao Zhi is indeed stubborn as she said nonchalantly, "I'll stop where I want to and do what I want to, it's none of your business."
Xiang Shaolong was so angry that he almost fell off the horse. He extended his hand and moved to carass her rounded thighs as he praised, "Miss Zhi's legs are firm and supple."
Zhao Zhi did not say a world and allowed his molestations.
Xiang Shaolong gritted his teeth and thought that since he's made a head start, he might as well continue. He has always been a flirt and with a beauty right in front of him, how can he have the resolution to resist. He was about to move his hands and invade the top and bottom at the same time when the sounds of dogs barking could be heard right ahead, accompanied with the sounds of light footsteps.
Xiang Shaolong hurriedly retracted the hands that was caressing her chest and thighs whereas Zhao Zhi exhaled softly as she sat straight and rode the horse forward.
Both of them did not speak at all, but that soul tearing feeling is still so strong that it can melt any man or woman.
Book 7 Chap 11 – Unable to enjoy
In Zhao Zhi's elegant little house, Xiang Shaolong leaned on the couch in a relaxed manner while the 2 sisters Shan Rou and Zhao Zhi sat opposite him. The former was staring at him fiercely while the latter still maintained her icy look but her head was lowered in deep thought.
Shan Rou said stiffly, "I asked my sister to invite you here because I hope we can cooperate and deal with Tian Dan!"
Xiang Shaolong already knew he'd meet with this problem so he said, "If you are planning to assassinate him in Handan, forget about getting me to do such a foolish thing with you. Even if you succeed you will not be able to escape."
Shan Rou's pretty face turned icy as she replied, "You're the fool. We've already found out that Tian Dan has arrived at the outskirt of the city at dusk today, but he has yet to enter the city. The person escorting him is the famous general of Qi named Dan Chu, and they have an army of about 10,000. Therefore the only chance to kill him is when he is travelling light with minimal men into the city. The few men near that conniving thief, specially those 2 brothers called Liu Zhongfu and Liu Zhongshi, are not only excellent fighters but can tear lions and tigers apart alive. Look!"
She pulled down her collar to reveal almost half of her ample and fair bosom, but on it there is a sword scar that can shock anyone who sees it.
Xiang Shaolong did not expect her to be so bold. His eyes feasted on her ample bosom for a long time before he nodded and said, "You're considered lucky to be alive."
Shan Rou readjusted her clothes, her eyes gleaming as she said, "Isn't Tian Dan your great enemy? No one knows more about Tian Dan's affairs other than me. I was once a maid at his residence, so now you understand the benefit of working together with us!"
Xiang Shaolong has no wish to entangle himself with them any further so he sighed, "Actually there's nothing between Tian Dan and me at all, it's just that I did not want to hurt the both of you that night, that's why I followed your story and said that."
Shan Rou and Zhao Zhi were both dumbfounded.
An icy look came over Shan Rou's eyes and just as Xiang Shaolong was secretly exclaiming, she has already swiftly pulled out a dagger and leapt towards him like a tigress, the dagger aiming towards his chest.
Xiang Shaolong is extremely experienced in unarmed combat so with a fake move, not only did he grab the wrist of the hand that was holding the dagger, he also threw her over to the other side of the table and pressed down on her like a tiger.
Shan Rou kept struggling and even tried to bite him.
Xiang Shaolong lifted his head and pressed her arms down firmly, his thighs tightened around her pretty legs and at the same time looked warningly at Zhao Zhi, only to see her looking lost and dumbfounded as she watched her sister cursing and struggling under Xiang Shaolong's body.
Xiang Shaolong put his mind at ease as he started to enjoy the feeling of this body violently running against his, but at the same time he has no idea how to wrap up this horrible situation.
Shan Rou may be a lot stronger than the average woman but how can she fight against Xiang Shaolong, a muscular man of that physique. She struggled a little longer before she toned down, her chest heaving as she stared at Xiang Shaolong with hatred, giving her another air of allure.
Zhao Zhi was still seated at the same place, not moving nor making any noise.
Xiang Shaolong lowered his head to look at this feisty beauty and asked with a smile, "I acted with kind intentions, why is Miss treating me like this?"
Shao Rou cursed, "Liar!"
Xiang Shaolong finally understood that she wanted to kill him in anger because she was lied to, and also disappointed that they no longer have his assistance. From this it can be seen that she actually regards him very highly.
He can clearly hear her heart beating, feel her pulse moving in her energetic body, and smell the faint fragrance from her dainty body. He shook his head and asked with a wry smile, "Still don't want to release the dagger?"
Shan Rou stared at him angrily for a moment before the corners of her mouth curved disdainfully as she relaxed her hand and let the weapon drop.
The tense atmosphere relaxed and Xiang Shaolong immediately felt the strong sense of their bodies so close together. Earlier Zhao Zhi had already ignited his lust so how can he control himself now. Immediately his body reacted in the most primitive way for a man.
Shan Rou was originally staring at him but suddenly she blushed and her lids closed a little, obviously she has fully felt his manhood pressing down.
Xiang Shaolong was extremely embarrassed and he said quietly, "If you promise not to attack me again, I'll release you immediately."
Shan Rou managed to utter her agreement. The look of a stirred beauty, appearing on the face of this strong and feisty woman, lures one to more imagination.
Xiang Shaolong threw her dagger towards the corner of the room first before squatting up slowly. He moved towards the wall and leaned there.
Shan Rou was still lying flat, as if she's lost the ability to get up. Her clothes are now in disarray and split open at the bottom, revealing her snowy white and long thighs.
Xiang Shaolong looked towards Zhao Zhi. This pretty younger sister turned her face away, not looking at him.
Shan Rou jumped up with the agility of a cat and without looking at Xiang Shaolong, uttered a single word through her gritted teeth, "Scram!"
Xiang Shaolong was unaffected and said with a smile, "If Miss Rou chases me away, you will definitely regret it for the rest of your life."
Shan Rou went to sit next to her sister as her eyes stared roundly at him, "Who do you think you are, just looking at a liar like you is enough to irritate anyone."
Xiang Shaolong sighed and asked, "Do the two of you love your parents who have met with such misfortune?"
Shan Rou said angrily, "Isn't that an obvious answer?"
She may be rude but ultimately she was willing to answer the question, so her asking Xiang Shaolong to scram was only said in pique.
Xiang Shaolong tried his best to answer calmly, "To be able to exact revenge but not doing it, can be considered unfilial. But knowing very well that to take revenge is akin to sending yourself to death, causing great grief to departed parents, is also another form of not being filial. Under such circumstances, although living in shame, it's also a way of controlling oneself and repaying your parents."
Shan Rou was slightly shaken as she answered quietly, "We don't need you to reprimand us, go back and enjoy your riches!"
Xiang Shaolong was taken aback, knowing that this woman really has some feelings for him, that's why she was so furious to find out she was lied to and now her words are filled with reproach.
Zhao Zhi looked towards him and said icily, "Now that everything is made clear, us sisters and you have nothing to do with each other. Mister Dong, please go home and enjoy your sleep! Even if we die, it's none of your business."
Her tone of voice was the same as her sister's. A feeling of pity welled up in Xiang Shaolong's heart as he asked gently, "Don't you want to see Shan Lan again?"
Both women trembled suddenly, staring at him incredulously.
Shan Rou exclaimed sharply, "What did you say?"
Xiang Shaolong stood up and went towards this pair of pretty sisters and knelt down on one knee, leaning his head forward to look at the 2 pretty faces and said earnestly, "Please trust me! Shan Lan is now at a very safe place, and has found a good man, waiting for you to meet her."
The icy look on Zhao Zhi's pretty face melted as she uttered, "You're not lying to us again! How could sh have escaped the calamity?"
Xiang Shaolong used Dong Kuang's name and made a vicious vow.
The 2 girls exchanged look then hugged each other tightly, looking both dejected and overjoyed at the same time.
After the 2 women had settled down a little, Xiang Shaolong said, "I am not one who is bothered about wealth and riches. As for Tian Dan's matter, because I personally have no enmity with him, it's difficult for me to plan to kill him, not to mention that it's a very unwise thing to do. With the situation now, you can kill him but will not be able to escape, and with the chance of success being so slim, why don't you live well for now and think of another way to deal with him?"
Shan Rou turned her pretty face away to look outside the window. Although she looked as if she's not listening, but with her character, as long as she's not saying anything bad, it means that she is already tempted.
Zhao Zhi pleaded with him, "Where is Sister Lan now? How did you meet her. She… she married into your family?"
Xiang Shaolong smiled and said, "Does Miss Zhi want me to lie to you again?"
Zhao Zhi stared at him angrily and pouted, "How I wish I could stab you too!"
Xiang Shaolong grinned, "Why don't you just punch me!"
Shan Rou turned back again and said with her emotions controlled, "What would make you help us assassinate Tian Dan?" Xiang Shaolong felt his head aching, what he said earlier seemed to be spoken on vain as he slapped his forehead and uttered, "Heavens! So you were not listening to me at all."
Zhao Zhi asked thru gritted teeth, "If both of us sisters offer ourselves to you at the same time, will you change your mind?"
Shao Rou's delicate body trembled but she did not say anything, only chewing her lip as she lowered her pretty face, for the first time revealing a look of shyness.
Xiang Shaolong did not expect her to give such an outrageous suggestion and stared speechlessly at Zhao Zhi, who was looking at him unwaveringly. His eyes can't help but travel past the 2 ladies' delicate bodies, only to feel his throat go dry. He coughed and said, "Miss Zhi must be joking. It's not that I do not wish to help, but I have my own reasons which cannot be revealed and I cannot be distracted by other matters."
Zhao Zhi said gently, "Why not this! If there is really no opportunity, my sister and I will definitely not force you to do on a death mission with us but if there is a chance that we can succeed alive, will you help us fulfill this dream of 7 years? Since we've already become your woman, naturally we will not be totally unrelated to you."
Xiang Shaolong looked at Shan Rou, then looked at Zhao Zhi and was secretly lamenting, worried that if he uses strong words to reject them, he'll certainly hurt their pride. He sighed and said, "Hai! I am really moved by your sincerity and willingness to sacrifice but I cannot take advantage of others when they are in peril and obtain your precious bodies at this time. Why not this! Look at the situation first before making another plan! Oh, why have I not seen that Uncle Zheng of yours?"
Shan Rou saw that he has changed his mind so her expression warmed greatly. This Dong Kuang's status is special, smart and an excellent fighter with a lot of men under him. If he helps, there's no need to worry that things will not succeed.
Zhao Zhi replied, "His health is not so good, so other than fishing for news, we have no wish for him to worry himself over other matters."
Xiang Shaolong stretched lazily and yawned, "It's late! I should be going back to sleep too." The 2 ladies stood up together with him.
Suddenly the 3 of them felt awkward over the ambiguous relationship between each of them.
Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that he'd better escape as soon as possible and exclaimed, "No need to see me off!" and walked towards the door.
The 2 ladies exchanged looks and Zhao Zhi accompanied him to the main door and said, "Will you use my horse?"
Xiang Shaolong remembered her round and firm thighs, her supple breasts and almost wanted to embrace her and have some intimacy with her which he is sure she would not object. However he is not inclined to consider love matters again, and also because of Jing Jun, he forced down this strong urge and said, "No need, it's not too far away."
He walked towards the bamboo forest but Zhao Zhi still followed behind him so he said in puzzlement, "Miss Zhi please go back! No need to send me off."
Zhao Zhi did not say a single word until they went into the darkness of the bamboo forest before she said quietly, "You don't have to go back."
Xiang Shaolong's heart 'danced' with joy. By saying that, Zhao Zhi is expressing her wish to offer her precious chastity to him and for a proud person like her, these are difficult words to express.
But he does not have the luck to enjoy this no matter how much he wants to.
He sighed and hardened his heart to reply, "There's no need for Miss to do this. If you truly like me, there's nothing more I can ask for but since Miss's heart is already with another person and it's not as if you've truly fallen for a boorish man like me, then why must you cheapen yourself like this? I'm helping both of you not because I'm expecting rewards!"
Zhao Zhi pounded his back twice hard with her fists and pouted angrily, "I hate you to death!" before turning back and walking away.
Xiang Shaolong shook his head and smiled wryly. He was stoned for a moment before collecting his thoughts and made his way home.
Once he thought of the Sword Meet tomorrow, he became excited again.
The road in front is still foggy but he is confident that he will solve everything.
Although the knows the fate of some of the people in this era, however he has no idea what his own future would be.
No matter what, in this great era of the ancient warring states, life is truly more exciting than what he could have experienced in the 21st century.