Chapter 4 - The Beginning of a Great Slaughter

Book: Legend of the Longsword Master

Author: Huang Yi

Chapter 4 - The Beginning of a Great Slaughter

I knelt down by his side. Since I was born I have never felt such grief and indignation! On the day that I saw my father in the prison, I had already come to grips with my grief. I had already changed it into a resolve to fight against the empire, but now Xi Qi was gone and Qi Bei died!

I always knew that the sorcerer possessed unimaginable strength, but it was a superficial knowledge. Who would have imagined that after today's unexpectedly terrible events that I would come to a profound knowledge of it. I took Qi Bei's sword. Now I carry his and my father's blood debt on my back, and Xi Qi is also in their hands.

I didn't know what method the sorcerer used to control her. I only know that it was related to the drumbeat. No wonder he was so willing to make the exchange.

I secured Qi Bei's sword to my back and with large strides I left the cave. Outside the cave I couldn't hear the slightest sound of human activity through the pitch black darkness.

I suddenly recalled a few words that my father had said. He said that after the sorcerer executed a technique he would need some time to rest in order to restore his ability. As I stood in the quiet darkness it seemed like his advice was true.

The sorcerer wanted to track us without us finding out. Most likely he sent one person to follow us. The question is, where is he hiding? Somehow I must find, on this dark wooded mountain, their hiding place, but it is like looking for a needle in a haystack. I calmed my racing heart and thought about what the sorcerer's next cunning step would be.

If I were the sorcerer I would certainly come and examine whether Qi Bei and myself were killed, but he is careful. He would certainly not expose himself to unnecessary danger, so he has two choices. The first is to wait for his own recovery, but that means that any survivor will have made a distant escape. This plan is probably not his first choice.

Next he could send Ge Zhan to come here. As I thought of this my fighting spirit was aroused. If I could kill the sorcerer then it would be a serious blow to the empire itself.

Without hesitation I climbed up to a high place. I arrived at a large stone outcrop that overlooked the valley of the cave below. I thought that the sorcerer's plan to summon Xi Qi was a shrewd move. If one of us hadn't been injured, then we would naturally pursue her without a second thought. We would have run right back to him again, and fallen right into his trap.

With the sorcerer's cunning and abilities in strategy, you can't let your guard down for even half a minute.

*BOOM*

A ray of blue-green light slowly ascended high into the sky before it burst into a seven colored blossomming firework.

I felt great happiness in my heart. I quickly calculated the location from where the firework was launched and carefully ran in that direction. I was going slow, but I didn't think the sorcerer realized I was coming.

I snuck quietly through the dark woods, guided only by the weak light of the stars. I came upon a clearing in the thick forest and examined it carefully.

The sorcerer's shadow stood within the clearing while Xi Qi stood in front of him. The sorcerer had his head lowered and was muttering in a strange language. Finally he raised his head and said, "Take off your clothes."

I heard the rustling of fabric as Xi Qi took off all her clothes. The beautiful shape of her skin and body added a brilliance to once weak starlight. I suppressed the resentment growing in my heart as I waited for the most suitable moment to launch a sneak attack. Just as I thought, the sorcerer's voice was too hoarse to speak clearly any more. He clearly lost a lot of vitality to perform this technique.

The sorcerer said, "Clever child you really are rare. If it wasn't for your virgin innocence I wouldn't have been able to conquer you, and become your master so quickly. Come! Right now you feel like you need a man very much. Thats right! This is it."

From Xi Qi's mouth came a love filled moan, as she gradually walked towards the sorcerer. The sorcerer had an obscene smile on his face as he chuckled to himself. His mind was completely entranced by the beautiful female body.

Unexpectedly I sprang out and struck with the sword in my hand. Lightning soared toward the sorcerer's back.

His whole body shook and was about to flee but the sword had already passed through his body. He shouted wildly and threw himself at Xi Qi.

Frightened a hiss escaped my lips. The sorcerer pulled Xi Qi's naked body into his embrace impaling her on the end of the sword as well. Xi Qi cried out pitifully, and rolled with the sorcerer as they fell on the ground. I threw myself at the sorcerer's dying body and pulled him back up. The sword came out of Xi Qi's chest.

Wild with rage I kicked the sorcerer aside and removed the sword at the same time. This kick was backed by my entire strength and rage. The sorcerer cried out in misery as his entire left ribcage shattered. He fell to the ground and turned into a pile of soft meat.

I cradled Xi Qi's head to my chest. She opened her eyes and her lips trembled while I listened intently. She said, "If this all happened again, I would have still saved you.....important.....love you." After that she was silent, she died.

I heard the weak noise of a large group of people moving. I suppressed my grief as I quickly removed Xi Qi's locket. I placed her on a large pile of deadwood, and lit it on fire. When the flames swallowed her entire body I endured my tears and left. I heard the sounds of the flames and the people in the distance, but I knew that my heart stayed in that place to accompany Xi Qi.

There is no longer any power in this world that could possibly change my determination to overthrow the empire. Like a corpse I forced myself to pass through the forest. By a miracle I didn't meet up with any imperial soldiers. I certainly didn't believe that the emperor would let me off. My only advantage was that the emperor didn't know where I was going, because nobody knew where the ruins were, including me. Before Qi Bei died, his instructions to go to Mo Nu were deeply engraved in my heart. Therefore, I set out for the mystical and advanced country of Mo Nu. I had the locket that I took from Xi Qi's neck, and I often stroked it gently and looked at it. Only when I look at this locket do I have beautiful memories of Xi Qi. Finally I hung it around my neck.

It took me seven days to arrive at the empire's largest outer city, 'Moon City'. It was on the way to Mo Nu. The city sat on the banks of the Moon River, and I would have to pass through it if I wanted to get to Mo Nu. It was also the most dangerous place for me.

I took a bath in a mountain stream, cut my hair with a knife, shaved my face, and took out some clean clothes from the backpack Qi Bei left behind. I then set out to enter Moon City.

The road to Moon City is one of the main trading routes and the nearby farmers also take their produce to the city to sell.

This will help me hide my identity more easily. I carefully wrapped my sword and hid it within a bundle of firewood. I placed it over my shoulder and carried it on my back, taking the guise of an ordinary farmer. A mule drawn grain cart came up behind me, while I immediately moved to the side of the road. *CRASH*

A basket of grain fell out of the cart, scattering all over the ground. The fat driver began to curse as he immediately came to a halt. I walked over to help him examine the fallen basket. The fat man sized me up before asking, "What is your name?" I replied without thinking, "I call myself Xibei"

Xi Qi is west, and Qi Bei is north.* The fat man laughed saying, "What a strange name. My name is Ma Yuan, I am pretty famous around here! I'd like to help you out. Let me do you a favour, take a seat up in my mule cart.

*NOTE: Xi Qi's name can be translated as "West Angel", and Qi Bei's name can be translated "Prayer North". Totally weird sounding so I kept their Pinyin. How was I suppose to know Lan Te would combine their names to become "NorthWest".

I wasn't able to refuse! This will get me into the city, it has helped me greatly. The cart started out while Ma Yuan looked at me, "You are pretty strong, and handsome too. Why don't you work for me? I guarantee you will have plenty of food and clothing." In a quieter tone he continued, "All of the soldiers here give me a lot of face."

As he finished speaking we came up on four or five black helmet warrior's spread out in front of us.

On the survace I kept my composure, but I already thought that this might have been the worst plan. A heroic looking black helmet warrior walked around the cart and approached us.

Ma Yuan made and extremely exaggerated gesture to greet the approaching soldier, "Uncles, you all look well!"

The soldier took a look at me before saying indifferently, "Who is this?" Ma Yuan replied, "This young man has worked for me for over ten years. This time he decided to come along to experience the city with me."

The soldier nodded. Ma Yuan flashed a smile saying, "Last time I came I delivered something, I believe it was for you sir. Did you ever receive it?" The soldier's face lit up with a smile and he nodded. He quickly moved aside and the other soldiers followed him.

The cart continued forward once again. In a low voice I asked, "Why did you help me break in?" Ma Yuan smiled and said lightly, "Because you need it." My heart felt cold. On the surface this man seemed to be nothing more than a jovial market

broker, but he was actually quite remarkable. Judging by his appearance I knew that he wouldn't discuss this subject anymore. I simply shut my mouth and didn't ask again.

After going around a bend we merged on to the main road leading into Moon City. The road was very busy and we frequently saw tidy groups of Black Helmet Warriors gallop by. I looked over at Ma Yuan, they gave full face to him. He was like an eight sided jewel, it was obvious that he bribed people both high and low.

Moon City's spacious avenue ended up ahead at the large city gates. The gate was comprised of a large dome held up by the figure of a respectful giant. From a bird's eye view it appeared to gaze down upon every person who passed under the gates.

As far as I knew Moon City was recently constructed in the last ten years, and was only inferior to the capital, Sun City. The entire city was constructed according to the principles found in the Canon of Wisdom.

The governor of the city was said to be the emperor's younger sister, the Lady Li Qing Jun. Whether or not they were really brother and sister, my father at one time was skeptical of that fact. She was famous for seducing over 3000 handsome men, but because her strategic knowledge and fencing abilities were both peerless she was chosen. Since she was someone who was difficult to influence and control, the emperor sent her to assume personal command of the city and seriously contest the border of Mo Nu.

Under Ma Yuan's protection I had nothing to be afraid of. I didn't even have to think up a dangerous plan to smoothly enter into the city. The street went straight on until it intersected with Li Qing Jun's palace, which occupied more than thirty li of land in the center of Moon City. From each of the four cardinal points* came a road wide enough for twelve horses to walk abreast of each other. These four roads were the backbone for all the other side roads that extended off at various points like a giant spider web.

* For those of you who don't know the term "the four cardinal points" they are North, East, South, and West.

It was already afternoon and the street was filled with people. The ladies were beautifully attired with colorful clothing. The men either wore swords or walked along with the many patrols of Black Helmet Warriors.

I couldn't think of any other border city in the empire that had such a warm atmosphere. This only added to the pressure on me, but there was nothing that could prevent me from seeking out the ruins from the map. I had to do it for my father, my family and now Qi Bei and Xi Qi. When I thought of her I felt pain in my heart.

Ma Yuan said, "Why do you have such a distressed look on your face? Let me take you anywhere, either high or low. I guarantee you will be happy, and you'll leave your sadness behind." I thought that if Ma Yuan knew a way, it would be best to ask him how to get to Mo Nu.

I asked, "Mo Nu..." Ma Yuan shouted abruptly, "Shut Up!" His eyes darted in every direction. After making sure nobody paid any attention he quietly said, "Remember this, we must never mention those two words here or we will suffer an unexpected calamity."

Ma Yuan led me to a hotel, rented a room, and ordered me to stay inside. Afterwards he left. I was gladly slept until it was night, when Ma Yuan came back and woke me up.

Ma Yuan said, "Come with me! I need to show you something." I knew that this was no simple man, so he must have had a deeper meaning. Fortunately the restful sleep had restored my physical strength, now I wanted to move around and investigate how to get into Mo Nu. I complied and walked outside with him.

Ma Yuan blinked, "How can a warrior go without his sword?" I fiercly glared at him before saying coldly, "Just who are you?"

With a smile he replied, "I'm the one who helped you get in! Lets go." I grabbed Qi Bei's treasured sword and hung it on my waist.

Together we left the inn. On the street there were lamps burning brightly. Small sheep skin oil lanterns lined both sides of the street, turning the dark world into daytime. The street was crowded as if midnight was the time to be most active.

In front of us there was suddenly a confusion of activity, many pedestrians were jumping to the side, trying to evade something. Both of us ducked to the side, Ma Yuan pulled me further down a cross street whispering into my ear, "Look!"

Surrounded by a group of warrior's, there were several richly attired youths swaggering down the street. Ma Yuan said, "They are Lady Jun's 'Pampered Men'*", around here they wield tremendous power, especially the one wearing

blue robes 'Fast Sword Na Ming'. Not only does he stand highest in Lady Jun's favor, but he is also the top swordsman within Moon City, he shouldn't be underestimated.

*Note: Could be translated as "Loved Men", "Spoiled Men", or "Favored Men". Although they sound a little better, these guys already sound like a group of pansies so I didn't want to reward them with a cool sounding name. No hero would allow himself to be escorted by warriors. And no self respecting man would share his woman.

I payed careful attention to examine him closely. He was thin but tall with a horse face. Even though he wasn't very handsome he still stood out from the rest by his fearful demeanor.

I silently memorized his appearance. As soon as the group passed by Ma Yuan and I continued walking. Strangely, I noticed that there were many women wearing warrior's clothing, here it seemed like women didn't have a lower status. I couldn't help thinking of ways to try and persuade Ma Yuan to take me to Mo Nu.

Ma Yuan said with a smile, " In a little bit, I will take you to meet some people of no small status, but they don't have any female slaves."

His round chubby face was always wreathed in a sincere smile, staying on good terms with everybody he made people feel like it was easy to be together with him.

Following Ma Yuan's lead we turned down another street, within a short time we could see a bright light. We walked out into a large square, within the square there had to be gathered more than a thousand people, It was noisy. Originally it was a large bazaar.

There were all types of goods, from fine porcelain, fishing nets, medicine, hunting tools to clothes and all kinds of weapons up for sale.

Many deals were warmly underway, the sounds of mixed bargaining were everywhere. The bright lamplight made the square appear as if it was stuck in daytime, even Sunrise City didn't have such a marvelous sight. I never thought that Moon City was so prosperous. I temporarily laid aside my mourning for Xi Qi, I wanted to see what the city had to offer.

A snake charmer caught my attention, I squeezed in to the crowd surrounding him. After satisfying my curiosity I slowly backed out of the tight press. Behind me I heard a delicate scolding voice, "Be Careful!"

I felt a strong wind approaching me from behind. I quickly dodged to the side, barely evading a palm aimed at the back of my head. Next time I will turn around and look first before backing out. Eight armed females stared at me, one with anger reflected in her eyes. I looked at how she was dressed, she was probably one of Lady Jun's female warriors. Just a moment ago as I was backing out, if I had not dodged aside I would have probably bumped up against her generous bosom. One of the warriors shouted at me, "We will let you off this time, but if it happens again do you think you can keep your dog life?"

One of them was very tall and she was also far more beautiful than the other female warriors. She stared at me saying, "Who are you? Your skill is quite good." My gaze swept over her clothing catching the golden cord tied to her shoulder, I knew that she was an important person in Moon City. I felt a warning in my heart so I purposely lowered my head and humbly said, "I am only an ignorant civilian. I urgently ask you to forgive me."

Seeing my terrified expression, disdain flashed through her eye. Taking the lead, the other warriors crowded around her as they left.

I broke out into a cold sweat, I didn't know if I should keep wandering around anymore. I don't know where Ma Yuan came from, but he caught my attention saying, "Come with me!"

We passed through the square before arriving at a marble building. The entrance was crowded with people, but I had no idea what was going on inside. As we stepped inside a wave of wild cheering and stomping assaulted us.

Although I thought I was prepared, I was still alarmed by the scene inside. There were torches burning high and bright. In the main hall a large circular platform had been built, with two strong men on top competing in strength.

Crowded around the platform were hundreds of people, both men and women. They were shouting as loud as they could, it was enough to make one's blood boil. Ma Yuan loudly shouted into my ear, "They are gambling. Are you interested in making a bet?"

I shook my head, "Not really!" He obviously couldn't hear what I said, but he saw me shake my head. He merely shrugged, but he had an expression on his face that seemd to say "what a pity".

*PENG* One of the strong men was thrown off the platform. An ear-splitting roar rang out happily as the victor strutted and flexed in his glory. The women were actually going crazier than the men, putting their hands out to touch him.

Ma Yuan called out, "He is on a winning streak of ninety nine. If he wins again Lady Jun will call him for an interview. She might even want to accompany him for an evening."

I peered at the strong man, he had solid muscle that was evenly distributed over his body. His eyes sparkled brightly, he sure did have a victorious air about him.

All around the stage men and women chanted out, "Diving Strength King, Divine Strength King..." Divine Strength King became even more spirited.

*Clang* The loud sound of ringing metal rang out so loudly it quieted the deafening chants.

In surprise the people looked towards the entrance of the hall. A group of arrogant, unruly men was lined up over there. I then noticed that it was that group of 'Pampered Men' we saw earlier, Quick Sword Na Ming who we saw on the street was standing in front. In his right hand he held a dagger, it was with that he made the sound. The other Pampered Men were standing behind him, but only he was in view.

The loud noise finally died down, but its reverberations still surged throughout the great hall. Na Ming strode forward while Ma Yuan pulled me to one side, other people also quickly drew back like a river parting, to let this band of unruly tyrants pass through. Originally I wanted to move, but I changed my mind. The great hall had gone from an ear-shattering noisy place to complete silence, only the "puff" sounds of their feet could be heard.

Quick Sword Na Ming raised his head as he climbed up on to the stage. Divine Strength King had a look of fear on his face as he slowly withdrew to the side. Na Ming was insufferably arrogant as he stood in the middle of the stage, he rotated his body slowly, fiercely glaring out into the crowd. He observed the silent crowd gathered to enjoy the test of strength. When his gaze swept my face, he suddenly stopped. I lowered my eyes and avoided looking directly at him. His gaze soon moved on to another place. In a cold voice he said, "He has only won ninety nine times, he isn't qualified yet to be called king."

Divine Strength King said in a low voice, "I have won many, and I will keep winning. Then I will be able to see the beautiful Lady Jun."

Na Ming shouted angrily while he stared at Divine Strength King, a blue vein in his forehead was popping out, "If you can defeat me, then you will be worthy to speak those words." He swept his hand, and his cloak was separated from his body, floating down into the crowd like a cloud.

The spectators surrounding the stage began to make more noise as their excitement began to build. A look of fear swiftly flashed over Divine Strength King's face, proving that he didn't have complete assurance of defeating Na Ming.

Ma Yuan said in my ear, "Na Ming is jealous." I certainly understood what he meant, because if Divine Strength King won one more time he could become Lady Li Qing Jun's new treasure, possibly becoming the most loved of her Pampered Men. He would certainly feel indignation in his heart.

I didn't have a very good impression of Na Ming. Patting Ma Yuan on the shoulder we withdrew to a dark corner near the entrance as I loudly called out, "It's so unfair, Divine Strength King needs to rest."

Surprised, Na Ming looked over at me, but in our obscure corner he could only make out somebody's dark shadow.

The spectator's were affected, they began to echo my shout in abundnace. Obviously Na Ming was widely detested and loathed.

I saw that Divine Strength King took the chance to retreat, my goal accomplished I began moving towards the entrance. I walked two steps before I was blocked by a group of people. Unexpectedly it was the group of female warriors that I ran into in the square.

The tall beautiful woman was staring at me, her eyes didn't blink. I thought to myself, this isn't good as plans to escape quickly ran through my mind.

A strange light reflected in her eye as she said to me, "You will be even more unhappy if Na Ming comes looking for you. I can stop him for a moment." I stared at her in confusion, I couldn't figure out why she would want to help me. Ma Yuan was already pulling me toward the front door and outside. We went right and down the steps away from the large building.

Gasping for breath Ma Yuan said, "You are so daring, you can't even defend yourself but you insist on sticking your nose into other people's business. Luckily Hua Qian helped you out." In a strange voice he continued, "She probably recognizes who you are now."

I asked, "Who is Huan Qian?" Ma Yuan replied, "She is Moon City's top female swordsman, and Lady Jun's bodyguard. She is Na Ming's sworn enemy. There is another place I would like to show you." I walked with him down the street intrigued by all the people who appeared to l be engaged in some important matter. It looked like they were all headed to the same place, but Ma Yuan didn't make a sound as he walked so I didn't bother to ask.

We turned down another side street and a large tent came into view. Many people were moving toward it and with some difficulty we forced our way through them. Within the tent it was noisy, several hundred people were already gathered. The noise was similar in scale to the building we had just been in moments ago.

On the other side of the tent was a tall stage. Standing on the stage were more than ten young women sparsely clothed, their chests were barely covered with two small strips of cloth, the effect was very enticing.

A fat man on the stage hissed loudly, "Thirty gold pieces, does anyone have a higher bid?"

"Thirty Two!" Someone shouted wildly. Expressionless I stared at the scene before me, turning to Ma Yuan I said, "What is this? You brought me to watch them auction female slaves?"

Ma Yuan blinked, "Certainly not, come with me." Before he finished speaking he started moving toward one side of the stage.

I had no idea what he had in store for me, I could only follow along behind him. It took some effort to sqeeze through the mass to the side of the stage, luckily everyone's attention was focused on the female slaves on the stage. No matter how many people we ran into, they didn't care one bit.

Ma Yuan opened a door on the side of the stage, and walked in, I followed him through. Behind the stage there was enough room to hold over a thousand people. There were four separate auctions being held at each of the four points, their stage curtains totally obscuring this large enclosed space. After working my way inside I stopped and stupidly looked around. Together, fifty to sixty young female's eyes all landed on me, each attractive in their own way, the traces of spring just beginning. I have never been stared at by so many young women, I felt my face heat up.

They were waiting to be sold, but still the idea that someone could arbitrarily choose one was a tempting thought. Ma Yuan shouted in front of me, "Come on!"

Once again he took me to another stage curtain further backstage, he moved through sideways.

I hesitated for a moment, Ma Yuan was a remarkable man, he had already figured out my position, his conduct was also wrapped in a shroud of obscurity. Was it all to take me to this mysterious place within the tent, was he actually part of a

sinister plot? I raised my guard as I pulled open the tent, entering sideways my other hand gripped the hilt of the sword. Naturally I couldn't help but remember the generation sword master Qi Bei, because of his sword. Nobody could directly kill him unless they used tricks and schemes. What I saw next astonished me.

Within the tent was an extremely majestic arrangement. On the ground were spread thick and comfortable animal skins, on top of a long wooden table was an assortment of different kinds of fruits and delectable foods glistening in silver vessels.

A woman whose entire body was wrapped in soft white cotten was laying on her side on top of a white bearskin revealing only her eyes, hands and feet.

I have never met a woman who gave off such a shocking feeling before. Her body looked like gracefully undulating waves of jade, her golden skin that wasn't covered by the white garment seemed to cause a chaotic desire to spring up within others, leaving them dazed. Most striking were her pair of bright, elegant, and charming eyes, that once you looked within it seemed as if your entire life had already passed.

A smile appeared on Ma Yuan's face as he respectfully went to stand by her side. He didn't have courage to look at her as he continually averted his eyes.

I directly gazed into her profoundly beautiful eyes while I calmly said, "Who are you?"

Her delicate hand gently moved, indicating her desire to have me sit with her on the animal skin. Without knowing how, I calmly followed her instruction and carefully sat down. I must not do anything to make her to think lowly of me.

Ma Yuan grabbed a jug of wine and filled a tall silver cup next to me. The beautiful woman raised up her cup towards me and said, "To the honorable child Lan Te's success in managing to escape and arrive here." Her voice was soft and moving, just by her voice alone she could command the men under heaven to willingly shed their blood for her.

I almost jumped, but I said in a low voice, "How do you know who I am, just who are you?"

The beautiful woman's elegant eyes glanced at me, before she gently laughed, "I am The Most Joyful Lily, but you can call me Lily, Ok?"

She quickly drank the red wine and emptied her cup. Her every movement was full of beautiful enticement, causing people's hearts to beat faster. What more might be within that white cloth?

Ma Yuan said, "Honorable child Lan Te you can trust us absolutely, if we wanted to harm you all we would have to do is inform Lady Li Qing Jun and you would suddenly find it very difficult to escape."

I considered this earlier, otherwise I would have run away long ago. Lily was lazily staring at me, her eyes flashing brightly when suddenly she pursed her lips into a smile saying, "You have grown to be even more handsome than your father."

My whole body trembled, I couldn't believe it by looking at her. How old was she? At most she was twenty years old, but my father hadn't left Sunrise City for the last ten years, how could she possibly be familiar with my father's appearance?

Ma Yuan said, "We hired a master artist to go to Sunrise City and sketch a likeness of all of the important figures. That is why we knew the moment you arrived here."

I suddenly said, "So you were looking for me." I lapsed into silence while I darkly pondered that I was merely a renegade with nowhere to escape to. My only advantage was that I would rather die than surrender my spirit or my sword, why would they be looking for me? Moon City was a heavily fortified imperial city, so this was an extremely dangerous matter. I looked over at Lily and said, "Why did you help me?" On Lily's face was a happy expression, while she stared deeply into my eyes causing my heart to beat wildly in my chest.

Ma Yuan said from her side, "We want you to help us with something." I smiled bitterly, "I can't even solve my own problems right now, from today until tomorrow I have no idea what will happen, what could I possibly have to offer you?" The map incident was going through my head, and logically it should be a top priority secret. There is no way that it was leaked from the emperor, so whatever they were asking me to help with shouldn't be related to the map. Lily said lightly, "I want you to steal the Canon of Wisdom for us." Frightened I replied, "The entire intellectual system of the empire is based on the Canon of Wisdom, the emperor won't even let another person touch it, moreover it is held within Sunrise City. I'm

afraid I couldn't even make it through the city gates, my life would be forfeit for sure."

Lily shook her head saying, "I don't want you to steal Sunrise City's original manuscript of the Canon of Wisdom, but Lady Li Qing Jun's copy."

I was surprised to learn that there was actually another copy of the Canon.

Ma Yuan explained, "After the emperor obtained the Canon of Wisdom, he gathered together over three hundred skilled scribes, and within a hundred days a copy of the six big volumes was made. This copy was then given to Lady Li Qing Jun who was most trusted by him, to come here and establish Moon City. Otherwise without it how could they resist Mo Nu, how could they build such a highly advanced city?"

I was disappointed, but I understood. I suddenly thought of another question, why did Lily and Ma Yuan want to steal the Canon of Wisdom.

Lily already knew what I was thinking, "You must not ask for the reason, just say that you are willing to help us."

After listening to her speak I stared at her seriously without blinking.

She didn't shrink from my gaze at all. I coldly said, "Are we making a deal?" Lily replied, "If you help us the we can guarantee that you will make it to Mo Nu safely."

My heart skipped a beat, this was an extremely attractive proposition, just before Qi Bei died he told me to go to Mo Nu, which was a great idea since I have nowhere else to go.

Ma Yuan interrupted my thoughts saying, "According to our information, the emperor's army is headed here led by Ge Zhan and Black Widow. We estimate that they will arrive within three days, then the streets will be filled with posters of your face. By that time you won't be able to show yourself, hiding will become difficult and escape will be almost impossible. We will only be able to protect you here.

I already anticipated this so I wasn't the slightest bit afraid. I lightly said, "Since you guys already wield so much influence, why would you seek the assistance of a stranger like me?"

Lily softly replied, "Although our strength is abundant, we are lacking heroic talents like you, who not only escaped safely from Sunrise City, but also killed the emperor's most feared general.....the sorcerer?"

I couldn't help but reevaluate them once more, the information regarding the sorcerer being killed by me should only be known by the top leadership in the empire. That means there is a traitor, who could that be?

I sighed, "So you want me to float into Lady Li Qing Jun's palace like a cloud, past the heavily guarded entrance, looking for the Canon of Wisdom that I don't know where is, to find it without knowing where to begin. I can't help you unless I get a little help."

Lily began to gently laugh as a glamorous light shot from her eyes filling the room. Ma Yuan clapped his hands together making a clear sharp sound. Somebody lifted the tent and came in, arriving just before Lily he knelt down to kowtow. I felt foolish as I stared at the man who had previously won ninety nine straight victories in the contest of strength, the man who was challenged by Quick Sword Na Ming - Divine Strength King. Lily waved her hand and Divine Strength King

obediently rose, retreating to Ma Yuan's side, his gaze stayed on the floor as if she were a God and not a human.

I looked in suprised at Lily, her beauty possessed a quality that made it difficult to look at her searchingly, like it was concealing a profound wisdom.

She didn't say anything as she waited in interest for my response. I understood that she was testing my wisdom to see if I was qualified to make a deal with her. I smiled lightly, "You have Divine Strength King, why do you also need me?" Lily replied, "Not bad, Divine Strength King is our chess piece to enter into the palace, because Lady Li Qing Jun most likes looking at men competing in martial arts, if there aren't casualties she won't be happy, so she declared that if anyone can win one hundred straight battles in the public martial arts contest, they would immediately be her guest." I said, "But Quick Sword Na Ming will challenge anyone who has won ninety nine victories, even Divine Strengh King will have to face him."

"Divine Strength King is our most outstanding warrior, but he still can't compare to Na Ming. Although he has courage and strength he isn't too smart, so even if he is able to infiltrate the palace, I am afraid that he won't be able to find the Canon of Wisdom."

In a sinking voice I asked, "So how do you want me to help?"

For the first time Lily looked at me with appreciation, she turned her head looked at the Divine Strength King standing next to Ma Yuan and lightly clapped her hands. Divine Strength King raised his hands to his head and grabbed at the border of his hair at the back of his head and lifted up. The hair came free and light reflected off a bald head underneath.

Long ago I already considered this possibility. Divine Strength King continued to pull until the skin from his entire face was removed. The once amazing complexion of his face was gone. Lily stared at me saying, "You only need to disguise yourself as Divine Strength King, defeat Na Ming, become Lady Li Qing Jun's guest, and within seven days find the Canon of Wisdom in the palace. When you steal it and come out then we guarantee that we will not hesitate to take you to Mo Nu and

let you meet the Demoness."

Ma Yuan added, "The faster we can accomplish this, the quicker we will have assurance that we can cope with the empire."

I said, "Actually who are you?" Lily said, "You figured it out quickly." I took a deep breath, "Good! You have my word."

----

The steps leading to the great hall were crammed full of men and women shouting themselves hoarse. There were several times more people than the night before last, over three thousand excited spectators. A river of gold will be bet on who they think best fighter is.

From one side came cheers for the ninety nine win streak Divine Strength King. From another side come an even louder roar of cries praising Lady Jun's number one warrior, the head of the pampered men Quick Sword Na Ming.

The odds on Divine Strength King were forty two to one.*

*NOTE: For those of you who aren't familiar with betting, this means that he has 42 chances of losing to Na Ming's one chance of losing. It means that Na Ming is a heavy favorite to win. People who want to bet on their luck would place bets on Divine Strength King because if they win, one gold piece would give them a winnings of 42 gold pieces (not too bad).

Nobody believed that Na Ming would be defeated, the Divine Strength King has been doomed to a pitiful destiny.

Along with the platform containing the circular fighting ring there was another even taller platform, a white curtain was hanging from it, completely covering the tall platform, it appeared as if there were people inside, but anyone outside could only make out indistinct shadows. Outside the curtained platform stood twelve powerful looking men, in one hand they held a shield and in the other a sword. According to Ma Yuan these twelve men were selected from the ten thousand bravest men and they were Lady Li Qing Jun's loyal bodyguards. That also said something about the famous Lady Li Qing Jun, once the contest was started, she would enter to observe it personally. The gate swung open.

I was disguised as the Divine Strength King, down a narrow channel through the tide of human bodies I walked towards the big ring.

More than three thousand people were completely silent for a while before they finally exploded into a room shaking roar.

They all shouted angrily at how pitiful a person I was.

It was only natural that they would focus on me. I was really hoping that I, the mouse, could defeat the fierce, violent, cat.

A long red robe flapped on my body, on my face was the Divine Strength King mask.

Men and women all reached out to try and touch me, causing ten large men to push their way through the crowd, making a clear path for me, finally I reached the stairs. Up the stairs, close to the entrance of the arena exploded another deafening roar like an undissipated heat. Surrounded by a large group of black helmet soldiers Na Ming strode proudly towards the ring. The biggest difference between him and I was that nobody dared to stretch their hand out to touch him, which showed how much the inhabitants of Moon City feared him.

Na Ming idly took his place within the ring on the large stage, extremely confident of his victory. I calmly stood to the side in the ring while I coldly stared at him standing in the center while the crowd wildly shouted their encouragements and approval.

At that moment I noticed a change, by pure reflex I looked toward the veiled platform and saw the slender form of a woman sit down on a chair behind the curtain.

Lady Li Qing Jun finally came. Na Ming also had the same vigilance, turning towards the distant veiled platform he bowed.

The wild noise in the arena calmed down instantly as everyone's gaze swept to the curtain, there were both frightful and longing expressions everywhere.

Lady Li Qing Jun was a mixture of extreme beauty on the outside but venemous as a snake on the inside, she was truly a fearful person.

In the sudden silence Na Ming shouted in a clear respectful voice to Lady Li Qing Jun behind the white curtain, "Na Ming is prepared to use Divine Strength King's head as a gift to Lady Jun."

"GREAT!" the people shouted excitedly. I quickly swept my eyes over Lady Li Qing Jun's platform when I coincidently met a pair of bright beautiful eyes.

It was the sworn enemy of Na Ming, Hua Qian. The leader of Lady Jun's female warriors, on her face was a look of disdain. She obviously didn't have a favorable impression of the competition

Within my heart I smiled, I raised my head welcoming Na Ming into my fierce gaze. I lifted my right hand up high into the hair, hinting that I had words to say.

Once more over three thousand people were silent, nobody thought that the man who only loved a good fight, "Divine Strength King" would also have something to say.

A strange look flashed accross Na Ming's face. I calmly smiled, the thin mask easly reflecting the muscular movements of my face, of course it was still stiffer than without it.

Na Ming coldly said, "Do you wish to pray before you die? Too bad I don't have the time to waste on you."

I lifted my head and laughed. At the same time several thousand people focused me, they didn't understand how somebody who was about to die could laugh like this.

My laughter abruptly stopped, I knew that I had complete control of the crowd's mood, as I said indifferently, "Na Ming!"

Na Ming's color changed as he violently shouted, "You have the nerve to directly address me." I sneered back, "Between the living and the dead how can there be any division of honorable or vulgar. In my eyes you already a dead man."

A furious expression swept over Na Ming's face, but he was instantly able to restrain it, demonstrating a high level of training.

Before he was able to speak, I untied the robe's belt and with my right hand I tossed it away, the entire robe looked like a red cloud flying up into the arena sky, underneath it revealed a snow white tight fitting warrior's clothing with a sword hanging at the waist.

I took advantage of the favorable situation to shout, "I must have a life and death sword duel with you! Until you are dead my eyes and mouth won't be satisfied."

The curtain concealing Lady Li Qing Jun suddenly fell down. At this moment the arena was in complete silence, everyone thought the Divine Strength King was insane to be at odds with the powerful Na Ming. This person completely shocked Moon City, completely outdoing the local quick sword.

A guarded expression appeared on Na Ming's face. A clear bright female voice called out, "Lady Jun grants Divine Strength King's challenge request." Hua Qian was the one who spoke.

Na Ming look upwards and with a long and loud cry said, "Good, I'll let you know what a quick sword tastes like, here comes my sword!" Because of this unexpected change, several thousand men and women in the arena yelled wildly at the top of their lungs. A sword appeared in Na Ming's hand *Clang!* the sword unexpectedly left it's sheath, four cold rays of light shot out, the sword in Na Ming's hand appeared to transform into ten thousand bright red clouds.

"Heh!" Like a falling rain the reflected lights from the sword sprinkled toward me. Although I am young, I have an unusually rich martial experience. I saw that even though Na Ming's sword carried an ominous feeling it was just an empty move. I sighed to myself, this gentleman was really vicious, taking advantage of my sword still being in the sheathe. I prepared myself to die violently from a thrust, but in the process this kind of tactic would make Lady Li Qing Jun despise him in her heart, afterall this was a fair duel. If I actually tried to evade and was injured from this empty move he could say that my eyesite was too poor and that I wasn't even worthy to be his opponent. As I thought about that a huge murderous intent surged in my heart. A deep hatred bubbled up from within.

The sword light suddenly disappeared. I didn't even move an eyebrow as I coldly stared at Na Ming. Na Ming pulled his sword back, and for the first time there was a trace of fear in his eyes.

On the other hand I wasn't willing to let him have another opportunity, I reached down and the sword already left the sheath into my hand piercing straight towards Na Ming's eye. The sword struck with pure speed and intimidation for the victory. Until the sword struck the entire audience was gripped by an intense atmosphere, the power of the strike was like the breaking of a large wave upon the shore.

Ma Ming would have to meet me, he knew that this time he couldn't retreat, accepting the strike he turned it while at the same time moving to my side to try and dissipate my strength. I held only contempt for him in my heart, in order to gain Lady Jun's favor not only would I have to have a flashy win, but it would have to have a quick conclusion. By my martial prowess I would have to endear myself into her heart so that I could carry out the mission to steal the Canon of Wisdom.

I followed Na Ming's shift to the side with a clever sword thrust from an odd angle, I purposely made the speed of the thrust a little bit slower. I wanted him to think I made a mistake. "Clang!"

The sound of metal on metal penetrated through the silent arena as several thousand spectators squeezed together, intently look on.

Slanting my sword I chopped down on Na Ming's sword close to the handle. His whole body shook, as if he just received an electric shock, he quickly retreated backwards. I accurately analyzed his sword style to claim a victory. By causing him to lean to one side I created an opportunity to have a serious victory with a light hit. I shouted severely as my sword extended outward, it seemed to move slowly, but it actually resembled a coiled viper about to strike from all sides, making Na Ming continually block unable to escape.

"Clang Clang Clang Clang!" Na Ming deserved to be called Moon City's number one swordsman, in such a disadvantageous position he was still able to block more than ten of my strikes. At the eighteenth strike he was forced to withdraw another step backwards, but he still couldn't pull his quick sword away.

Frequent flashes of fear swept over his face, during this man's life he was a bitter overbearing tyrant, under death's shadow he exposed a weak side, after all was said and done he was used to always being placed in the honorable or superior position. With the way he has been living how could he risk his life, in comparison his sword tip licked my blood. The entire arena was completely slient. My murderous look was constricting his mind. "Pu!" Na Ming took another step back to the edge of the ring. He would not be able to take another step back. Suddenly he shouted madly as the sword in his hand transformed into millions of bright rays spilling towards me.

The audience exploded like a thunderclap in appreciation for his counter-attack, the once silent arena turned into an intense chaos.

This was Na Ming's answer a bright counterattack. Just when he was on the brink of death, he yielded to the fear of dying building in his mind and madly surged back in a crazy counter attack. If I were to be frightened by his suicidal attack he could turn defeat into an opportunity for victory.

Too bad he has met his match, "Clang Clang Clang!"

I did not move one step as I fiercly withstood his furious strikes. Na Ming's sword influence finally scattered in confusion.

I didn't say anything as I change my sword from slow to fast, like a bolt lightning my sword entered into his sword net. The sword pierced him right between the eyes and then returned back.

The entire audience was unexpectedly still. They didn't make a sound. My sword still pointed at the distant face of Na Ming who looked like a frightening ghost. Na Ming died staring at me, the sword in his hand continually trembling. "Dang!" A single sound rang out, Na Ming's sword fell from his hand. Blood began to rush out of the wound between his eyes, as the light within his eyes dimmed.

"Wump!" Na Ming fell backwards hitting the ground. The entire arena once again exploded like thunder, even though Na Ming was defeated and died and many lost money, Na Ming was a tyrant who bullied everyone, so they all cheered wildly.

Helmets, hats, silk handkerchiefs and strips of cloth, all sorts of strange things were thrown to the stage, as excited people struggled like a tide to get up on the stage, they lifted me up high over their heads and began to carry me around.

Frustrated I turned my head to look at the veiled platform, but it was already empty. Lady Jun's twelve guards, Hua Qian, and the other female warriors were also nowhere to be found. Surrounded by several hundred people they walked me down the street, as soon as people found out that I had defeated the hero Na Ming they would join the group in the street and quickly it grew to several thousand people. All around me was a densely packed crowd.

Actually my mind wasn't there. What was Lady Li Qing Jun's next step? Would she accept me as her new favorite man, or will she take revenge for Na Ming?