night and in the remote, faraway villages of sang, ting, ling and xing few scenes took place at the same time…. sang and scene one saw the whole peasant family of four were killed ferociously in their sleep. blood flowed freely onto the ground and splat against the wall. the merciless murderer then left taking the mutilated body parts, but not before purposely dropping a mortal clue…. ting and scene two saw the whole hawker family of six were killed in a cold blooded manner and their life and business stock was destroyed, turned to ashes in the ravaging fire….ling and scene three saw an unseen shadow sneaked into a young maiden's chamber. the next second heard a scream and when the family rushed forward, she seemed to have vanished into the thin air. on the floor, the family saw a man's shoe….. xing and scene four saw a monk stepped into a quiet nunnery. within seconds, gasps were heard and the next second after next, screams died down. no life was spared and no nun survived the savage onslaught. meanwhile, deep inside the quiet and secluded woods of xing, scene five unfolded where a hooded maiden fully cloaked was minding her own business which was tending her stalks when the surrounding howled eerily and spine chillingly. however, the maiden took no notice and appeared calm. then, an eerie laughter was heard but still, the maiden took no notice. when a spine chilling voice remarked across the quiet space, the maiden gathered all the stalks and began to move smoothly away. her long cloak covered her everything and she seemed to glide across instead of walking onto her two legs…. without warning and out of nowhere, a swift movement intending to attack and alerted, the maiden moved as swift as the intruder, keeping their distances….. their eyes met…. from his well formed features but somewhat hideously kinky appearance, she knew who he is while from her stalks and sight behold, hakyip (deric wan) the forest goblin has an idea. at the same time, he was somewhat impressed by her calmness. honestly, there are not many brave lady around. frankly, any maiden would have scream or fainted upon seeing/meeting him….

yip : flower maiden, i have long heard of your name…. finally, i have come face to face with you….

the maiden is indeed known as flower maiden (athena chu). she was not seen by many but for those who saw her, mentioned her ravishing appearance to the point of exaggeration. of course, while many were intrigue and some chose to brush it off, most couldn't help but ponder at her mysterious existence…. upon the goblin's remark and blocked path, flower maiden turned away taking another direction…. hakyip has an untamed nature and loves to wreak havoc, again jumped without warning. why, only a fool would let go of such a rare "prize" but the same second also saw flower maiden swung around and waved her cloak and the next thing he knew, hakyip was forced to retreat when dozens of stalk thrown at him like sharp daggers and he felt suffocating at the sweet smelling blooms. hakyip leaped and somersaulted out of the attacking bearing somewhat blindly since he was caught unprepared. when he finally stopped and looked up, flower maiden was no longer around and hakyip blinked at the sight of a rare stalk, somewhat spellbound. how long he stood mutely the goblin has no idea. the spell was only broken when a powerful frequency echoed strongly into his ears….

after leaving forest goblin, flower maiden moved on swiftly and speedily without stopping until she reached her destination. by then, it was dawn and she looked around before stepping soundlessly into a thick bush and went into a hidden maze…. of course she knew her way well and soon an old and somewhat abandoned hut loomed before her…. going into hut, she took off her cloak and removed her hood, revealing a shapely figure which covered by a simple feminine flowing garment. her long hair was let down and it's length reached her knees. her ravishing beauty alone could send and hold men spellbound, could turn women into green-eye monsters…. a male voice called out and flower maiden turned. when she replied, her voice is calm and matter of fact….

flower : yes teacher, your disciple is back.

her teacher stepped out and the mysterious flower maiden's teacher is none other than retired pugilist xu (felix wong) of xing, who used to move and roamed about silently, who hardly seen but heard of, who is neither in his proper upright element nor at his full vice. in the past he secretly worked for many, both nobles and the corrupted alike for money. yes, he killed and took countless lives but then, he helped and spared many from dangers too. he rarely mixed around and hardly took part in friendly meets but only challenged/pitted with those he came to admire or respected secretly. sometimes, when seized by guilty conscience or sense of justice he would try to put things right in his own indirect manner and yet on the other hand, he was in his couldn't care less attitude. in his prime, pugilist xu has vowed to himself if there is someone who could subdue his ultimate blow or surpassed him in a worthy match, he would retire from the pugilistic circle. one youth succeeded. then and there, pugilist xu of xing retreated to seclusion as quietly as he moved/roamed about.…. while in his seclusion, he came across an abandoned young girl barely four years of age. for some reason, he decided to take her in and as she grew up, he noticed she likes flower and often collecting them. the little girl showed no interest in martial arts but when it came to flowers, she loves to show them off in a strange and mysterious display. then and there, he taught her how to maneuvered her stalks skillfully should she came across troubles or dangers…..

xu : (quietly) you are late. something happened?
flower : (honestly) i came across forest goblin and he tried to disturb me.

though he no longer moves and roams about, nevertheless pugilist xu is neither ignorant nor uninformed of what's happening and what's going on. he also lives long enough to…..

xu : (frowned) it seemed we have come to a period of unrest where unknown forces and unseen powers are thriving and growing stronger…. many strange events took place and many creatures of darkness has started to make their presence felt….
flower : (frankly) teacher, many reports on riots and killings, feuds and confrontations…. do you think….? (trailed off)

pugilist xu nodded but said nothing. teacher and disciple fell silent… then….

xu : (advising) try not to venture so far away or stay out for too long. i have a creepy feeling of looming evil powers and devilish existences….
flower : (obediently) yes.

hidden faraway and stood highly on a remote and unexplored mountain, a large cave called "demonic haven" looms and all evil creatures of darkness gathered to feast for the night….. inside the cave's den cultivated demons challenged one another while wild spirits and wandering souls mingled. others are majority of gnomes, pixies, dwarfs, goblins, elves and a minority of devilish existences…… all went quiet and when the most powerful and the strongest of all demons and creatures of darkness, also the lord and host the heavenly demon tinmor (andy lau) marked his appearance and took his master seat. honestly, he is a very handsome and majestic figure and all the females species eyed him hungrily while the males species eyed him enviously. ….. then all watched silently when dasiu (ekin cheng) the giant dwarf, kwaisang (alex su) the ghostly gnome, dinfu (leon lai) the shadow wolf and yitsang (kongwah) the zombie monk stepped out carrying their feast which consisted of raw fleshes, broken limps, burnt bodies and human internal parts. hakyip (deric wan) the forest gnome stood quietly beside tinmor. while the males swallowed hungrily at the sight of the raw food, the females licked longingly at the sight of raw virility which the four flaunted so openly. frankly to these females species, the six are wickedly "delicious" and so much "raw" than the food…. height and size does matter, doesn't it? and looking good serves additional credit and asset, isn't it?

mor : (waved to all) fellow demons, souls and spirits, fellow creatures and devilish company, (spreading gesture) your feast for tonight! enjoy!! the wine is the best of the best, mixed with a virgin's blood….

at once, the cave heard grateful howling. at once, the cave became eerily alive…. as the creatures of darkness fought for food, as they restlessly vied for the best piece and part, tinmor and his comrades watched from above. as they watched, they also discussed for the night….. now and then, they winked and grinned carelessly at flirtatious females species. far and between, an alluring female stepped out and when their eyes met, one blatantly willing to offer while the other one is more than willing to take and a silent promise is sealed for the night…..

mor : how was the night outing?
siu : good! tomorrow, show time…!
fu: excellent! a new feud is on the way….!
sang : brilliant! everything according to plan….!
tsung : wonderful! i have a marvelous time….!

only hakyip the forest goblin remained silent and all turned to him….

mor : what about you?

hakyip told what happened and while they rest sniggered and snorted in amusement, tinmor (andy) was frowning….

mor : it seemed while villagers and commoners are helpless, there are some who could threaten us. flower maiden may not be our potential enemy, but she is a sharp thorn in our existences. if a mere maiden could defend herself in her own natural way, what about the skilled pugilists and those who achieved proper cultivation?
siu : (matter of fact) our movements are in total darkness and we left zero clue….
fu : (confidently) our powers are thriving, our forces are increasing. soon, the kingdom of song is ours….
sang : (sly and sinister) yes, even if they know, so what? they didn't know our hideout or our secret meeting place….
tsung : (dismissing) and those officers are useless bums! as for the pugilists, they are but mortal who are well trained and highly skilled. while some might be cultivated, but against us they stand not a chance when it comes to our combined powers and numbers. (then ambitiously) why, heaven is just a prize to be seize in future!!
mor : (reminding) have you heard of zhao mookjie and rev. shangyi, both who remained elusive and loomed in the shadow? what about destroyer of evil leiming (miu kiuwai), and the supreme swordsman jiang (leung karfai)? aside from these two, there are many retired faces who appeared now and then. though they no longer grace the martial scene or actively in the pugilistic circle, we should be wary of them and try not to cross their path. at least, not for the time being. and if i am not mistaken, the current marquis of sang is a disciple of leiming and a name by himself. the new breed are the heirs of the song dynasty, sang and ling….
siu : they move in the day while we are at night….
fu : they and us neither mix nor cross one another….
sang : all these while, no one knew about us and no body suspected anything….
tsung : even now, heaven could only watch and do nothing….

now, they are right, aren't they? the villagers and commoners knew nothing. the pugilists might suspected something amiss but there were neither clue nor witness on the evil deeds and devilish acts…. the next day, villagers confronted each other violently, accusing of bloody murders and gruesome rapes. at the same time, individual families sought one another furiously, spitting savage venom and cursed finger pointing. the officers in charge have a hard time controlling the chaos and feuds. the titled were informed and the pugilistic circle was disturbed…. of course, the evil powers were gleefully ecstatic. however, if they thought heaven could only watch and do nothing, then they were wrong, very wrong….

heavenly kingdom where beautiful mist gathered and loomed, where breathtaking structures stood regal and majestically scene behold, inside the divine gathering hall celestial fox fairy ximei (vivian) finished reporting and her reports caused immediate uproar…. nuwa, goddess of virtue was the first to voice her displease "how dare they wreaked peace and destroyed innocent lives!!" followed by the god of archery houyi, "outrageous!! who are they to take over?!" next, the most senior of the eight immortals zhang liquan, "they forgot themselves!!" and followed by he xiangu, the only female divinely figure among the eight immortals "it is time to cease their nonsense!!" while the rest of the celestial figures and divine existences murmured/ seconded in agreements. meantime, ximei and her counterpart celestial vixen spirit wuniang (sharon teng) remained quiet…. a gesture from jade emperor and all went quiet….

jade : yes, these evil powers are thriving and increasing in an alarming speed and the kingdom of song is in great disaster. indeed, these creatures of darkness deserved no mercy but this is not the time to wipe them out completely. however, they deserved immediate thrashing….
houyi : (sighed) while my mortal disciple shangyi is still able, unfortunately age has caught up with him and a case of greater in number.

just then one of the male celestial figure and one of the heavenly guardians kuanloi (gallen lo) stepped out….

loi : (gesturing) your divine highness, my fellow divines, i wish to take care of these devilish imps! please allow me to show them who is the ultimate force in this universe!!

now, one of the minor celestial figure fangung (dicky) stepped out too and….

gung : (gesturing to all) your divine highness, my fellow divines, i seconded jade emperor's suggestion and applauded kuanloi's act of volunteer.

the rest looked among themselves and then all eyes zoomed to jade emperor who appeared thoughtful…. eventually, jade emperor spoke slowly…..

jade : kuanloi, thank you for volunteering. however, i have a better candidate to carry out this task - ximei.

surprised, all eyes zoomed to the celestial fox fairy. startled, ximei blinked blankly…. now when an order is out from the emperor, a subject's responsibility is to see to her task…. thus, ximei stepped out and hence jade emperor announced….

jade : we would not be confronting the evil powers directly but a "chosen" one would battle it out for us. this "chosen" one, would be the champion of his people and indirectly becomes "disciple" of heaven. ximei is to guide him and acts as messenger between "teacher" and "disciple".
ximei : (bowed) your divine highness, may i know who is the "chosen" one?
jade : (regally) you would know when the time comes. but now, you have to do something first. unlike the past individual cultivated demons and evil forces, these new breed creatures of darkness could not be taken lightly and easily for they are joined as one and their combined evil powers surpassed thousands and thousands of evil spirit cultivation and soul meditation skill of darkness. also, not forgetting their great and rapid increasing numbers. thus, aside from being highly trained and skilled in martial arts the "chosen" one would have something powerful to rely on. hence, the invincible yin-yang swords are to bestow from "teacher" to "disciple"…..

a divine attendant stepped out, carrying the supreme celestial sword and ximei took it while jade emperor continued….

jade : …. the sacred divine sword is currently with the nether king. ximei, pay the underworld a visit and dispatched my divine edict and messages to him and he will know what to do and what to tell you.

the assembly was dismissed soon after and just as ximei on her way to carry out her new task, fangung (dicky) intercepted her at the departure hall. really, this minor deity is one troublesome and meddlesome figure and ximei groaned inwardly. now, a divine life is not that perfect either…

gung : ah! fox fairy, it seems his divine highness looked high upon you…..

before ximei could reply, celestial vixen spirit wuniang (sheren) swung around and….

niang : fangung, are you jealous?
gung : (gritted) wuniang, did i stepped on your tail?!
niang : (drawled) no, but i dare you….

yes, there is bickering in heaven too. indeed, a provocation took place and ximei decided to intervene before things get out of hand but again, before she could speak, the fierce kuanloi (gallen) swung around….

loi : what is going on here?! ximei, aren't you suppose on your way?!
niang : (somewhat challenging) kuanloi, ximei is not under you and she reports directly to the jade emperor.
loi : (snapping) wuniang, watch your tongue!!
niang : (retorted) kuanloi, you watch your manner!!

from the corner of her eyes, ximei saw fangung is about to poke fire and this time, the celestial fox fairy beat everyone to it by….

ximei : fangung, the mortal world is already in its state of unrest and chaos. please spare us the trouble and havoc in heaven, alright? kuanloi, i am sorry jade emperor denied you your wish and please don't blame me for what happened at the assembly. wuniang, thank you for coming to my defense and i catch up with you later. everyone, i have a task on hand so please excuse me.

ximei then transformed and her stream of celestial light departed from the hall….when she hit the nail, fangung scowled darkly. though ximei addressed and spoke politely to him, nevertheless the fierce kuanloi is never known to take things lightly, frowned rigidly. as for wuniang…..

niang : (sighed and to no one in particular) i never could understand how some of you achieves divinity with such character flaw and misbehavior.

before the two could react, wuniang swung around and her stream of celestial light left the place…..

gung : (flushed and hotly) i will remember that insult!
loi : (flushed and thunderously) i will tolerate no such insolence!

they flushed and lashed in unison…. they jerked as one and their eyes met….

gung : (gleamed) do you think she should be taught a lesson?
loi : (glinted) i think it is time for them to learn to hold their tongue and to know their proper place!

late afternoon, mansion sang and inside the study chamber, the marquis wong chunboe (aaron kwok) finished reading his reports and looked up slowly, troubled and disturbed over the current and past murders and rapes cases alike. the problem is aside from the clues there are no witnesses and these "clues" seemed to be a set up sign rather than a solid proof. the other problem is, respective parties demanded justice and the accused parties sued for slanders. of course, all has but led to feuds and confrontations. at the same time, all the titled lords and the officers-in-charge also received news about their neighboring events…. honestly, the officers were at end wits and at loss of what to do. frankly, pent up bloodshed and further confrontation might be prevented at the moment but not for long. suddenly the marquis remembered his teacher's word…. years ago before parting company and retreated to mount ti, leiming (miu kiuwai) has told his disciple….

ming : (somewhat frowning) boe er, i have an unclear but slight prediction….
boe : teacher….?
ming : (briefly) in years to come, there might be a turbulence all over…. or rather, disaster in the whole kingdom of song….
boe : (jerked, stunned) teacher….!
ming : (looked away, sighed) boe er, i could only predict until here, no more no less…. (looked back, wisely) one could only see properly when the time comes and not before….

back to the present, the marquis frowned lightly…. "is this the turbulence or disaster that teacher has predicted??" a sound movement and the marquis looked out. from the windows he saw the maids walked past carrying tray of food…. the marquis's frown deepened and he called out. the maids stepped inside and the senior maid bowed….

maid : yes, my lord?
boe : why there are so many left over? is my lady feeling unwell?
maid : (reporting) the marquise is well my lord, merely…. (stopped)
boe : (stood up) merely what?
maid : ah… she is terribly upset….
boe : why?
maid : uh…. she has been since her return from visiting her father just now….

the marquis dismissed the maids and they retreated. he then went to look his marquise…. inside the master-chamber, the marquise liang yiemun (natalie wong) stared silently into the empty space while her maids hovered quietly…. the marquis stepped in startling all present and the maids took their leave closing the door discreetly behind them while yiemun stood up and greeted her lord husband ….

mun : (dutifully) my lord….
boe : (took her hand, quietly) i see your father has refused my lady again…. (then sighed) you know long ago he would never willing to stay here. yiemun, please don't get so upset until you refused to eat properly.
mun : (protested) my lord, this time is different! he knew what happened recently and before, yet he is in his couldn't care less attitude!!
boe : (seriously) what happened normally took place at remote villages and faraway places. his village is quite safe and he has close by neighbors. in any event, there were those on duties at night and should anything untoward happen or anything suspicious, alarm shall be raised and everyone would be alerted at once….
mun : (softly and somewhat shakily) still aside from this, father is old now and i am worried about his health and well being…..!
boe : (pulled her to him, reassuringly) he is in excellent health and he is used to his common and simple life… often we visited him with our children, he is full of joy and happiness but when we asked him to visit us, why, he pulled a long and irritating face!

at the mention of their brood and yiemun who has not seen them since her return….

mun : my lord, where is long er and kaa er?
boe : (dryly) they went out to the next town… long er felt bored at the town here while kaa er wanted to get something for herself there…. they should be back in the evening…..
mun : oh….
boe : (suddenly) so my lady, it seems we are all alone….
mun : (squarely) there are maids and servants, steward and caretaker, cooks and…
boe : (cutting, drawled) they are not here in this chamber, my dear….
mun : (reproving) my lord have responsible to see to, has work to attend…
boe : (crossed his arms, matter of fact) i finished all my rounds in the morning with long er, visited the trouble site and spoken to those poor villagers the whole afternoon. just now i finished reading my reports and when i saw your unfinished meal, i was so concerned about you. does my lady know i still haven't taken anything and here you are chastising me about my responsibility and work?
mun : (flushed) i am sorry, my lord. please sit down and i ask cook to….

as she spoke, yiemun opened the chamber door and with a movement of his arm and a single gesture of his strength, the door closed back up with a light bang and the chamber heard the marquis's plain statement…. "i am neither talking about nor interested in food!"

meanwhile, the heir of sang wong yunlong (nicky wu) and his sister wong yekaa (cecelia cheong) were enjoying themselves. like his father's youth, yunlong is both handsome and upright lad, at the same time charmingly kind and fully responsible character while his sister who took after their mother, is both prettily sweet and helpfully compassionate by nature. upon knowing the bloody and perishing events, brother and sister were angry and sorry at the same time, felt awfully upset upon hearing the feuds and confrontations.…. finally tired, brother and sister stopped to rest and for a drink at one of the stall…. after quenching their thirst….

yekaa : (ecstatically) oh brother! i am so happy that i have finally found the dress that i wanted!!
long : (mused and fanning himself) kaa er, you just found a dress and you are as such. (then winked) what happened if you happen to find your future husband here?
yekaa : (scowled at first but then teased playfully) ah brother, when are you going to propose to her? until then, i suppose my future husband have to wait…. now while i can wait, she cannot and serves you right if someone beat you to it!
long : (frowned) propose to who? who and what are you talking about?
yekaa : (sighed and shrugged) hmmm…. whoever or whatever…. (then rolled her eyes and to no one in particular) what a pretense!!
long : (somewhat irritated) kaa er, what are you talking about?!
yekaa : (impatiently) brother, come on! it is no secret!!
long : (exasperated) what secret?! kaa er, please stop having chicken and duck talk here!!

before yekaa could open her mouth, a commotion was heard and all heads swung to one direction, all eyes zoomed to one spot. while the females eyes looked and blinked curiously at the scene, the males eyes stayed fully focused at the lovely maiden who was defending herself skillfully against three strong men…. though she is skillful to attack and to defend swiftly at the same time, nevertheless it is a case of greater in number and brute strength is obviously too much for her. an opportunity, she leaped and the men somersaulted after her. as she swung around trying to make her fast escape, the men kicked and has her back into their attacking bearing.….manner dictated yunlong to play gallant to the maiden in distress, had yekaa jumped to the maiden's defense…. one second saw an elegant fan hit out "divine dragon netting earth" which broke all attacks, the same second saw a slim sword flexed "art of negotiation" towards the three men which had the three jerked defensively away. the next second saw yekaa stood protectively in front of the maiden and yunlong swung around steadily to confront the three men squarely…..

long : (gestured and somewhat stern) wong yunlong, pardon my intrusion but why attacked the young lady? also, why a case of three against one?

upon hearing his illegitimate but famous grandfather's name, the three men were jolted and looked among themselves while the hushed spectators whispered and murmured around….. as for the maiden who was startled when an elegantly dressed young lady her age jumped to her defense and her heart beats doubled at the sight of the handsome richly dressed young man who seemed to carry the air of authority and gallantry, found herself gaping at him and blinked at the sudden turn of event. when he addressed himself and spoke at her attackers sternly, she swallowed slowly…. one of the man stepped out and gestured….

man : greetings, master wong. pardon our manner but please understand, this girl (pointing and accusing) stole our money and our valuables!

at once, gasps were heard all over the place. at once, all eyes started to frown and all began to look disapprovingly at the young lady. yekaa turned to face her while yunlong swung to stare at the maiden who calmly stepped out. honestly, she is very lovely and an ethereal picture of feminine youth. all males couldn't believe she is a thief. frankly, her plainly decorated long hair and commonly appearance/sight failed to do injustice on her. when she spoke, her voice was soft but steely….

maiden : i repeat, i did not steal your money or took your what so ever! i might be poor but i have a pair of hand and leg to earn a decent living!! i might be born a commoner but that doesn't mean you rich bunch could simply subjects me your suspicions and accusations!!!

yekaa smiled for she admired such a strong character. yunlong smiled, impressed by her proud demeanor. the male spectators gaped at her mettle display while the female spectators blinked at her spunky speech….

man : (angry) then why you refused to let us check it out?!
maiden : (without preamble) you must be mad to think i let you check on me!

at this point, some couldn't help grinning while many giggled out loud. most laughed lightly… before the man could open his mouth, yekaa stepped forward….

yekaa : (gestured) wong yekaa, greetings to all. (turning to the three men) since she wont allowed you to check on her, then let me do it for you. (turning to the maiden) miss, pardon me but to prove you are really innocent, may i check on you?
maiden : (flatly) yes, you may.

yekaa checked on the maiden and all the lady could find is an old and worn pouch which carried little money….(turned the three men, sarcastically) my dear sirs, is this your money and valuables?

the three men flushed and gritted in unison, "of course not!" and yekaa seized the opportunity to snap, "now, apologize to this young lady at once!"…. the three men looked hesitated when yunlong remarked thinly, "i think you three should be brought to the authority for slandering and attacking an innocent young lady or rather, trying to take advantage…" only then the trio realised their blunder and quickly admitted their mistaken and begged for forgiveness and leniency. the maiden nodded and let the matter drop. after the trio went off, the crowds and spectators began to disperse…. across the space, their eyes met and she looked away from his. however, manner dictated her to gesture and spoke appropriately….

maiden : (quietly) master wong, miss wong, thank you for coming to my defense…. farewell….

the maiden turned to go…. yekaa called out "wait!" and the maiden stopped turning to look at her, "yes?"

yekaa : (smiled) miss, what is your name? for your age, your skill is impressive. (then sincerely) by the way, could we be your friends?

though taken by yekaa's friendly smile and sincerity, nevertheless there are things hardly meant to be…. however, manner dictated her to reply….

maiden : (smiled lightly and politely) thank you for your compliment…. i came from distance and i hardly stay put in one place….. yes, we can be friends but we might not see each other again after this or perhaps we might meet only in the far future….. i am sorry to appear rude but i am really in a hurry…. again, farewell….

when she smiled, yunlong stared unblinkingly and when she turned to go, he called out instinctively, "wait! miss, at least please tell us your name!!" at first, they thought she is not going to tell them but then they heard "chiu chungling" (erica choi) briefly before she walked away swiftly and disappeared quickly into the crowd…. He was still staring when his sister pulled at him….

kaa : (winked) lovely, isn't she?
long : (grinned) very lovely.
kaa : (drawled) i wont let her know you gaped at another…
long : (blinked, lost) huh, who… what….?
kaa : (sighed) ah brother, let us go home now.

meanwhile at the capital song and behind the palace wall and at the crown prince's private imperial garden…. crown prince chungweng (vincent jiao), prince chunghong (louis koo), princess hanlei (charlie yeung) and princess meilei (kenix kwok) gathered for afternoon tea and the royal siblings chatted happily with one another. among all the princes and princesses of song, only these four seemed to get along well with each other despite having different mother. the rest of the royal brood either back stabbed or vied with one another for their emperor father's attention or favor….

weng : (mused) 10th royal brother, i heard you up to your usual trick again recently….
hong : (startled, then grinned) crown prince brother, i see you are very well informed!
han : (smiled) of course as a crown prince, he is well informed of anything and everything inside palace.
mei : (quipped) not only that but from behind every closed chambers to the outside events as well!

at this point, chungweng's expression changed and his siblings looked among themselves…. honestly, they has seen him like this countless time. frankly, it is not easy to become a crown prince….

hong : (quietly) crown prince brother, please don't look as such…
weng : (sighed) life as a commoner might be poor and lacking, but who says life as a crown prince is wonderful and perfect?
han : (softly) crown prince brother, you shall come to the throne soon. you must not lacked confidence or interest in your future rule and reign….
mei : (softly) crown prince brother, the court and the palace life might be suffocating and restricted by royal protocol but come to think of it, we faced this since our birth….

for countless time, chungweng is glad he has these royal siblings to share things with. really, they just knew how to offer comfortable and kind words to him. while the rest wish to be close with him, they were all pretenders. the nobles, the titled and the officers often paid due respect to him, but obviously they wanted to gain his favor. whereas chunghong, hanlei and meilei, they always spoke their minds honestly and voice their opinions frankly upon their displease or disapproval…. back to the present, chungweng turned and suddenly started to speak in a "coded" statement….

weng : (dryly) is the cat going to venture out again soon?
hong : (drawled) that depends on the cat's mood….
han : (smiled) my pet dog needs to take his walk….
mei : (grinned) why not let the cat and dog gets together and see what happens?

behind them, the palace maids and attendants frowned lightly. across the space, the palace eunuchs and guards heard everything but misunderstood the meanings behind….

at night and at the same time but at two different places…. before going to bed, one mind wondered briefly, "is someone thinking what i am thinking now?" while another mind pondered sleepily, "does someone share my same thought at this moment?" later in dream, he saw her while she noticed him. their eyes met for what it seemed ages. their gaze locked for what it seemed eternity….

meanwhile, a stream of celestial light reached the netherworld and ximei (vivian leung) swung around…. guarding the dark entrance, stood two nether figures the gatekeepers buffalo headed and horse faced….

at the netherworld entrance….

buffalo : who is there?!
horse : what is your business here?!
ximei : (gestured) ximei, greetings to you two. i am here because jade emperor asked me to visit the nether king.
buffalo : ximei the celestial fox fairy and heavenly messenger?
ximei : (nodded) i am she.
horse : the nether king awaits you. you may go in.
ximei : (gestured again) thank you.

ximei (vivian leung) then walked passed the two gatekeepers and stepped into the dark underworld. as she walked into the *first dark tunnel, the souls/spirits cried and begged but the nether guards looked hard and unfeeling. the second dark tunnel is full with creatures of darkness and the nether guards whipped those who misbehaved or stirred troubles. the third dark tunnel witnessed many were chained and guided to different paths and different locations by individual nether figure. when she walked into the forth dark tunnel, ximei heard eerie echoes tried to disturb her journey, spine chilling sounds tried to warn her off, ghostly whispers tried to frighten her away. ximei remained calm and walked on steadily ahead. now, she still has to go through many dark tunnels and witnessed many things she never wanted to see. eventually, she came to the *nether cave* and crossed the *bridge of sorrow* and finally she reached the *underworld court*. the nether guardian was waiting for her….. (* as and were mentioned in the book of chinese mythology)

ximei : (gestured) ximei, greetings to you. i come to see the nether king under the order of jade emperor.
guardian : (returned gesture) the nether king is expecting you at the *nether hall*. just go in.

the hall was dark and gloomy, hot and smoggy. around her, nether figures stared at her and she looked back. then she looked up and seated high and mighty in his nether chair, the fiery-king and iron-ruler of the dark underworld…..

ximei : (bowed, polite) ximei, my respect to your nether highness.
king : (nodded) i understand jade emperor has an edict/message for me.

ximei said "yes" and produced the scroll. a nether attendant stepped out and took the scroll from her and brought it to the nether king. after finished reading the scroll, the nether king snapped his finger twice and a nether guardian stepped out carrying the sacred divine sword. the nether king snapped his finger again but this time only once and a nether attendant walked out carrying a thick scroll. the guardian and the attendant walked towards ximei and at the same time, the nether king spoke….

king : (explaining) the sacred divine sword a.k.a "yin" and the supreme celestial sword a.k.a "yang" formed the invincible yin-yang swords. the "yin" sword could kill and destroy anything while the "yang" sword could diminishes and eliminates evil. when combined, the yin-yang swords are invincible and its force is second to none, in another word these swords are matchless. however there is one condition, whoever used the yin-yang swords together must learn how to control and master their force. otherwise, the result would be disastrous.
ximei : (gestured) your nether highness, please advise further.
king : (waved) everyone is different from one another. a person is an individual and unique self. there is no further advice but i tell you the "chosen" one must be intelligent and diligent, kind and upright character.
ximei : and who is this "chosen" one?
king : you will know when the time comes but i tell you sang is the place to look. now, the other thing is this thick scroll consisted of names/characteristics of the rioting spirits and demonic souls. the strongest and the most powerful of all, tinmor (andy lau) also known as heavenly demon has been cultivated for the last ten thousand years, tasted countless blood and has been absorbing more than enough human bodily essence. the rest are his comrades and followers, dark associates and creatures in his force accordingly. due to their high cultivation and dark meditation - he, his comrades and associates appeared like mortal, moved in and out like an ordinary being. to eliminate them altogether is an impossible task, but to control and restricted their plundering and rioting, yes it could be done. briefly, i suggest to tackle the associates first, then only confronted the comrades and finally, showdown with heavenly demon. ximei, note all the evil forces well and where their skill lies so that you could guide the "chosen" one properly and you must never fail this heavy responsibility. else, disaster befallen the kingdom of song.
ximei : (solemnly) i will try my best….
king : (hitting) no, not try but you must succeed!

at this point, ximei kept quiet. honestly, it is a very heavy responsibility. frankly, she doesn't know whether she could shoulder such major task….

king : guards, show our visitor the way out….

when ximei left the underworld, her stream of celestial light swept past the towns and villages in a frustrating manner. eventually, she reached the border of sang and finally she swung and stepped into the quiet woods…. for a while, she blinked and stared at the surrounding. then she looked up at the sky and whispered, "dear heaven, why me?" at first she thought heaven answered, when in reality a feminine cry….

meanwhile, chiu chungling (erica choi) reached the border of sang and she smiled to herself. soon, she would reach home…. happily, she hummed a song and began to skip on her way. her skipping turned leaping and leaping soon replaced by somersaulting. as she leaped, she suddenly thought of wong yunlong (nicky wu). somersaulting in deep thoughts and in full memory of him, she didn't notice a silent shadow is fast closing in and she realised too late when the shadow overtook her. she jerked in time to avoid the shadow's intention and leaped off bearing. the shadow followed but now, fully alerted and in midair chungling reached for her sword skillfully and produced a swift menacing/warning stroke to ward off the attack. the shadow laughed and somersaulted, landed on his feet. at the same time, chungling landed on hers. the shadow swung round and she stared at the most roguish and lustful looking male alive while his eyes took in her loveliness and slenderness, traveled slowly and lingered lazily…. when their eyes met, she glared at him coldly while he smiled and winked….

ling : (icily) why did you disturbed me?!
shadow : (charmingly) my name is dinfu. (leon lai)
ling : (snapped) i asked you a question, not your name!
fu : (drawled) did i disturbed you? ah, please forgive my earlier manner. lovely maiden, may i know your name?
ling : (abruptly) excuse me.

she turned to go and walked no more than five steps when suddenly a "shadow" trapped her and she cried out instinctively. she tried to reach for her sword but too late and she was forced to struggle against a "wolf" strength and at the same time, was helpless against dinfu's lustful gestures…. one moment he was enjoying himself, the next instant dinfu jerked away instinctively upon sensing a celestial force…. when dinfu released her, chungling jerked up and the next thing she knew…. he swung around to counter her "celestial strike" with his "shadow kick"…. chungling and the surrounding witnessed display of cultivated skills and clashing streams. kicking and swinging, he attacked with his "shadow play" and she leaped and defended with her "celestial star". the surrounding dimmed upon their battle impacts and the woods stirred upon their fierce forces. an opportunity and he hit out his "shadow palm" while the same opportunity saw her issued "celestial palm". two palms met and ximei was jerked back while dinfu was pushed back. their eyes met. she stood rigid and steely at the lustful soul. he blinked, couldn't and wouldn't believe his eyes at the beautiful fox fairy and her breathtaking sight behold.

ximei : (hissed) how dare you creatures of darkness wreaked havoc, plundered and raped freely in this mortal world!
fu : (glinted) and who are you to stop us?!
ximei : (without preamble) you will know when the time comes!
fu : (laughed at first but then suddenly harshly) why??!! why did you turned your back at your origin?! why did you choose divinity over dark immortality?! (shaking his head) what a waste! a total waste!!
ximei : (icily) why? none of your business! waste? i don't think so!
fu : (gleamed) i decided to make it by business and i want to change your mind….

as he spoke, dinfu charged aggressively and ximei jerked defensively. as he attacked "shadow trap", she heard his roguish drawl "…..i intend to bring you back to where you belong…. in the darkness and of course, in my arm…." as she kicked and swung to avoid his trap, ximei displayed her "celestial light" to counter attack and he heard her disgusted tone, "…dream on!". he changed tactic and displayed his "shadow charm", ximei was not at least charmed and she hit out "celestial thunder", intending to strike him down. dinfu's patience snapped and he lashed "shadow twin"…. by cultivated skill, ximei is strong to take him on but by cultivated strength, he is way above her power….. fortunately for ximei, she happened to have the yin-yang swords and she reached out for one of them instinctively to avoid being subdued by a stronger foe. the next thing dinfu knew, he was forced to retreat upon an element emitting from a sword that surpassed his powerful soul. instinct told him to leave at once…. as he transformed himself into stream of darkness, he remarked determinedly and roguishly "…my beautiful fox fairy, i shall possess you when the time comes…!" the next thing ximei knew, her foe retreated and she shook her head, trying to get rid of his echoing remark. a trembling movement distracted her…. meantime, chungling who has been watching the whole scene, couldn't and wouldn't believe her eyes and ears. honestly, she knew many unknown and unseen things happened and existed in life but frankly, this is the first time she ever saw such confrontation and heard such conversation took place. she trembled on her spot….

ximei : (reached her, kindly) miss, don't be frightened for you are safe now. by the way, did he hurt you?

though trembling, nevertheless her voice is somewhat steady….

ling : no. you came just in time.
ximei : do want me to accompany you home?
ling : no. i can manage. who are you?
ximei : my name is ximei….
ling : my name is chungling, surname chiu. who is dinfu? is he not mortal?
ximei : dinfu who?
ling : dinfu…. that one just now, i heard you called him creature of darkness while he called you….
ximei : (cutting politely) how do you know his name?
ling : he introduced himself.
ximei : oh….
ling : miss ximei…
ximei : hmmm….
ling : (insisting) who are you? what are you? who is he? what is he?
ximei : (sighed) miss chiu, it is long story and i don't think you should know, would understand.
ling : (sensibly) try me.
ximei : (shook her head) no. miss chiu, there are things simply cannot be reveal or could be explain. please understand. (continued when ling said nothing) miss chiu….
ling : yes?
ximei : (advising) just be careful in the future.
ling : (nodded slowly) i will. (gestured gratefully) thank you.
ximei : (smiled) you are welcome.

chungling and ximei parted ways….. when she reached home, she called out ecstatically "father! i am home!" an elderly man stepped out and she ran into his out spread arms. her father is chiu tinshan, (sam lui) an assassin during his youth but repent later. when he turned his back on his profession, many seeks his return while some of his previous employers send other assassins to track him down. fortunately, he survived the onslaughts and wrath. unfortunately, he has to move constantly and unable to stay put. as the years come and go, eventually those who after him either gave up or spared him, since he carried no tales. finally, he found peace and himself a wife and his wife died a year ago….back to the present, father and daughter pulled away….

chiu : ling er, why you came back so soon? your employer allows you to leave so often?
ling : (filial) i missed you. as for my employer, (smiled) they are kind and generous….
chiu : still….
ling : oh father, don't worry about my employer. they have countless maids and lady attendants to serve them…. ah father, let me tell you something….!

she told him and when she finished, her father….

chiu : so you met the heir of sang and his sister….
ling : hmmmm…..
chiu : (smiled) so they came to your defense. (somewhat faraway) yes, they indeed carried the late chen yunlong's (steven ma) famous legacy. (then suddenly) so you are attracted to him?
ling : (blinked) huh?
chiu : (dryly) don't try to be innocent….
ling : (flushed) father!
chiu : (meaningful) ling er, he is the heir of sang….
ling : (flatly) i know, father, i know….
chiu : (sighed) look, not that i….
ling : (cutting) are you hungry? let me cook something special for you tonight.

she wanted to tell him her other encounter too but then thought better of it….. after parting company with chungling, ximei decided to visit the town…. as she walked, many eyes especially men turned to look at her. not that she is vain but of course she knew her own beauty and grace. then she saw him…. wong yunlong and yekaa were on their way back when he saw her staring at him…. honestly, he has seen many beautiful women and lovely ladies. frankly, he has never come across one that took his breath away…. yekaa followed the direction of his gaze. really, she knew her brother is very handsome and good looking. but why must heaven send him so many beautiful women and lovely ladies?… yekaa then stood in front of him, blocking and distracting him….

yekaa : (frowning) tell me brother, how many women you intend to have?
long : (irritated) kaa er, not now!

yunlong tried to look again but the beautiful woman is gone. he swung around, his eyes tried to search corners and angles, everywhere but he could not locate her…. yekaa pulled at him and he turned to his sister….

yekaa : (plainly) brother, aside from your future marquise, how many consort you intend to take in?
long : (impatiently) none!
yekaa : (sarcastic) yeah, right!

brother and sister bickered all the way home while ximei trailed after them….

mansion ling and inside a feminine chamber a young lady turned and swung about in front of the mirror, holding garment after garment…. a knock was heard and the young lady turned to see her older sister stepped in…. one look at her younger sister, wu chengcheng (annie man) knew the latter is undecided. one glance at her clothes, the former knew wu chengyue (vicky zhao) has not even pack a single thing yet….

cheng : (quietly) yue er, he likes pink and purple on you. now, please pack everything pink and purple and leave the rest behind.
yue : (startled) how do you know? he told you?
cheng : (simply) i just know.

chengyue grinned happily at her elegant sister while chengcheng smiled lightly at her adorable younger sister. someone stepped in and both sisters turned to see their elder brother, wu chenming (jimmy lin) the heir apparent of ling…

ming : cheng er, yue er, are you two ready?
cheng : give us a little more time please.
yue : (quipped) yes, let me tuck in all the pink and purple dress and off we go!

as she quipped, chengyue started pack…. chengcheng helped her…. as his sisters packed quickly, chenming mused to himself, "yunlong, i wish you luck with this little and youngest sister of mine!"…. just then, their parents the marquis and marquise of ling, wu chantian (julian cheung) and lei miusin (kristy yang) stepped into the chamber… the siblings quickly went over and after the appropriate greetings and fussing….

tian : (seriously) ming er, look after your sisters…. and keep your eyes and ears open…
ming : (solemnly) i will, father….
sin : (adding) after what happened recently and in the past, be careful while on the way to sang….
cheng : (nodded) we will, in any event we are well trained, remember?
yue : (when all eyes on her) ah, don't worry about me! (dramatic) i have big brother to look after me! i have big sister to shelter me! and oh, i have…! (stop suddenly)
ming : (teased, finishing) … the gallant and charming wong yunlong to love and to take care of you….
yue : (pouted) he has promised to do so!

the parents shook their heads indulgently and chenming grinned. outwardly, wu chengcheng smiled but inwardly, she swallowed…. soon, the three siblings on their way on horseback…. at the same time, four richly dressed youngsters were on horseback too. en route, another came into the picture and seven plus one equals eight. unknown to all, something loomed in a ghostly manner….. fate or coincidence encounters, only heaven knows…. hormonal reactions or chemistry clicks, who knows….. the siblings stopped by a river to let their horses grazed about….. while resting, a sound movement was heard and three pairs of eyes jerked, alerted. a young man came to view and he was as alerted as them….. chengyue the talkative and adorable one was the first to find her tongue and cheek….

yue : greetings, you nearly gave us a scare….

the young man stared at the trio, saying nothing…. when he said nothing, the siblings could sense his arrogance but then he gestured and manner dictated the siblings to return gesture…. when he spoke, his voice sounded arrogant and didn't return greeting but his word is polite….

man : i am sorry, i didn't mean to intrude. i wish to quench my thirst….
ming : (grinned good naturally) it is alright. you did not intrude, the river is for all…
man : (nodded but didn't smile) thank you.

as the man walked past chengcheng, he stopped to look at her and she him…. she is an elegant beauty, he is quite good looking in a manly way. it is obvious she is a well born while he, a commoner. still, he was stirred but briefly. now, she saw something in his eyes but it was gone quickly…. the man quenched his thirst…. again, chengyue the adorable and talkative one couldn't hold her tongue….

yue : my name is wu chengyue, my brother wu chenming and my sister wu chengcheng. i am the youngest and we are on our way to sang. what is your name and where are you going?

the man stood up slowly and when he turned, he looked at wu chengcheng first, longer than intended until she looked away…. realising his blunder, the man skillfully covered himself by asking….

man : (carefully) master wu chenming, the heir apparent of ling?
ming : (fanning lightly) yes, how do you know?
man : (somewhat proud) we pugilist know who's who in the circle….
yue : (stepped forward, interested) pugilist, you are a pugilist! (then frowned) but my brother is not a pugilist!
man : (somewhat arrogant) my name is jiang qinfung, (gilbert lam) master wu might not be a pugilist but he is the well known grandchild and disciple of the retired destroyer of evil leiming (miu kiuwai)….
ming : (blinked) so, you heard of my grandfather and me?
fung : (nodded) yes, (then gestured) master wu, may i have a request?
ming : (somewhat know what is coming) you may speak….
fung : (direct) may i have the honour to pit against you….
yue : (excitedly before ming could reply) ah! master jiang, are you related to "supreme pugilist" swordsman jiang xhiqi (leung karfai)? i heard all about him from my maternal grandfather!
fung : (without preamble) he is my father…..

at this point, chenming closed his fan, "oh…!" and chengyue gasped, "ah….!" while chengcheng jerked slightly.…

ming : master jiang….
fung : yes….
ming : (gestured) my pleasure to meet you. (then somewhat playfully) my honour to pit against a famous descendant….

only then, qinfung smiled, a slow smile that sent the ladies gaped and blinked while chenming mused. why, he does know how to smile, doesn't he?…. the men took their position…. the ladies stepped aside…. qinfung swung his sword skillfully, chenming flexed his fan skillfully. one moment everything stood still. the next moment, everything happened very fast…. qinfung attacked strongly, chenming defended skillfully breaking all symmetrical attacks. next chenming attacked "divine dragon netting earth" and qinfung leaped swiftly to counter and to destroy the net. just then, both attacked simultaneously and the surrounding witnessed measured strokes went against calculated strokes, agile swiftness versus speedy lightness, youthful skill matched by energetic skill…. as they leaped and kicked to exchange stroke, both came to know each other prowess in martial arts. as they swung to deliver each blow, the duo came to realise each other strength and skill…. suddenly, the ladies screamed…. qinfung froze, chenming jerked…..

meanwhile, ghostly gnome kwaisang (alex su) looms…. now, he wanted to snatch the two maidens. but something about the talkative and adorable one gets to him and he swallowed at her delicateness and daintiness…. as the men pitted on, they began to venture further and further away. at the same time, kwaisang edged closer. when the opportunity arrived, kwaisang wasted no time to carry out his dark snatch…. chengcheng was the first to scream followed by chengyue. fortunately for chengcheng, she jerked in time and swift to ward him off with "art of negotiation". chengyue jerked to leap skillfully in time but unfortunately for her, she leaped off bearing and apart from the rest leaving her in a vulnerable position… yet fortunately for her, help come in the form of her siblings, qinfung and passersby…. though he never heard her voice, qinfung instinctively knew chengcheng's scream and he froze … when his sisters screamed, chenming jerked….. four youngsters were passing nearby when they heard feminine screams and they rode quickly towards the scene….

scene one saw kwaisang pulled chengyue to him. for a split second, their eyes met and for the next split second, she instinctively screamed and hit him while he was instantly stirred by her closeness, feminine youth and essence…. scene two saw kwaisang about to transform taking chengyue with him when the trio charged forward where chengcheng wanted to use her darts. the same scene saw him displayed his "ghost palm" towards the charging trio. chenming shouted a warning and leaped off bearing and cursed his neglect about the surrounding. qinfung being closer to chengcheng, pulled her off bearing and manner dictated him to shelter a lady, or rather he couldn't bear to see her harm and regretted his lacking thought of danger. kwaisang's "ghost palm" force was destructive and shattered the whole peace and tranquility…. scene three saw kwaisang subdued chengyue's screams and struggles with a brief but tempestuous kiss, which robbed her every breath away and knocked her every thought apart…. scene four saw him nearly succeeded snatching her away when riders fast approaching. by then, the shocked but enraged chengyue found her voice to scream and strength to struggle again…. scene five had one of the rider leaped up skillfully and swiftly towards chengyue's aid and the same second saw another followed suit…. scene six heard kwaisang swore furiously and was forced to let go of his precious prey…. scene seven witnessed a thousand years old destructive and tempestuous gnome battled one against four strong and skillful young men…. chenming's "divine suction" clashed with kwaisang's "ghost supreme" and the blows exploded, rocking the surrounding. three swords came down on him and kwaisang's whipped up his "ghost mutation" to counter defend against the strong and simultaneous attacks. the impact crashed, shaking every stance. chenming wasted no time to lash out his "typhoon waves" where kwaisang retaliated with his "ghost camouflage". the result had the river water splash up heavily, the nearby rocks burst evenly and the trees branches snapped violently. all were to retreat and to take cover….. by his cultivated displays, ghostly gnome kwaisang is strong to take them all. by individual skills and combined energies, the four were strong to hinder his deed. seeing not his day and an opportunity, kwaisang transformed himself into stream of darkness and everything is over….

meantime, chengcheng reached out for her younger sister who trembled between shock and anger… when an explosion was heard and rocking was felt, both sisters jerked visibly. upon the crashing impact and shaking, they flinched instinctively. upon the tempestuous result, they cleared out of the violent bearing.…. despite being well trained and used to witness fights and pits, nothing prepared them for this battle while the other two passersby huddled closely…. suddenly the confrontation is over and the next thing they know, their brother rushed over, followed closely by jiang qinfung.…. the four passersby grouped together and closed in but kept a polite distance…

ming : (concerned and urgent) cheng er, yue er, are you two alright?! yue er, did he hurt you?! are you in pain?!
yue : (swallowed, slowly) no….
cheng : (calmly) yue er suffered a shock….
yue : (whispered) he kissed me….! his kiss is so disgusting….!

as she whispered, tears started to pool but she didn't cry…. chengcheng quickly comforted her sister while chenming offered brotherly consolation while qinfung eyed the scene quietly, or rather he eyed chengcheng discreetly…. at the same time, the four watched silently. one eyed the refined chengcheng while another eyed the shocked chengyue…. the moment passed and every one become aware of every body….

ming : (jumped up) oh! pardon my manner…. i haven't thank you properly for helping!….(gestured) wu chenming, greetings…. (introducing) these are my sisters, chengcheng and chengyue….
fung : (manner, gestured) jiang qinfung, greetings….

the four returned gesture and stepped forward… now that at a closer look, the other two are ladies in male attires…. one by one, they introduced themselves….

weng : chungweng, (vincent jiao) greetings….
hong : chunghong, (louis koo) greetings….
han : hanlei, (charlie yeung) greetings…
mei : meilei, (kenix kwok) greetings….

upon the introductions, pairs of eyes widened slowly and gaped in disbelief…. the next instant….

ming : (jerked) you are the princes and the princesses of song?
fung : (jolted) chungweng?! you are the crown prince and heir apparent of song?!
weng : (nodded to both) yes….
cheng : (without thinking) why are you here and not at the palace?

scene eight saw and witnessed many crossed signals and destined meetings at one go…. chenming's eyes met with the princess meilei. he swallowed unconsciously while she couldn't look away…. as she spoke, chengcheng stared into crown prince chungweng's eyes and looked away uncomfortably when his firm gaze seemed to unsettle her and only to find herself locked with qinfung's gaze. chengyue flushed and look down quickly when prince chunghong's steady glance seemed to disturb her….. the princess hanlei knew a mutual attraction when she sees one and from her brothers' reaction, the princess saw sparks of feelings…. the problem is, mixed emotions….


Chapter 5: The chosen one & the fairy godmother

WONG YUNLONG THE "CHOSEN" ONE & XIMEI THE FAIRY GODMOTHER

evening at sang, yunlong (nicky wu) and yekaa (cecelia cheong) reached their mansion home and went to see their parents…. after the appropriate greetings, brother and sister related their outing. when they finished, yekaa couldn't help adding….

kaa : …. and of course, brother came across beautiful women again! today he gaped at two!!
long : (irritated) kaa er, stop adding sugar and spices!
kaa : (pouted) it is the truth!
long : (disputed) it is not!!
mun : (intervened) kaa er, don't be rude to your brother….

yekaa bowed meekly then and yunlong put on a triumphant face only to be slap down by his mother, the marquise liang yiemun's (natalie wong) next word….

mun : (frowning) long er, i expect you to behave appropriately where ladies are concerned…..
long : (protested) mother, i didn't gape…! i merely….! (trailed off, couldn't find his word)
mun : (dryly) yes, merely what? please, do continue my son….

this time, yekaa put on a triumphant face and stood gloating at this brother's loss for word…. at this point, the marquis wong chunboe (arron kwok) spoke….

boe : (meaningfully) long er, ming er and his sisters are coming to visit soon….

at the mention of their childhood friends, yunlong and yekaa brightened….

long : (excited) ah yes, if i am not mistaken they should be arriving in a day or two!
kaa : (ecstatic) i couldn't wait to see them!
mun : (sternly) now excitement aside - long er, kaa er, you two have not visited your maternal grandfather…
long : (honestly) i am thinking to visit grandfather with the siblings….
kaa : (frankly) yes, after that all of us are going to visit grand teacher at mount ti….
mun : (nodded, pleased) ahhh…. !
boe : (nodded, approving) hmmm….!

their caretaker announced dinner and the family dined for the night. after dinner, the father signaled his heir for man to man talk…. inside the study chamber….

boe : (matter of fact) long er, are you catching up with your work and responsibility?
long : (dutifully) yes, father….
boe : (lightly) how soon do you think you could take over?
long : (startled) father??
boe : (smiled) a manner of conversation…..
long : (relaxed) i can take over any time but why the rush? father, you are still young and the people still look up on you….
boe : (sighed) i have been ruling sang for the past two decades….
long : (quipped) and would be for the next decade after next….

the marquis turned to his son/heir and yunlong was startled to see his father's expression. now, when it come to seriousness, yunlong is both smart and intelligent to catch….

long : (solemnly) father, what do you think the motive behind the recent and past events that haunted sang and our neighbors?
boe : (frowned) one, it is obvious some sources is trying to stir trouble and wreak havoc…. two, it might appeared to be murders and rapes, but at a closer look and into deeper thoughts, every event seems to tell more than the eyes - examples, not many bodies were recovered or found. in some mutilated bodies, important inner organs were missing and then, some bodies seemed to be drained of blood and human essence…. three and at the same time, pugilistic rumours went wild on unseen powers and unknown forces are thriving and lurking…. four, many travelers and villagers alike carried news on demonic existences and creatures of darkness marking their presence felt….
long : (quietly) father, do you think all these are related to one another?
boe : (slowly) i don't know for i haven't personally came across any yet but in past, yes i have seen many unknown and unbelievable things existed in life….
long : (suddenly) father, let me investigate and check over things….!
boe : (unexpected) ah…?!
long : (firm and somewhat fierce) father, i would not let these rampages and havoc goes on! i would not have these murders and rapes continue!! father, since i am going out with the rest i might as well look into the matter. (then somewhat excited) who knows, i might stumble on something that leads to answers and truths….

honestly the marquis knew long ago his heir took after him. frankly he and his son inherited many things from the late but famous and chivalrous adventurer chen yunlong (steven ma)…. suddenly, he wanted his son to learn and experienced things from the open life and outside event as much as possible. an idea came to him and….

boe : long er, you are a young man now…. it is time for you to venture out…. long er, after visiting your maternal grandfather and grand teacher, continue with your journey and do some travelling…. if you are in ting, paid a visit to your aunt yinyie (michelle lee) and marked your appropriate respect at the tings' shrine. if you happen to drop by xing, paid a courtesy call to your aunt yuexiang (christy chung)…. yes, at the same time keep an eye and ear open…. as for kaa er, she may come back here or follow the lings home…..

as he listened, yunlong couldn't believe his ears. why, his father is letting him to seek his own adventure! however, as his father's statement came to an end….

long : (make a face) kaa er might wants to tag along…. why, even chenming might wants to follow…. when chenming follows, surely cheng er and yue er will follow too…
boe : (suddenly) don't you like the idea of yue er besides you?
long : (blinked) huh?
boe : (dryly) don't try to be innocent, lad….
long : (flushing) ahh….!
boe : (mildly) is something on between the two of you?
long : (flushed deepened, stammered) we ah…, i uh…, she… we….!
boe : (squarely) you what? she what? if you like her and she likes you, just admit it and if you want her as your future marquise, just tell me so i can talk to your marquis uncle chantian. (julian)
long : (thoughts scattering) no! ah yes! i mean no… ! uh, wait….!
boe : (rolled his eyes, sighed) long er, what are you trying to say? what are you getting at?

honestly, he doesn't know what to say. frankly, he has no idea what he is getting at…. yes, he like her and indeed, he knew she likes him too but…..

long : (honestly innocent and frankly naive) we didn't declare for each other….!

his father stared at him and poor yunlong continued to flush under the older man's gaze…..

boe : (between reminding and teasing) i thought you gallantly and chivalrously said something about love and to take care of her….
long : (between reason and protest) i was very young then and she was absolutely young….! she might have forgotten all about it now….!
boe : (wisely) she might but from the looks of it, she does return your affection as the year goes by, doesn't she?
long : (truthfully) she is still very young while i…. (trailed off hesitantly)
boe : (understanding, finishing) …. while you still haven't come to a firm decision….
long : (swallowed) father….
boe : (cutting kindly) long er, it is alright… if she is destined to be yours, she would be yours in the end, just like your mother who is destined to be mine despite so many thing stood in our way and crossed our path…. yes, she is still very young and indeed, she might be indecisive too…. (then smiled) long er, you are tired now, go to sleep…. we talk again the next day….

father and son retired for the night….all these while after trailing and yunlong and yekaa home, ximei (vivian leung) loomed quietly and silently at the mansion and family…. ximei who no longer recognized chunboe or remembers their crossed past, decided to stay and watch things over… when she first saw him, ximei has an instinctive feeling he could be the "chosen" one. thus, she trailed after him. during father and son conversation, ximei caught yunlong's diligence and confidence. when yunlong was quick to catch his father's expression, ximei immediately noted the lad's observance and intelligence. when he spoke of his intention, ximei instantly read upright character and chivalrous nature. all the while, ximei saw and sensed kindness in him. now all these summed up to one word - hero, and a hero is champion of the people, right? hence upon the marquis's statement and yunlong's reaction, ximei knew her instinct is right…. yes, the time has come. indeed, the "chosen" one must know his fate and destiny…. but before that, to make sure he is the "chosen" one and before he could become "disciple" of heaven, why, he must undergo a test, mustn't he?

in the middle of the night, yunlong awoke suddenly…. he blinked into the darkness… he is about to close his eyes when a gust of wind swept past his window… he left his bed to close the window…. as he about to close the window, he saw her. at first he thought he is dreaming, that his eyes is playing trick on him, hallucinating… he blinked, she is there. he blinked again, she is still there - smiling at him, signaling him to follow her. he shook his head, trying to clear his mind and before he could find his voice, the beautiful vision leaped away swiftly. by now, yunlong is fully awake and of course, a man's instinct is to go after a woman, isn't it? especially a beautiful one at that…..

honestly, she is very swift. frankly, he has no problem catching up with her…. she leaped soundlessly past the open air/villages and into the woods. he swept past the buildings/structures and somersaulted skillfully after her…. eventually they came across a secluded spot. finally, she landed on her feet and yunlong landed on his a second later at a discreet distance…. she smiled at his appropriate manner and he returned her smile with his gentlemanly charm….

long : (gestured) wong yunlong, greetings to you. miss, why was you at my garden? (then quietly) didn't you know it is inappropriate for a lady to seek a man out at night?
ximei : (smiled deepened and teased carelessly) then why you came after me? didn't you know it is inappropriate to chase after a lady until this far?
long : (flushed) ah… i was, i am… miss, you was the one uh, i mean….! (stopped babbling)

actually, yunlong was too polite to say the words out… upon his flushing, ximei mused at the lad's naivete and innocence. at his babbling, the celestial fox fairy laughed lightly. really, they have wasted enough time. now, first test…. yunlong froze and was rooted on his spot when the beautiful woman suddenly walked towards him sensuously, full of tempting gestures. when she stopped one step away from him…

ximei : (whispered) my name is ximei….
long : (swallowed) x..ximei… (then stammered) ah, w..what a, a b..beautiful n..name….
ximei : (leaned closer) do you find me beautiful?
long : (swallowed again) y..yes…
ximei : (seductively) yunlong…..
long : (blushed) huh…..?
ximei : (between hushing and whispering) hold me closely, kiss me passionately, take me here, now….

as she spoke, she was touching and caressing him at the same time pressed her body against his, which send his pulse racing and succeeded provoking his immediate male response.…..honestly, he is very tempted and closed his eyes pleasurably against the sudden rush of primal and carnal feelings. now frankly, only a fool would reject such offer, right?

long : (suddenly jerked breathlessly, stumbling and perspiring away) miss, t..this is w..wrong! miss, p..please s..stop this!!

she didn't answer him, merely waited for him to regain his composure. honestly, how many men could refuse such seduction? frankly upon such temptation, any man would have crumble then and there. the moment passed and a more controlled yunlong turned to her slowly…. if he thought she would appear ashamed or shattered, then he was wrong, very wrong. also, he is also in for a big surprise….

ximei : (smiled) you know, no man could resist my "celestial charm"… you are the first…. yunlong, you passed your first test….
long : (blankly) celestial charm? you charmed me?! first test?? what first test?!
ximei : (matter of fact) now, prepare for your second test…
long : (blinked, lost) second test???

ximei hit out her stream of controlled "celestial light" and yunlong reacted instinctively by dodging and leaping swiftly away. ximei continued to attack with her measured "celestial strike" and yunlong who didn't take his fan along, countered skillfully with his bare hand "art of negotiation". ximei swung around with her mild onslaught of "celestial star" and yunlong defended firmly with his "divine suction"… by the sixth stroke, ximei knew he is not going to display his full prowess. by the sixth exchange, yunlong knew ximei is not what she seemed to be…. an opportunity had yunlong swung off bearing to keep the distance between them while ximei decided to retreat…..both landed and across the space, both eyes met….

long : (quietly) who are you? and what first and second test?
ximei : (directly) i am a celestial fox fairy, send by heaven to look for the "chosen" one…. (then seriously) yunlong, just now i purposely tested you using my celestial charms and skills. while you seemed to pass your first test, i have yet to witness your proper skill in martial arts. but then, i have no doubt about your ability and capability lies. meantime, my celestial instinct told me you are indeed the "chosen" one….

yunlong blinked, then shook his head. is he dreaming? no, he is not but still, he couldn't believe this is happening…. a celestial fox fairy, send by heaven? really, wake up and face this is real life, not fairy tale! the next thing he knew, yunlong laugh…. how he laugh! the night echoed his laugh. the surrounding witnessed his amusement…. he stopped laughing when a gust of wind "slapped" him and he nearly called out loud when ximei stunned him by transforming into her original form… his eyes widened in shock and he opened his mouth but he just couldn't find his voice… just then, ximei transformed back as a beautiful woman….

ximei : yunlong, do you believe me now? are you ready to face your fate, fulfill your destiny now? (con't when he stared at her mutely) to cut the story short, you told your father you are going to look into things, am i right? so, i am telling you now, you are indeed the "chosen" one to stop all these cruel rampages and havoc. yunlong, listen well and listen properly for i am going to tell you the whole thing……

ximei told him about the evil powers, everything including the yin-yang swords. when she finished, yunlong gaped at her. she stared at him. he blinked, she nodded. he swallowed, she sighed….

ximei : yunlong, what is written is written….
long : but why me?!
ximei : (squarely) because you are intelligent and diligent. because you chivalrously kind and compassionately upright. yunlong, you are a natural born leader and future lord to your people….. don't you wish your people and neighbors to live in peace? don't you want justice for the innocents, ceased the sufferings and wiped out the evils?
long : (torn) yes of course, i want the people to be safe and sound! however, i am but a mere mortal whereas they are but powerful and cultivate demons!!
ximei : (smiled) that is why i am here to help and to guide you….
long : (echoed) to help and to guide me??
ximei : (smile deepened, somewhat teasing) am i not qualified?
long : (flushed) no… uh yes, i mean no! ah…!!
ximei : (laughed) i know what you mean…. i look young enough to be your lover instead of your mentor, am i right?
long : (flushed deepened) ah….!
ximei : (squarely) i am hundreds year of age. also, this is between you and me. yunlong, no one else must know what happened to night. no, not even your parents and family members….
long : (stepping forward, hesitated) ximei….
ximei : (quietly) yunlong, i understand and know this is a sudden and heavy responsibility for you heaps upon you. (then looked away, continued softly) because this is a difficult and heavy responsibility for me to shoulder too….

manner dictated him to reach out gallantly and pulled her to him mannerly. for some reason, he felt very close to her. for the same reason, she has a feeling she has known him somewhere in time….. when they pulled apart…. he looked deep into her eyes, she stared right into his eyes….

long : (softly) ximei, will we be together in this?
ximei : (whispered) yes, we will. together, we face our task and brave our challenge. as one, we meet our fate and fulfill our destiny…

ximei pulled away then and he let go of her…. her eyes is magnetic, his gaze is electrifying….

ximei : yunlong….
long : yes….
ximei : (wistfully) you know, i always wish i have son who is good and filial….
long : (dreamily) you know, i always pray i have a fairy godmother who would grant me every whims and fancy….

above, heaven witnessed true bonds. the moon witnessed instant rapports. the stars witnessed instant mutual feelings shared and treasured. the surrounding stood still and quiet, the darkness loomed silent and peacefully when wong yunlong, the "chosen" one went down his knees and gestured respectfully at the beautiful fox fairy…..

long : i, wong yunlong, heir of sang hereby acknowledge ximei, the celestial fox fairy as my fairy godmother whom i shall love, care and protect until my dying day. the moon, stars and everything around here as my witness, if anyone bullies you, he/she be sorry at once! if anyone dares to harm you, i retaliates immediately!!

his filial and touching word has, but brought unconscious and solitary tear into her eyes. his fierce but chivalrous declaration has, but warmed her innermost lonely soul….