Sky Thief Bow

Author: Shi Weihan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-10-01
Features: The setting sun casts a tinge of crimson on the western sky. The golden light of the setting sun dyes the layered green mountains, as if draping them in a red robe. A waterfall cascades from the peak, with sharp rocks like swords among the steep cliffs, causing the water to plunge in stages, creating a thunderous roar and an imposing. At the waist of the mountain lies a flat area spanning several dozen feet. When the waterfall reaches this level, it gathers water to form a pool. The pool has an underground outlet, ensuring it never overflows or dries up, reflecting the lush greenery of the mountain like a clear mirror. Beside the pool stands a large stone, upon which a mud stove is placed. The faint smoke from the stove is blown by a gentle breeze into a soft arc, intertwining with the branches hanging by the shore. The aroma of tea is subtle, drifting through the misty steam. An old Taoist monk sits cross-legged beside the stone, with a broom placed horizontally across his lap. His hair and beard are all white, suggesting he is in his seventies. His eyes are lowered as he meditates in silence. A gentle breeze shakes the trees, as if wanting to draw the flowing red leaves under the sunset down onto the smooth, undulating water. The elegant and extraordinary peaks, complemented by the clear, flowing water, resemble a fairyland. This mountain is called Fu Zang, located over twenty miles west of Donggui City in the northern frontier. Donggui City was originally a small gathering place with no more than a few hundred people. However, it was blessed with a strategic location, nestled near mountains and water. Additionally, being at the border between the Central Plains and the outer territories, nomadic tribes from the northern frontier would come here to rest and trade during the harsh winter months, giving the city its name. Over time, the place grew in size. Later, with the efforts of dedicated individuals who diverted water to create channels and built walls with earth, the great Donggui City in the northern frontier was eventually constructed. This city also became a contested ground for successive generations of military strategists. The current ruler of Donggui City, Zhuo Fei, is known for his generous and unrestrained nature, promoting outstanding talents without discrimination. Moreover, Donggui City has long been a place of frequent interaction among various ethnic groups, leading to its growing prosperity, which has caused concern for the Central Plains Han Dynasty. Two years ago, the court used the excuse that Donggui City failed to submit its tribute on time, sending General Ming Zongyue with an army to conquer it. After years of warfare, Donggui City has been severely weakened. Fortunately, the city ruler Zhuo Fei loves his people as his own, the soldiers fight with great determination, and the citizens fight to the death against foreign invaders. Additionally, Xu Moyang, the current guardian of Donggui City and renowned as the "Donggui Swordsmanship Master," leads his troops with skill. With the city's strong defenses, Donggui City has managed to hold on for now. However, as the city remains unconquered, the Central Plains Han Dynasty has suffered greatly in dignity, continuously sending reinforcements, making the fall of Donggui City inevitable.