A Hero Born

LEGENDS OF THE
CONDOR HEROES
i
I
LOTCH1_setting.indd 1 15/12/2017 14:39

Jin Yong
LEGENDS OF THE
CONDOR HEROES I
A Hero Born
Translated from the Chinese by

Anna Holmwood
MACLEHOSE PRESS
QUERCUS LONDON

First published in the Chinese language as
Shediao Yingxiong Zhuan in 1957
First published in Great Britain in 2018 by
MacLehose Press
An imprint of Quercus Publishing Ltd
Carmelite House
50 Victoria Embankment
London EC4Y 0DZ
An Hachette UK company
Copyright Jin Yong (Louis Cha) 1957
English translation copyright 2018 by Anna Holmwood
The moral right of Jin Yong (Louis Cha) to be identified
as the author of this work has been asserted in accordance
with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act, 1988.
Anna Holmwood asserts her moral right to be
identified as the translator of the work.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy,
recording, or any information storage and retrieval system,
without permission in writing from the publisher.
A CIP catalogue record for this book is
available from the British Library.
ISBN (TPB) 978 0 85705 300 8
ISBN (Ebook) 978 1 84866 791 4
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters,
businesses, organisations, places and events are either
the product of the authors imagination or are used
fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living
or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental.
1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2
Designed and typeset in Columbus MT by Patty Rennie
Printed and bound in Great Britain by Clays Ltd, St Ives plc

CONTENTS
Introduction . . . vii
Characters . . . xi
Prologue . . . xvii
Chapter One
Suddenly a Snow Storm . . . 3

Chapter Two
The Seven Freaks of the South . . .50

Chapter Three
Swirling Sands . . .96

Chapter Four
A Dark Wind Blows . . .133

Chapter Five
Draw the Bow, Shoot the Condor . . . 173

Chapter Six
Combat at the Cliff . . . 209

Chapter Seven
For the Maiden . . . 256

Chapter Eight
Every Man a Mythical Skill . . . 300

Chapter Nine
Spear Splits Plough . . . 328

INTRODUCTION
DEAR READER,
It begins with a storyteller, with news from the north, a tale of
crushing defeat and humiliation, a great Chinese Empire in tatters
and fleeing south.
It begins with a court corrupt to the core, willing to sacrifice the
Chinese people to the invading Jurchen tribes for the chance of gold
and escape.
It begins with two patriots, two farmers self-taught in the martial
arts, and one Taoist priest determined to avenge their deaths.
It begins with two sons, still in their mothers bellies when their
fathers are slain, divided and taken into enemy hands, brought up far
away from their Chinese motherland.
This is the start of an explosive epic of courage, honour and just
ice by one of the worlds best-loved writers.
You are about to begin a journey that will span the lengths of the
Chinese Empire and beyond, traverse centuries, witness dynasties rise
and fall in brutal wars and deceitful invasions, brave men fight and
vii

a HERO born
die for their homeland and traitors exchange honour for personal
gain. You will meet young men and women with remarkable kung fu
skills, you will encounter gruff men who, despite appearances, always
respect the code of honour that governs the martial arts world. You
will be amazed by semi-celestial animals, magic medicinal concoc-
tions and poison-tipped weapons. You will come face to face with
princes who manipulate and mothers who are easily manipulated,
men whose love is undying and women whose hearts never err.
We start in the year 1205, as the Song Empire has been pushed
southwards out of its capital by the Jurchen Jin Empire. Meanwhile,
the great Mongol commander Temujin, who will later be known as
Genghis Khan, is gathering power and men out on the steppes. We
will end the series with the Yuan dynasty, established by Genghis
Khans grandson Kublai Khan, crumbling as patriots fight to regain
China.
Legends of the Condor Heroes spans twelve volumes, split into three
larger epics consisting of four volumes each. The first of the trilogy,
known simply by that name, follows Guo Jing, son of patriot Sky-
fury Guo, who is determined to avenge the death of his father and
help regain his motherland from the Jin Empire. But as the good-
hearted young man discovers, a hero is not merely born, he is honed
in the moments when his love and loyalty are most sorely tested.
Set against the backdrop of the Mongol betrayal of their old allies
the Song, the next in the trilogy, Divine Condor, Errant Knight, known
as the greatest love story of martial arts fiction, moves the action
into the next generation. We follow Yang Kangs son as he fights to
regain a love nearly lost. Along the way, he meets a giant condor who
becomes his companion and teacher, and whose martial skill trumps
that of nearly all other fighters of the south.
The third and last set of volumes in the series form Heaven Sword,
Dragon Sabre, the story of two legendary martial arts weapons and a
world of conflicting unorthodox martial arts cults. The weapons are
said to allow the wielder to rule over the martial arts world. The hero
of these last books is a bold, handsome young man whose parents
viii

Introduction
were killed in pursuit of these magical weapons. Reluctantly the

young man takes leadership of a mysterious cult of kung fu fight-
ers; those outside of it are never sure of its motives, but they have a
self-professed mission to deliver mankind from suffering and elimin
ate all evil. To them, it is clear this must include overthrowing the
Mongol Yuan dynasty and regaining the imperial house for the Han
Chinese. Unfortunately, six other unorthodox cults are determined to
thwart them . . .
You hold in your hands the first volume of one of the worlds
best-loved stories and one of its grandest epics, a series that can count
its fans in the hundreds of millions. And yet this is the first time it
has been published in English, despite making its appearance in a
Hong Kong newspaper over half a century ago. Jin Yong (pen name
of Louis Cha) is the Chinese-speaking worlds best-selling author.
Generations of young readers have stayed up past their bedtimes,
huddled under covers, following Guo Jing and his descendants in
their fight to regain the glories of the past, when the Chinese could
lay claim to having the strongest Empire in the world.
Many have considered Jin Yongs world too foreign, too Chinese,
for an English-speaking readership. Impossible to translate. And yet
this story of love, loyalty, honour and the power of the individual
against successive corrupt governments and invading forces is as uni-
versal as any story could hope to be. The greatest loss that can occur
in translation can only come from not translating at all.
So, dear reader, all that is left is to enter through these pages into
a universe at once fantastical and based on real historical events,
one both foreign and intimately familiar, a story full of heart and of
remarkable physical prowess.
ANNA HOLMWOOD
ix

CHARACTERS
As they appear in this, the first volume of

Legends of the Condor Heroes: A Hero Born
MAIN CHARACTERS
Guo Jing, son of Skyfury Guo and Lily Li. After his fathers death
before he was born, he grows up with his mother in Mongolia, where
they are looked after by the future Genghis Khan.
Yang Kang, son of Ironheart Yang and Charity Bao, sworn as brother
to Guo Jing while both are still in their mothers bellies. Mother and
son are rescued during an attack on Ox Village, but he is brought up
in enemy hands.
Lotus Huang, first meets Guo Jing disguised as a beggar boy. Her
kung fu skills are considerable, but she wont reveal the identity of
her Master, who is also her father.
THE SONG PATRIOTS

Ironheart Yang, descendent of Triumph Yang, one-time rebel turned
patriot who served under General Yue Fei. Ironheart practises the
Yang Family Spear, a technique passed from father to son.
Married to Charity Bao, daughter of a country scholar from Red
Plum Village.
xi

a HERO born
Skyfury Guo, sworn brother to Ironheart Yang, he is descended

from Prosperity Guo, one of the heroes of the Marshes of Mount
Liang. Skyfury fights with the double halberd, in keeping with the
Guo family tradition.
Married to Lily Li, Guo Jings mother. She escapes the attack on Ox
Village and ends up in Mongolia with Guo Jing.
Qu San, owner of Ox Villages only tavern, he keeps his kung fu
skills secret from the rest of the villagers.
Mu Yi, travels all across Song- and Jin-controlled lands with his
daughter Mercy Mu, organising a martial contest in order to find her
a suitable husband.
SONG IMPERIAL TRAITORS

Justice Duan, an army officer to the Song who, in actual fact, works
for the Jin.
Wang Daoqian, a military official in the Song court, he is killed by
Qiu Chuji for accepting bribes by the Jin.
THE FIVE GREATS

Considered the five greatest martial artists after a contest was held
on Mount Hua. Only two are mentioned in this first book in the
series:
The Eastern Heretic Apothecary Huang, a loner and radical who
practises his unorthodox martial arts on Peach Blossom Island along
with his wife and six students. He holds traditions and their accom-
panying morals in contempt and believes only in true love and
honour. His eccentricity and heretical views make others suspicious
of him, an image he himself cultivates.
Double Sun Wang Chongyang, founder of the Quanzhen Sect in
the Zhongnan Mountains, with the aim of training Taoists in the
martial arts so that they might defend the Song against the Jurchen
invasion. A real historical figure, he lived from a.d. 1113 to 1170.
xii

CHARACTERS
THE QUANZHEN TAOIST SECT

A real branch of Taoism, whose name means Way of Complete
Perfection.
The Seven Immortals, students of Wang Chongyang
Only three of the Immortals make their appearance in this first book
of the series:
Scarlet Sun Ma Yu, the oldest of the Immortals, teaches internal
kung fu based on breathing techniques.
Eternal Spring Qiu Chuji, befriends Ironheart Yang and Skyfury
Guo at the beginning of the series and vows to protect their unborn
offspring. To this end, he devises a martial contest with the Seven
Freaks of the South. He becomes teacher to Yang Kang.
Jade Sun Wang Chuyi, the Iron Foot Immortal, befriends Guo Jing
after hearing of Qiu Chujis contest with the Seven Freaks of the
South.
Harmony Yin, apprentice to Qiu Chuji.
THE SEVEN FREAKS OF THE SOUTH

Also known as the Seven Heroes of the South when being addressed
respectfully by other characters. They refer to themselves as a martial
family, despite being of no blood relation.
Ke Zhene, Suppressor of Evil, also known as Flying Bat. The old-
est of the Freaks, he is often referred to as Eldest Brother. Blinded in
a fight, his preferred weapon is his flying devilnuts, iron projectiles
made in the shape of a kind of water chesnut native to China.
Quick Hands Zhu Cong the Intelligent is known for his quick
thinking and even quicker sleight of hand. His dirty scholars dress
and broken oil-paper fan, really made from iron, belie his real martial
skill. He is particularly knowledgeable in acupressure points, using
them to disable his opponents in a fight. At times, he might also use
his skills to steal gold and other items, but only from those he thinks
dishonourable and thus deserving of such trickery.
Ryder Han, Protector of the Steeds, only three foot in height but a
formidable fighter when sitting astride a horse.
xiii

a HERO born
Woodcutter Nan the Merciful, known for his kind, if not shy,
nature, teaches Guo Jing sabre technique. He fights with an iron-
tipped shoulder pole.
Zhang Asheng, also known as the Laughing Buddha, is a burly
man dressed as a butcher, whose preferred weapon is a pair of scales.
He is secretly in love with Jade Han.
Gilden Quan the Prosperous, Cloaked Master of the Market, is a
master of the rules of the marketplace and always looking for a good
deal. He fights with the use of a spear.
Jade Han, Maiden of the Yue Sword, is the youngest and only
female of the group. She is trained in the Yue Sword, a technique
particular to the region surrounding Jiaxing and developed when the
Kingdom of Yue was at war with the Kingdom of Wu in the fifth
century b.c .
THE MONGOLIANS
The Great Khan Temujin, one of the great warlords who will go on
to unite the various Mongolian tribes and assume the name Genghis
Khan.
Temujins children:
Jochi, Temujins eldest son.
Chagatai, the second son.
Ogedai, the third son.
Tolui, the fourth son, and Guo Jings sworn brother.
Khojin, one of many daughters whose names are mostly lost to
history. Temujin betroths her first to Tusakha, son of his rival
Senggum, and then to Guo Jing.
Temujins allies and followers:
Jamuka, Temujins sworn brother and ally.
Jebe, whose name means arrow and Divine Archer in Mongo-
lian, is made a commander of Temujins men after demonstrating
his great skill with a bow and arrow, and showing himself to be
a loyal fighter of considerable principle.
xiv

CHARACTERS
Temujins Four Great Generals:

Muqali, Bogurchi, Boroqul and Tchilaun.
Temujins rivals:
Ong Khan, sworn brother of Temujins father.
Senggum, son of Ong Khan.
Tusakha, son of Senggum, is only a few years older than Guo
Jing and bullies him and Tolui when they are young.
THE JIN EMPIRE

Wanyan Honglie, Sixth Prince, titled Prince of Zhao, has made
conquering the Song his own personal mission, in order to secure
his reputation and legacy among his own people. He is an astute
tactician, using rivalries and jealousies within the Song court and the
wulin to his own advantage.
Wanyan Hongxi, Third Prince, lacks his younger brothers political
sense, especially when dealing with the Mongols.
Wanyan Kang, son of the Sixth Prince Wanyan Honglie, is arrogant
and entitled, but possesses considerable martial skill. He fights Guo
Jing after refusing to marry Mercy Mu.
Consort to the Sixth Prince, mother of Wanyan Kang.
FOLLOWERS OF THE SIXTH PRINCE WANYAN HONGLIE

Gallant Ouyang, Master of White Camel Mount in the Kunlun
Range, nephew to one of the Five Greats, Viper Ouyang, Bane of
the West.
The Dragon King Hector Sha controls the Yellow River with his
four rather more useless apprentices, whose lack of skill infuriates
their Master, despite the fact that it is most likely his foul temper that
has prevented them from learning anything more than their rather
basic moves.
The Four Daemons of the Yellow River
Shen Qinggang the Strong, whose weapon is a sabre called the
Spirit Cleaver.
xv

a HERO born
Wu Qinglie the Bold fights with a spear called the Dispatcher.

Ma Qingxiong the Valiant is known for his Soul Snatcher whip.
Qian Qingjian the Hardy is armed with a pair of axes known as
the Great Reapers.
Browbeater Hou, the Three-Horned Dragon, so named for the
three cysts on his forehead.
Greybeard Liang, also known as Old Liang, the Ginseng Immortal
and, more disparagingly, the Ginseng Codger. He comes from the
Mountain of Eternal Snow (Changbai Mountain) up in the north-
east, close to the current border with Korea, where he has practised
kung fu for many years as a hermit, as well as mixing special medic
inal concotions with the aim of prolonging life and gaining strength.
Lama Supreme Wisdom Lobsang Choden Rinpoche, from
Kokonor, the modern day Qinghai region of northern Tibet. He is
famed for his Five Finger Blade kung fu.
Tiger Peng the Outlaw, Butcher of a Thousand Hands, has com-
mand of much of the mountainous region surrounding the Jin capital
Yanjing, which would later become Peking.
PEACH BLOSSOM ISLAND

Twice Foul Dark Wind were apprentices of Apothecary Huang,
who fled Peach Blossom Island and eloped after stealing the Nine
Yin Manual. Husband Hurricane Chen, known as Copper Corpse,
and wife Cyclone Mei, known as Iron Corpse, are masters of Nine
Yin Skeleton Claw. They killed Ke Zhenes brother, Ke Bixie the
Talisman.
THE IMMORTAL CLOUD SECT

Abbot Withered Wood, of Cloudy Perch Temple, is uncle to Justice
Duan. He hates his treacherous nephew, but is tricked into enlisting
the help of Scorched Wood and the Seven Freaks of the South to
fight against Qiu Chuji.
Reverend Scorched Wood, of Fahua Temple, is a fellow disciple of
Withered Woods martial Master.
xvi

PROLOGUE
The year is 1205. For decades the Song Empire has been
fighting an invasion from the north by the Jurchen tribes of Man-
churia. Skilled horsemen and keen archers, the diverse Jurchen tribes
were first united under the charismatic chieftain Wanyan Aguda
in 1115, after which they set their sights on the riches of their Han
Chinese neighbours. Within ten years of unification, the newly estab-
lished Jin Empire had taken the Liaos southern capital, the city that
would be captured and recaptured under successive dynasties and
eventually be known as Peking. A brief alliance between the Song
and the Jin Empires against the Liao brought peace to the plains of
Manchuria, but after the Jin attacked and captured the Song capital
in Kaifeng not two years later, the Song have been fighting the Jin
ever since. Successive defeats have pushed the Song further south,
past the Yangtze and the River Huai, much to the anxiety of the
Chinese who have fled with their Empire to safety.
The River Huai has long marked the psychological boundary
between north and south China. The south is lush in comparison with
the northern steppes and central plains, its landscape criss-crossed
xvii

a HERO born
with rivers and spotted with lakes. The climate is hotter and more
humid, wheat fields give way to rice paddies, and karst peaks soar
up into the clouds. Having always been far from the capital in the
north, this is a landscape that has long resisted the taming forces of
the Empire, where the Great Canals manmade torrents flow into the
wild rapids of the southern rivers.
But for all its seeming lawlessness, the soils of the south have proved
fertile ground for the fleeing Song Empire. Here they have established
one of the worlds largest cities, Linan, a bustling commercial centre
of towering, overcrowded wooden buildings, grand stone courtyard
houses, stalls selling pork buns and steaming bowls of noodles, as
well as elegantly decorated tea houses serving the finest imperial deli-
cacies of crispy duck, steamed crab, and badger and goose meat.
Despite its grandeur, however, this is a troubled city. The local
Chinese population cannot be sure if their officials are working for
them, or for the Jin. In the surrounding villages, food is scarce as the
Empire diverts resources from hardworking farmers into the armys
fight against the Jin, lining their pockets as they do so. Taxes are
crippling and the officials who are supposed to protect them seem
to care little for their plight. Far from being a civilising force, the
Empire appears to be little concerned for its citizens, and is rather
more interested in making its officials rich.
For while the Empire regards the south as unruly, law and order
in this part of China is in reality maintained by a proud community
of men and women who have trained for years in the martial arts.
They name themselves for the landscape of rivers and lakes that is
their home, the jianghu, or even the martial forest, the wulin, that is
their duelling ground. Organised into sects, schools, clans and bands
of sworn brothers, or even travelling as lone wanderers of the lakes
and rivers, they live by a moral code they call xia. Rivalries between
the sects and martial artists are fierce, moves are jealously guarded,
and disputes are settled by hand-to-hand combat. But on one thing
they are united: the ineptitudes of Song Empire must not be allowed
to destroy their country.
xviii

PROLOGUE
Fuelled by patriotic fervour and anger at the corruption eating

away at the Empire, a rebellion is taking hold of the countryside. It
is up to these martial arts masters of the south to save their country
from complete destruction at the hands of the northern tribes.
Anna Holmwood
Translator of this tale,
Hangzhou (modern-day Linan), 2014
xix

LEGENDS OF THE
CONDOR HEROES
i
I

chapter one
SUDDENLY
A SNOW STORM
1
The Qiantang River stretches from the west, where it s
waters swell day and night, past the new imperial capital of Linan
and the nearby Ox Village, on to the sea in the east. Ten cypresses
stand proudly along its banks, their leaves red like fire. A typical
August day. The grasses are turning yellow beneath the trees and the
setting sun is breaking through their branches, casting long, bleak
shadows. Under the shelter of two giant pine trees, men, women and
children have gathered to listen to a travelling storyteller.
The man is around fifty, a pinched figure in robes once black, now
faded a blue-grey. He begins by slapping two pieces of pear wood
together, and then, using a bamboo stick, he beats a steady rhythm
on a small leather drum. He sings:
Untended, the peach blossoms still open,

As fallow fields of tobacco draw the crows.
In times past, by the village well,
Families once gathered to vent their sorrows.

a HERO born
The old man strikes the pieces of wood together a few more times
and starts his story.
This poem tells of villages, where ordinary people once lived,
razed by Jurchen tribes and turned to rubble. One such story con-
cerns Old Man Ye, who had a wife, a son and a daughter, but they
were separated from one another by the invasion of the Jin. Years
passed before they were reunited and could return to their village.
After making the perilous journey back to Weizhou, they arrived to
discover their home had been burned to the ground by enemy forces,
and they had no choice but to make for the old capital at Kaifeng.
He sang:
The heavens unleash unexpected storms,

People suffer unforeseen misfortune.
Upon arrival, he continued, they encountered a troop of Jin

soldiers. Their commanding officer spotted the young Miss Ye, by
now a beautiful young maiden, and eager to capture such a glorious
prize, he jumped down from his horse and seized her. Laughing,
he threw her onto his saddle and cried, Pretty girl, you are coming
home with me. What could the young Miss Ye do? She struggled
with all her might to free herself from the officers grip. If you con-
tinue to resist I will have your family killed! the man shouted. With
that, he picked up his wolf-fang club and smashed it down on her
brothers head.
The nether world gains a ghost, just as the mortal world loses one more
soul. He broke again into song.
Old Man Ye and his wife threw themselves on top of their sons
body, weeping and sobbing. The commanding officer raised his
wolf-fang club and once again brought it down on the mother, and
then once more on the father. Rather than cry or plead, the young
Miss Ye turned to the soldier and said, Sir, rest your weapon, I will
go with you. The soldier was delighted to have persuaded her, but
just as he let down his guard the young Miss Ye grabbed the sabre

SUDDENLY A SNOW STORM
from his waist, unsheathed it and held the point of the blade to his
chest. Was she about to avenge her familys death?
Alas, it was not to be. Being experienced on the battlefield, the
soldier knew that if he took a deep breath, tensed his muscles and
pushed against the blade, she would tumble to the ground. Then he
spat in her face. Whore!
But young Miss Ye brought the blade to her neck. That poor,
innocent girl.
A beauty made of flower and moon,

And so was taken the sweetest soul that night.
He alternates between singing and speaking, all the while beating

his small drum with the bamboo stick. The crowd is entranced by the
old mans words; they snarl with rage at the soldiers cruelty, and sigh
at the young girls sacrifice.
Dear friends, as the saying goes, Keep honest heart and ever
gods in mind. For if evil deeds go unpunished, only evil doth one
find. The Jin have conquered half our territories, killing and burn-
ing, there is not an evil deed they have not committed. And yet no
punishment is forthcoming. The officials of our great Empire are
responsible for this. China has plenty of men, healthy and willing to
fight, yet every time our army faces the Jin they turn and run, leaving
us peasants behind to suffer. There are stories, a great many stories
just like this one, north of the Yangtze. The south is a paradise in
comparison, but still you live each day in fear of invasion. Rather
be a dog in times of peace, than a man in times of trouble. My name
is Old Zhang, thank you for listening to the true story of young
Miss Ye!
The storyteller bangs together the two pieces of pear wood and
holds out a plate to the crowd. Villagers shuffle forward and drop a
few coins onto it. Old Zhang puts the coins into a pocket and starts
gathering his belongings.
As the crowd disperses, a young man of about twenty pushes his

a HERO born
way up to the storyteller. Sir, did you just come from the north?
He is short but strong, with two hairy caterpillar eyebrows stretched
across his brow. He is from the north; it can be heard in his accent.
Yes, the old storyteller answers, surveying him.
Then may I buy you a drink?
I dare not receive such favour from a stranger, comes the old
mans reply.
After a few drinks we will no longer be strangers. The young
man smiles. My name is Skyfury Guo, he says, before pointing to
a handsome, smooth-faced man behind him. And this is Ironheart
Yang. We were listening to your story, and we enjoyed it very much,
but we would like to talk with you, ask you some questions. You
bring news from home.
Not a problem, young man. Fate has brought us together today.
Skyfury Guo leads the storyteller to the villages only tavern and
there they sit down. Qu San, the owner, hobbles to their table on his
crutches and sets down two jugs of warmed rice wine, before return-
ing to fetch snacks of broad beans, salted peanuts, dried tofu and
three salted eggs. Afterwards, he sits down on a stool by the door
and gazes out as the sun dips lower towards the horizon. Out in the
yard his young daughter is chasing chickens.
Skyfury Guo toasts the storyteller and pushes the simple snacks
towards him. Here, please eat. Out in the countryside, we are only
able to buy meat on the second and sixteenth days of the month, so
Im afraid we have none tonight. Please forgive us.
The wine is enough for me. From your accents it seems that you
are both from the north?
We are from Shandong province, Yang replies. We came here
three years ago after the Jin invaded our hometown. We fell in love
with the simple life in the south, as well as the people, and stayed.
You said before that the south is a paradise, with only fear of inva-
sion to disturb the peace. Do you really think the Jin will cross the
Yangtze?
The old storyteller sighs. It is as if gold and silver covers the

ground, everywhere your eyes are met with beautiful women, such
is the richness and enchantment of the south compared to the north.
There isnt a day that passes that the Jin do not think about invading.
But the final decision lies not with the Jin but with the Song Imperial
Court in Linan.
This surprises Skyfury Guo and Ironheart Yang. Why do you
say that?
We Han Chinese outnumber the Jurchen by more than a hun-
dred to one. If the Imperial Court decided to employ honest and
loyal men, our great Empire would prevail. With one hundred of
our men against one of their worthless soldiers, how could the Jin
army win? The northern half of our country was handed to them
by three generations of useless Emperors, Huizong, Qinzong and
Gaozong. Grandfather to grandson, they all entrusted our country
to corrupt officials who oppressed the common people, and purged
all the mighty generals who wished to fight the Jin. Such a beautiful
land and they gave it away! If the Imperial Court continues to fill its
grand halls with corrupt officials, then they may as well kneel before
the Jin and beg them to invade!
Exactly! Skyfury Guo slams his hand down on the table, rattling
the bowls, plates and chopsticks.
Ironheart Yang notices their jug of wine is empty and orders
another. The three men continue cursing and drinking as Qu San
goes to fetch them yet more broad beans and tofu.
Huh! Qu San snorts, placing the dishes on the table.
What is it, Qu San? You disagree?
Good cursing! Great cursing! Nothing wrong with that. But do
you suppose it would have made any difference if the officials had
not been corrupt? With such useless Emperors, generations of them
no less, it would have made no difference if the officials had been as
honest and good-hearted as the Buddha himself. He turns and shuf-
fles to his stool in the corner, from where he goes back to gazing at a
sky now filled with stars. Qu San has a young face for his forty years,
but his back is hunched and wisps of white are threaded through his

a HERO born
black hair. From behind he looks like an old man, much aged since
losing his wife. He moved to Ox Village only a year or so ago with
his daughter, fleeing painful memories.
The three men look at each other in silence, until presently the
storyteller speaks. Yes, you are right. That is quite true.
Bang! Skyfury Guo slams his hand down on the table once again,
this time knocking over a bowl of wine. Shameful! Disgraceful!
How did these sorry excuses for men ever become Emperor?
Xiaozong succeeded Gaozong, the storyteller replies with
renewed energy, and Guangzong succeeded him, and all the while
the Jin have controlled half of China. Now Emperor Ningzong has
succeeded Guangzong. And all he does is take orders from Chancel-
lor Han. What is our future? Its hard to say.
What do you mean? cries Skyfury Guo. We are in the country-
side, not Linan. No-one is going to cut your head off here. There
is not a person in the whole of China who does not call Chancellor
Han a crook!
Now that the topic has moved on to current politics, the old
storyteller is beginning to feel nervous and dares not speak straight
from the heart as before. He downs another bowl of rice wine and
says, Thank you, gentlemen, for the wine. But before I go, may I
offer a modest word of advice? I know you are both passionate men,
but still, it is best to be cautious in both word and deed. This is
the only way to avoid calamity. With things as they are, the best we
normal folk can hope to do is muddle along. Ah, it is just like the
old song:
Surrounded by mountains, dancing in halls,

The shores of West Lake echo in song.
Southern fragrances entice and intoxicate
As drunkenly our noblemen mistake Linan for Kaifeng!
Whats the story behind that song? Yang asks.

There is no story, the old man says, pushing himself to his feet

with great effort. The officials care only for parties and pleasures,
and as long as that is the case, they wont be trying to recover the
north any time soon.
And so the drunken storyteller takes his leave.
2
It was during the third watch later that night. Sky-
fury Guo and Ironheart Yang had been waiting for more than two
hours to spear a boar or a muntjac in the woods seven li west of the
village, but it was looking increasingly unlikely they would catch
anything and they were losing patience.
At that moment a loud smack of wood against metal echoed
around the woodland from beyond the tree line. Skyfury and Iron-
heart looked at each other.
Then came the sound of men shouting:
Where do you think youre going?
Stop, now!
A shadow had entered the woods and was running in their direc-
tion. The moonlight caught a mans robes and Guo and Yang were
able to make him out. It was Qu San. He was jabbing his wooden
crutches into the undergrowth. Knowing that he would struggle to
outrun the men following him, Qu San flew straight up into the air
and back down behind a nearby tree. Guo and Yang looked at each
other in astonishment.
Qu San practises martial arts?
By now Qu Sans pursuers had reached the edge of the woods.
There were three of them, and they stopped, whispered something
to each other, and began to walk towards Guo and Yang. They were
dressed in military clothing and each carried a sabre, their blades
flashing a cold green in the moonlight.
Damned cripple! We can see you. Come out and surrender!
Qu San stood utterly still behind his tree. The men were waving

a HERO born
their weapons like machetes, swinging and chopping through the

straggly bushes, slowly edging closer.
Just then: Thump! Qu San thrust his right crutch out from behind
the tree, hitting one of the men squarely in the chest and sending
him lurching backwards with a yelp. Startled, the other two men
waved their blades in the direction of the tree.
Using his right crutch for leverage, Qu San flew up to the left,
dodging the flailing blades and thrusting his other crutch in one
mans face. The man tried to block the crutch with his sabre, but Qu
San pulled back and swung his right crutch at the other mans stom-
ache. Though he needed the crutches to support himself, he wielded
them with speed and elegance.
A sabre cut into Qu Sans bundle, ripping the cloth and spilling its
contents all over the forest floor. Taking advantage of the distraction,
Qu San smashed his crutch down onto one mans head, knocking
him to the ground. Terrified, the last soldier turned to run. Qu San
reached between the folds in his robe, and with a sharp flick of his
wrist hurled something at him as he fled. It glinted an inky black as
it sailed through the air, drawing a curve and landing on the back of
the soldiers head with a dull thud. The man howled and dropped his
sabre, his arms waving wildly. He fell forward as if in slow motion,
and landed in a crumpled heap on the ground. His body spasmed
twice, and then he was still.
Guo and Yang watched, their hearts thumping, hardly able to
catch their breath. He just killed government officials. Thats pun-
ishable by death. Guo gasped. If he sees us hell kill us too, to keep
us quiet.
But they had not hidden themselves as well as they had thought.
Qu San turned towards them and called out: Master Guo, Master
Yang, you can come out now! Reluctantly they rose to their feet,
grasping their pitchforks so tightly their knuckles turned white.
Yang looked at his friend and then took two steps forward.
Master Yang, Qu San said with a smile. Your familys spear
technique is famous throughout our land, but in the absence of a
10

spear, a pitchfork will have to do. Your best friend Guo, however,
prefers to fight with a double halberd. The pitchfork doesnt fit his
skills. Such friendship is rare!
Yang felt exposed; Qu San had all but read his mind.
Master Guo, Qu San continued. Lets imagine you had your
double halberd with you. Do you think together you could beat me?
Guo shook his head. No, we couldnt. We must have been blind
not to have noticed you were a fellow practitioner of the martial arts.
A master, even.
I dont have full use of my legs. How can I be considered a mas-
ter? Qu San shook his head and sighed. Before my injury, I would
have defeated those guards effortlessly.
Guo and Yang glanced at each other, not sure how to respond.
Would you help me bury them? Qu San continued.
They looked at each other again, and nodded.
The two men did their best to dig a large hole using their pitch-
forks. As they were burying the last body, Yang noticed the black,
round object sticking out of the back of the dead mans head. Yang
tugged at it and succeeded in pulling it out. He had seen one of these
before. A steel Taoist Eight Trigram disk. He wiped the blood onto
the dead mans uniform and handed it back to Qu San.
My sincerest gratitude. Qu San took the Eight Trigram disk and
put it back inside his robe. He then spread his outer robe on the
ground and started to gather his belongings. Guo and Yang finished
shovelling soil into the makeshift grave, and then turned to look at
Qu Sans collection, which included three scrolls, as well as several
shiny metal trinkets. Qu San put a gold jug and bowl to one side.
After tying up his bundle he handed the jug and bowl to the two
men. I stole these from the Royal Palace at Linan. The Emperor
has done enough harm to the peasants, its not really a crime to take
something back. Consider these a gift from me.
Neither man moved.
Are you afraid to accept them, or is it that you dont want them?
We did nothing to deserve such gifts, Guo replied. Thats why
11

a HERO born
we cant accept them. As for tonight, you dont have to worry about
a thing, Brother Qu. Your secret is safe with us.
Ha! Qu San scoffed. Why should I be worried? I know all
about you why else would I let you walk away alive? Master Guo,
you are the descendant of Prosperity Guo, one of the heroes of the
Marshes of Mount Liang. You are skilled in the use of the halberd,
as taught to you in accordance with your familys customs, only your
halberd is short rather than long, and has two blades instead of one.
Master Yang, your ancestor is Triumph Yang, one of the commanders
who served under the beloved General Yue. You are both descended
from two of this countrys most loved and respected patriots. When
the Jin army conquered the north, you began wandering the lakes
and rivers of the south, practising your martial arts. It was then that
you became brothers-in-arms. Together you moved here to Ox Vil-
lage. Am I right so far?
The two men nodded, astounded by the detail of Qu Sans
knowledge.
Your ancestors Prosperity Guo and Triumph Yang were both
rebels before they swapped sides to fight for the Song Empire, Qu
San continued. Both stole from the government, which was in turn
stealing from its own people. So tell me: are you going to accept my
gifts or not?
We are most grateful. Thank you, Yang said as he reached out
to receive them.
Back home! Qu San said, slinging his bundle over his shoulder.
I got some excellent things tonight, He continued as the three
men picked their way between the trees and out of the woods. Two
paintings by Emperor Huizong and a scroll of his calligraphy. He
may have been a useless Emperor, but his skills with the brush were
quite superb.
Once home, Guo and Yang buried their gold and made no men-
tion of the nights antics to their wives.
k
12

Autumn slowly gave way to winter. The days were getting colder
and the first flakes of snow were beginning to fall. Soon the earth
was covered in a veneer of white that shone like polished jade. Iron-
heart Yang called to his wife, Im going to get some food and rice
wine before Skyfury and his wife arrive. Slinging two large gourds
over his shoulder, he left for Qu Sans tavern.
The snow was falling more heavily. As he trudged up towards
the tavern, he noticed the door was shut tight and even the sign had
been removed. Yang banged on the door a couple of times, shouting:
Qu San, Im here for some wine.
Silence.
He called out again, but still no response. He walked over to a
window and peered inside. Everything was covered in a thick layer
of dust. Whats happened? Yang thought. I hope its nothing serious.
He spotted Qu Sans daughter playing nearby, but she was too young
to give him any answers. As Qus inn was the only place to buy wine
in Ox Village, Yang had no choice but to brave the blizzard and walk
the two miles to Red Plum Village. At least there he would also be
able to purchase a chicken for their meal.
When her husband returned, Yangs wife, Charity Bao, put the
freshly slaughtered chicken into a big pot along with some cabbage,
tofu and thin bean noodles. As it boiled, she cut and arranged a plate
of cured meat and fish, and then went next door to call on Skyfury
Guo and his wife Lily Li, who had been suffering of late from morn-
ing sickness. Lily did not feel able to eat, so Charity stayed to chat
and drink tea, sending Guo ahead.
The two women returned to discover the men sitting by the fire,
eating and drinking warm wine. Charity added more wood, then sat
down beside her husband. The two men looked agitated.
Whats the matter? Lily asked. Has something happened?
We were just discussing the latest troubles at the Imperial Court
in Linan, her husband replied. I was at the Pavilion of Joyful Rain,
the tea house by Tranquillity Bridge, yesterday, Guo added, when I
heard some people talking about that criminal Chancellor Han. One
13

a HERO born
man said all reports at court must now be presented to him, as well
as the Emperor, or else they wont be read. Such arrogance is scarcely
to be credited.
Yang sighed. Only bad Emperors keep bad Chancellors. Old
Huang, who lives outside Linans Golden Gate, told me a story.
One day, when he was out collecting firewood on the mountain, he
caught sight of a group of soldiers guarding some officials. It turns
out the Chancellor had come on a sightseeing trip with his men. Old
Huang was minding his own business, cutting wood, when he heard
the Chancellor say, What a delightful country scene, such charming
bamboo fences and thatched cottages. Shame there are no chickens
clucking or dogs barking. Then, at that moment, they heard barking
from behind one of the bushes.
Charity smiled. That little dog certainly knew how to please the
Chancellor.
Ill say! After a couple of barks it jumped out of the bushes. And
what kind of dog do you think it was? Turns out it was our honour
able friend, the Magistrate of Linan, His Excellency Mr Zhao!
Charity burst into laughter.
And thats how hell earn his promotion, Guo concluded.
They continued drinking as the snow fell outside, the wine warm-
ing their bellies. After a while, Guo and Yang decided to step outside
to cool down. Suddenly the stillness was broken by the sound of
feet swishing across the snow. There, up ahead, was a Taoist monk
wearing a conical bamboo hat tied under his chin with a ribbon, and
a cape speckled with large flakes of snow. He carried a sword on his
back, the yellow tassel swinging from side to side as it dangled from
the handle. He was the only person braving the weather, a lonely sil-
houette making rapid progress across the grey-white fields.
Look at how he skims across the snow, breathed Guo in admir
ation. A master of kung fu.
Indeed, Yang replied in equal amazement. Lets invite him in
for a drink.
They hurried to the edge of the field in front of Yangs house. In
14

the short time it had taken them to run the hundred-odd metres, the
monk had already passed by, and was some distance down the raised
path that ran between the fields.
Your Reverence, please stop! Yang called out.
The Taoist monk turned and gave them a cursory nod.
Such terrible weather, Yang continued shouting through the
snow. Why dont you come inside and drink a couple of bowls of
wine to warm up?
Within seconds the Taoist was standing before them. Why do
you want me to stop? His reply was as cold as the winter air. Speak!
Yang was shocked and angered by the Taoists tone, so he looked
down at his feet and gave no reply. Guo clasped his fist as a sign of
respect and said, We were drinking by the fire when we saw you
pass by alone in the snow. So we thought you might like to join us.
Please forgive us if we have offended you.
The Taoist rolled his eyes. Alright. If you want to drink, lets
drink, he said, walking past them and in through Yangs door.
This made Yang even angrier. Without thinking, he grabbed the
Taoists left wrist and tugged. We dont know how to address you,
Your Reverence. But the Taoists hand slipped through Yangs fin-
gers like a fish. Yang knew he was in trouble and stepped back, but
before he could pull away he felt a sharp, hot pain as the Taoist tight-
ened his grip around his wrist. No matter how hard he struggled he
could not free himself, and he felt all his strength draining away as
his arm went limp.
Guo could see from his friends crimson cheeks that he was in a
lot of pain. Your Reverence, he said. Please sit.
The Taoist laughed coldly. He let go of Yang, walked deliberately
into the centre of the room and sat down in one smooth movement.
You two young men are obviously from the north but pretending to
be farmers here in the south. Your accents give you away. And whats
more, why would two farmers know kung fu? He, too, spoke with a
Shandong accent.
Yang felt embarrassed and angry, and retreated to the back room.
15

a HERO born
There he found a small dagger in a drawer, which he tucked into

his shirt before returning to the front room. He poured out three
bowls of wine, raised his as a toast, and downed its contents without
a word.
The Taoist looked past the two men, and out towards the snow
falling outside. He neither drank nor spoke. Guo guessed that the
monk was suspicious of the wine, so he took the bowl intended
for their guest and drank it down in one gulp. The wine gets cold
quickly. Let me pour you another bowl, Your Reverence. A warm
one. He filled a clean bowl and handed it to the Taoist, who in turn
drank it down in one.
It wouldnt have mattered if you had drugged the wine, the
Taoist replied. It wouldnt have affected me.
Yang had had about as much as he could take. We invited you
into our home to drink with us, not to try and hurt you. If this is how
you are going to behave, please leave now! Its not as if we gave you
sour wine or rotten food.
The Taoist ignored him, and grabbed the wine gourd. He poured
and drank three more bowls of wine in quick succession, and then
untied his bamboo hat and threw it on the floor, along with his cape.
For the first time, Guo and Yang could properly examine his face. He
was around thirty years of age, with slanted eyebrows and a square
jaw, his cheeks flushed red. His eyes had a penetrating quality. Next,
he untied the leather bundle from his back and threw it down on
the table.
Together, Guo and Yang jumped up in disgust as from out of the
bundle rolled a bloody human head.
A scream came from the corner where Charity had been standing,
and she ran into the back room, followed by Lily Li. Yangs hand
moved to his chest to make sure the dagger was in place. The Taoist
gave the leather bundle a shake, and two more bloody lumps of flesh
fell out. A heart and a liver.
You good-for-nothing Taoist! Yang shouted as he pulled the
dagger from his chest and lunged at the monk.
16

The Taoist was amused. You want to fight? He tapped Yangs

wrist with his left hand. A numbing pain shot down through Yangs
hands to his fingers. Before he realised what was happening, the
dagger was gone.
Guo was astounded. His friends kung fu was much better than
his own, but even Yang was powerless against the priest. Guo knew
the move was the legendary Bare Hand Seizes Blade, but he had
never actually seen anyone perform it. Guo reached for the wooden
bench he had been sitting on, just in case he had to block the dagger.
But still the Taoist ignored them. Instead, he turned his attention
to the heart and liver, which he began hacking to pieces with Yangs
dagger. Then, without warning, he roared. The tiles on the roof rat-
tled, and he chopped down so hard, the objects on the table jumped
and the table split in two. The head rolled onto the floor.
Yang was furious. He reached for an iron spear in the corner and
marched outside into the snow. Come. Ill give you a lesson in the
art of the Yang Family Spear!
A government lackey like you knows the Yang Family Spear?
The Taoist smiled as he followed Yang outside.
Guo ran back to his house to fetch his double halberds. By the
time he got back, the Taoist was standing ready, his sleeves flapping
in the wind.
Unsheathe your sword! Yang cried.
Ill fight you traitors with my bare hands, was the Taoists only
reply.
Without warning, Yang launched straight into Deadly Dragon
Flies the Cave, his spear a smear of red as the tassel spun and the tip
swirled towards the Taoists chest.
Impressive! the priest called as his upper body arched back-
wards until it was almost horizontal. He then spun to the left and
swung back up again. Once on his feet, his palm flipped upwards and
knocked the spear away from Yangs hands.
Ironheart Yang had spent years practising with his spear, ever
since his father taught him his first moves as a young boy, a variant
17

a HERO born
of the southern tradition. The northern tradition had been lost many
years ago. His ancestor Triumph Yang led an army of three hundred
Song soldiers against forty thousand invading Jin at the Battle of
Little Merchant Bridge, with his spear his only weapon. They killed
over two thousand Jin men that day, including their highest-ranking
commander. The Jins arrows had fallen like rain, but Triumph Yang
merely snapped the shafts from the arrowheads lodged in his flesh
and carried on fighting. He gave his life for his country on that
battlefield. When the Jin army burned his body, over two catties of
molten metal flowed into the mud beneath him. After this battle the
Yang Family Spear became famous all across Chinas great plains.
Ironheart Yang may not have been a true master of the technique
like his forefathers, but those years of training had not been in vain.
He thrust, swung, flicked, blocked, the point of his spear glinting
silver in the sunlight, the tassel a blur of red.
Yangs moves may have been quick, but the Taoist dodged them
with ease. The Yang Family Spear consisted of seventy-two separate
moves, and after having used seventy-one without success, Yang was
exhausted and desperate. He lowered his spear, turned and walked
away. But just as he had anticipated, the Taoist came after him, and
drawing together all the strength he had left, Yang pulled his weapon
up into both hands, twisted at the waist and thrust it back at the Tao-
ists face. Known as the Returning Horse, this move was traditionally
used to break enemy formations. Triumph Yang had in fact used it
to kill General Yues brother before he left the rebels and joined the
Song army.
The Taoist clapped his hands together, clamping hold of the
spears point just before it plunged into his left cheek. Excellent!
Yang put all his weight behind the spear and pushed, but it did not
move. Alarmed, he tried pulling it back instead, but still he could not
free his spear from the Taoists grip. The Taoist chuckled. Suddenly
he moved his right hand, and quick as light he struck the handle of
the spear with his palm. Yang felt the base of his thumb and index
finger go numb, and instantly the weapon fell to the snow at his feet.
18

You appear to know some Yang Family Spear after all. The Tao-
ist smiled. Sorry if I offended you. Will you do me the honour of
telling me your name?
Still in shock, Yang answered without thinking, My family name
is Yang, my given name Ironheart.
Are you a descendant of General Triumph Yang?
Yes, he was my great grandfather.
The Taoist cupped his fist and nodded his head in respect. I mis-
took you for scoundrels, but it turns out that you are descended from
patriots. Please forgive me. May I be so bold as to ask this gentle-
mans name?
My name is Skyfury Guo.
He is my brother-in-arms, Yang said, the descendant of Pros-
perity Guo, one of the heroes of the Marshes of Mount Liang.
The Taoist bowed again. Your humble servant was rude, and
quick to make assumptions. Please forgive me.
Guo and Yang bowed in return. Not at all. Would the Rever-
end please come in for more rice wine? Yang said, picking up his
spear.
Of course! Id be delighted to join you.
Charity and Lily Li had been observing the fight anxiously from
the doorway, and at this they scuttled back inside to warm the wine.
They sat at the table and the men asked the Taoist his name. My
name is Qiu Chuji.
Yang jumped up in surprise, and Guo was similarly aghast.
Master Eternal Spring?
That is the name my Taoist friends gave me. Qiu Chuji smiled.
I dare not claim such a name myself.
Master Eternal Spring of the Quanzhen Sect, Guo said, I am
honoured to make your acquaintance. The two men cast themselves
onto the packed earth floor of the cottage and kowtowed.
Qiu Chuji leapt up from his bench and helped them to their feet.
I killed a traitor today, he began to explain. The governments
men were chasing me, and then you gentlemen suddenly invited me
19

a HERO born
in for a drink. We are close to the capital here and it is clear that you
are not ordinary farmers, so I became suspicious.
My friend here has always had a temper, Guo said with a smile.
And then he tried to fight the Master. You were right to be suspicious.
Indeed, farmers arent usually that strong. I thought you were
undercover government dogs.
Yang smiled. You werent to know.
The men continued to drink and chat until Qiu Chuji pointed at
the battered head lying on the floor: Thats Wang Daoqian. He was
a traitor. Last year he was sent by our Emperor to convey his respects
to the Jin Emperor on the occasion of his birthday, but once there,
he agreed to help them invade the south. I pursued him for ten days
before at last catching him.
We are so lucky to have met the Master, Yang said. Wont you
stay a couple of days?
But just as Qiu Chuji was about to answer, his expression froze
and hardened.
Whats wrong? Guo asked.
Someone has come for me. Whatever happens, you two must stay
inside. Do not come out under any circumstances. Do you under-
stand? The two men nodded. Qiu Chuji picked up the human head
and went outside, where he jumped up into the branches of a tree
and hid among its dense crest of leaves.
Guo and Yang had no idea what had just happened. They could
hear nothing save for the howling of the wind. They waited, until a
few minutes later they could discern from the west the faint sound of
hooves beating against frozen ground.
How did he hear that? Yang asked in a whisper. The rhythmic
thudding of the hooves was growing louder and on the horizon a
cloud of snow was making its way towards the village. Before long,
ten riders dressed in black appeared and reined in a hundred metres
from their door.
The footprints stop over there. It looks like theres just been
a fight. Several of the men jumped down from their horses and
20

inspected the footprints in the snow. Search the house! the man
who appeared to be their officer barked. Two more men jumped
from their horses and hammered on the door.
Suddenly something came flying through the air from a nearby
tree, thwacking one of the men on the head, with such force that
it cracked open his skull. The other men started to yell as they sur-
rounded the tree. One man picked up the object and cried out in
shock: His Excellency Wangs head!
Their commanding officer pulled out a sabre and the remaining
men rushed to form a ring around the tree trunk. The leader shouted
another order, and five men raised their bows and shot into the dense
clump of leaves above them.
Yang reached for his spear, but Guo grabbed at his arm and
hissed, Master Eternal Spring told us not to go outside. Lets wait a
while at least. If he gets into trouble we can help him then. Just then
an arrow came hurtling from the branches above and hit one of the
men, still on his horse. He cried out, dropped from the horses back
and landed in the snow with a dull thud.
Qiu Chuji removed his sword, jumped down from the tree, and
sliced through two of the men before the soldiers could react.
Its the Taoist!
Qiu Chuji bowed quickly and then sha, sha, sha! slashed his sword
through the whipping wind, knocking another two men from their
horses. Yang watched in awe, trying to follow the movement of the
Masters sword. Qiu Chuji had obviously held back during their
duel; if he had not, Yang would be dead by now.
Qiu Chuji moved as if he were being carried by the wind as he
bounced and hopped between the horses, branches and the ground.
His next opponent was the commanding officer, who continued
to bark orders at his men. He had a certain gift for fighting, but
Guo and Yang could tell Qiu Chuji was deliberately prolonging the
duel so as to use breaks in their fight to outmanoeuvre the other
men. If he killed the leader before he managed to kill his men, they
might run.
21

a HERO born
By now there were only six men left. The officer knew they could
never defeat the Taoist, so he turned his horse and tried to escape.
Qiu Chuji reached out with his left hand and grabbed the horses
tail. Pulling on it lightly, Qiu Chuji lifted himself from the ground.
Before he had landed on the horses back, he had already sliced his
sword straight through the officers back to the base of his spine.
Qiu Chuji threw the body from the horse, grabbed hold of the reins,
and started to chase the others, his blade dancing silver against the
grey-white of the storm. Screams were swallowed by the wind as one
body after another fell to the ground and plumes of blood decorated
the snow.
Qiu Chuji stopped and looked around him. The only sound came
from the three riderless horses galloping into the distance, their
hooves pounding at the softly packed snow. He rode back to where
Guo and Yang stood by the door, waved, and called, How did you
like that?
Guo and Yang opened the front door and stepped slowly out.
Your Reverence, who were they? Guo asked, still in shock.
Well know when we search them.
Guo walked over to the commanding officers body and leaned
down to take a look. His torso was sliced in two, and lay in a pond
of blood. Guo reached for a leather pouch still fastened around the
mans waist, and removed an official-looking document. It was from
Magistrate Zhao, and stated that an order had come from the Jin
ambassador that Song government troops were to assist them in cap-
turing Wang Daoqians murderer. Guos hands shook with rage as he
rose to his feet. He was just about to show the document to the other
two men when Yang called out. He had found some tags written in
the Jurchen language on some of the bodies. There were Jin soldiers
among these men.
Our government has now given free rein to enemy soldiers to
capture and kill patriots within our own borders? Guo exclaimed.
Song officials now take orders from the Jin?
Even our Emperor must refer to himself as an official of the
22

Jin. Yang sighed. Our officials and generals are now no more than
their slaves.
We monks are supposed to be merciful and good in heart and
action, we are not supposed to harm any living being, Qiu Chuji added
bitterly. But I could no longer withhold my anger, not when faced
with traitors and enemies who do nothing but torture our people.
You were right to kill them! Yang said.
They deserved to die! Guo added.
Ox Village was small, and in a snowstorm like this everyone kept
to their homes. If there had been any witnesses it was doubtful they
would come out and ask questions. Yang went to fetch two shovels
and a hoe, and the three men buried the bodies. Lily Li and Charity
fetched brooms and began sweeping the bloodstained snow until the
stench began to make Charity retch. A white mist descended in front
of her eyes and with a gasp she fell to her knees.
Yang dropped his shovel and ran over to her. Whats the matter?
But Charity closed her eyes and did not answer. Her face and
hands were now as white as the snow that fell upon them.
Qiu Chuji hurried over, took hold of Charitys wrist and felt her
pulse. A smile burst across his face. Congratulations! Yang looked
aghast as Qiu Chuji grabbed his hand.
What is it? Whats happened?
Charity came to with a faint grunt. The three men were standing
above her. Feeling shy, she scrambled to her feet, and with Lilys help
went inside, where her friend poured her a cup of tea.
Your wife is pregnant.
Are you sure?
I am master of nothing and can claim to know a little of only
three things. Of these little kung fu tricks I am a mere novice, and
as for poetry I am able to write a few couplets, but no more. But I
can safely say that if I can lay claim to any expertise, it is in the field
of medicine.
Your Reverence, if yours are only little kung fu tricks, then we
are merely children playing.
23

a HERO born
Having finished burying the bodies, the men collected their tools
and went inside to celebrate.
Yang could not stop smiling. If Qiu Chuji wrote poetry, he rea-
soned, he would be the perfect person to name his child, as well
as Guos. My brother Skyfurys wife is pregnant as well. Could we
trouble Your Reverence to think of two names for our children?
Qiu Chuji sipped from his bowl of rice wine and thought for a
while. For Master Guos child I suggest Guo Jing, meaning Seren-
ity, and for Master Yangs child, Yang Kang, meaning Vitality.
This will remind them of the humiliation of the year Jingkang, when
Kaifeng was sacked and the Emperor captured by the Jin. These
names can be used for girls just as well as boys.
He reached into his shirt, removed two daggers, and put them on
the table. They were identical in every way, each with a green leather
sheath, a gold cross guard and an ebony handle. He picked up one
of the daggers and on the handle swiftly carved the characters for
Serenity Guo as if writing with brush and ink. Then he carved
Vitality Yang on the handle of the other. He turned to the two
fathers-to-be and said, I dont have anything else suitable with me,
only this pair of daggers. For the children.
The two men received them and thanked him. Yang unsheathed
his. The blade was cold in his palm, and sharp.
I came to possess these daggers quite by accident. They are
extremely sharp, but they are too small for me to use. They would be
perfect for the children. In ten years time, if I am still lucky enough
to be of this world, I will return to Ox Village and teach them some
kung fu.
The two men were delighted and thanked the Reverend repeatedly.
The Jin are occupying the north and torturing the people there,
Qiu Chuji went on as he took his last gulps of rice wine. The situation
cannot continue for long. Gentlemen, please take care of yourselves.
Then he stood up and made for the door. Guo and Yang jumped to
their feet and tried to make him stay, but he had already slipped out
into the storm.
24

Masters like him come and go like the wind. Guo sighed. We
were lucky to meet him today. I was hoping to talk to him some
more, but alas it was not to be.
Yang smiled. Brother, at least we witnessed Master Eternal
Spring killing Jin soldiers. He held up the dagger and unsheathed it
again. Gently stroking the blade, he suddenly looked up at his friend.
Brother, Ive just had a foolish idea. Tell me what you think of
it.
What is it?
If our children are boys, they will be sworn brothers. If they are
girls, they will be sworn sisters
And if we have one boy and one girl, they shall be married, Guo
cut in. The men laughed and embraced.
At that moment, Lily Li and Charity emerged from the back
room. Why are you so happy? Yang repeated their agreement and
they blushed, happy their families would forever be united.
Lets swap the daggers now as our pledge, Yang suggested. If
they turn out to be sworn brothers or sisters, we can switch back.
If they are to be married
Then apologies, but both daggers will belong to my family,
Guo interrupted.
Charity laughed. You never know. Maybe we will be the ones to
have a boy.
The men swapped daggers and gave them to their wives for
safekeeping.
3
Yang was slumped at the table, playing with the dag-
ger, more drunk than he had realised. Charity helped her husband
into bed and collected the dishes. The navy blue sky was dotted with
stars, but there was still enough light for her to go outside and col-
lect the chicken cages. Just as she was pulling the back door shut,
25

a HERO born
however, she caught sight of some blood on the snow only a few
metres from the house. I must clean it up right away, or else there
could be trouble. She hurried to collect her broom and stepped out
again into the icy night.
But the blood did not stop there. She followed it with her broom
all the way to the pine trees behind the house. The snow had also
been disturbed; someone had clearly dragged themselves through it
towards the woods. There, by an old grave tucked in between the
trees, she spotted a large black mound on the snow.
Charity approached to get a better look. A body! One of the men
Qiu Chuji had been fighting earlier. She was about to go and wake
her husband to ask him to bury it when it struck her that someone
could come past at any moment and see the body. No, it would be
better to pull it into a nearby bush and then go and tell her husband.
She edged towards it and, summoning all her strength, she took hold
of its black clothes and pulled.
Suddenly the body twitched and groaned.
Was it a ghost? Fear paralysed her. She watched it for a minute or
so, but it did not move. Reaching for her broom, she gently poked it.
The body groaned again, only this time the sound was much quieter.
He was still alive. She approached and peered over the body. There,
embedded in the back of his shoulder, was a large wolf-fang arrow.
The snow was still falling, albeit much lighter now, and a thin layer
of snowflakes had settled on the young mans face. He would soon
freeze to death out here.
Charity had always been exceptionally kind-hearted, ever since
she was a young girl. She was forever bringing home injured spar-
rows, frogs and even insects, which she would nurse back to health,
and those she could not save she would bury, the tears flowing
down her cheeks. Her father, a country scholar from Red Plum Vil-
lage, had named her for this unusual sensitivity, and her mother was
never allowed to slaughter any of their roosters or hens. Any chicken
served at the Bao family table for dinner had to be brought home
from the market. Indeed, Charity had not changed much as she grew
26

older, and this was one of the things Ironheart Yang loved about her.
Their backyard was still a sanctuary for chickens, ducks and every
other sort of small creature that chose to make its home there.
There was no way she could let this man die in the snow. She
knew he must be bad, but she could not leave him here. She scram-
bled to her feet and ran back to the house to discuss it with her
husband. But Yang had fallen into a deep sleep, and no matter how
she shook him, he would not wake up.
Deciding that she should save the man first and worry about
the consequences later, she ran to the herbal medicine cabinet and
fetched her husbands blood-clotting powder, and then found a
small knife and some pieces of cloth. She grabbed the jug of warm
wine that was still on the stove, and ran back outside. He had not
moved. Charity helped him sit up and she trickled the leftover wine
into his mouth. She knew a bit of basic medicine. The arrow sat
deep in his flesh, and pulling it out might cause him to lose a lot of
blood. But if she did not remove it, there would be no way of caring
for the wound. So she took a breath, cut around the arrowhead, and
tugged as hard as she could. The man screamed and instantly passed
out. Blood spurted from the wound, covering her shirt in bright red
splashes. Her heart was thumping in her chest but, steadying her
shaking hands, she sprinkled the blood-clotting powder over the
sore and bandaged it as tight as she could with the scraps of cloth.
After a short time he began to regain consciousness.
Charity was so frightened her arms could barely muster the
strength to hold the man up, let alone move him. But she had an
idea. She went to the small barn by the side of the house and found
a loose wooden plank. She pushed the plank under the man and
shunted him onto it, and then dragged the plank through the snow
back to the barn, as if pulling a sled.
Knowing he was safely sheltered, she crept back inside the house
to change out of her bloodied shirt and wash her face and hands. She
then ladled a bowl of leftover chicken soup, lit a candle and went
back to the barn. His breathing was now steady, if weak. Charity
27

a HERO born
approached the man and urged him to sit up again so that she could
feed him the soup.
She held the bowl to the mans lips with her right hand, and in
her left she moved the candle so that the warm glow highlighted his
sculpted features and elegant nose. This was the first time she had
been able to take a good look at his face and she almost gasped. He
was so handsome. The blood rose in her cheeks and her hand began
to tremble, splashing a drop of candle wax onto his smooth forehead.
He winced, and for the first time looked up at her. There, before
him, was a face as delicate as a flower, two cheeks flushed pink like
rose petals, and a pair of kind eyes sparkling like stars reflected in
a river.
Are you feeling any better? Charity whispered. Here, drink the
rest of the soup. The man tried to take the bowl in his hands, but he
was too weak and nearly spilled the hot broth on himself. Charity
quickly took the bowl back and continued to feed him, one spoonful
at a time.
By the time he finished the bowl, some colour had returned to his
cheeks. He looked up at the heavenly creature nursing him with such
care, but Charity squirmed under his gaze. Hastily she clambered to
her feet, and fetched an armful of straw to keep him warm. Taking
the candle with her, she slipped out of the barn and back inside the
house.
She did not sleep well that night. Her husband was plunging his
spear through the mans chest. The man lunged at her husband with
his sabre. The man chased her between the pine trees. Every few
hours she woke from a new nightmare, damp with sweat. As the sun
warmed her eyelids, she began to stir, and she turned to discover
that the other side of the bed was empty. She sat up. Had her hus-
band found the man? She climbed down, folded the quilt, put on
her outer robe and hurried into the front room. He was sitting at the
table, sharpening the head of his spear. She nodded, before slipping
outside towards the barn and pushing open the door. But she saw
no-one there, just a messy pile of straw. The man had gone.
28

There, beyond the barn, a fresh trail in the snow led out towards
the pine trees behind the house. For a minute or so she was lost
in her thoughts as she stared out in the direction in which the
man had left. A gust of icy wind rushed at her cheeks, and as if
wakening her to her body, she felt a sharp pain in her stomach and
her legs buckled. She stumbled back inside, where her husband
greeted her with a proud grin: I made you and the baby some rice
porridge.
She smiled weakly, and sat. He would only get angry and jealous
if he knew about the events of the previous night, so, she reasoned,
she would have to keep them to herself.
k
Winter gasped its last breath and spring returned. Charitys belly
had ballooned, and preparations for the babys arrival had pushed
almost all thoughts of the man in black from her mind.
The Yang family had just finished dinner, and Charity was hud-
dled by the small pool of light cast by their lamp, sewing new clothes
for her husband. Yang was hanging up the two pairs of straw sandals
he had just finished weaving, ready for the spring.
Im going to see Carpenter Zhang tomorrow to see if he can
fix the plough I broke this morning. Yang looked over at his wife.
Please dont make me any more clothes. Rest, my dear. Think of
the baby.
Charity looked up at her husband and smiled, her fingers still
moving the needle swiftly through the cloth. Yang walked over
to where she was sitting, and took the sewing from her. Charity
stretched, blew out the lamp, and together they went to bed.
At midnight, Charity was suddenly snapped out of her dreams
by her husband sitting up in bed. In the distance, to the west, came
a faint sound of hooves drumming against the dirt. Before long it
could be heard from all directions.
Why are there so many horses?
29

a HERO born
Yang jumped down from the bed and started dressing. The drum-
ming was growing louder; a neighbours dog started barking. Were
being surrounded.
Whats happening? Charitys voice was trembling.
I have no idea, her husband replied, handing her the dagger Qiu
Chuji had given them. Take this, to protect yourself ! He unhooked
his spear from the wall.
By now the sound of hooves had subsided into an intermittent
clatter, largely drowned out by the horses neighing and their masters
shouting. Yang opened one of the shutters at the front of the house
and looked outside. A company of soldiers had surrounded the entire
village, the light from their torches illuminating his neighbours cot-
tages. Some of the riders were struggling to still their excited horses
as they rode among the houses.
Find the traitors, the man in charge shouted to his men. They
must not get away!
Were they here for Qu San? Yang had not seen the tavern keeper
since before winter had come and gone. Even he would struggle to
fight off so many men.
Suddenly one of the soldiers shouted something that made Yangs
heart freeze in his chest. Skyfury Guo! Ironheart Yang! Come out
now and face the consequences of your treacherous actions!
Charity had joined her husband by the window. These words
made the blood drain from her cheeks.
They come chasing innocent citizens when the traitors are
among their own ranks! Ironheart said. Skyfury and I cant pos-
sibly fight so many men at once. Our only option is to run. Dont
worry, I will protect you with my spear. He fetched a bow, slung it
across his back and wedged some arrows in his belt. He then reached
for his wifes hand and squeezed it tightly.
Ill pack, she replied.
Pack? Were leaving everything.
But . . . our home? A tear had crept from the corner of her eye
and was making its way down her cheek.
30

Weve got to focus on getting away first. We can start another

home elsewhere.
But what about the chickens? And the cats?
Silly girl, thinking about them at a time like this? He paused
and then continued. What would they do with your chickens and
cats?
They eat chickens.
Just then a red-orange light came flickering through the window,
throwing shadows across their simple furniture. The soldiers had just
set fire to two thatched cottages nearby. Two foot soldiers were walk-
ing towards them along the main road through the village. Skyfury
Guo! Ironheart Yang! If you dont come out now well set fire to the
whole village!
A red rage rose in Yang, and before Charity could stop him, he
had opened the door and stepped out. I am Ironheart Yang. What
do you want?
Two soldiers dropped their torches in fright and backed away.
One of the other men rode his horse up to the front of the Yang
family house and stopped. So you are Ironheart Yang? Come with us
to see the magistrate. Turning to the foot soldiers, the man barked,
Take him!
Four men ran towards him. Yang twirled his spear in a Rainbow
Crosses the Sky, and swept three of the soldiers to the ground. He
followed this with a Deafening Spring Thunder, picking up one of
the soldiers with the shaft of his spear and throwing him into two
other men. First you must tell me what crimes I am being charged
with.
Traitor! the man on the horse bellowed. How dare you resist
arrest? He may have sounded brave, but he was noticeably reluctant
to come any closer.
Another man on horseback drew level with the first man. Come
without a fight and there will be no new charges to add to your
existing crimes. We have the official documents for your arrest here.
Let me see them!
31

a HERO born
What about the other traitor, Skyfury Guo?

Skyfury thrust his upper body out of the window of his house,
along with a bow and arrow, and called, Here I am! He aimed the
arrow at the first man on horseback.
Put down your bow. Only then will I read the document to
you.
Read it now! Guo pulled the arrow all the way back.
Glancing at the other man on horseback, he rolled out the docu-
ment and began reading. Skyfury Guo and Ironheart Yang of Ox Village,
Linan Prefecture, are charged with collusion with the intent of wrongdoing.
A warrant for their arrest has been issued in accordance with the laws of the
Great Song Empire, in the name of the Ningzong Emperor.
Which official issued the order? Guo asked.
Chancellor Han himself.
Guo and Yang were taken aback. What have we done that could
merit the ire of Chancellor Han? Yang thought to himself. Did they
find out about Qiu Chujis visit?
Who is the accuser? Guo added. Based on what evidence?
We only have orders to capture you and bring you to the court
at Linan. If you want to plead your case, you can do so with the
judge.
The court at Linan only knows how to harass innocent citizens.
Everyone knows that! Guo called back. Were not falling for that
lie! He shifted his arrow so it was now pointing at this soldier.
So you are resisting arrest? the first man on horseback called
back. Another crime to add to the list.
Yang turned to his wife and whispered, Quickly, put on some
more clothes. Ill get his horse for you. Once I shoot their command-
ing officer, the rest of the men will panic.
He drew his bow from his bag and shot an arrow, hitting the
officer in charge in the chest. Aiya! The force knocked him from his
horse and he fell with a thud into the dirt. The soldiers started shout-
ing in surprise: Seize them! The foot soldiers ran forward. Yang and
Guo began firing arrows as fast as they could, and within seconds
32

they had killed seven more men between them. But there were still
too many soldiers.
Howling, Ironheart Yang swung his spear up above his head and
charged forward. The soldiers shrank back in surprise and fear. He
made straight for an official sitting astride a white horse, and lunged
his spear at him. The man tried to block it with his own lance, but
Yang was too quick, plunging his spear deep into the officials thigh.
He lifted the man like a piece of meat on the end of a skewer, and
flicked him from his horse.
Yang then dug the other end of his spear into the ground and
flipped himself onto the back of the horse. Squeezing his calves, he
jolted the horse forward. It reared, before leaping straight towards
the house. Yang speared another soldier by the door, leaned down
and scooped Charity up with one arm. Brother, follow me!
Guo was spinning his double halberd at the crowd of men, hold-
ing his wife behind him with his other hand. The remaining soldiers
were frightened and began shooting arrows in panic.
Yang galloped over to Guo and Lily, and dropped down from the
horses back. Sister, get on. Against her protests, he threw her up
onto the horse. Charity took hold of the reins and started to move
the horse forward. The two men followed on foot, spearing and
slicing any soldiers brave enough to approach.
Suddenly, a thundering of hooves sounded in the west. Yang and
Guo glanced at each other and started looking for an escape route.
Just then Charity screamed; the horse had been hit by an arrow. It
lurched forward and landed on its front knees, before falling to its
side and throwing the two women to the ground.
Brother, you look after them, Yang said. Ill get another horse.
Clutching his spear, Yang ran straight into the crowd of soldiers
ahead. A dozen or so formed a line, raising their bows at Yang.
There were just too many soldiers, Guo reasoned, and their
chances of escaping with their wives was not looking good. Perhaps
they should give themselves up and argue their case in court? None
of the men had survived the fight against Qiu Chuji that winters
33

a HERO born
afternoon, so there could be no witness to say they had been part of

it, let alone killed any of the soldiers themselves. Ironheart, stop!
Guo called. Lets go with them!
Yang halted in surprise and ran back, dragging his spear in the
dirt.
The officer in command of this second group of soldiers ordered
the men not to shoot and instead surround the traitors. Throw down
your weapons, and you will be spared!
Brother, dont fall for their lies, Yang hissed. Guo shook his
head, looked his friend straight in the eye and, holding his gaze,
threw his double halberd to the dirt. Yang looked across at his wife.
Fear seemed to reach out of her eyes and cling to him. He sighed
and threw his spear to the ground. Ten spearheads appeared inches
from their faces, and eight foot soldiers stepped forward to bind their
hands.
Yang held his head high, a sneer spread across his face. The officer
in charge walked his horse forward and lashed Yang across the cheek
with his whip. Damned traitor! Are you really not afraid to die?
And whats your name? came Yangs reply, a snarl rather than a
question.
This drove the man on the horse even wilder with rage. Justice
Duan His Excellency Duan to you! And dont forget it. You can tell
them about me when you reach the gates of hell!
Yang stared back at the man without blinking, his eyes fixed on
Duans.
Ive got a scar on my forehead and a birthmark on my right
cheek, Duan continued. Know who I am now? At this he whipped
Yang across the other cheek.
Hes a good man, hes done nothing wrong, Charity called out.
Why are you beating him?
Yang spat at Duan and a globule of phlegm landed on his birth-
mark. Furious, Duan pulled out his sabre. Im going to kill you right
now, you disgusting traitor! He lifted his sabre high above his head
and brought it down in a clumsy slash. It was not hard for Yang to
34

step out of the way. Two foot soldiers moved their spears to Yangs
sides and pushed the metal tips against his taut muscles, pincering
him. Duan raised his sabre again and swung it down somewhat more
elegantly than before. Unable to move sideways, Yang could only
pull back. Despite appearances Duan had in fact practised some mar-
tial arts, and immediately he thrust his sabre forward. The blade had
a sawtoothed edge, and this time he managed to swipe it through
Yangs left shoulder. He pulled back again for another chop.
At that moment Guo jumped up and thrust his feet at Duans
face. Duan tried to block Guos feet with his sabre, but despite hav-
ing his hands tied behind his back, Guo managed to twirl his left
leg away and round Duans sword, while jabbing his right foot into
Duans stomach.
Spear them! Duan coughed. Our orders were to kill them
should they resist arrest.
But Guo had kicked two men to the ground. Duan came from
behind him and swung his sabre down hard, severing Guos right
arm at the shoulder. Yang had been trying to struggle free from
the ropes around his wrists, but seeing his oldest friend so badly
wounded gave him a new surge of strength. He snapped his bonds,
punched the closest soldier, and grabbed his spear. By now he had
nothing to lose: he could fight or they would all die. He speared two
more in quick succession.
Duan shrank back in fear. He could see renewed and ferocious
determination in Yangs eyes, the fear of killing government troops
now gone. The remaining soldiers ran.
Rather than give chase, Yang turned to his friend. He crouched
down beside Guo. Blood was pumping from the wound in crimson
spurts and his cream robe was already drenched down one side. Tears
ran like rivulets down his cheeks.
Guo forced a smile. Ironheart, dont worry about me. Go. Go!
Im going to fetch a horse, Yang said. Whatever happens, Im
going to save you.
No, dont worry. Guo passed out.
35

a HERO born
Ironheart Yang removed his shirt so he could bandage up the

wound. But Duans sword had sliced through Guos shoulder and
into his chest. It would be impossible to stem the bleeding. Guo
came round again and called, Brother, save our wives. Im not going
to make it. Then he gasped and died.
Ever since they were little, the two friends had always thought of
each other as flesh and blood. Rage surged in Yangs chest, and he
recalled they had once sworn to each other, Together we will die,
same day, same month, same year. Yang looked around him. He had
no idea what had happened to their wives amid the chaos.
Brother, I will avenge your death! he cried out, grabbing hold of
his spear and charging towards the nearest group of soldiers.
By now the soldiers had resumed their formation. Justice Duan
issued an order, and a swarm of arrows came flying straight at Yang.
But he marched ahead through the storm, knocking the arrows
aside. One military officer swung his sabre hard at Ironhearts head,
but Ironheart ducked and tucked himself underneath the belly of his
horse. The sabre was left to swipe blindly through the air. The officer
was trying to turn his horse when a spear pierced through his back
and into his heart. Yang lifted the corpse and flicked it off the end
of his spear, before mounting. He waved his spear at the remaining
soldiers. None dared fight him, choosing instead to flee.
Yang continued to chase them for a while until he caught sight of
one of the officers riding away, with a woman slung over his horse.
Ironheart jumped down from his horse and skewered one of the foot
soldiers with his spear. Taking the soldiers bow and arrow, he aimed
as best he could, with the light from the burning houses as his only
guide, pulled back and fired. The arrow speared the horses behind,
sending the animal to its knees and the two riders tumbling to the
ground. Ironheart fired another arrow, killing the officer. He then ran
over to the woman, who was struggling to sit up.
36

4
Charity threw herself into her husbands arms in relief.
Where is our sister Lily Li? Yang asked.
Up ahead. She was captured by soldiers.
Stay here and wait for me. Im going to find her.
But there are more soldiers coming! Charity replied, aghast.
Ironheart turned to watch a cluster of torches approaching.
Brother Guo is dead, Yang said, turning back to Charity. I have
to find Lily Li, to save his family line. The heavens will take pity on
us, I will come back for you!
Charity clung to her husbands neck and would not let go. We
were never to part, she said, tears gathering. You said so yourself.
Were going to die together.
Ironheart took her in his arms and kissed her. He then peeled
her arms from around his neck and picked up his spear. He ran a few
dozen metres, then stopped and looked back. There she sat, crouched
in the dust, crying. The soldiers were upon her.
Ironheart turned and wiped the mixture of tears, sweat and
blood from his cheeks with his sleeve. The Guo family must have
descendants.
He carried onwards on foot until he spotted a stray horse, and a
man nearby. Which way did the soldiers go? he demanded.
That way. The man pointed. Ironheart belted the horse with his
heel, and spurred onwards.
Then, a scream. A womans scream, in the woods by the road.
He jerked the horse round and charged straight at the trees. Lily Li
had wrestled her hands free from the ropes and was fighting off two
foot soldiers. She was a strong, robust country girl; the foot soldiers
laughed and cursed, but they could not overcome her. Ironheart was
upon them, and with two jabs speared them both. He then pulled
37

a HERO born
Lily up behind him and together they raced back to where he had
left his wife.
But there was no-one to be found.
Morning was approaching. Ironheart dismounted his horse and
searched for any trace of his wife by the days first light. There, a
trail; someone had been dragged through the dirt. His wife, captured
by soldiers.
Ironheart jumped back up onto the horse and booted it in
the stomach. The horse was galloping at full speed when a bugle
sounded and a group of ten soldiers dressed in black and on horse-
back charged onto the path. The first man was wielding a wolf-fang
club but Ironheart blocked it, parrying with his spear. The man then
planed the club towards Ironhearts stomach an unusual move in
these parts.
The wolf-fang club was a heavy weapon, and not generally pop-
ular in the wulin. The Jin army, however, were known to favour it.
The Jurchen had grown up strong in the fight against the freezing
climate, east of the Liao River. When the Jin invaded the north, the
wolf-fang club had been their weapon of choice.
Ironheart was growing suspicious and recalled his brothers
words. Judging by range and quality of the mans skills, he must be
of high rank in the Jin army. But what was he doing here? Ironheart
quickened his spear and struck the man from his horse. The rest fled
in shock.
Ironheart turned to check that Lily Li was unhurt. At that moment,
an arrow whistled through the air towards him and buried itself in
his back.
Brother! Lily Li cried.
It felt like ice piercing his heart. So this is it, Ironheart said to
himself. But I must defeat these men first, so Lily can escape.
With the last of his strength he lifted his spear, spurred his horse
and rushed at the new crowd of soldiers that had appeared. But
the pain was too much. A dark curtain drew across his eyes and he
fainted, slumped over his horse.
38

5
The moment her Ironheart had pushed her away, Char-
ity felt as if her heart had been sliced in two by her husbands own
blade. The soldiers were upon her within seconds. There was no
escape.
One of the officers held a torch to her face.
Its her, he said. Whod have guessed those two southerners
alone could have caused our men such injury.
At least we can say we were the ones to complete the job,
another said. Theyll have to give us at least ten taels of silver for
our efforts.
Huh! the first officer snorted. Ill just be happy if the generals
leave a few coins for us. He turned to the bugler. Time to go back.
The bugler brought his instrument to his lips and blew.
k
They kept riding. Charity tried to swallow her tears. What had
happened to her husband? The sun had now risen. People started to
appear on the road, but they slipped away again at the sight of the
soldiers. Charity was surprised, however, to find the men polite in
both word and deed, so after some time she began to relax.
After several more li, they heard shouts coming from up ahead.
Another group of men clad in black charged at them from the side of
the road.
Disgusting vermin! their leader shouted. Murdering innocent
subjects! Get down from your horses!
The highest-ranking officer was furious. How dare you ban-
dits show your faces out here on the outskirts of the capital? Get
away, now!
39

a HERO born
The men in black rushed forward. What they lacked in numbers,

they made up for with their superior kung fu.
Charity was quietly excited. Maybe her dear Ironhearts friends
had come to rescue her?
In the chaos, an arrow came flying towards Charity from behind
and hit her horse in the rump. It jerked and began racing forward.
Charity desperately wrapped her arms around the horses neck for
fear of falling. Before long, she heard the beating of hooves against
the dirt behind her. A black horse drew level with hers and then
edged in front. The man riding it was spinning a rope, and with
a swish! it flew through the air and looped over the head of Char-
itys horse. The man pulled on the rope, drawing them level and
then slowing them. He whistled, stopping his animal dead. Charitys
horse was pulled to a halt, neighing and rearing.
Charity was worn out after such a long and eventful night. Terror
and grief had weakened her so she could no longer hold the reins.
She fainted, flopping from the horse and to the ground.
k
Charity felt herself waking gradually. She did not know how
long she had been asleep. A cosy feeling cloaked her, and she
imagined herself to be lying on a soft bed, wrapped in a thick cotton
quilt. As she opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was a fine green
canopy decorated with flowers above her, and as she turned, a lamp
lit on a bedside table. Was she imagining it? Or was there a man in
black sitting by her bed?
Hearing her stir, the man stood up and parted the bed curtains.
Are you awake? he whispered.
Charity was still half asleep, but the man seemed familiar.
You still have a fever, the man murmured, placing his hand on
her forehead. Dont worry, the doctor will be here soon.
Dazed, Charity fell back into the comfort of sleep.
Later, she was dimly aware of a doctor examining her and
40

someone feeding her medicine. She felt almost paralysed by

exhaustion.
Then, suddenly: Ironheart! My dear Ironheart! She broke from
her dream with a start. Someone stroked her shoulder, consoled her.
The sun was high in the sky by the time she next woke. A groan
rose from deep within her. Someone came to the bed and pulled
aside the curtain. She looked at him, and shock shot through her.
The handsome, friendly-looking man standing before her was none
other than the injured soldier she had saved in the snow all those
months ago.
Where am I? Where is my husband?
The young man gestured for her to be quiet. There are soldiers
everywhere out there looking for us. Were staying with a local
farmer. Your humble servant begs your forgiveness, my lady, I had
to lie to the farmer and say that I am your husband. Please dont say
anything.
Charity blushed and nodded. Wheres my husband?
My lady is still weak. I will tell you everything once you feel
better.
A jolt went through Charity; the tone of his voice was enough to
tell her it was serious. She gripped the corner of her quilt and asked
again, her voice shaking, He . . . What happened?
Worrying will accomplish nothing now. Your health is the most
important thing.
Is he dead? she pressed.
Was Squire Yang tall, with broad shoulders, around twenty? Did
he use a spear?
Yes, thats him.
Knowing he had no choice but to tell her now, he nodded. Squire
Yang was unlucky. Those hateful soldiers killed him. He shook his
head and sighed.
Pain pulsed in her chest and she fainted. When she came to again
she instantly began sobbing. The man tried to soothe her.
How did he die? she stuttered between sobs.
41

a HERO born
I saw him fighting a group of soldiers earlier today. He killed a

few of them. But then . . . one of the soldiers crept up behind him
and stabbed him in the back with his spear.
The shock temporarily knocked her out again. For the rest of the
day she neither drank nor ate. The man did not force her, and instead
attempted to distract her with chatter.
After some time, Charity began to feel guilty for not asking the
man any questions. May I ask sirs name? How did you know we
were in trouble and needed help?
My surname is Yan, my given name is Lie. I was passing by with
my friends when we saw those soldiers harassing you. We decided to
help, and as it turns out, the heavens decreed that I should save my
own saviour. We were destined to meet again.
His words made her blush and she turned away from him. But her
mind was working as his story struck her as suspicious. She turned
back to face him. Are you one of them?
Yan Lie looked surprised.
Werent you one of the soldiers who tried to capture the Taoist
that day? Thats how you got hurt?
I was unlucky, thats all. I was coming south and was passing
through your village on my way to Linan. But then an arrow came
out of nowhere and hit me in the back. If it werent for my ladys
benevolence, I would have died out there. But why were they trying
to catch the priest? Taoist priests catch ghosts why would a sol-
dier want to catch a priest? Theyve got it all muddled. He looked
amused.
So you were just passing through? You werent with them? I
thought you were also coming after the priest. I wasnt sure I should
help you that day. She then went on to tell him why the soldiers
were there and how Qiu Chuji killed them all.
Charity continued talking, until she caught him staring at her,
captivated. She fell silent.
My apologies. He smiled. I was just thinking about how were
going to escape without getting caught by the soldiers.
42

Charity started to cry. My husbands gone how can I live on? It

is my duty, as his wife. I should do the honourable thing.
Madam, your husband was murdered by rebel soldiers and his
death is yet to be avenged. How can you think of suicide? Squire
Yang was a hero in life. Hell never find peace beneath the Nine
Springs of the Underworld if he hears you talking like that.
But Im just a feeble woman. How can I possibly avenge his
death?
My ladys burden, Yan Lie said in righteous anger, I will gladly
assume. Do you know who the culprit is?
Charity thought for a while before answering. Their leader was
called Justice Duan. He has a scar on his forehead and a birthmark
on his cheek.
We have a name and distinguishing features. It doesnt matter
if he runs to the ends of the earth or the corners of the sea, we will
bring him to justice! He went outside and came back with a bowl of
rice porridge and some peeled salted eggs. But you wont get your
revenge if you dont take care of your health first.
Charity agreed this made sense, took the bowl and started to eat.
She then fell back into a fitful sleep.
The next morning, Charity arranged her clothes and got out of
bed. She went to the mirror and brushed her hair, found a piece
of white cloth and fixed a white flower in her hair, out of respect
for her husband. But the sight of the beautiful woman in the mirror,
widowed at such a young age, plunged her back into the depths of
her grief and she started weeping bitterly.
Just then Yan Lie walked in. He waited for a pause in her sobs.
The soldiers have retreated. Lets be on our way, he said softly.
Charity followed him out. Yan Lie handed the master of the
house a piece of silver, and then brought the two horses round. Her
horses wound had been taken care of.
Where to now? Charity asked.
Yan Lie hushed her with a look, and helped her up onto her
horse. Together they began riding northwards, side by side.
43

a HERO born
Where are you taking me? Charity asked again, several li thence.
First were going to find somewhere to lie low. Once everything
has calmed, I will go back and bury your husband. Then I will kill
Justice Duan!
Charity was mild in character and rarely put forward her own
suggestions. Furthermore, the events of the previous night had left
her all alone in the world, and she was just grateful that Yan Lie had
a plan.
Master Yan, how am I ever to repay you?
My lady, you were the one to save me! he exclaimed. I will be
your humble servant for the rest of my days, through fire and rain,
even in the face of the cruellest torture.
I only hope we can kill that horrible man as soon as possible, so
that I can join my husband in the knowledge he has been avenged.
Tears tumbled down her cheeks.
They rode for a full day before stopping for the night at an inn in
Changan. Yan Lie told the innkeeper they were married and got one
room. This made Charity extremely nervous, but she remained silent,
and instead gripped Qiu Chujis dagger under her clothes. If he does
anything untoward, Ill kill myself, she decided.
Yan Lie instructed one of the men to bring them two bundles of
rice straw. Once the man left, he locked the door and arranged the
bundles on the floor. He then lay down on one of them and drew a
rug over himself. Sleep well, my lady, he said, and closed his eyes.
Charitys heart was thumping. Thoughts of her dead husband
tore at her insides, and she sat staring into the darkness for over an
hour before eventually blowing out the candle with a sigh. Clutch-
ing the dagger, she climbed onto her bundle of straw and slept in
her clothes.
k
By the time Charity woke the next day, Yan Lie had already read-
ied the horses and was requesting breakfast. Charity was grateful
44

he was proving to be such a gentleman, and began to think per-

haps she need not be so worried. Breakfast consisted of fried strips
of chicken and tofu, ham, sliced sausage, smoked fish and a small
pot of the most deliciously fragrant rice porridge. Charity was from
a simple but honest background and had lived off the land since
marrying into the Yang family. Breakfast for her usually consisted
of pickles and a small piece of tofu. She only got to eat such varied
fare at Spring Festival or wedding banquets. She ate, but felt a little
uncomfortable.
After they finished, an inn boy came in with a bundle. Yan Lie
had already left the room.
Whats this? Charity asked.
As soon as the sun was up, Master went out and bought new
clothes for Madam. He says you are to wear them. He placed the
bundle on the floor and left.
Charity opened the bundle and was surprised to find a mourning
dress made from white silk, with a complete set of matching acces-
sories, from stockings, shoes, underwear to a padded jacket, silk scarf
and sash.
Hes thought of everything, she muttered. What an unusual
young man.
She dressed in her new clothes, but just knowing Yan Lie had
selected them made her blush. She had left home in a hurry and her
own clothes were now torn and dirty after a night on the road. The
new outfit did cheer her a little. When Yan Lie returned, she noticed
he too was dressed in expensive new clothes.
And so they set off again, riding in single file, or sometimes side
by side. Spring was just turning into summer south of the Yangtze.
Willows by the side of the road reached out and brushed against
their shoulders as they passed, flowers filled the air with their in-
toxicating scent, and the fields were covered in a green quilt of
new shoots.
Yan Lie spent the entire journey idly chatting in order to dis-
tract Charity from her grief. Charitys father, a minor scholar, was
45

a HERO born
the most educated man of their small village, and her husband and
his sworn brother had both been straightforward, simple men. Never
had she met a man as refined and cultured as Yan Lie. His every word
revealed a depth and sharpness of thought. But they seemed to be
heading further and further north, away from Linan, and he had not
mentioned the subject of avenging her husbands unjust death all
day. She could hold back no longer: Master Yan, do you know the
whereabouts of my husbands body?
Of course I wish to look for Squire Yangs body and give him a
proper burial, its just that I killed government men while rescuing
my lady. Right now its very dangerous for me to go back there; they
would kill me as soon as I set foot in Linan. In any case, soldiers are
out everywhere looking for my lady. Squire Yang committed trea-
son by killing officials of the Song Empire, after all, and thats a
serious crime. When they capture the relatives of a traitor, the men
are beheaded and the women forced into prostitution. Im not so
worried about my own safety, but I couldnt leave my lady without
protection. They would do terrible things to you.
Charity nodded at his sincerity.
I have given the matter considerable thought, Yan Lie continued.
The most important thing is to give your husband a proper burial. So
we are heading for Jiaxing where I can obtain enough silver to send
someone to Linan to take care of it. If Madam will only find peace
in the knowledge that I have organised it personally, then I will first
make sure you are safe in Jiaxing, and then go back myself.
Charity thought it would be expecting too much to ask him
to take such a big risk for her, so she replied, If Master can find
someone trustworthy to handle it, then I suppose that will do. She
paused, and then continued, My husband also had a friend they
were sworn brothers by the name of Skyfury Guo. He died along-
side my husband. Im sorry to trouble you by asking this, but if you
could ensure that he too is buried properly . . . Well, I would . . . She
was interrupted by her own tears.
Its no trouble, Yan Lie replied. Just leave it to me. As for
46

avenging their deaths, the traitor Justice Duan is a government offi-

cial, so its going to be difficult to kill him. Besides, we need to be
especially careful right now. Were going to have to be patient and
wait for our moment.
Charity knew Yan Lie was right, but she was desperate to see Just
ice Duan dead so she could join her husband in the next world. But
who knew when such an opportunity would arise? She would have
to be patient. The tears flowed even faster.
I dont care about getting revenge, she stuttered between sobs.
Even a hero like my husband was unable to defeat him. Im just a
wretched woman how can I wait for him to be brought to justice?
Just let me join my husband.
Yan Lie paused to think. Madam, do you have faith in me?
Charity nodded.
Then the only answer, he said, is to continue north, away from
the soldiers. The Song officials cant catch us up in the north, well
be out of danger as soon as we cross the River Huai. Once things
have calmed, well come back south to avenge these heroes. Please
be assured, my lady, I will see to it that justice is done.
I have no family now, Charity thought to herself, hesitating. If I
dont follow him, where is a woman like me to make a life for her-
self ? I saw those soldiers attack my husband and burn our home
with my own eyes. Had they captured me, I would have suffered
a fate worse than death. Yet this man is neither friend nor relative.
Should a widow like me be travelling on her own with a young man
like him? But he would no doubt stop me if I tried to commit suicide.
All she knew for sure was that the road ahead would be difficult and
uncertain, and her guts felt twisted with worry. She had been crying
for days now and it felt as if she had no tears left.
If my lady doesnt agree with any part of my plan, then please
tell me. I will do anything Madam asks.
He was so accommodating that it made Charity feel guilty. Other
than taking her own life, she could see no other way. Then lets do
as you suggest, she said, unable to look up.
47

a HERO born
Yan Lie visibly rejoiced, and exclaimed, I am forever in Madams

debt, for you saved my l
Please dont mention it again, Charity interrupted.
Of course.
k
That night, they stopped at another inn in the town of Wudun,
and once again Yan Lie arranged for them to stay in the same room.
He had been noticeably less reserved since Charity had agreed to
go with him to the north, and occasionally he would become a little
too excited. She was beginning to feel uneasy again, but as he was
yet to do anything improper as such, she decided he must just be
trying to show his gratitude.
They arrived at Jiaxing around noon the next day. It was one of
the biggest cities in western Zhejiang, where the rice and silk trades
had thrived for centuries. Known as Drunken Plums in ancient times
and Bounteous Grains during the Five Dynasties, it had changed its
name to Jiaxing following Emperor Xiaozongs birth in the city.
Lets find a place to rest, Yan Lie suggested.
Charity, however, was concerned the soldiers might find them.
Its still early, lets press on.
The markets here are good and Madams clothes are worn. We
should buy you some new ones first.
But you bought these only yesterday, Charity said. You call
these worn?
The roads are dusty; clothes lose their shine after only a couple
of days. Besides, Madam is so beautiful, it wouldnt be right for you
to wear anything but the finest.
Charity enjoyed his compliment, even if she could not admit it,
but she looked away. Im in mourning
But of course, he replied at once. I understand.
Charity was quiet. She was indeed a beautiful young woman, but
her husband had never once told her so. She stole a glance at Yan
48

Lie. He seemed sincere. A flutter went through her, but it was tinged
with anxiety.
Yan Lie asked passers-by for a place to stay and was directed
to the Elegant Waters Inn, the largest in the city. After freshening
up, Yan Lie and Charity ordered some snacks in their room and sat
facing each other, eating. Charity had wanted to ask for a separate
room, but did not know how to phrase it. Her cheeks alternated
between bright crimson and pallid white as they ate, her worries
pressing constantly against her chest.
Please make yourself comfortable, my lady. Im just going to buy
a few things. Ill be back soon.
Charity nodded. Please dont spend too much.
Yan Lie smiled. Its such a shame Madam is in mourning and
cannot wear pearls or gems. Anyhow, I could never spend too much,
even if it was my greatest desire.
49

A Hero Born

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LEGENDS OF THE

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Translated from the Chinese by

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Suddenly a Snow Storm . . . 3

The Seven Freaks of the South . . .50

Swirling Sands . . .96

A Dark Wind Blows . . .133

Draw the Bow, Shoot the Condor . . . 173

Combat at the Cliff . . . 209

For the Maiden . . . 256

Every Man a Mythical Skill . . . 300

Spear Splits Plough . . . 328

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were killed in pursuit of these magical weapons. Reluctantly the

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As they appear in this, the first volume of

THE SONG PATRIOTS

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Skyfury Guo, sworn brother to Ironheart Yang, he is descended

SONG IMPERIAL TRAITORS

THE FIVE GREATS

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THE QUANZHEN TAOIST SECT

THE SEVEN FREAKS OF THE SOUTH

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Temujins Four Great Generals:

THE JIN EMPIRE

FOLLOWERS OF THE SIXTH PRINCE WANYAN HONGLIE

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Wu Qinglie the Bold fights with a spear called the Dispatcher.

PEACH BLOSSOM ISLAND

THE IMMORTAL CLOUD SECT

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Fuelled by patriotic fervour and anger at the corruption eating

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Untended, the peach blossoms still open,

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The heavens unleash unexpected storms,

Upon arrival, he continued, they encountered a troop of Jin

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A beauty made of flower and moon,

He alternates between singing and speaking, all the while beating

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Surrounded by mountains, dancing in halls,

Whats the story behind that song? Yang asks.

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their weapons like machetes, swinging and chopping through the

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