Chapter Two: Maple Grove Cottage

Bu Yuan led Fang Guohuan over two mountains and then toward two wooden cabins perched on a slope. When they were still ten meters away from the cabins, Bu Yuan called out, “Brother Zhu Qi, are you home?” Before his words had faded, a middle-aged man dressed as a hunter emerged to greet them. Upon seeing Bu Yuan, the man exclaimed joyfully, “Well, if it isn’t Brother Bu Yuan!” Spotting Fang Guohuan beside him, the man asked, “Who is this young fellow?” Bu Yuan replied, “He’s a new friend I’ve made, Brother Fang Guohuan.” The man smiled, “Forgive me! I am Zhu Qi.” Fang Guohuan hurried forward, saying, “So you are Brother Zhu Qi.”

Zhu Qi welcomed Bu Yuan and Fang Guohuan into the cabin. It was a typical hunter’s dwelling in the mountains; animal pelts hung from the walls, a large bed supported by wooden stakes stood by the wall, enough for five or six people. Behind the door hung a bow, arrows, and an old waist knife, while a gleaming steel trident stood nearby. In the center, a sturdy wooden table was surrounded by several simple stools. A stove nearby radiated warmth from its glowing coals, making the room cozy. Zhu Qi invited his guests to sit, poured two bowls of roasted rice water, and then said to Bu Yuan, “If you hadn’t come, I would have sought you out myself.” Bu Yuan asked, “Is something the matter?” Zhu Qi answered, “Recently, heavy snow has sealed the mountains, and a starving leopard has emerged.” Bu Yuan’s spirit was instantly stirred. “Any traces?” Zhu Qi replied, “The beast is mostly seen in the northern mountains, has injured several villagers, and killed two cattle. Our brothers are tracking it, and I expect news in a day or two.” Bu Yuan hesitated, “Unfortunately, I have other matters and cannot go for now. But if there’s news, find me at Maple Grove Cottage.” Zhu Qi was taken aback, “Are you still seeking that monk? Which expert have you brought this time?” Bu Yuan laughed, “It’s this young brother, Fang.” Zhu Qi was again surprised, glancing at Fang Guohuan in disbelief, “This young fellow? I wouldn’t have guessed.”

Bu Yuan smiled, “Don’t be fooled by his youth; Fang is courageous, once fought wolves to save a man, and he’s quite insightful at chess.” Zhu Qi’s face showed astonishment.

As they conversed, evening approached. Zhu Qi said, “Wait here, I’ll fetch some wine from the village.” He took a large gourd and went out. Bu Yuan turned to Fang Guohuan, “Let’s spend the night here and attend to our business tomorrow.” Fang Guohuan asked uncertainly, “Forgive my impudence, but what does Brother Bu require of me?” Bu Yuan replied, “Are you skilled at chess?” Fang Guohuan answered earnestly, “To be honest, my chess skills were taught by my late master, and I have yet to lose to anyone else.” Bu Yuan was overjoyed, “That’s perfect. If you can defeat the monk tomorrow, I’ll obtain a treasure.” Bu Yuan’s face shone with excitement. Fang Guohuan asked, “Is it something valuable?” Bu Yuan replied, “To me, it’s priceless—a rare slingshot.” Fang Guohuan shook his head, “What’s so special about a slingshot that makes you so happy?” Bu Yuan explained, “You don’t know; it’s a treasure bow called the ‘Conqueror’s Bow,’ with incredible power, best used for shooting iron pellets. Two years ago, I met a monk named Zhishan at Maple Grove Cottage; he owns this bow. He showed it to me, and its pellets can shatter trees and rocks. As a hunter, a good bow or knife can mean an extra life. I tried to barter or buy it, but the monk refused, saying I must bring a chess master to defeat him. If victorious, he’d give me the bow. He also taught me how to use it, which only made me more eager. I hired four chess experts, but none could beat him. If you can win the Conqueror’s Bow for me, I’ll be grateful for life.” Fang Guohuan laughed, “So that’s it. Since Brother likes the slingshot, I’ll fulfill your wish tomorrow. Though the monk is skilled, he’s nothing to fear. When I traveled with my master, I played chess against many experts and held my own. I hope to meet a true chess master.” Bu Yuan was delighted, “Excellent! You must have had a great teacher.” Fang Guohuan grew wistful, “My late master suffered misfortune and wandered the world. After I accidentally became lost from home and followed him, he taught me to read and write, and then chess day and night, saying I could earn a living with it. We couldn’t afford chess sets, so we used two-colored pebbles. My master taught me with stones.” He continued, “In the past half year, my skills have matched his. When we play, we each win some games. He was pleased, saying he rarely met worthy opponents, and in a few years, I’d be invincible. He said Emperor Yao invented chess for me, because I am ‘born with chess talent.’” Bu Yuan was dumbfounded. Fang Guohuan smiled, “Don’t take it all seriously—my master liked to boast.” Bu Yuan stood up, laughing, “Your master must be wise, to produce a chess expert like you, just for me to win the Conqueror’s Bow. I believe you, tomorrow’s great affair will succeed!”

Just then, the door opened and Zhu Qi returned, placing a gourd of wine on the table. He took out packets of dried tofu and peanuts, fetched some smoked meat and venison from another cabin, and laid out a rough feast. Zhu Qi said to Fang Guohuan, “We mountain folk have little to offer, but this will fill you up.” Bu Yuan laughed, “Brother Zhu Qi, tomorrow I’ll surely get the Conqueror’s Bow.” Zhu Qi was thrilled, “That makes you even stronger, like a tiger with wings.” He looked at Fang Guohuan in amazement, “You really are a remarkable young man—leave it to you.” Zhu Qi then said to Bu Yuan, “I met Tie Wu in the village; they’ve found the leopard’s trail and are tracking it. If there’s news and I can’t reach you in time, we’ll signal with a beacon.” Bu Yuan nodded, “Good, you track the leopard, and after I get the bow, I’ll join you.” Zhu Qi added, “Judging by the tracks, it’s a big female leopard. Without the Conqueror’s Bow, it’ll be hard to subdue her.” He took another gourd and some venison, then said, “I’m off; there’s stewed venison in the pot—help yourselves.” Armed with bow, knife, and steel trident, he bid farewell and hurried out.

Fang Guohuan worried, “I hear female leopards are fiercer than tigers. Won’t they be in danger?” Bu Yuan replied, “Don’t worry; Zhu Qi and the others are experienced hunters. If they’re not confident, they’ll wait for me.” The room was now dark. Bu Yuan lit an oil lamp, served venison and wine, and the two ate. Fang Guohuan couldn’t hold his liquor, but Bu Yuan drank heartily. Afterward, Bu Yuan spread animal pelts on the bed, and recounted hunting tales until midnight, when they finally slept.

At dawn, Bu Yuan called, “Time to get up!” leaping from bed. Fang Guohuan woke at his shout. After a simple breakfast and tidying up, they left the cabin, closed the door, and Bu Yuan led Fang Guohuan down the mountain path along a main road. On the way, Fang Guohuan asked, “Is Maple Grove Cottage far?” Bu Yuan replied, “Not too far; we’ll be there after noon.” They walked for some time and reached a small town, quiet and sparsely populated. They found a tea stall for refreshments, then arrived at a shop. Bu Yuan said, “Wait here, I have some fur accounts to settle.” He entered the shop, and Fang Guohuan waited outside.

At that moment, a dozen riders galloped in from outside the town, slowing at the street entrance. All wore tight-fitting clothes and carried swords, the look of martial wanderers. Leading them was a young woman of about twenty, draped in a cloak, whose bearing radiated strength and authority. The rest were burly men. As they passed, the woman noticed Fang Guohuan standing by the road—his clothes worn, thin build, shivering in the cold wind, fragile as a sapling. She took him for a beggar and thought with pity, “Such a fair-looking child, so wretched!” She took two white buns from her saddlebag and handed them to him. “Hey, little brother, take these.” Fang Guohuan, surprised to be called by the woman on horseback, instinctively reached out and accepted the buns, inwardly admiring, “What a beautiful lady!” She smiled at his innocent gaze, then rode on. Fang Guohuan found her smile even more charming, and watched as her party disappeared.

Bu Yuan emerged from the shop to find Fang Guohuan holding the buns, staring into the distance. He patted his shoulder, “What are you daydreaming about? Didn’t you eat enough?” Fang Guohuan replied, “A lady gave me these.” “Lady?” Bu Yuan was puzzled, “Where?” “On horseback,” Fang Guohuan said. Bu Yuan glanced at the departing riders, then at Fang Guohuan, bursting into laughter, “So, you were mistaken for a beggar and given alms!” He slapped his own head, “How foolish! I forgot to dress you properly.” He dragged Fang Guohuan into a clothing shop, picked out a set, and insisted he wear it despite Fang’s reluctance. “We’re brothers; don’t be shy.” After buying the clothes, Fang Guohuan thanked him and put them on. Bu Yuan smiled, “That’s better—now you look much more spirited.”

They left the town, walked another hour, turned off the main road, and passed through a grove of maples to arrive at several neat straw cottages. Above the door of the largest was a white wooden plaque inscribed, “Maple Grove Cottage.” Fang Guohuan thought, “This must be the place.” Bu Yuan strode ahead and called loudly, “Is the monk home? Bu Yuan is here for the Conqueror’s Bow!” At once, a voice from within replied, “Bu Yuan, who have you brought this time? Let’s hope we’re not disappointed again.” Bu Yuan laughed, “Don’t worry, monk—this time only you will be disappointed.” A cold laugh came from inside, “Excellent, that’s what I wish. Come in.”

Bu Yuan pushed the door open, leading Fang Guohuan inside. Fang was startled by the cottage’s elegance—spacious and bright with wooden floors, a rug in the center, a low square table with a bamboo chessboard, two baskets of Yunnan kiln chess pieces, and a tea set. Beside it stood a delicate red clay stove with a steaming white tin kettle. A middle-aged monk in yellow robes sat at the table, reading scripture, serene and solitary. Fang Guohuan marveled, “What a refined monk!” The monk, eyes lowered, continued reading, barely acknowledging the guests, saying only, “Please sit.” Bu Yuan, accustomed to this, cheerfully seated Fang Guohuan. The monk added, “There’s hot tea on the stove—help yourselves.” Bu Yuan replied, “Thank you,” then introduced, “This is Master Zhishan; this is my friend Fang Guohuan.” Zhishan glanced at Fang, noting his youth, and frowned. Fang hurriedly bowed, “Greetings, master.” Zhishan set aside his book, saying coolly, “Courtesy is for the capable; for now, just sit.” Bu Yuan, excited, asked, “Monk, shall we begin?” Zhishan replied, “You’re impatient.” He pushed the basket of black pieces to Fang, “Young Fang, please start,” his tone dismissive. Fang sensed Zhishan’s aloofness and recalled his master’s words: “Extraordinary people are extraordinary in every way—this monk must be a chess master.” He calmed himself and said, “Thank you,” then placed a black piece on the center point.

“Hmm?” Zhishan was surprised. He had planned to let Fang have a three-piece handicap, to avoid embarrassing himself, but Fang boldly opened with a central move. Zhishan’s expression turned grim. Normally, players open with corner moves for advantage; only those with exceptional skill, or who wish to intimidate, start in the center. Fang’s master had praised this tactic for its audacity and psychological effect, and Fang had grown used to it.

Bu Yuan, watching, saw that a single move had unsettled Zhishan—something never seen before. Though he didn’t understand chess, he realized Zhishan had met his match and felt secretly pleased. Zhishan did not immediately respond, but addressed Bu Yuan sternly, “If you’ve brought someone to toy with me, I’d rather destroy the Conqueror’s Bow than let it fall into unworthy hands.” Bu Yuan was alarmed, “Monk, what nonsense is this? Are you reneging?” Fang Guohuan looked perplexed. Bu Yuan grew angry, “Are you afraid of my friend and unwilling to part with your treasure? We agreed—if you renege, say so, and I’ll never return.” Zhishan saw Bu Yuan’s anger and the innocent Fang, and reconsidered, “Could this youth truly be a chess prodigy? Let’s test him.” He softened his tone, “Since Fang is your chosen expert, I’ll play.” He took a piece and responded. Fang Guohuan played in turn. Bu Yuan, seeing them start, muttered a few words and sat to watch.

After eighteen moves, Zhishan was secretly astonished, realizing Fang’s skill was profound. Fifty moves in, Fang regretted his audacious opening, recognizing Zhishan’s skill matched his master’s. He focused intently. Zhishan, deeply impressed, blamed himself for underestimating Fang, and played with full concentration. Bu Yuan, noting the fierce contest and Zhishan’s shift to earnestness, admired Fang all the more, thinking, “My brother truly has talent, to make this proud monk so serious—remarkable!” Though Bu Yuan didn’t understand chess, he endured patiently, not wanting to miss the outcome.

After a long while, the board was filled with black and white pieces. Bu Yuan, unable to discern the winner, grew anxious. Zhishan sighed, sat upright, his face showing joy. Fang Guohuan shook his head, also sitting back. Bu Yuan sensed the game was over and asked anxiously, “Who won?” Fang Guohuan replied, “Unfortunately, we drew. I couldn’t win you the bow.” Bu Yuan was both surprised and pleased, “You truly met your match—play again to decide the winner.” Zhishan responded warmly, “No need; a draw is rare. I concede, and do so gladly.” Bu Yuan cheered, somersaulting in delight.

Fang Guohuan respectfully said, “Master, your chess skill is extraordinary. We should play again for the outcome.” Zhishan shook his head, sighing, “Heroes emerge young—it’s true. I know my limits; your talent far surpasses mine. Victory is yours. To force another game would be unjust. Forgive my earlier rudeness.” He stood and bowed to Fang, who hurriedly returned the salute, astonished. Bu Yuan laughed, “Even you bow to someone—how rare!” Zhishan replied gravely, “People are not defined by status, but by ability. I admire the talented most of all. Fang’s youth and chess mastery are unprecedented—he deserves respect.” Bu Yuan agreed, “My brother’s skill is admirable, more than I imagined! Since you’ve conceded, what about…” He mimed drawing a bow.

Zhishan smiled, bent, and moved a wooden plank, revealing a wide flat box beneath the floor, which he placed on the table. Bu Yuan’s eyes lit up and he hurried forward. Zhishan pushed the box to him, “As promised, today I gift the bow to a hero. Thank you for bringing me a worthy chess opponent.” Bu Yuan, elated, bowed and opened the box, revealing an unusual iron slingshot. Smaller than ordinary bows, its body and string were twice as thick, forged of dark iron that gleamed. Bu Yuan exclaimed, “The Conqueror’s Bow is finally mine!” He drew it to full arc, released it, and it hummed with a thunderous sound. Fang Guohuan marveled at its power, seeing the three raised characters, “Conqueror’s Bow,” and was pleased for Bu Yuan. Bu Yuan, overjoyed, clasped his hands to Fang and Zhishan, “Thank you both.” Zhishan smiled, “Even without Fang’s victory, I would have given you the bow. Only you and I could draw it.” He handed Bu Yuan twenty iron pellets, “Take these as well—when you need more, have a smith make them.” Bu Yuan thanked him sincerely.

They sat again. Zhishan poured tea for Bu Yuan and Fang Guohuan and asked, “It’s an honor to meet you, young Fang. May I ask where you’re from?” Bu Yuan answered for him, recounting Fang’s story. Zhishan was astonished and asked Fang, “As one who has fallen on hard times, what are your plans?” Fang sighed, “I am lost, and seek your guidance.” Bu Yuan interjected, “Stay with me—there’ll always be food and drink, and happiness.” Zhishan shook his head, “No, no. Fang is a prodigy of chess; his future is limitless. He cannot be delayed among hunters.” Bu Yuan scratched his head, “You’re right; his talent is extraordinary and shouldn’t be wasted. What do you suggest?” Zhishan replied solemnly, “I’ve wandered many years and know of a perfect place for Fang.” Fang’s heart stirred, “Where is this place, master?”

Zhishan paused, then explained, “Ten years ago, I traveled to Lianyun Mountain and stayed overnight at Tianyuan Temple. I saw monks playing chess and, confident in my skill, challenged them. They sent a fire-tending monk, which I thought unfair. Yet, I was utterly defeated. Shamed, I left and have since sought chess masters to improve my skill, hoping to return and reclaim my honor. After ten years, though I improved, I know I still cannot match the temple’s experts. Now, seeing Fang’s talent and youth, I believe with instruction from Tianyuan Temple’s masters, he could advance rapidly and become unrivaled in a few years.” Bu Yuan rejoiced, “Excellent! A true man should be renowned.”

Fang Guohuan was already captivated by Tianyuan Temple, and bowed to Zhishan, “My master taught me chess, and I am devoted to it. To receive guidance from greater masters would be a blessing. Where is Tianyuan Temple, master? I wish to seek instruction.” Zhishan was pleased, “With your foundation and talent, determination will bring great achievement. The temple lies south of Dongting, eight hundred miles away—a difficult journey.” He described the route in detail, which Fang memorized and thanked him for.

As dusk fell, Bu Yuan said, “Now my brother has a good path, I am glad. I must prepare to send him off to his chess destiny. We’ll take our leave, and send you supplies in the future.” Zhishan did not urge them to stay, but held Fang’s hand and advised, “Strive for greatness in chess. Return someday to Maple Grove Cottage and show your skill.” Fang, moved to tears, promised, and took his leave.

Bu Yuan and Fang Guohuan returned to the town by nightfall, staying with an acquaintance. The next day, they went back to Zhu Qi’s cabin but found him absent. Bu Yuan worried, “Perhaps they found the leopard’s den. I’ll wait and watch for their signal.” He lit the stove, found some venison, and drank the remaining wine with Fang Guohuan. After a bowl, Bu Yuan sighed, “Thank you for winning the Conqueror’s Bow. Once I’ve killed the leopard, I’ll gather funds with the mountain brothers to send you on your journey to Tianyuan Temple.” He wept as he spoke. Fang Guohuan was deeply moved, “Thank you for everything. I’ll surely return one day.” Bu Yuan lamented, “Sadly, my elderly mother needs care; I cannot accompany you. A regret in life.” He sighed repeatedly. Though their time together was brief, their bond was deep, and they were reluctant to part.

Bu Yuan drank several bowls, and seeing Fang Guohuan had two as well, was delighted. In high spirits, he took the Conqueror’s Bow and brought Fang outside, pointing to a pine tree a hundred paces away, “Watch me shoot it.” He loaded a pellet, drew the bow to its limit, and shouted, “Go!” The pellet flew like a comet, and with a sharp crack, shattered the tree in two. Fang Guohuan exclaimed, “Brother Bu, what divine strength!” Bu Yuan laughed, his voice shaking snow from the trees.

At that moment, a thick column of smoke rose from a mountain in the northeast. Fang Guohuan pointed, “Brother Bu, a beacon!” Bu Yuan was startled, “This smoke is thicker than usual—Zhu Qi and the others are in danger. I must go!” He told Fang Guohuan, “Stay here, don’t wander. Wait for my return.” With the Conqueror’s Bow, he rushed away. Fang Guohuan watched him depart until out of sight, then returned to the cabin, closed the door, and lay down, anxious and weary.

Some time passed. Fang Guohuan was awakened by voices. The room was dark—it was night. Firelight flickered as Bu Yuan and Zhu Qi entered, carrying torches, their faces filled with excitement. Fang Guohuan cried out, “Brother Bu, Brother Zhu, you’re back!” Bu Yuan joked, “I was worried wolves might take you away—good thing you’re safe.” Zhu Qi fixed the torch to a pillar, brightening the room. Fang noticed blood on their faces and clothes and asked, “Are you injured?” Zhu Qi laughed, “Relax—it’s leopard blood. Thanks to Bu Yuan’s timely arrival, he killed the mother leopard with a shot from twenty paces. Otherwise, some brothers would have died today.” Fang Guohuan realized the hunters had fought a deadly battle and shuddered, “Is the leopard here?” Bu Yuan replied, “It’s been carried to town for sale—now we have funds for your journey.” Zhu Qi added, “Everyone is thrilled that you won the Conqueror’s Bow from the monk. It’s a treasure we’ve longed for. You impressed even that proud monk—what a feat! Since you need funds for your travels, we sold the leopard and pooled money for you.” Fang Guohuan was deeply moved, “How can I ever repay such kindness?” Bu Yuan replied, “Don’t be modest. You’ll do great things—don’t let lack of funds hold you back. Tomorrow we’ll see you off.”

Bu Yuan and the exhausted Zhu Qi collapsed onto the bed, soon snoring. Fang Guohuan, grateful for the hunters’ camaraderie, sat a while in reflection and then slept. At dawn, as the three were still in bed, the door opened and seven or eight hunters entered. A stout man called out, “Old Zhu, where’s the remarkable young fellow you mentioned?” The three got up, and Zhu Qi pointed to Fang Guohuan, laughing, “Right here before your eyes.” The stout man bowed, “I am Tie Wu—heard you’re very talented!” Fang Guohuan greeted him. Zhu Qi introduced the others, names like Zhang San, Li Er, Song Ba. All marveled at Fang’s youth.

Tie Wu untied a bundle from his waist and placed it on the table, revealing silver—about a hundred taels. He said, “This is from all of us—eighty taels from selling the leopard, twenty pooled together. Life here is hard, but please accept it.” Fang Guohuan, deeply grateful, knelt, “Thanks to all my brothers for your generosity. I, Fang Guohuan, will never forget this kindness.” Bu Yuan lifted him, “We’re all brothers—no need for formality. It’s what we should do.” Zhu Qi and Tie Wu helped Fang up, and he thanked them profusely. The hunters brought wine and meat, and they feasted together before taking their leave.

After seeing them off, Bu Yuan said sorrowfully, “I worry about you traveling alone. I’d like to have you stay longer, but don’t want to delay your purpose. Today, I’ll see you off.” Fang Guohuan was saddened, but reassured him, “I’ve endured hardship before, and am used to it. Don’t worry.” He added, “Mr. Liu of Liu Village saved my life and buried my master. I should bid him farewell.” Bu Yuan replied, “I’ll do it for you—just set out.” Fang Guohuan said, “It would be rude not to go myself.” Bu Yuan explained, “It’s a day’s round trip. Mr. Liu may not let you leave. If you go, it’ll be troublesome.” Fang pondered a moment, “Alright—please tell Mr. Liu I’ll never forget his kindness and will thank him in the future.” Fang Guohuan and Bu Yuan then bid farewell to Zhu Qi, and after walking ten miles, parted with tears, Fang Guohuan setting out alone. Bu Yuan, returning, hunted a deer and brought it to Liu Village. He told Liu Yishan the story, leaving the deer as a gift from Fang, and then hurried home to his mother.