Waltzing with the Stars II

The story of the stars is based on the popular novel [Feng Shen Bang: Creation of the Gods] with deliberate changes. It is a good way to introduce the characteristics of the stars. Now the story continues...

The Goddess then summoned the thousand-year old Fox and gave her an assignment: "Go seduce Zhou Wang! Indulge him in sex! Drown him in drinks! Be sure he loses his empire but do not harm innocent people. When you have accomplished your mission, you will have a place in Heaven."

Zhou Wang was downhearted and miserable from his return after the hunt. He realized it was impossible to have the Lady of the Nine Heavens as his concubine. His discontent caught the eyes of Minister Fei Zhong, an opportunist who used his sweet flattery to climb the political ladder.

"Your Majesty, what is bothering you?" asked Fei.

Zhou Wang shook his head, "Ever since I beheld the elusive and beautiful statue of the Lady of the Nine Heavens, I find no more interest in my queen and concubines."

"That's no problem," replied Fei, "Lord So has a beautiful daughter by the name of Tan Ji. If you ask, he will be delighted to marry his daughter to Your Majesty."

Lord So, though unwilling to give away his daughter, could do nothing but obey the Emperor. On the day of the Royal Wedding, amongst the frenzy of cheering crowds, the poor father escorted Tan Ji to the Royal Palace. Just before entering the gates, a strong gust of wind amidst dark clouds attacked. The winds howled, the horses neighed and the people scattered. When the commotion and panic died out within seconds, the sun came out and smiled. Lord So looked around the entourage and was relieved to find his daughter safe and sound. But alas! The bride was no longer his daughter. The thousand-year old Fox had driven out the poor girl's soul and possessed her body.

Tan Ji became even more alluring, and seductive. The King was totally captivated by the stunning beauty that approached him. He can hardly contain himself, his eyes popped and he nearly fell out of his dragon chair. He hardly finished saying, "My beloved little darling" before he held out his powerful arms and ...

Thereafter Zhou Wang spent all his time with Tan Ji and did not meet his officers anymore. Some outspoken officers criticized the emperor for neglecting important national affairs. These words came to Zhou Wang's ears. He was angry and asked Tan Ji's opinion. The thousand-year old Fox said, "Let me handle this. You will enjoy what you see."

Tan Ji ordered a huge brass cannon to be made. The cannon had a hollow barrel to be filled with red-hot charcoal. She then asked the emperor to have the forthright officers?clothes stripped and have them tied to the cannon. Fire was added and the poor souls were scorched to death. Zhou Wang was entertained and excited when he heard the officers screaming with agony. He was even more excited when he smelt burning flesh. No one dared say anything against the emperor. Their hearts quietly turned away.