Shen Qiao is back! And in this volume, I enjoy reading all the roles he takes upon.
A PAWN IN GRANDER GAMES
As emperors, generals, and kings vie for dominance, martial sects mount bloody clashes to determine who will influence the nations’ leaders. Fallen and humbled, former sect leader Shen Qiao searches for direction in a tumultuous world. He finds an unlikely companion in the nefarious Yan Wushi. The roguish and powerful demonic practitioner has helped Shen Qiao begin to rebuild his lost martial abilities. As the two travel and work together, the gentle Daoist master dares to imagine that the famed Demon Lord is warming to him. But all is not as it seems, and old treacheries draw fresh blood. As Shen Qiao confronts dangerous new enemies, the struggle for control of the Central Plains ignites! (via Seven Seas)
The usual: The Fallen Sect Leader
Shen Qiao attends a banquet under Yan Wushi’s name, totally reinforcing the image of the Demon Lord’s kept man. Unsurprisingly, the other guests insult him left, right, and center. He never retaliates or rebukes them, though. No matter how much mockery he receives, he’s just never bothered.
Despite avoiding getting caught in any of the power struggles, everyone wants a piece of Shen Qiao. It feels like a game of tug of war with Shen Qiao as the rope. He’s being approached on all sides and from all political parties with their agendas pushing towards him. They still see him as this weakling they can use.
The revival arc
As good-natured as he is, don’t you go around crossing his lines. He’s calm and quiet but never docile. Never a pushover. Like when he fought the Gokturks Duan Wenyang and Kunye. His will to stand for what he believes in is far stronger than his physical body. This book takes a turn with SQ growing physically stronger than when the series starts out. He reminds me of a candle stub that keep on flickering but refuse to go out.
The shizun
Through the different turns of events (and maybe fate), Shen Qiao gets to have an apprentice of his own. It’s a minor plot point, but it’s nice to see him taking a more paternal/teacher role instead of the usual damsel-in-distress type. It’s just in him to be teacher and a role model for young martial artists.
…then there’s Yan Wushi
As much as I love Shen Qiao and would read about his adventures, Thousand Autumns is far more interesting with Yan Wushi. This will be all dry plot and politics without his cynical remarks and taunting commentaries. YWS may be insufferable, but I enjoy his and SQ’s discussions.
Have you read this book? If not, do you plan on reading this? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Series: Thousand Autumns (Qian Qiu) (千秋)
Written by: Meng Xi Shi (梦溪石)
Translation: Faelicy
Cover and Interior Art: Me.Mimo
Interior Color Illustration: Furifuricchin
Available at: JJWXC (Chinese), Seven Seas Danmei (English)
Volumes (English): 1,