Author's Note: Surprise!


Chapter 5

Her hand was shaking. Surely he only meant it as a jest? She tried to convince herself. She knew where she stood in life, and it was not one worthy enough to be the wife of a successor. Her family background was modest at best. She did not have strong ties to nobility, nor were they rolling in riches. Simply put, she was not in the same social standing at the Caos. Sure, she had once married into the Yuans, but that was only because she married an ailing son that no one else would. There were plenty of woman in China. Some bound to be more beautiful than her, even more intelligent than her. What was so special about her that made Cao Cao feel like she was meant to be Cao Pi's wife? True, she had started developing feelings for Pi, but she continued to have doubts in her heart and mind. To suddenly spring this marriage proposal was certainly something she hadn't been prepared to handle.

Zhen Ji placed her hands on her lap and smiled politely at Cao Cao, trying hard to remain calm and demure. "My Lord, this is truly an honour for this simple girl. I could never have dreamed of being here in your presence, much less to be considered as your daughter-in-law. But I fear…"

Cao Cao raised a hand to stop her. "Long ago, I approached a little girl at a pier with the same proposal. That day, much like today, was a bright and sunny day. That little girl, with the mark of beauty on her face and intelligence way beyond her years, had so politely declined my offer. Citing another already in her stead. I sensed greatness in her, even all those years back, and I still do. 'A shame.' I had thought back then. 'That I was a moment too late to bring her into my family.' But Fate so had it that she was brought back into my life. I will not let that chance slip away from me again."

There was a long moment of silence as Zhen Ji tried to gather her thoughts. "I… am truly honoured." She finally said when she couldn't think of any other words. Regardless of what she thought, Cao Cao was set in marrying her to Cao Pi. There would be nothing to stop it, even if she objected.

Cao Cao smiled that fatherly grin at her again as he rose from his seat. "Come, walk with me dear Zhen Ji."

Obediently, she rose from her seat and walked alongside him through the bridge and the winding paths along the pond. She couldn`t help but notice the eerie silence around them. The birds stopped chirping and hum of dragonflies ceased. It was as if nature was intent on eavesdropping on their conversation as well.

"Pi is a strong minded man. He will become a great ruler one day, I know of it. But I also know he cannot do it alone. He will have many advisors left and right; some, truly wishing for his success and others, plotting his downfall. This is, unfortunately, the way it is for any great man." He said, as if it was supposed to be reassuring. "The hardest part is to determine who is loyal and who is a backstabbing dog. My greatest fear for Pi is that he would be unable to see that wolf in sheep's clothing. There will be many times his decisions will affect the country and it will be up to the people around him to set him on the right course. But will he heed the advice of those dedicated to the Cao family? Or will he be ensnared by the wolf's jowls? It is not always easy to tell who is friend and who is foe." Cao Cao turned to face Zhen Ji, placing his hands on both her shoulders. "Zhen Ji, it will be a heavy burden to carry, but I need you to help him fight the shadows that will undoubtedly follow him."

Zhen Ji hesitated to respond. She had always known that the world of men was not an easy world. But having to actually hear it laid out was disconcerting. Cao Cao was putting a lot of pressure on her, but in another way, she appreciated the full disclosure he gave her. Even her own father had treated her nothing more than a girl. Yet Cao Cao, spoke to her not of someone beneath him, but as an equal.

"Do not think you are unworthy of this or that I am overestimating your abilities." Cao Cao continued when Zhen Ji did not respond immediately. "I can see no other woman more capable of being Pi's wife than you. You are a very intelligent woman, more so than you ever show. I know you will be able to help Pi in state affairs discreetly, as you did in the marketplace. You are caring and nurturing, someone the people can look up to. No man can be great without the support of his people. Pi does not have the tact to keep the support of people during tough times, but you on the other hand, know better than that. You have already proven yourself to the people. The people love you and will support you. Pi needs you Zhen Ji. There is no one else who can rule by his side, except you." His grip on her shoulder tightened. "What do you say, dear Zhen Ji?"

As much as he made it seem like she had a choice, there could only be one answer to his question. "Yes… dear father-in-law."

"Then it is settled. In a fortnight, I shall have you and Pi married under the eyes of heaven."

… … … … …

After their stroll along the pond, Zhen Ji retired back to her rooms, quietly reflecting back to her conversation with Cao Cao. This path she now walked on would not be an easy one. Cao Cao had warned her about the potential threats that Cao Pi may face, but what of her threats? Lady Bian was certainly not a proponent for her, and she knew that news of her marriage to Cao Pi would certainly spell trouble from her mother-in-law's direction. But that was the only one Zhen Ji knew of for certain. What of the other shadows that would follow her…? Zhen Ji couldn't even begin to imagine what the future had in store for her. Would she end up like Lady Bian or Consort Chen? What evils must have happened to each of them to turn them into such hateful enemies?

Her worried thoughts were quickly interrupted when Xiang burst into her bedchambers with a worried look on her face. Her maid's rude outburst was very out of character and Zhen Ji knew something must be wrong. "Lady Zhen Ji," She said in hushed voice as she hastily closed the doors behind her, "there are whispers amongst the maids and servants that my lady is to be wed to Master Cao Pi. Is this true, my lady?"

Zhen Ji was taken aback. It was alarming to her how fast rumours spread when she herself had only found out just moments ago. She narrowed her brows uneasily at the thought. "Yes, it is."

Xiang looked at Zhen Ji carefully. "Are you unhappy with that, my lady?"

Zhen Ji opened her mouth to respond, but quickly closed it when no words came out. All this time, she hadn't even stopped to ask herself that question; was she happy about this marriage?

… … … … …

The next morning as Zhen Ji was getting ready for the day, Consort Chen suddenly appeared, parading into her room with several servants carrying various goods. "You stand over there, you three over here. Put that down there. No, no, not there. Over there. Yes. You, right there." She directed the dozen or so maids and servants. In one area of Zhen Ji's bed chambers, stood several servants holding up bolts of cloth of varying colours of red and gold. In another area several maids held trays full jewelry and pearls. Still more, held out various plates with covers over them.

"Oh, my dearest Zhen Ji!" Consort Chen shouted out in exuberance once she was satisfied where everyone stood, awaiting more orders. "How wonderful the news! I was absolutely delighted when Lord Cao Cao told of your impending marriage into the Cao family!" She enthused as she took Zhen Ji's hands into hers and looked at her with loving eyes. "I know how difficult this must be for you to do all this on your own, so I have spoken with Lord Cao Cao, and we both agree that I should act as your mother during this red occasion! I know your mother is watching from the heavens and I pray that I can fulfill my role to honour her." Consort Chen looked into Zhen Ji's eyes, gripping onto her hands more tightly. "Know that I will do anything for you Zhen Ji." In a blink of an eye, Zhen Ji noticed a stern and serious look before it was quickly replaced by that over-the-top smile.

"Now then, let's take a look at the fabric choices, shall we?" Consort Chen led Zhen Ji towards the group of servants holding out the bolts of cloth. She barely grazed her finger tips on each one before crying out, "No, no, no, no, no! I told you all to bring the best quality! What is this rubbish you've brought before me?" She stopped at the last servant and brushed her hand on the cloth again. "This is rougher than alligator skin! These will not do for our delicate Zhen Ji! Get it out of my sight."

The servants all mumbled apologies before rushing out of the room. Next, Consort Chen led Zhen Ji to the jewelry trays. Consort Chen picked up a hairpin from the first tray. "Such cheap material!" She said before dropping the hairpin back onto the tray. "Not enough sparkle!" She said of a necklace on the next tray. "Where are the pearls?" She demanded on the third. She couldn't even comment on the fourth one as she was so visible disgusted by the quality. "Bring all these back to the merchants. Tell them they will certainly never see business from me again if they don't bring out their finest pieces."

The maids all nodded in unison before scurrying out as well. Finally, Consort Chen approached the servants holding the plates. The first man uncovered it to reveal an aromatic sea cucumber and shark fin soup. Consort Chen took the spoon to her mouth before quickly spitting out the soup. "Too salty!" The next tray revealed a glazed duck sitting on a bed of greens. The servant cut a small slice off and with an ornate pair of chopsticks; Consort Chen took a bite of it before putting it down. "Too chewy." She continued with the rest of the dishes, critiquing each one before sending them all back to the kitchen until there was no one else in the room except her, Zhen Ji, and Xiang.

Consort Chen gave out a loud exasperated sigh. "Don't worry Zhen Ji, I will have everything perfect for you on your wedding day." She held onto her hands again and gave a tight squeeze.

Politely, Zhen Ji thanked her for her efforts before Consort Chen went off on her way. Xiang closed the doors behind her before letting out a frustrated sigh of her own. "Well that was completely pointless. I don't know why she bothered to stop by. My lady didn't even get a single word in on any of the choices!"

Zhen Ji smiled slightly at Xiang's straightforwardness. "This was never about my choices." She said. Zhen Ji knew better than that. It was all just a charade; Consort Chen was merely displaying her tremendous care and efforts for Zhen Ji's marriage. Certainly adding to the 'debts' Zhen Ji owed her for all these random favours Consort Chen was doing for her.

After Xiang finally finished helping her lady prepare for the day, the two girls stepped out of the room and headed west. Truthfully, Zhen Ji was begrudgingly heading that direction. She did not want to visit her future mother-in-law, but she knew that she had to pay her respects, regardless of how much her future mother-in-law despised her. After all, it was her duty to care for her mother-in-law after marriage. She already went through it once with Lady Yuan, she would just have to simply grin and bear it again with Lady Bian.

As they passed by Cao Cao's bedchambers near the centre of the palace, they bumped into Lady Bian's maid, Wumei. Out of all the personal maids in the Cao Household, Wumei had been the most pleasant to deal with, despite being Lady Bian's personal maid.

Wumei bowed to Zhen Ji and greeted her with respect.

"Where is Lady Bian?" Zhen Ji curiously asked when she did not see the matron nearby.

"Lady Bian is unwell and is resting in her bedchambers." The petite maid responded, without lifting her head.

"Oh?" Zhen Ji voiced, wondering why Wumei was not by Lady Bian's side if she was ill.

As if understanding the hidden question in Zhen Ji's single word response, Wumei quickly added, "I am on my way to deliver something to Lord Cao Cao. Shi Shi is currently tending to Lady Bian." She gave a quick polite bow again. "I must be on my way."

Without waiting for a reply, Wumei headed off.

"Delivering a message probably." Xiang quietly noted. "She's not even carrying anything. I bet Lady Bian is only pretending to be sick. She's going to blame it on you my lady! And she's probably using Wumei to complain to Lord Cao Cao about your marriage to Master Cao Pi!"

"Hush now, Xiang. Don't be so rash to make such assumptions." Zhen Ji advised. Although Zhen Ji knew that Xiang was probably right, such words if heard by the wrong people would certainly bring trouble their way.

The rest of the way to Lady Bian's bedchambers seemed to get more and more difficult for Zhen Ji. Her feet seemed to drag behind the closer they got there. And what should have took a long while, seemed to flash by as the next thing Zhen Ji knew, she was standing right in front of Lady Bian's doors. She let out a quiet sigh before raising her fist up and knocking on the door.

"Who is it?" A young voice asked from behind the heavy doors.

"Zhen Ji. I have come to visit Lady Bian."

The door creaked open and Shi Shi stepped out of the room, closing the door behind her. "Lady Bian is unwell and resting at the moment. She wishes not to be disturbed."

"What ails Lady Bian?"

"The doctors do not know. She has been suffering since yesterday and had only just a moment's peace until you showed up here." Shi Shi responded, accusingly.

"You should address my lady as Lady Zhen Ji." Xiang snapped.

"Hmph." She said rolling her eyes. "My apologies, Lady Zhen Ji."

Ignoring the rude banter between the two maids, Zhen Ji addressed Shi Shi, "Please let Lady Bian know that I will return later to see how she is faring."

"As the doctors do not know what ailment inflicts Lady Bian, she had wished to scribe 1000 health mantras to pray to the heavens for her recovery. Unfortunately she is too weak to do so herself." Shi Shi commented before Zhen Ji and Xiang left the area.

It was clear to Zhen Ji what Shi Shi's words meant; she was the one who would have to scribe the mantras. 1000 mantras was not an easy feat. It would certainly take time to scribe it so many times, but not doing so would be worse. Lady Bian would certainly brand her as an undutiful daughter-in-law. There was already tension in their relationship and Zhen Ji did not want it to get any worse. "Xiang, prepare ink and paper in the study."

"Surely you don't mean to complete the 1000 scribes!" Xiang began to protest.

"I have no other choice."

… … … … …

For the next two days and nights, Zhen Ji remained cooped up in her small study, scribing health mantras over and over, only stopping for a brief moment to eat something light. Despite the weariness, Zhen Ji did not even stop to take a nap. She wanted to complete the mantras as soon as possible and sleeping would only slow her down.

During those two days, Cao Pi had tried to visit her, but she made Xiang turn him away. When he found out she was busy fulfilling her duties as the future daughter-in-law, Cao Pi seemed pleased that his mother and future wife were 'getting along'.

On the second day, Zhen Ji had to stop writing for a moment longer than desired when her hand cramped up. Gingerly, Xiang massaged her mistress' hand to help the circulation. "My lady, please allow me to help you scribe the mantras!" Xiang begged as she felt the torment her lady was going through. "I may not know all the characters, but I've memorized all the strokes and can copy it all out for you, my lady. Please take a rest and let me continue your work."

Zhen Ji smiled at the selflessness of her friend. "Thank you Xiang, but this is something I have to finish myself. Mantras come true only if they are sincere. I cannot shirk away from my duty for just a moment's rest." Zhen Ji was truly grateful for Xiang's company. When they had first arrived in Luoyang as Cao Pi's captives, Zhen Ji had felt deeply sorry for her friend. Unlike Xiang, Zhen Ji had been very selfish in bringing her along. She was scared and did not want to be alone in a foreign land full of enemies. If it wasn't for her selfishness, Xiang would never have come to Luoyang and Xiang could have been living a happy, carefree life with no master to serve. Zhen Ji looked at her friend apologetically as she unknowingly continued to massage her hand. This was a debt she owed Xiang and could never repay her back.

On the third day in midafternoon, Zhen Ji completed the 1000th mantra. She placed her quill down, leaning the brush on the ink jar before holding up the last parchment into the air to admire the work. The ink was only partially dry on the first half of the mantra. Zhen Ji placed it down again to avoid the risk of having the wet ink drip down. She looked to the pile of completed mantras sitting in a neat pile on the corner of the desk.

Finally. Zhen Ji thought to herself as she leaned back in her chair to rest for a brief moment. She closed her eyes for a few seconds as if it was enough to recharge. When she was satisfied with the ink being dry, she gathered all the copies she wrote out and placed them in a small bamboo basket. She closed the lid on the basket before getting up and heading out of her room, just in time for Xiang to return with a bowl of warm soup for Zhen Ji's afternoon meal.

"My lady!" Xiang said, slightly startled to see her out of the study.

"I must head to see Lady Bian." She responded, gently patting the basket.

"Should you not have your afternoon meal first?" Xiang asked as she placed the food tray down on the table.

Zhen Ji shook her head. "No, I must head there right away."

Xiang nodded and the two made a beeline to Lady Bian's bedchambers. The doors to her bedchambers were wide open and Lady's Bians two personal maids were busying themselves dusting the room. Zhen Ji stepped into the room and Wumei bowed to greet her. Shi Shi simply continued dusting.

"Is Lady Bian here?" Zhen Ji asked, but before anyone could respond, Lady Bian stepped out from one of the adjoining rooms, in good health and rosy cheeks. The smile on her face disappeared at the sight of Zhen Ji and was replaced with an indifferent look.

Lady Bian took a seat as Shi Shi rushed to pour tea for her mistress. Wumei dropped the feather duster and went to her place behind Lady Bian and began massaging her shoulders.

"Lady Bian." Zhen Ji greeted with a courteous bow. "I am glad to see that you are well again."

"Oh yes. Turns out it was just gas. Must have been something vile that happened that day." Lady Bian responded, sipping her tea.

It was clear that Lady Bian was insulting her. The only thing that happened the day Lady Bian fell 'ill' was the news of Zhen Ji's marriage to Cao Pi. Letting the insult slide, Zhen Ji pulled the stack of parchment from the basket and held it out towards her future mother-in-law. "When I heard that Lady Bian was unwell, I completed a thousand health mantras for your speedy recovery."

"Is that so?" Without bothering to look at Zhen Ji's hard work, Lady Bian gestured towards her. The two maids nodded their heads and approached Zhen Ji.

Shi Shi took the parchments from Zhen Ji and passed half of it to Wumei and the two proceeded to rip the parchments in half.

"What are you doing? Lady Zhen Ji spent several nights scribing those!" Xiang demanded, extremely upset. Zhen Ji too was upset with what the two maids were doing but could not dare to voice her objections.

Shi Shi raised an arm and slapped Xiang across the face. Surprised and angry, Xiang covered the side of her face and glared back at the maid. Out of habit, Zhen Ji leaned over to embrace her friend as if to protect her. There were many times back in the Yuan household that Xiang was unnecessarily punished. Lady Yuan rarely hurt Zhen Ji as she knew better than to embarrass the Yuan name if word got out that she beat her "beautiful" daughter-in-law, so she would often punish Xiang whenever she was displeased or unhappy or simply wanted to make their lives miserable. If Zhen Ji was around when such occurrences happened, Zhen Ji would place herself in harm's way as it would often stop Lady Yuan from further injuring Xiang.

"Burning health mantras to the heavens is only for the sick. If you wish to burn these for Lady Bian, then you're cursing Lady Bian to be sick!" Shi Shi scoffed as she continued to rip the parchment up. "How unbecoming of a lady to embrace a mere servant as such." She ridiculed at the sight of Zhen Ji and Xiang.

"Now, now Shi Shi. Commoners don't know the rules of aristocrats. That maid can't be blamed for her rude and ignorant comments since she was not taught well." Lady Bian said with a slight smile.

The veiled insult to Zhen Ji caused her to pull herself away from Xiang. As if just in time, Consort Chen appeared along with her maid Xiaomei.

"Sister!" She exclaimed. "I heard you feeling unwell, so I brought you something to remedy that gassy stomach of yours!" She gestured to Xiaomei who brought a basket to Lady Bian. She removed the lid to reveal a plate of fried pig intestines. Consort Chen smirked as a scowl formed on Lady Bian as she understood the comparison Consort Chen made of her as a pig. "Oh! Lady Zhen Ji!" Consort Chen gasped, as if just noticing her there. "Oh? What is this?" She asked as she took the remaining stack of mantras from Wumei that had not been ripped yet. "How filial!" She concluded after glancing at the work. She looked towards Lady Bian. "I am so jealous of you, sister. It must be nice to have such a dutiful and filial daughter-in-law like Lady Zhen Ji!" With the stack in her hand, she walked over to a candle and burned the remaining parchments.

"I am blessed." Lady Bian finally said, taking another sip of tea. "Blessed to have so many sons and future daughter-in-laws to care for me. I will have so many grandchildren and great grandchildren that I won't be able to remember all their names!" She laughed. "But I guess all women are blessed with the joy of their children and grandchildren!" She paused for a moment looking at Consort Chen. "Oh, except for you."

At that moment, Zhen Ji noticed a big difference between the two women. Though each hated the other with such passion, Consort Chen always covered it with false niceties like a wolf in sheep's clothing. Lady Bian, on the other hand, was like a tiger. She did not hide behind false pretenses, but displayed her might before all. It was only a matter of time when a tiger would strike, but one thing was certain; it would always strike.

Lady Bian's words struck a nerve as Consort Chen clasped a hand into a fist. She closed her eyes briefly to calm herself before she plastered a smile on her face again. "Sister is certainly blessed. I shall do my part to prepare Lady Zhen Ji to be a most wonderful daughter-in-law!" She turned her back to Lady Bian and headed towards the exit. "Come, Lady Zhen, there is still much to do for this wedding!"

Zhen Ji bowed politely to Lady Bian before following Consort Chen out. Zhen Ji knew that Consort Chen did not have her best interests in mind, but she was relieved to be out of the tiger's den. And as much as she didn't want to be allies with Consort Chen, she was grateful for her help.

... ... ... ... ...

In the days that followed, there was a whirlwind of activities within the Cao household, all of which was directed by Consort Chen. Zhen Ji actually had very little to do with anything regarding her own wedding. Everything was decided for her; the decorations, the food, the day, her dress, and even her husband. She couldn't help but be reminded of her marriage to Yuan Xi as it was much the same. To anyone that saw her, she was simply a blushing bride-to-be, but deep down, she worried that this wedding too would have a tragic end.

"Lady Zhen Ji?" A male voice called out to her.

The wedding date was fast approaching and despite having nothing to do for the wedding, Zhen Ji was bombarded by various individuals congratulating her on her upcoming nuptials. She could hear the false sincerity in their voices as they looked for a way to benefit from her under this congratulatory pretense. Cao Cao's words to her that day were heavy on her. Even before she was officially married to Pi, she was already worrying about who was friend and who was foe. It did nothing to quell her already uncertain feelings about Cao Pi.

"Lady Zhen Ji?" That familiar voice called out again, pulling her from her daze. "Are you unwell?" There was genuine concern in his voice.

Zhen Ji had tried to find solace in that little flower garden she had discovered several days ago, but she should have known that in the Cao palace, there would no longer be any solace. Not as long as she stayed on this path.

She sighed inaudibly before glancing in the direction of the voice. She was surprised to see Yue Jin and Li Dian standing at the entranceway. Both men were dressed in armor, with their weapons with them; dual hookblades secured in an X formation on Yue Jin's back, and a wheeled halberd on Li Dian's. Each man held a wrapped box in their arms.

Zhen Ji shook her head and smiled pleasantly at the sight of a friend before welcoming them into the garden. "Generals, congratulations on your new appointment." She said as they gave a slight bow of respect to her.

"Thank you Lady Zhen Ji," Li Dian was the first to speak. "It has always been our dream to lead an army of our own."

"Lady Zhen Ji, we apologize for appearing before you in such unsightly attire." Yue Jin said with such formality that it surprised Zhen Ji. "We had hoped to present you and Master Cao Pi our gifts on your wedding day, regretfully, we are unable to attend the festivities." He said as he placed his box on the stone table where Zhen Ji sat. "I pray that your wedding will be a joyous one."

Li Dian followed suit and also placed his gift on the stone table. "May the Heavens bless you and Master Cao Pi."

"Thank you for your kind words." Zhen Ji responded, with a twinge of sadness. With everyone that had come to her thus far, she was unable to determine if they were friend or foe, but she knew that Yue Jin would certainly be friend. However, with him leaving to train the new recruits, he wouldn't be around to help if needed. "How long will you be gone?"

"It is uncertain." Li Dian responded. "We must go where we are needed. Should the battlefield call for us, that is where we go."

"After all, the battlefield is where we belong." Yue Jin finished.

Zhen Ji couldn't help but feel a little hurt by Yue Jin's cold and indifferent response. He didn't seem like that friendly man that treated her with such kindness when she had first arrived just a few weeks ago. Something had changed drastically between them in that short time span. She wondered sadly if her soon-to-be marriage was isolating her from everyone. "I pray for your safe and swift return."

The gentlemen nodded in thanks before departing on their way. Her doubts about the marriage flooded back the moment they were gone. She wondered to herself, if she had a choice, would she have agreed to marry Cao Pi? Unable to answer her own question, she began to wonder if perhaps a simpler life would have been better.

... ... ... ... ...

A few nights before the wedding, as Zhen Ji was preparing for bed, she suddenly had a strange thought and began panicking. She was a virgin and did not know what to do when it came to the Birds and Bees. Xiang was busy taking the hairpins out of her mistress' head when Zhen Ji grabbed her wrist, causing the poor maid to jump in surprise.

"My lady, are you alright?"

Zhen Ji turned her head slowly to look at Xiang with an intense look in her eyes that frightened the maid. "I don't know how to do it…" She finally muttered, shaking her head.

"Do what, my lady?"

Her cheeks flushed red as she mumbled something, turning her head away in embarrassment. "I'm sorry my lady, I did not hear you." Xiang said, straining hard to hear Zhen Ji repeat the words. Again, Zhen Ji mumbled incoherently. Xiang had a look of worry on her face. She had never seen her lady so distressed before. "My lady, you must speak up. I cannot help you if I don't know what you are saying."

Zhen Ji looked back at Xiang. She glanced around the room quickly as if ensuring there was no one else there and whispered quietly. "The Birds and Bees."

Xiang jumped back, for she too was embarrassed to hear those words. "I, I… I…" She stuttered.

Zhen Ji pulled her back close to her and continued to whisper in a low voice. "I need you to tell me what happens and what I need to do during the Birds and Bees."

"My lady! This is… that is… I don't…. how…. What…" The maid was flustered. Her duty to Zhen Ji was to help her in any way possible, but this was a topic that Xiang knew little about.

"Xiang, I need to know!" She whispered desperately.

"I… well... umm…" Xiang looked down at the floor and fidgeted with her fingers. "They say there is bit of pain and blood." She was only repeating what she had heard the other maids say when they were gossiping. It had sounded horrible at that time and so Xiang could only stand to hear a little of it before she hurriedly left.

"Yes, but what am I supposed to do?"

Xiang's eyes darted. "I … I… I don't know." She finally admitted.

There was a slight look of disappointment in Zhen Ji's eyes. "You must find out for me then."

"I can't!" Xiang shouted out before bringing her hands to cover her mouth. She lowered her voice, "I mean, that is an embarrassing thing to be asking over people about."

"Do you expect me to go and ask?" Zhen Ji stated out flatly, before she realized it came out sounding more demanding than she meant. "I'm sorry Xiang. What I mean is, I can't go around asking about this. You're the only one I trust enough to do this for me without ruining my reputation."

Xiang knew Zhen Ji was right. A lady's reputation was everything to her. One bad thing could destroy a woman's life. As innocent as it seemed to wonder about the Birds and Bees, it was certainly not something a noble lady would ask about out loud. Others may label her a wanton woman. And with people like Lady Bian and Consort Chen around, they would certainly use that against her when the time was right. But Xiang was different. She was only a maid. Reputation was virtually non-existent for her.

She nodded to her mistress. "I will do my best."

The next day while Zhen Ji was quietly enjoyed her afternoon snacks, Consort Chen burst into her room with a delighted smile plastered on her face. Xiang followed behind in tow and gave a regrettable look to Zhen Ji.

"Oh my dear child!" Consort Chen said boastfully. "Didn't I tell you before? You needn't hesitate to ask me anything! You didn't have to be so embarrassed and tell your maid to find out about the Birds and Bees. You should have come straight to me!"

"I'm terribly sorry, Consort Chen." Zhen Ji apologized as she gave a polite bow. "I've troubled you so much already with this wedding, I did not want to bother you with such a trivial matter."

"Nonsense child! You are never bothering me! I think of you as my daughter. And what mother wouldn't go to the ends of the earth for their children?" Consort Chen feigned hurt. "My, if Xiaomei hadn't overheard Xiang asking the other maids about this, I wouldn't have even known!"

Zhen Ji bowed apologetically to Consort Chen. "Please forgive me, Consort Chen. I will remember your kindness."

"I pray that you do." She responded through a fake smile. Zhen Ji knew exactly what this all meant. Zhen Ji was in debt with all the 'favours' and 'kind gestures' that Consort Chen gave her. One of these days, she was certain Consort Chen would demand repayment of some sort. And if she couldn't deliver, then what would happen? Zhen Ji shuddered at the thought as she wondered if this marriage would be a blessing or a curse.

… … … … …

The night before the wedding, Zhen Ji sat in her room staring at her reflection. She had butterflies in her stomach and felt queasy. She'd been married before, but didn't feel like this the last time she went through the occasion. Last time, when she was married off to Yuan Xi, she also sat in her room staring at her own reflection. But that time, she felt nothing. It was as if she had no emotions. She didn't feel fear, joy, or sadness. It was simply just emptiness. She wondered if this queasy knotting feeling she had was a good sign or not.

"My lady." Xiang greeted as she entered the room with a tray of various supplies. As per tradition, Zhen Ji was required to remain in her bedchambers the whole day, to ensure no male would see the bride before the wedding. Xiang had been busy organizing the final touches of the wedding and getting Zhen Ji prepared for the big day.

The red wedding gown and headdress was lying neatly on her bed. The wedding gown was a stunning red with an intricate design of a gold phoenix wrapped around the dress. The skillful design of the phoenix made it look almost ethereal and celestial. The headdress too was ornately decorated. A large golden plate designed in the image of a dragon on the right and phoenix on the left meeting up to the crown of the plate was embellished with rubies. Strings of pearls hung on either end of the headdress. Red shoes sat on the floor embroidered with "double happiness" in gold.

Xiang placed the tray in front of Zhen Ji. The tray held a wooden comb painted in red and gold, gold hair accessories and jewelry, a basin filled with water and scented oils, two red candles representing a dragon and a phoenix on each, and a bowl of soup with pink and white rice balls. Xiang placed a reassuring hand on Zhen Ji's shoulder and gave her a slight smile. Zhen Ji placed her own hand on top of Xiang's and returned the smile as if letting her friend know that no matter what the future holds, they were in it together.

The brief moment they shared with each other was interrupted when Consort Chen entered the room. Xiang quickly stepped to the side, resuming her role as maid instead of friend.

"Your day has finally come!" She said, smiling brightly at Zhen Ji. Consort Chen stood behind Zhen Ji. "Tomorrow, you shall become a woman." She then gestured to Xiang who quietly handed her the comb and went around the room to open the windows, allowing the moonlight to flood into the room. "I remember my own wedding, so many years ago. Sadly I wasn't allowed a lavish wedding like yours, but nonetheless, it was just as wonderful. You are marrying a great man, Zhen Ji. Never forget where you stand."

Zhen Ji smiled politely at her remarks. On the surface, her words were kind but Zhen Ji knew it was a warning. Being married as the first wife of a lord was certainly a big ordeal. Any subsequent wives, consorts, or concubines were never given such an extensive public display. That meant that the first wife always had more power than the other women in the household, but only if she could keep her title. Zhen Ji now knew that Consort Chen befriended her only to take advantage of her influence as Cao Pi's first wife. Consort Chen was holding onto her for future use when she had to repay her mounting debts to Consort Chen.

Consort Chen dipped the comb into the water and oil mixture before brushing it through Zhen Ji's hair from root to tip. "May you be blessed to be together to the end of eternity on this first combing." She recited the traditional blessings during the hair combing ceremony. She dipped the comb in the basin again before brushing it through Zhen Ji's hair again. "May you be blessed with a hundred years of harmony in your marriage on this second combing."

Zhen Ji's eyes watered slightly as she wondered how this would have felt with her real mother combing her hair. The night before a wedding was always the hardest for the bride and her mother. Many tears would be shed as mother and daughter knew that it would soon be time for them to be separated. She wondered if her mother would have said encouraging words or if her mother would share her wisdom with her. She wondered if her mother's hand would have been soft and gentle or if her smiles would ease Zhen Ji's heart.

"May you be blessed with a houseful of children and grandchildren on this third combing." Consort Chen dipped the comb one last time. "May you be bless with longevity on this fourth combing."

Xiang took the bowl of sweet soup and handed it to Zhen Ji. With all the butterflies in her stomach, Zhen Ji had no appetite to eat, still she took the bowl and scooped up a pink rice ball and put it in her mouth. The sweetness did not help with the queasiness. Still, she took a second scoop and ate the white rice ball next. Not wanting to eat more than necessary, she handed the bowl back to Xiang. Her maid then lit the two candles as Consort Chen began to style her hair. Zhen Ji continued to stare at her own reflection, bombarded with her own thoughts.

By the time Zhen Ji's elaborate hairstyle was finally done up, dawn had already arrived. This didn't bother Zhen Ji much though, because she wouldn't have been able to sleep anyway. At least her stomach wasn't twisting as much anymore.

Xiang carefully wiped Zhen Ji's face with a warm damp cloth before Consort Chen began applying makeup. Even though Zhen Ji knew Consort Chen had ulterior motives for helping her, Zhen Ji was still grateful for the effort and time the woman had put into this. Once her makeup had been applied, Consort Chen smiled at her and handed her the rouge paper for the final touch. Zhen Ji brought the paper to her mouth and pressed her lips on it, adding colour to her lips.

"There, now you're ready." Consort Chen said in a motherly way. For a brief moment, Zhen Ji forgot about all the politics and the drama and yearned for the warmth of a mother. Consort Chen placed a reassuring hand on Zhen Ji's shoulder. "You look so beautiful." She said in awe. There was a slight look of longing in the woman's eyes that was as if she was a mother looking at her child. It was in that moment that Zhen Ji realized that under the false niceties, Consort Chen was more than just a scheming woman. She had real feelings that she had long hidden away. It was almost as if there was another Consort Chen locked away deep inside this woman; so deep that she was almost forgotten. Zhen Ji sadly wondered what happened to this woman to cause her to hide her true self and become the woman now known as Consort Chen.

The older woman looked out the window as if gauging the hour of the day by the sunlight. "It is time. You shall head to the wedding palanquin soon."

The wedding palanquin? Zhen Ji thought to herself. Why would I need a palanquin? By tradition, the bride would ride in palanquin from her father's home to her husband's home. However, Zhen Ji was already living with the Caos, so what need was it for a palanquin ride?

"You are like my daughter." Consort Chen said, as if reading the puzzled expression Zhen Ji wore. "I would not have you married off without the proper traditions! You shall leave your 'birth family's' home and arrive at your new husband's home in time for the ceremony. I've arranged the palanquin to travel in a circle around town to symbolize this." Consort Chen leaned over to whisper to Zhen Ji, "Need not worry, I will take care of you."

With those words, the game was back on. Consort Chen was no longer that caring motherly figure, and Zhen Ji had to be back on her guard. Words cannot be trusted.

There was a knock on the door after Zhen Ji changed into her wedding dress. "Lady Zhen Ji, I am the matchmaker. I have come to bring you to your palanquin carriage." A woman said from behind the doors.

Consort Chen nodded towards Xiang. The maid scurried over to open the door as Consort Chen placed the red head-kerchief over Zhen Ji's headdress to cover her face. The matchmaker remained at the doorway, but turned around and knelt down. Xiang took Zhen Ji's hand and led her to the matchmaker. Zhen Ji climbed onto the matchmaker's back. This is it. Zhen Ji thought to herself. This is really happening. She felt a sudden rush of emotions, but what surprised her most was that a part of her actually felt excited for this new chapter in her life. Was it because she was just caught up in all the events? An adrenaline rush perhaps? Or was it because she was marrying Cao Pi? Maybe that queasy feeling she had the night before was all her uncertainty and now that it was gone, all that remained were her true feelings for him?

Zhen Ji had been so distracted by all the thoughts and feelings that the next moment, she found herself already sitting in the palanquin and the loud instruments of the wedding band was already playing.

"Rise up!" The leader of the palanquin lifters shouted above the music. In unison, the palanquin rose up and began its path around town.

Though veiled under the red head-kerchief and hidden in the palanquin, Zhen Ji could hear the bustling of the city folk. Despite the blaring music playing, she could still hear the shuffling of feet moving about. No doubt, the townspeople were gathered along the path to watch the palanquin go by. She could also hear the half-hearted congratulations the people wished her as the palanquin passed by. The matchmaker's phony laugh could also be heard as they continued their path.

This was an all too familiar feeling. It was the same when she got married to the Yuan Xi. Though Lady Yuan hated Zhen Ji, the arranged marriage was still held with extravagance. The townspeople at that time were also gathered around to watch the wedding procession. Though they all gave their congratulations, Zhen Ji knew the townspeople hated the nobility. The rich always got richer and the poor only got poorer. Weddings like these were only a reminder that the elite few always stood above the rest.

Curious, Zhen Ji lifted her veil and peeked through the curtains of the window. Before her were throngs of people lined up along the street waving their hands, as if trying to get the palanquin's attention. People were shouting out their congratulations as kids peered at the sight with amazement. Everyone in the bridal party, from the musicians, the matchmaker, the palanquin lifters, the armed guards, and even Xiang was dressed in the formal red wedding attire. Xiang walked beside the palanquin with an unreadable expression on her face.

Zhen Ji looked back into the crowds and noticed guards were blocking the them from getting close to the procession. "Xiang." Zhen Ji called to her friend.

At the sound of her name, Xiang noticed Zhen Ji peeking out of the carriage. "My lady!" She whispered in surprise as she quickly pulled the curtain over to cover the window and hide Zhen Ji. "It is bad luck to unveil yourself before your husband does!" Xiang looked around her as if checking to make sure no one had seen Zhen Ji's face.

Zhen Ji quietly pulled her veil back down. "Xiang, why are the people so far away?"

Xiang hesitated to answer. Zhen Ji was a lady, and as fair and just as she wanted to be, she would never know what it was like to be a commoner. "They are forbidden to come any closer my lady, for they are unworthy." She responded, only repeating what others have said.

"What? Unworthy?" Zhen Ji asked in shock and disgust. "Why is there a distinction between them? We are all humans alike!"

Xiang couldn't answer. She knew exactly what it was like to be poor, remembering a time when she too was considered one of them. There was always a gap between the rich and the poor, but it was nothing she could do about it. It was simply how unfair the world was.

"Stop the carriage." Zhen Ji commanded.

"My lady, we can't!" Her maid protested.

"Stop the carriage." Zhen Ji said loudly. The men carrying the palanquin obeyed and gently placed the carriage down. The musicians too stopped their music and the crowd began murmuring to each other wondering what was going on.

The matchmaker still smiling to the crowd, walked over the carriage door and whispered, "My Lady, we haven't the time for this. We will be late for the blessed hour!" Turning back to face the crowd with her smile as if to show nothing was out of the ordinary.

Zhen Ji moved towards the door, in an attempt to get out, but Xiang pulled the curtain aside from the window to talk to her through the window. "My lady, you cannot leave the palanquin! It will bring you bad luck to step out!" Zhen Ji sighed in defeat before settling back down in her seat.

"Then you shall help me address the crowd." Zhen Ji said to her maid. Xiang nodded as her mistress spoke to her, telling her what she wanted to say.

After a few minutes, Xiang covered the window to hide Zhen Ji and turned to face the crowd. She gestured to the guards in the far. "Lady Zhen would like to speak with the townspeople. Please let them step forward."

The guards stepped aside, but the people merely looked about wondering who she meant. When no one reacted immediately, a few people pointed to themselves questioningly. Xiang nodded her head and the crowd shuffled forwards towards the palanquin. When they were just steps away from Xiang, a guard kicked one of the men in the back of the knee. "Kneel before Lady Zhen Ji!" The gurad demanded.

Xiang raised a hand to stop the guard from further abusing the man, but the entire crowd dropped to the knees in obedience regardless. One person cried out in fear, "Please Lady Zhen Ji, we meant no harm! We simply wanted to watch the procession!"

Xiang shook her head at them sympathetically. "No, there is no trouble." She said to them, trying to reassure the people. "My Lady Zhen Ji has met all of you before when the Cao family gave out rice to the people."

"And we are so grateful for Lady Zhen Ji's kindness! Please, please don't hurt us!" Another one began crying out too.

Zhen Ji felt pain in her heart. These people had known nothing but suffering and abuse all their lives that they lived in fear. She felt their hurt and knew that if any time a nobleman was addressing them, it was only to berate or abuse them. How cruel the world must be.

Xiang gestured for them to remain quiet. "Master Cao Pi and Lady Zhen Ji's wedding is a red occasion they would like to share with everyone, and they wish to extend their invitation to everyone." She said. Xiang turned to the guards. "Please have additional tables placed in the town centre for these wonderful people."

For a few seconds, everyone was too stunned to react. No one in history had ever done such a grand gesture before. Then all at once, the crowd began thanking Zhen Ji for her generosity. Xiang raised both hands up in the air to silence the crowd. "It is Master Cao Pi and Lord Cao Cao that you should thank for their generosity."

"Alright, let us continue!" The matchmaker shouted, signalling the musicians and the procession to resume.

Zhen Ji hadn't received Cao Cao consent in this, but she knew that having her palanquin ride through the city in extravagance was like throwing feces in the townspeople faces. In a time when so many were suffering and starving, flaunting riches would only fuel their hatred. In these precarious times, it would be wise to garner support from the greater good.

... ... ... ... ...

The moment the palanquin returned to the Cao Palace, Zhen Ji could hear the excited shouts from the people. She wondered how Cao Pi looked dressed in his formal wedding attire and what expression he wore. Was he happy and excited for their marriage? Or was he indifferent?

"The bride has arrived!" The matchmaker shouted above the noise. "Master Cao Pi, please kick the carriage door and claim your bride!"

Amidst the loud cheers, Zhen Ji could hear Cao Pi walking towards the palanquin. His kick shook the wooden door. Zhen Ji clasped her hands together in anticipation. Though she could not see, she could imagine Cao Pi's dashing figure just beyond the door. In mere moments she would be with him. She grasped her hands tightly trying to calm her nerves. It was both exciting and terrifying for her. What was only a second after, but felt like an eternity, the door opened and Zhen Ji could see the sunlight flooding the carriage under the cloth veil. She stepped forward to the entrance of the carriage. Looking down, she could see Cao Pi's crouched form waiting for her. Anxiously, she climbed onto his sturdy back as he lifted her up. The people around cheered wildly. After living with the Caos for several weeks now, she was able to make out some of the voices and knew that many generals had attended the wedding. Firecrackers were lit when Cao Pi took his first step towards the palace. The loud crackling noises startled Zhen Ji, causing her to cling onto Cao Pi tighter.

"Don't worry, my love," He whispered to her with a delighted smile on his face. "I have you."

As Cao Pi carried her past the firecrackers, Zhen Ji slowly eased her grip on him. He stopped once he stepped foot into the palace and crouched over to let Zhen Ji off. Again the crowd cheered at the couple. The matchmaker immediately announced that the happy couple was to proceed for the tea ceremony in the ancestral hall. Cao Pi took Zhen Ji's hand and led her further into the palace. The sound of the blaring music and excited chatter slowly drifted further and further away as they headed towards the ancestral hall.

Seated before them in the ancestral hall was Cao Cao and Lady Bian. Cao Cao wore a smile and stroked his beard as his son and Zhen Ji entered. Though displeased, Lady Bian had a neutral expression. Seeing her son dressed in fine silk and seeing his pleased expression, she could not ruin his day with a scowl on her face. Still, she did not like the fox that he was marrying.

"Present tea to your father." The matchmaker said.

The two kneeled before his parents. Cao Pi held out the teacup with both hands to Cao Cao. "Father, please drink tea."

"This day marks a new chapter in your life Pi. Lead your family to prosperity, wealth, and fame." Cao Cao took the cup in his hands and took a sip.

"Father, please drink tea." Zhen Ji said next, following the same routine.

"May you guide your husband to victory in life, family, and love."

"Mother, please drink tea." Cao Pi held out the teacup now to Lady Bian.

His mother took the teacup in her hands warily. Though she took a sip from the cup, Zhen Ji could sense that she did so with great hesitance. Lady Bian flashed a loving smile to her son. "You are still young Pi, as you grow, so will your family. May you father many sons and continue the Cao line."

Her words to Cao Pi were also a warning to Zhen Ji. Zhen Ji knew Lady Bian didn't approve of her and perhaps she never would, but it was clear to the girl that her new mother-in-law would find a way to get rid of her. Lady Bian wasn't able to get rid of her physically, as she had already tried several times, but Zhen Ji had a new worry now. She could orchestrate it to have her replaced. Today Zhen Ji was married to Cao Pi as his first wife, but who was to say Cao Pi couldn't marry another woman? One that Lady Bian approved?

Zhen Ji took the teacup and held it out for Lady Bian with shaky hands. She hadn't even considered Cao Pi would marry another woman until just then. It was as if the whole world had slowed as she held out the cup. Possible futures flashed before her eyes; ones where she lived an oppressive life at the hands of her mother-in-law; ones where she fought constantly with women she would be forced to call "sisters"; ones where she lived a miserable caged life.

As she continued to imagine her own demise, Cao Pi's warm hands brought her back. He placed his hands on hers to steady her hands. Though she could not see him, she could feel his eyes and a gentle smile on her. It was in that small gesture that all her worries washed away. His warmth calmed her down and made her smile. "Mother, please drink tea." She finally said.

Lady Bian took the cup and wet her lips with the tea, not bothering to take a sip. "As a wife, you shall take care of your husband and in-laws. You shall respect your husband and your in-laws. And everything you do shall be for the good of your family."

"The happy couple shall now rise and kowtow to the heavens." The matchmaker instructed. "Under the eyes of heavens, you vow to uphold moral justice." After Zhen Ji and Cao Pi bowed to the heavens, the matchmaker then said, "The happy couple shall now kowtow to the groom's parents." Their second bow was directed to Cao Cao and Lady Bian. "Before your parents, you vow to honour your family name." The matchmaker assisted Zhen Ji as the two turned to face each other. "The happy couple shall now bow to each other. And to each other, you vow to support one another."

"With heaven as your witness, Master Cao Pi and Lady Zhen Ji are now bound to each other with the red string of Fate!" The matchmaker finally announced. The surrounding people, mostly of family and generals, cheered for the new couple.

With a satisfied smile, Cao Pi took Zhen Ji's hand in his and held it out for the people to see.

… … … … …

During the dinner feast, with the heavy cloth veil still perched upon her headdress and covering her face, Zhen Ji and Cao Pi stood at the head table to address the rowdy guests. Cao Pi took a cup of wine and gestured to the guests. "Thank you for witnessing our marriage. Now, let us all eat, drink, and have fun!" He shouted out before downing his wine in one gulp. The guests cheered as they raised their own cups and followed suit. As Cao Pi sat back down, Xiang led Zhen Ji back to their new bedchambers. As it was tradition for the groom to join in the festivities, the bride unfortunately was to remain in the bedchambers waiting for her new husband.

With everything that happened leading up to the marriage, Zhen Ji was actually relieved to have a quiet moment to herself. Xiang had guided Zhen Ji to take a seat on the bed, before she too had to leave Zhen Ji alone. She was glad that she had a few hours to recollect herself before Cao Pi retired to bed. For the last few days, Consort Chen had been in her presence constantly or she had troubling thoughts about Lady Bian. Normally she maintained a cool and calm composure, but Lady Bian's words had unnerved her. So much so, that she had completely forgotten that she truly cared for Cao Pi and that he cared for her too. As she sat on the bed by herself, she thought only of Cao Pi and her resolution to never let Lady Bian ruin their relationship.

… … … … …

As the feast winded down and the guests were leaving or passed out from the wine, Cao Pi looked to the direction of his bedchambers anxiously. As much fun as he was having out here with his guests, he just wanted to be with his new bride.

"Hahaha! Oh brother, I have never seen you with that look before!" Cao Zhi said with a slight slur to his words.

"What look?" He barked back.

Cao Zhi leaned over to Xu Huang, resting his arm on him for support. "The look of longing." He said, emphasizing the word before bursting out laughing with his drinking companion. A couple of other men approached Cao Pi to see what the commotion was.

"What? Pi is leaving already?" Xu Zhu asked.

"Too anxious to be with his wife!" Zhang He teased.

Cao Pi was getting annoyed. People never treated him this way and he would not tolerate it. He was about to give them a piece of their minds when his brother interrupted him.

"Oh Pi, you have to lighten up!" He said, moving his arm from Xu Huang to wrap around Cao Pi's shoulders. "Here, have a drink." He held out a cup for his brother.

Initially wanting to push his drunk brother away, but realizing that he would not let up, Cao Pi took the cup roughly. Zhi poured wine into the cup while Pi immediately downed it and then threw the cup behind him, ready to leave.

"Wait, wait, wait, wait!" His brother said, pulling his back to the group of men. "We can't let you get back to your beautiful wife that easily!"

The others laughed as they all agreed that Cao Pi had to "work" for it to get to his wife. Despite knowing that it was all part of the fun and games in a wedding, Cao Pi had a slight scowl on his face. He was a man who knew what he wanted and always got what he wanted. Their jokes were simply too bothersome and annoying for him.

"Drinks!" Xu Zhu shouted as he moved towards Cao Pi. "I challenge you to a drinking contest!" He said, his words slurring more than his brothers. "Last man standing wins…" he said trailing off as he started to doze off, but suddenly snapped back awake. "Cups! Bring the cups!" He ordered.

"A drinking contest when you can barely hold out on your own?" Zhang He shouted. The men all roared in laughter.

"What? You doubt me?" Xu Zhu pointed a finger into Zhang He's chest, poking him a few times before a servant brought two cups and another pot of wine to the group. "Watch me!" He roughly handed a cup to Cao Pi and poured wine into both cups, spilling most of it as he tried hard to keep balance. "Drink!" He shouted before throwing the wine in. He poured a second round of wine. "Drink!" He shouted again. Both men downed the wine in one gulp. "Drink!" He kept repeating each time he refilled. After the fifth shot, he passed out, dropping the wine bottle to the floor. Luckily, the men caught him before he fell to the ground too. Everyone but Cao Pi laughed at him as several servants quickly came by to drag him off to his room.

"My turn, my turn!" Cao Zhi said as he pushed some of the men back to make space. "Let's have a poetry contest!" He said whipping out his fan.

Xu Huang grabbed the fan from his hand and looked at it from front to back multiple times. "What happened to your Goddess of the Luo River fan?" He asked, still surprised that the fan he held did not look the same.

"I lost it to my sister-in-law!" He said loudly. "But it's fine. It suits her more than me anyway!"

"A man's fan suits a lady?" Zhang He asked as they all burst into laughter again.

"No, she's like the Goddess of the Luo River!" Cao Zhi tried to correct, but men ignored him or could not hear over their thunderous roars.

"Wait!" Xiahou Yun shouted out. "Where did Pi go?"

The men all looked to one another, but did not see Cao Pi among the group. "Bah!" Cao Zhi snorted. "Let him go to his wife. We, on the other hand, should continue drinking!" The men agreed and headed away in search of more wine.

During their drunken exchange, Cao Pi had managed to slip away from the boisterous crowd. He had had enough of their foolishness.

... ... ... ... ...

The moon had risen high in the night sky as Cao Pi made his way to his bedchambers. It had been two weeks since he last saw Zhen Ji. After his father had announced their wedding, he had been forbidden to see Zhen Ji until they were married. For the first few days, he was fine with it, especially when he found out that his new wife-to-be had been getting along well with his mother. But then the days began to drag and he found himself wanting to see her more and more each passing day. He had even gone so far as to try to steal some glances at her, but his Er Niang, Consort Chen, went through great lengths to hide her away from him.

So when he finally kicked the carriage of her palanquin and saw her again, it was as if he was seeing her for the first time again. Her face was covered, but he knew exactly what was behind the red veil; the soft porcelain skin, luscious red lips, sparkling bright eyes, slender swan-like neck, and a small beauty mark under her eye. It was a face so deeply ingrained in his mind that every moment he closed his eyes, she was all he could see. And those long days he was forbidden to see her, only made it worse.

When he was finally before his bedroom doors, he took no hesitation to burst in. As expected, she sat on his bed, waiting for him. Even with her face covered, she held such beauty and elegance that made even him, Cao Pi, weak in his knees. "My love." He managed to whisper. The awe and amazement in his own voice surprised him. He had never sounded so meek before a woman. Yet here he was, standing there before her, with trembling legs, and a voice that was so lost to him. She sat there on his bed, unmoving, poised and so graceful he wondered if perhaps there was a goddess before him. "Come."

Obediently, she rose from the bed and headed towards the sound of his voice, taking small careful steps. His heart eased and his legs stopped trembling. She was a mere human, he realized, with a slight smirk on his face. He reached his hand out to her and she gratefully took it as he led her to the wooden table in the room. They both sat down on the lacquered chairs as he poured wine into two small cups. They each took a cup and linked their arms together. "My love, let this be the start of a new life together." He said, taking the wine and throwing it down his throat. Zhen Ji carefully took the wine under the veil and downed the wine.

Hastily, Cao Pi took the cup from her and placed it on the table. In one swift movement, he threw her red veil back and though he already knew the face behind the veil, he was still stunned to see the beauty before his eyes. "My love..." he whispered again before leaning in for a kiss.

... ... ... ... ...

The next morning, Zhen Ji awoke bright and early with a slight aching between her legs. She was certainly glad that Consort Chen gave a thorough explanation of the Birds and Bees, as she undoubtedly would have been much more terrified if she hadn't known. Though Cao Pi had a brash attitude, he was definitely a gentleman in bed. Of what she knew beforehand, she was certain that she would be in a lot of discomfort and pain when the deed was done, but she was surprised that it was not at all as she had imagined, and may have even enjoyed it perhaps. Cao Pi had been careful not to hurt her too much and was very gentle with her.

She turned her head to the side to face him. He was still fast asleep as she watched the subtle rise of his chest with every breath. Days ago, she worried about the life she would lead once she married him, but at this moment, she felt that everything was just right. It was the small gestures he made, like holding her shaky hands, that seemed to quell all of her uncertainties about him.

She smiled slightly as she brushed a stray hair from his sleeping face. Her slight gesture woke him up as his hand held hers down to cup his face. Lazily, he opened his eyes with a half smile, half smirk. "My love..." He said, wrapping an arm around her and pulling her close.

She gasped in surprise, but did not fight back. She liked the warmth of his body and the sound of his steady heartbeat. She placed her head on his chest and closed her eyes trying to listen to the rhythmic beating, but he had other plans on his mind. He rolled on top of her and began kissing her throat sensually. She gasped again in surprise before gently pushing him away.

"I can't." She said as he stopped kissing her and looked her in the eye with a slight childish disappointment in his eyes. "I must get up and serve tea to your mother."

At her words, he released her and fell onto his back, lying next to her. By tradition, the new daughter-in-law was to serve tea to her new mother-in-law the morning after the wedding out of respect and a sort of blessing. "Very well." He said in his usual stern tone. "Mother will be pleased with such a dutiful daughter-in-law."

Feeling the necessity to do so, Zhen Ji leaned over and gave her husband a small clumsy peck on the cheek. She had never kissed anyone before her wedding, so it felt awkward and foreign to her. She had tried to emulate Cao Pi, but didn't know how her kiss seemed so vastly different than the ones he gave her the night before. Still, Cao Pi did not seem to mind as his smirk returned. "I expect more than a simple kiss as repayment."

Despite what had happened between them last night, Zhen Ji found herself blushing furiously. Knowing that her reaction would provoke him further, Zhen Ji hastily jumped out of bed and called out for her maid.

Xiang entered the room immediately, ready with a water basin and face cloths. The sight of Cao Pi's bare chest caused her to look down in embarrassment, but the husband and wife were too preoccupied with their own thoughts to take notice.

... ... ... ... ...

Zhen Ji and Xiang arrived at Lady Bian's rooms shortly after. Zhen Ji had not forgotten the animosity Lady Bian had for her, but she was determined that she would not let her get in the way of her new found happiness. She was also not disillusioned to think that Lady Bian would not make it difficult for her. All she could do was weather the storm down and hope for the best. It would not bode well for anyone if she fought back.

"Lady Bian is reciting her prayers right now. She has asked you to wait for her while she finishes her morning prayers." Shi Shi told them when they requested an audience with Lady Bian. The curvaceous maid gestured to a kneeling cushion in front of the decorated wooden chair in the Receiving Room.

"You don't expect my lady to be kneeling as she waits for Lady Bian, do you?" Xiang asked in disbelief. Though it was customary to kneel as the daughter-in-law served tea to her mother-in-law, without Lady Bian physically there, it would only be an empty gesture.

"And yet some people have the nerve to make their mother-in-law wait even after the blessed hour had passed." Shi Shi said, as if mumbling to herself loudly.

Zhen Ji raised her hand to Xiang to stop her from arguing with the maid. She knew full well this was only the start of a difficult path with Lady Bian. Kneeling as she waited for Lady Bian, was her mother-in-law's way of letting Zhen Ji know her place within the Cao family. She would have to grit her teeth and bare with it for now. "Please let Lady Bian know I am waiting for her when she is done her morning prayers."

... ... ... ... ...

By midday, Zhen Ji was still on her knees, kneeling before an empty seat. When Xiang had asked if Lady Bian was done with her morning prayers, she was always told the same answer, "Lady Bian is very devote. She is still in her prayers."

The first few hours was difficult for Zhen Ji as her legs constantly fell asleep and she wanted so desperately to stretch them out, but she remained steadfast in her position, because she knew that the moment she faltered, even if slightly, Lady Bian would come out and berate her as an undutiful daughter-in-law.

"It is midday now, surely Lady Bian has finished her prayers to every deity there is!" Xiang said harshly the next time Shi Shi came back into the room. Though Xiang did not have to kneel, she stood next to Zhen Ji the entire time holding a tray with the tea that Zhen Ji had prepared for Lady Bian. Her stomach had growled more than once, but Xiang said nothing of it.

"Oh!" Shi Shi exclaimed in mock surprise as if she had forgotten the two of them there. "Lady Bian was not feeling well after her prayers, so she has returned to her bed to rest. She shall come when she awakens."

"Well when will she wake up?" Xiang asked impatiently.

Shi Shi laughed. "Lady Bian can awake at anytime. She does not run a schedule to please you or Lady Zhen Ji."

"Then you shall call for us, when she is ready to receive Lady Zhen Ji." Xiang said, as she placed the tray on a nearby table to help Zhen Ji up.

"Very well. Don't say I didn't warn you though, Lady Bian does not wait for anyone." The maid briskly turned around and proceeded back to one of the adjourning rooms continuing whatever task she had at hand.

"You don't expect Lady Zhen Ji to be waiting here all day do you?!"

Shi Shi turned around briefly to reply, "Why yes. If she was a dutiful daughter-in-law."

"My lady, she is doing this on purpose!" Xiang whispered to Zhen Ji, when she refused to get up.

"I know."

"Then why are you playing along with this childish game?"

"I have to."

"I don't understand, my lady! You are suffering for naught! She will never appreciate any of your gestures."

Zhen Ji sighed quietly. She knew Xiang's underlying message was true. Lady Bian would never accept her as a daughter-in-law. But it was never Zhen Ji's intention to be accepted by Lady Bian, rather, she was only doing this out of respect for her husband. She did not want to put him in a position where he would have to choose between the mother that gave birth to him or the wife he beds with. "It is my duty." Zhen Ji simply said.

... ... ... ... ...

It was not until well into the evening did Lady Bian finally decide to come out of her bedchambers and receive Zhen Ji. The displeased look on her face clearly showed that she had not expected Zhen Ji to last this long. She took a seat on the decorated wooden chair before Zhen Ji.

"Mother-in-law, I hope you are feeling better after your rest."

"Hmph." She scoffed. "You shall call me Lady Bian as everyone else does."

Zhen Ji nodded in acknowledgement before reaching out for the tea cup to present to Lady Bian. "Lady Bian, please drink this tea."

As if Zhen Ji was a diseased creature, Lady Bian looked towards Shi Shi in disgust as she gestured her head. Shi Shi came by and took the tea cup to hand over to Lady Bian. A bit of anger bubbled inside Zhen Ji as she felt utterly disrespected as Lady Bian felt the need to completely avoid having to touch her by getting her maid involved.

Lady Bian took one sip of the tea before spitting it out in great exaggeration all over Zhen Ji's face. Xiang immediately rushed to wipe her lady's face with a handkerchief. "The tea is cold! How do you expect me to drink this?!"

While Zhen Ji had struggled to remain kneeling for several long hours, she had forgotten about the tea. "Please accept my apologies. I will remake the tea." She said as she attempted to get up from her position. Unfortunately, having been in that position for so long, Zhen Ji had lost all feeling to her legs and did not have the strength to get up. She would have fallen to her side if Xiang had not caught her first.

Zhen Ji made a few more feeble attempts of getting up before Lady Bian threw up her hands in disgust. "This is embarrassing. I cannot bear to watch this any longer." Her mother-in-law got up from her chair and headed back into room with Shi Shi towing behind.

When they both disappeared, Xiang struggled to bring Zhen Ji to her feet. Once standing, Zhen Ji leaned on Xiang heavily as she was unable to stand on her own. Rising up also made her dizzy and faint. Xiang propped Zhen Ji's arm around her neck and staggered out of Lady Bian's rooms into the cool night.

"Please bring me to the kitchens." Zhen Ji said weakly. "Please do as I say." She added before Xiang could argue.

As her friend struggled to guide her to the kitchens, Xiang thought of how cruel Zhen Ji's life was. At an early age, Zhen Ji had lost her mother to illness. As war raged on, the Zhen family suffered greatly and lost the family fortune. Unable to cope with the financial loss, her father turned Yuan Shao and in essence, sold his daughter to the warlord. Though her father had meant for better times for her living under the Yuan household, it seemed things only got worse. But still, Zhen persevered, and that was exactly what she was doing under the Cao banner now.

As the two girls crossed the courtyards near Cao Cao's bedchambers, Xiang caught sight of Wumei in his gardens. Errand girl. Xiang thought bitterly as she saw Wumei darting through Cao Cao's gardens towards his bedchamber. No doubt doing more of Lady Bian's dirty work. Xiang wanted to comment about it to Zhen Ji, but as she propped her mistress along the stone path, she could tell Zhen Ji was struggling to keep moving. The maid decided against troubling her mistress with such a trivial matter.

It wasn't until they neared the kitchens did Zhen Ji show a little more strength. Though it was still difficult to stand on her own, Zhen Ji meticulously began brewing a new pot of tea. She carefully took a handful of dried tea leaves and dropped it into a small mortar and pestle and began grinding the tea leaves. In the meantime, Xiang stoked the burning furnace to boil the water. When the tea leaves were ground to a fine powder, Zhen Ji dumped the powder onto a strainer over the boiling water. Slowly and rhythmically, she pressed the powder in a circular motion to let it strain through into the water. She was careful not press too much in at once to ensure the flavor would be just right. When she finally finished, she took the tea and poured it over another strainer into a tea pot, making sure to remove any leftover tea leaves that had not been grounded to powder.

With all the time she spent brewing a new pot of tea, Zhen Ji managed to recover enough strength to walk on her own back to Lady Bian's chambers. Xiang dutifully followed behind her, carrying a tray of the tea and cup. When the returned to Lady Bian's rooms, Shi Shi was stepping out of the room, quietly closing the door. She turned around and in mock surprise, gasped at the two girls as if they had been forgotten.

"Oh my!" She said covering her mouth in surprise and keeping her voice low. "I'm sorry Lady Zhen Ji, but I'm afraid Lady Bian was too exhausted and has retired to her bedchambers. Perhaps next time, one should not make her mother-in-law wait so long." She.

"Who made who wait here?" Xiang asked, raising her voice in anger.

"Insolent maid!" Shi Shi snapped at her in a harsh whisper. "You raise your voice even though you know Lady Bian is resting?" Shi Shi raised her hand and slapped Xiang across the face. As Xiang was holding onto the tray of tea, she was unable to retaliate. In a brief moment Xiang had considered tossing the hot contents onto Shi Shi, but Zhen Ji reacted quickly, keeping Xiang in her place.

"As Xiang's mistress, I will punish her as I see fit for her outburst. Please refrain yourself from overstepping your boundaries, Shi Shi. I will overlook this this time, but next time I may not be as kind."

Rarely did Zhen Ji ever use her status to lord over others, but she felt a duty to protect her dear friend. Zhen Ji knew that this maid would never let them have a moment of peace if she just let it go every time.

"Hmph." Shi Shi muttered. "Well, I am retiring to bed now. I would suggest you back tomorrow morning."

"You will address me as Lady Zhen Ji." Zhen Ji corrected. She knew that putting her foot down would not bode well to Lady Bian, but she had to stand firm. No doubt, Shi Shi would report this to Lady Bian who would certainly make things more miserable for her, but Zhen Ji was determined to show her that she was no pushover. She did her best to be the docile and dutiful daughter-in-law when she was with the Yuans in order to keep herself and Xiang safe, but they never truly felt safe there. It would just be the same here if Zhen Ji followed the same path. She would remain a dutiful daughter-in-law, but she could not be a meek woman.

"Lady Zhen Ji." Shi Shi responded with a deep exaggerated curtsey. "I shall take my leave now." She said with seething anger before brusquely walking away.

When the maid was finally gone, Zhen Ji breathed a deep sigh of relief. It felt so unnatural to her to be so rigid, but what was done was done. "I'm sorry you had to suffer such humiliation Xiang." She turned her friend's head to the side to look at her cheek. It was only slightly pink. Zhen Ji was relieved that it was not a hard hit.

Despite getting slapped in the face, Xiang wore a slight smile. "Please do not feel sorry for me, my lady. In fact, I am blessed to have such a wonderful and caring mistress. "

"Silly girl. You are my friend." Zhen Ji touched Xiang's cheek slightly. "Let us get some sleep. We'll face tomorrow's trouble as it comes."

... ... ... ... ...

When Zhen Ji returned to her bedchambers, she was greeted by Cao Pi who was casually reading a war manuscript in the study. Upon hearing the door open, Cao Pi stopped reading and looked towards his new wife. Delight was clearly evident in his eyes, but he made no movement towards her. Xiang entered the room shortly carrying a wash basin and face cloth.

"My husband," Zhen Ji called out to him. "I hope you were not waiting up for me." She said with slight concern in her voice. Her worry seemed to please Cao Pi as he grinned.

"I would wait until the end of time for you, my love." He responded as he rose from his seat and headed towards their bedroom. His sweet words made Zhen Ji blush slightly despite knowing they were nothing but sweet words. "How was your day spent with mother?"

"Lady Bian is teaching me to be a dutiful daughter-in-law." Zhen Ji replied as she dutifully removed her husband's outer garments and helped him into his nightgown.

Cao Pi mistook her ambiguous response for flattery and grinned wider. "Mother can be tough at times, but I am pleased to hear you are getting along well with her, my love."

Zhen Ji simply smiled in response before heading towards the makeup table to wash her face. Xiang knew that Zhen Ji was a strong woman, but she also knew that some battles shouldn't be fought alone. "Careful my lady!" Xiang exclaimed suddenly as she jumped towards Zhen Ji to support her, intentionally making it look like Zhen Ji had lost her balance. "Your legs are still weak from kneeling all day!"

Cao Pi frowned. His creased eyebrows narrowed as he asked, "Kneeling all day?"

Before Zhen Ji could respond, Xiang quickly added, "Lady Bian wouldn't even come out to see Lady Zhen Ji!" She further emphasized, "My poor lady has been on her knees from sunrise to well over sunset waiting to serve the daughter-in-law's tea to Lady Bian!"

"Is this true my love?"

"I will return tomorrow to serve tea to mother-in-law in the morning." She responded without answering his question.

"Let us go together. I must give my respects to mother as well."

Zhen Ji had always known Xiang to be a clever girl; she was a fast learner and adapted easily. If not for her life's misfortune, Xiang would have been a very intellectual girl if given the proper education. She was clever enough to get Cao Pi help them, albeit indirectly, but it was something that Zhen Ji had not even dared to consider. In fact, Zhen Ji knew that getting him involved would certainly make Lady Bian despise her even more, but at this point, Zhen Ji knew she could not stand up to Lady Bian just yet. She still had to show respect to her mother-in-law as culturally expected. In the meantime, she'd have to figure out a way to handle her new situation soon, or else they would be doomed to suffer.