Chapter 3: Chapter 3
In the late hour of the dog, news still managed to spread throughout the city. Ah Zhen has returned victoriously and her army has already step through the city gates. Citizens roared the streets with cheer and gratitude for the soldiers' hard work. While within the Meng estate, my heart jumps with excitement for Ah Zhen's safe return.
This was only her fourth battle since she has officially taken over her deceased father's position as General Meng. Her responsibilities has become so much greater and her time at home has slowly reduced. She has always lived her life in blood and death, yet Ah Zhen refuses to show me any grief. Each time she returned from camp, Ah Zhen always smiled once she saw me. And over the years, I have come to yearn for that smile each time.
As I help the maids place food on the dining room table I would constantly look out the window to the front gate, afraid that I would miss something important. And sure enough, just as I turned over for the tenth time, the gates opened with a loud squeak. My heart momentarily halts as a face comes into my vision. Her eyes glimmer with delight upon looking into the estate and a gentle smile forms on her face. Even in a body of armor, Ah Zhen still appears at peace.
"She's back," I sighed with relief. A few servants head out to greet her and just as I was about to do that same I saw some unknown people at the gate. Purely from the way they were dressed, I knew they were probably officials and other young men from aristocratic families. Ah Zhen's smile also drops upon their unwelcome arrival. I hid myself and watched from afar while loud commotion echoes through the estate.
I was not one to show myself to these people, especially since Ah Zhen also did not care much for them. She often said many of them enjoyed rewards that they did not deserve and then boasts at every opportunity. And from the many times I have seen them outside the estate, Ah Zhen's words proved to be true.
As I continue to look, I notice a particular young man who did not join in on the commotion. His blue attire was much more modest when compared to the colorful ones the other guests were wearing. Another young man stood by his side with a sword tied to his waist. I could only sigh when I realize who those two actually were.
Listening in on the conversations I heard the men congratulating Ah Zhen on her recent victory. They insisted that the night be celebrated no matter how much Ah Zhen refused.
"General Meng, you don't have a flower at home. Why not go find one at the House of A Thousand Flowers then?" an official laughed. Upon hearing his suggestion, my heart cringed and I did not need to look at Ah Zhen to know that she was also disturbed. One of the things she hated most was for women to lose their virtue for a man's sexual interest. Even to this day, Ah Zhen would quietly close down any brothel that she can.
I immediately step out and walk towards the loud crowd. And as they notice me their voices quiet down until there was only silence. Since the news of Ah Zhen's return hit my ears, I had already dressed myself in my new silk robes. They were white with little floral embroideries along the hems and the overcoat was light enough to float while I walked. My hair was held up by a single jade hairpin, simple yet elegant. All their eyes were open wide and directed at me.
"You have returned cousin," I faked a smile. "Why must you find joy at some flower house? I have prepared a dance upon your return. Do you want to see it?" I actually did prepare a dance for Ah Zhen, but it was meant for her personal eyes only. However, if these people want to throw another woman at her, they will have to make sure she was comparable to me. "Set the stage," I yelled. The officials began to question when Ah Zhen had a cousin, but Ah Zhen just grinned at them.
The servants quickly made room in the garden as an older servant started to play a flute. Although it was only one instrument, it was all I needed to prove my skills. I started to dance and my floating dress further helped me enhance my beauty. I did not care about anyone but Ah Zhen and each time I looked back at her I saw that gentle smile I have craved for. In those few minutes, there was only Ah Zhen and I in a world of spring wind brushing the pear blossom petals around us. And she continues to smile lightly as I dance for her in this small world of just us two.
Once the song came to an end, Ah Zhen approaches me and grabs me by the waist. She pulls me in and my face fell on her chest as she tightens her grip. This was the first time she has held me like this. My heart begins to beat rapidly and I could feel my face getting warmer. Eyes glared at us with envy, but I did not care even if this was consider inappropriate.
"As you all can see I have no need for any other flower than this one right here. Tonight, I only intend to spend it at home. I will compensate you all on another day. Please see yourself out," Ah Zhen requested. Without any more to say, Ah Zhen leads me into the house with her arm still around my waist. Words of disappointment were heard behind us and we both ignored it.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone