As I pen this tale, I am drawn to the tranquil gardens of the Duke's estate, where the sun's warm rays cast a serene glow. Yet, amidst this peaceful backdrop, a sense of unease settles over the inhabitants, for an imperial decree has arrived, bearing tidings that will forever alter the course of their lives.
Mei Xing, the Duke's daughter, sits in her chambers, her raven-black tresses cascading down her back like a waterfall of night. Her black eyes, pools of shimmering darkness, sparkle with a hint of sadness, a testament to the trials she has faced since her mother's passing. The cruel whispers of her stepmother, Madam Wei, and stepsister, Ha Rin, have made her life a living hell.
A soft knock at the door interrupts Mei Xing's reverie, and a servant's voice whispers, "Young mistress, the Duke requests your presence in the main hall."
Mei Xing's heart sinks as she makes her way to the main hall, a sense of foreboding settling over her. Upon arriving, she beholds her father, Duke Mingling, standing by the window, his countenance grave.
"Mei Xing, I have tidings to share with you," he says, his voice heavy with import. "An imperial decree has arrived, commanding you to wed General Xiao Hong."
Mei Xing's eyes widen in horror. "Father, must I? All whisper that he is crippled, that his visage is hideous and masked."
Duke Mingling's expression remains unyielding. "The imperial decree is clear, Mei Xing. You shall wed General Xiao Hong. It is not a request, but a command."
Mei Xing's desperation surges forth, but she knows she has no choice. She cannot refuse the imperial decree, no matter how distasteful the union may be.
Ha Rin, her stepsister, sneers. "Sister, you must wed the ugly general, whether you desire it or not. Mother, do you not think she is fortunate to secure such a union?"
Madam Wei's smile is a thin-lipped affair. "Aye, I deem him a suitable match for you, Mei Xing. After all, you are not the most desirable bride in the kingdom."
Mei Xing's eyes sting with unshed tears. She knows she is being manipulated, that her stepmother and stepsister seek to break her spirit. Yet she also knows she has no choice but to obey the imperial decree.
"I shall prepare for the wedding," Mei Xing says, her voice barely above a whisper.
Duke Mingling's countenance softens slightly. "I am sorry, Mei Xing. But it is the duty of our family to obey the Emperor's commands."
Mei Xing nods, knowing that her fate is sealed. She shall wed General Xiao Hong, and she shall do so with the dignity and honor befitting her family.
As the day of the wedding dawned, Mei Xing's chambers were abuzz with activity. Her close maid, Chuchui, whom she also treated as a friend, helped her prepare for the grand occasion. Chuchui's skilled hands moved deftly as she assisted Mei Xing into a stunning red dress, intricately embroidered with golden thread.
"Chuchui, I'm so nervous," Mei Xing confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "I've never even met General Xiao Hong. What if he's as ugly as everyone says?"
Chuchui's expression was reassuring. "Don't worry, mistress. You'll make a beautiful bride, and the General will be lucky to have you. Besides, it's not about physical appearance, but about the kindness and compassion in one's heart."
Mei Xing smiled weakly, feeling a sense of gratitude towards her loyal maid. As Chuchui finished the final touches on her hair, Mei Xing stood up, her red dress rustling softly.
"I'm ready," she said, taking a deep breath.
Chuchui curtsied. "You look stunning, mistress. I'll escort you to the carriage."
As they made their way to the courtyard, Mei Xing's heart felt heavy with apprehension. She had no idea what lay ahead, but she steeled herself for the unknown.
The carriage, adorned with colorful streamers and fragrant flowers, awaited her arrival. Mei Xing climbed aboard, Chuchui following closely behind. As the carriage door closed, Mei Xing felt a sense of finality wash over her.
The journey to the General's mansion seemed interminable, the silence between Mei Xing and Chuchui punctuated only by the occasional jolt of the carriage. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the carriage came to a stop.
Mei Xing's heart skipped a beat as she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. The carriage door opened, and a dignified-looking servant, Cai Wei, bowed low.
"Welcome, young mistress," he said, his voice low and gravelly. "I am Cai Wei, the General's loyal servant. Please, follow me."
Mei Xing descended from the carriage, her red dress fluttering in the gentle breeze. Chuchui followed closely behind, her eyes scanning the surroundings with interest.
As they entered the General's mansion, Mei Xing was struck by the opulence that surrounded her. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings, and the floors were covered with rich, velvety carpets.
Cai Wei led them to a grand hall, where a solemn-looking official awaited their arrival.
"Ah, young mistress," the official said, bowing low. "I am honored to perform the wedding ceremony. Please, take your place beside the General."
Mei Xing's heart sank as she saw a figure standing at the far end of the hall, his back to her. He was dressed in a simple yet elegant robe, and his dark hair was tied back in a neat knot.
As she approached him, Mei Xing felt a sense of trepidation. What would he be like? Would he be kind and gentle, or harsh and cruel?
The official began to speak, his words a blur as Mei Xing's eyes met the General's. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the air thick with tension.
And then, in a voice that sent shivers down Mei Xing's spine, the General spoke.
"I, Xiao Hong, take you, Mei Xing, as my wife. I promise to protect and cherish you, to stand by your side through all the trials and tribulations of life."
Mei Xing's voice was barely audible as she repeated the vows. As they exchanged cups of wine, sealing their union, Mei Xing felt a sense of resignation wash over her.
She was now the wife of General Xiao Hong, a man she knew nothing about.