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    CHAPTER 45 FATE AND HUMANITY (Cooking and Dancing)


    Man, give him a come on and he aroused all the way!! No doubt, herself started it but heck, desperate measure, “....Mmph..! My... Lord... !”
    “Hmm..?”

    El..der.. H..Hu....ah...!” Yuyan broke off with a loud gasp, when Yang Guo deliberately tightened his hold and proprietorially deepening the kiss....

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    Elder!”
    Huang Yaoshi!”

    Let see.... The flushed looks and their telltale lips, her Ladyship's nervousness and his Lordship's rigidity.... Now, the old man no minor in body language..... Hers, sexual tension while his, quickie passion.... He gave his famous arching stare along with an equally sardonic tone, “Ahem, am I interrupting?

    Yuyan's cheeks burned hotly, and Yang Guo's voice warned chillingly “One more insolence, and I have the tongue cuts and throw you into the cold, dark, lonely and empty dungeon for rest of life”

    Huang Yaoshi fully aware of an Edict when heard one. Heretical maybe, but the Healer knew better than to defy Yang Guo then or challenging the Ruler of Kingdom. Honestly, he insulted the Yangs one time too many. As a Great, he neither close with the Four meaning none to his defense nor friendly with other Pugilists so likely zero aid and nil help. He fears no Verdict, but is it worth to have his old life humiliated or losing name, fame and face just like that under his Lordship's influence and power? Or via the Lord Yang's forceful Mandate and through absolute Decree? Nah! While at it, there but a deep longing on his befitting part to see the lass properly wed and legitimately settled, if not happily ever after story.

    “No..! No..my lord.. he didn't mean it!! No!!! No please!!!!” Even Yuyan recognized for real this time, and beseeching desperately. Yang Guo continued retaining herself possessively, but eyed Huang Yaoshi threateningly.
    “Please pardon the earlier manner, my lord. I meant no disrespect for her Ladyship” he bowed formally and marking ceremoniously, polite tone and all, unwilling to let Yuyan pleading further on his behalf. What the couple did intimately behind closed doors and how they romancing within the palace hidden walls, Huang Yaoshi have no wish for details. His Lordship caressing her Ladyship at close, if not the ravishing front, is his current desire to put an immediate stop to it. Imagine, someone his age and caliber witnessing somebody - regardless whoever - being taken advantage of presently by another who above everything else, in order to leave himself unpunished or let off unscathed.

    Masterful and autocratic might be, but Yang Guo not real despot or true fiend. So when the old man voluntarily observing protocol, his Lordship can afford to be hospitable. He released his bride and gave her a gentle prod. Without wasting time, Yuyan dashed across and raced into the waiting arms. Oh, the joy of reunion between them after what seemed ages! Ah, the feeling of bond, indescribable and their mutual fondness, unjustifiable.

    “How are you, lass?”
    “F..ine. E..lder, I miss you! Very much so!!”
    “Me too”
    “Elder...!” she began but then, remembering his Lordship, turned swiftly to request “My lord, I wish to be alone with Elder Huang”
    “No” came the man's censure.

    Although no more secret to keep from the latter, nevertheless there something called privacy. Yuyan decided this round, on the greatest weapon there is – Tears. You know, even Huang Yaoshi can barely stand them. You see, Yuyan hardly into them so Yang Guo caught off guard, and is naturally panic, “My lady!
    “I w..want.. to.. to s...speak wi..th h..him p..privately...p..ple...ase” came the sniffs and between soft sobs.

    When their eyes met, Heretical Healer Huang Yaoshi put on a face that neither provoking nor mocking the Lord Yang.
    “Please don't cry, my lady” he went towards her, and removing Yuyan from the old man's grasp, “Alright, I will allow my lady the privacy, but I shall not tolerate any close proximity like this one, no matter how innocent. Is. That. Clear?” Yang Guo shot the healer a straight glare, to which the latter replied blatantly “Crystalline
    Thank you, my lord ” her Ladyship cuts in hurriedly, before one changes his mind or the other uttering further line.

    The Lord Yang went away and Yuyan burst, “Honestly Elder, whats with you and him?!
    Frankly, my dear, I suspected long ago, and am confirming it now – Mental Problem. Or Loony Complex. Unless yourself hits menopause, myself might consider.... but don't think we should anyway... eeww!

    Her Ladyship opened her mouth “What the....!” when the old man flashed a wicked grin and at the suggestive wink, she eventually giggled at the joke. Now, his Lordship indeed kooky sometimes, when comes to Huang Yaoshi, right? After all, the Healer senior than Yang Xiao, and old enough to become the couple's grandfather. Kinky too. Next his gleeful drawl, “Priceless, lass. Have you been learning a craft or two from Palace Ladies, or copying and imitating Harem Women, on Feminine Wiles, hmm...?”
    “No! Ohhh Elder, you... !! You... you...!!!” came the broken line and an inadequate flow, so he finally gestured to silence her, “Now now, time is precious. Tell me truthfully, lass. How. Are. You?

    The latter managed most if not composing all, and as her Ladyship finished relating, his hand quickly went to check her pulse. The old man is shocked, but he contained it well. No wonder weather gone crazy and atmosphere damn maddening! As a pugilist, he heard of Weapons and Guardians, but unlike them, Huang Yaoshi doesn't give a hoot. And as the Heretical Healer, not easily stunned by Blood of Phoenix. Releasing the hand, he neither addressing Elimination nor mentioning Resurrection but questioning, “Dragon Girl?” to which Yuyan refused to meet his eyes. Face wry and tone dry, “Never mind, lass. I told you long ago, to guard your heart against him. A woman's greatest mistake, to think she can keep a man forever by using own body. A Cat never resist or reject the Fish. Both Male and Female eats fish, only Tomcat being caught more often for stealing, if you gets my mean” Indeed sad case and tragic short life but then again, perhaps blessing in disguise. At least, will not last to suffer the Lord's Polygamous Union or surviving that long to confront the Man's many Consorts.

    She jerked to blink at him, who continued gravely, “Not a good advice, of course and I am not encouraging it but if you really experiencing that urge, then play wisely and conduct them judiciously. Piece of advice, wipe the mouth clean after eating. Sex necessary and passion healthy, but not always compulsory so please think twice before indulging dangerous liaisons or exercising such needs. Most importantly, enjoy with partners that doesn't kiss and tell” like one explaining the birds and the bees. The old heretical yet dedicated healer, surly but worldly fellow, truly one of his kinds.

    Her Ladyship doesn't know what to think or how to say presently, so the best keeping quiet and just listen. After a brief silence, “Is it fulfilling?”
    “Huh?”
    “Is. It. Fulfilling?” he repeated deliberately and took her moments to register, “Err....”
    “Forget that I asked, lass”
    “No!”
    “Eh, is he impotent?”
    “We didn't...! He never...!!” Yuyan protested strongly and Huang Yaoshi expressed disbelievingly “What?!” If his jaw could drop, then surely would but Yang Guo appeared suddenly and the latter is not alone. The old man jolted, visibly off guard and her Ladyship reacted clumsily, by knocking. He steadied both of them, and she clung to him shakily without second thought. Mind blurred and wit scattered, Yuyan heard the Healer said neutrally “Nothing, my lord. You and company surprises me while all their presence startled her ladyship”

    Yuyan realized herself within Yang Guo's arms, and heard the man ordered icily “Take him...!”
    Nay...!” her Ladyship cried only to black out totally.

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    Red packages and Bright parcels arrived, and Qing er showing the servants where to put them. Huang Rong watched silently and is vacuous when they gone. After checking the items, the maid approached the girl who back to melancholic self and in distant mood.

    “My lady?”

    Huang Rong glanced over absentmindedly, and Qing er said “They are your wedding robes and bridal accessories” to which the latter didn't reply, merely eyed the space.
    “My lady getting married very soon, should be happy and smiling, not being depressed or dispirited”
    “Qing er, are you done with your scolding?”
    “I am not scolding my lady! The Lord Guo loves you, and my lady knows it, so why....?!” the maid trailed off, between frustration and remonstration.

    What is Love?

    A good excuse for Desire and also the best form of Lust.

    Will a bride happy and smiling, knowing herself shall not live long to grow old with the husband?

    “Qing er, you so kind to him and rather nice to me”
    “My lady, what are you talking about now?!”

    By Kingdom's standard, Star Deity not much of a genuine conversationalist. So instead of saying more and better telling less, she eyed space again and the maid decided to carry on next task instead of yakking at the poor girl, “What are the things that my lady wants to shift over?”
    “Huh?” Huang Rong blinked blankly, and Qing er repeated her question to which the former responded equally blank, “Shifting what over where.....? Nothing to shift, everything quite fine here.....”
    “My lady to live, eat and sleep with the Premier in the Master Chamber after your Mid Autumn Nuptials”

    The Guards announced the Lord Guo's presence then, and seconds later he came in. Qing er bowed, “My lord” and went away. Once alone with the man, Huang Rong stood up while Guo Jing smiled and gestured, “Come, to see the hounds”

    She is delighted, of course. So used ignoring and disregarding his chivalry, the girl moved without ceremony, soon found herself pulled back, and pressed against him “Ah...!”
    “My lady is not allowed to go off just like that, understand?”

    The latter didn't reply so the Premier sighed, “I am sorry, but there are certain manners my lady must observe from time to time. This is one of them, for my lady cannot just stepping out about or venturing around without company”

    Still no reply and the Lord Guo decided enough is enough. Although acceptance and consensual from her side, the man nevertheless perceived pressures and due circumstances. Huang Rong's resignation didn't upset Guo Jing, as he never doubted his choice of bride. If failing to regain her Love, he willing to settle for Commitment.

    “My lady...” Guo Jing addressed gently and gestured gallantly. Again, having not much choice really, Star Deity of Yin Realm yielding to Fate and the Lady Huang of Kingdom complying to Humanity.

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    “Apologize to my Father”
    “Even though I was right?”
    “That beside the point and I know was personal attack. Whatever you have against me, old man, do not take it out on my Father!”

    The Lord Yang so right and himself knew very wrong to attack Yang Xiao but too proud to say sorry. Not when comes Fact and the Truth. At the same time, he establishing a different opinion on Yang Guo altogether. Listening her Ladyship's narration from her lips and hearing the lass's confession with own ears, the old man came to admit his Lordship a very unpredictable character. Not many giving scarred face woman a glance, let alone seeking her out. And the Healer believes the latter one and only in the Kingdom, wait - make that this Universe - to forgive her dark deception and tolerating the ugliness within. Plus status and given privilege, neither easy task nor simple determination to maintain self restrain. Minus his streak and skip mental problem, Yang Guo still First Gentleman of Kingdom and a model disciple of Wang Chaoyang. The Student certainly influenced by his Mentor, and never forgetting Quenzhen's upright teaching. The Great Pugilist used snubbing chivalry, criticizing morality, ignoring propriety and lacking decency but come to think of seriously, the Ruler and Leader of Kingdom didn't disappoint Huang Yaoshi or is unworthy of Wang Yuyan. His Lordship not only accepting Her Ladyship's past, but respecting The Bride's virtue as well. Despite his flaws, such Figure is noble and truly deserving honor. If the old man saluted the lad once, he can salute the latter twice but soundlessly done and delivered, of course.

    “I have nothing against my lord. As for the personal attack, I spoke in anger due opinion” came the solemn reply.
    “What anger? Rubbish! Opinion? My foot! You neither at war scene nor having head or tail! Since event over and long buried, so why upsetting my Family and pained my Mother? In case you forgotten, my Father not only ruled kindly and reigned peacefully but generously as well, towards Weirdos and Freaks. One damn Good Example front of me right now!”

    Ouch, Huang Yaoshi nearly wincing at the biting sound and almost wishing piety for himself instead. Not at all seemly for Old Great One to be blasted by younger generations, first by Senior Yang and now the Junior Yang. Regardless his faults, Yang Xiao once ascended to Power indeed governed well by leading competently and impressively before stepping down. Natives loved and revered their lord while Pugilists respected and esteemed the latter, during his regime. Before Yang Guo took over upgrading standard and elevating all, even himself found Kingdom's System organized and noticed Palace's Administration neat, if nothing else but to to say sorry - heh, Pride forbids!

    “I will not apologize so punish me if Lord Yang wants to”

    Ah, the heretical fella knew how to play his game but again like Father like Son, so there can be only one winner, “You shall be banned from her Ladyship now onwards until end of life”

    His Lordship's word is the Law, although without physical infliction or grilling discipline, nevertheless cruel sentence and harsh decision considering their ties, if not kinships. On the other hand, to take the lass by hook or seize her by crook now proving to be immature and uncultured on his part. In this life, to heck with anyone or anybody, but happened to be Wang Yuyan, whom he basically rescues from a Cursed illness and practically nurses her back to Mortal fitness, before the Swayer interfered, or rather Fate intervened.

    “For her Ladyship's sake, I apologize”
    “Saying sorry to my father face to face and not telling me here”
    “On my old knees, if that pleases The Lord Yang Guo of Kingdom”
    “Oh yes, I love the idea very much so make sure do and not just brag

    The young Lord is not Evil, but Devilish and Impish. Again, in this life, the Healer liked few peoples, and hardly admired names. You see, Yang Guo first person with Title that close to match Huang's Eccentricity and the lad's wayward style rivaling his own sadistically.

    “You know, my lord, if matters turned up differently or things worked out interestingly, we make a good notorious team, if not the best villainy buddy”
    “I like Infamous sidekick better”

    Not even the ironical Heretic can out talk a typical Yang.

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    “I heard, the Kingdom is recruiting young armies and increasing their troops”
    “The Yangs are strengthening their Military Forces. Either for expanding reason, or defense purpose. Then again, perhaps both”

    The two foreign Princes eyed each other before glancing at the Crown Prince of Western Desert, who sipped his drink quietly. Unable to bear the silence, Huodu derided “Nothing to comment?” while Kublai pointed, “If I didn't know better, I say you are lacking for a Future King”

    Yeluqi put down his cup softly and said deceptively, “Be careful with your words, my royal comrades....” before continuing meaningfully, “Here in The Kingdom, wall have ears and place got eyes”

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    Yuyan regained consciousness, the men are absent but all maids present. Her Ladyship demanded urgently, “Where is he?! Where is Elder Huang?!”
    “Elder Huang is with his Lordship” one of them informed.
    Where?!” the urgency became agitation.
    “Err...” the maid demurred and the bride wanted to break free, only to be restrained by all.
    “Release me! How dare you!!”
    “So sorry my lady. We are scared of you, but we fears his Lordship lots more”

    Mustering all strength and her energy, Yuyan struggled but immobilization strong and to wrestle against so many, “...please, please!!
    “No, please my lady. Please, stay put. If the guards ever got to know this, they will report to the Lord, and we shall never attending or serving my lady again”

    Yuyan stopped struggling and gave up effort. The maids supported her Ladyship to a seat and the latter remained stiffly, waited agonizingly there, until Yang Guo returned with Huang Yaoshi, together with two children.

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    “My lord, please forgive me on the personal attack. My lady, please pardon me for the offensive remark” Huang Yaoshi said, and Yang Xiao sighed. By age and by right, the Healer is way above the latter but by birth alone, Yang Xiao's status surpassing most men and outranking many women. The former Ruler and retired Leader came over, and pulled the old man up, saying “You are forgiven, Elder. In future, just watch your manner when comes to Kingdom's code and do observe the language according to Palace's mode”

    Lady Hua didn't speak, but the countenance serene and her being gracious. Their scenario is like man virtually humbled by a woman who barely raising vocal and hardly lifting finger.

    “Have you seen her Ladyship, Elder?” Yang Xiao asked the latter then but his eyes on his son.
    “Yes, and if his Lordship permits, I have a special request”
    “What is it?”
    “I happened to bring two siblings along to visit her Ladyship”
    Who are they?!” Unreasonable yet unstoppable thought, If they are the illegitimate offspring of...!! I am going to...!!
    “Children. Her Ladyship took vicious blows and suffered inhumane attacks, behalf of them before I came to their rescue on time”
    “What?!” three voices out as one. While the parents are appalled, Yang Guo's memory sharp and the mind alert - a foul site, her broken blade, involving two children - all these pointing Hunt, explaining Scar, resulting Injury and “Where are they?!” solving Mystery, at long last if not once and all.

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    With Yang Guo engaged elsewhere and Guo Jing occupied likewise, Yang Kang joined Zhao Min only to realize his consort somewhat lost and somehow forlorn, after telling the past and spoke of her home. The zest is gone and based on events if not own experiences, before the Child Bride rapidly into decline, the Steward hastily make arrangements with Duan Yu. And when the ladies got to meet at an appointed time, one glad for his idea while another appreciative of the initiative. Their gathering one happy moment and the Gentlemen found female interaction interesting and such party entertaining. With Zhao Min showing improvements plus Ying Ying displaying enthusiasms, the two husbands decided to adjust own lifestyle and their timetable, to suit their wives' leisure and pleasure.

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    “Elder!” Yuyan rushed towards the old man, “....Elder!” but just then Yang Guo stepped forward and her Ladyship ended up in his Lordship's embrace, “My lady” His tone strangely subdued and the gesture unusually tender. At the same time, he dismissed her maids and they retreated. Before she could speak, two voices called out, “Sister!”

    Yuyan blinked at the siblings, and the girl asked, “Don't you recognized us?”
    “Err...”
    “Sister saved us from Creeps and Dooms, remember now?” the boy said.
    “Oh..., you two have grown a bit!” Temporarily forgotten the earlier cause, and removing herself from the man, she stepped to greet them only to recall something else altogether, and her Ladyship fast to face Huang Yaoshi who informed calmly “His Lordship already know” causing Yuyan to glance vulnerably at Yang Guo whose airs mild and conciliatory.

    “Sister?”
    “Address her Ladyship properly, kids, by greeting My Lady and not Sister anymore”
    “But Sister is not married yet, is she?” came the girlish inquisitiveness.
    “I thought Elder said Sister only becoming Bride of Kingdom next Spring” young curiosity and boyish confusion.

    A sudden pause and the brief uncertainty, for neither Huang Yaoshi nor Wang Yuyan able to response then and there. But Yang Guo spoke composedly and explained patiently, “Sister and I are officially betrothed, such formality must be observed here and acknowledged throughout The Kingdom”

    The little girl gasped “Ah!” and the boy gaped “Huh!” then both mouthed “You are Lord of The Kingdom?!”
    “Didn't you know?”
    “Nobody told me... Everyone a Lord here!” the girl wailed while the boy protested, “None informed us... Everybody so Lordly, I don't know who's who!”
    “Well, never mind, for now you know” he smiled charmingly until the girl blurted, “Oh, you are so handsome and very dashing! How I wish I am Sister!”

    Yang Guo does not blush easily but compliment and adoration coming from a young child of the fairer gender, he failed to stop the color rising. Yuyan is amazed the man thoroughly embarrassed and is tongue tied. While at it, cute too! Meantime, Huang Yaoshi, having learned lesson in fashionable manner, held his tongue and kept face bland. Poor old man been verbally Tortured by Yang Guo and was loftily Lectured by Yang Xiao on one same day, so to speak.

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    “The kids exhausting my lady and even succeeded tiring myself”
    “My lord, we have not yet finished our conversation”
    “What conversation?”
    “Cooking”
    “My term and no negotiation”
    “Fine but with one condition”
    “Excuse me, my lady not in position to negotiate, let alone setting the condition”
    “Just listen first, will you?!”

    The hour is late and man have no mood for own temper, or up to manage her tantrum, “Alright”
    “I don't want to hear any comment or complain”
    “As you wish” came the smiley face and his humorous tone, followed by his mouth sealing onto hers. As customary Petting ended up on where else but the bed, with Yuyan deepening their Kiss for first time and her arms came voluntarily up, to keep Yang Guo at close.

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    The next day, the Kitchen Cooks either happy holiday or lucky break, when his Lordship turned up with her Ladyship and declared them to be off for the day.

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    Honestly, common preparations and plain dishes. But frankly, mouthwatering than those Stalls and the Eateries he tried before during his outings. Also something different from the standard diet and his daily meal here. Yuyan didn't wait for him, and started tucking in. Yang Guo began tasting himself and soon adding some more ....better than Quenzhen's main course.... While feasting in silence, the man imagining quietly.... a husband reached home, his wife and children waiting, on the table there empty bowls and clean plates.... “Hey!”
    “What?”
    “Where all food gone to?”
    “Finished, my lord. Inside the stomach”
    “Excuse me!”
    “I cooked only for two, my lord. Also said I don't want to hear any Complain

    When man is hungry and the serving not enough, such cool reminder only provoking further, “Well cook more and extra some tonight! My parents are coming for Dinner!” His Lordship snapped impatiently then, before storming off, to Court actually, and before her Ladyship could figure out exactly what Yang Guo meant precisely.

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    “Yan er, you cooked all these dishes?!”

    The bride nodded, pondering what the fascination since village food is no palace banquet, or chef recipe or grand feast. The Father first to try this, “Mmmm...!” and picking that, “Nice...!!” then almost choking on what he chewed when he caught his wife's straight stare, “Here, my lady... come, you try.... open your mouth, aaa....!!!”

    Yuyan amusedly eyed their coupling show when unexpectedly spied Yang Guo sitting down without inviting the parents and eating without waiting for them. Her ladyship rapped, “My lord!

    His Lordship nearly spewed the food out, and the parents saw their son lacking manner and without etiquette, “Guo er!

    The man took slow sweet moment chewing and his own time swallowing, equally dilly dally getting up before addressing, “Father, Mother, do take your place. My lady, please be seated”

    When comes to domestic comfort, the Yangs are not much different from Commoners. And in their Privacy, away from political intrigues and abandoning all mean streaks, they enjoyed and appreciated companionship that keeps the relationship going. While at it, they communicated fluently with each other and conversed warmly with one another that makes family bond, strong and devoted love, steady. As for her Ladyship's culinary skills, the parents relished immensely and expressed heartily. His Lordship more than satisfied but too bad his Bride refused to hear any Comment.

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    Time passed unnoticed and Mid Autumn steadily approaching, one morning during grooming, Zhao Min seized by fainting spell, and her maids upon the latter whiteness and paleness, has sense to summon the Physician.

    “Congratulations, my lady! You are pregnant!!”
    “What?!”

    He repeated joyfully and she doesn't know how to react at first. Only when the maids expressed “oooh!” loudly and “aaah!” happily, that Zhao Min jerked and cried, “But I'm just fourteen!”

    The Physician became speechless and her maids went still. All eyes on her, and they are as aghast as her, when she croaking to none in particular, “A child with a child”
    “My lady although underage, nevertheless is healthy and very blessed” the man explained as gently as possible and the maids joined forces to pacify Lady Zhao. Then the latter changed from one emotion to next like yo-yo, “Don't tell him, not yet!” she begged suddenly, causing uneasiness in him and anxiety to hearers.
    “My lady, the Steward must....!”
    “If anything happens....!”
    “Now, now, ....!”
    “I shall tell him myself, later today! So you bunch just shut up!! I'm the one with babe, so I'll be the one telling!!!”

    Alright, blame Syndrome. The Physician sighed whether relief or from stress, even himself doesn't know. As for the maids, they are inexperienced to deal with Zhao Min at the moment, “Fine, my lady” The maids blinked, dismaying and are perplexed next when the man signaled conspiratorially.

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    Yang Kang came during his break, head throbbing after busy court and body aching due long assembly. Zhao Min said, “I have something to tell my lord”
    “What is it, my lady?”
    “Iampregnant”
    “Huh?”
    “I Am Pregnant”
    “Really?”
    “And it is all your fault!”
    “OY!”

    Before the couple at each other's throat, his parents charged right in, along with Yang Xiao and Hua Mulan, “Kang er, hold that temper of yours in check!” his father barked while his mother warned, “Kang er, don't you dare upsetting MinMin from now onwards, understand!”
    “But I... !” the poor man started only to be sounded curtly by the Uncle, “Kang er, I suggest you learn a thing or two from Yu er on domestic skills!”
    “We...!” the Steward tried again but “Now that MinMin in delicate condition.....” Lady Hua began cutting in only to have Zhao Min stomped her foot childishly, and shot furiously “Who told you peoples I'm pregnant?!

    Next thing he knew and she heard, the senior ladies called out frightfully, while the elder men echoed alarmingly, resulting the panic Physician to attend at once, together with experienced maids in tow. The atmosphere and her condition, caused Zhao Min's head to spin. Yang Kang acted out of reflex rather than instinct. Seeing her off color before very own eyes, and reality of Fatherhood finally dawned, the husband suddenly scared, because underage pregnancy is inadvisable.

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    Although unplanned event and unexpected responsibility, nevertheless Yang Kang ready and pleased. If he can blindly overlooked age in first place, he can also conveniently omitting consequence, meaning no precaution of course. At the same time, news of Pregnancy spread fast, and in no time everyone talking about it and everybody congratulating the Steward Yang and Lady Zhao of Kingdom. The latter whose movements been restricted before this, further confined by the man who is adamant avoiding risk of miscarriage. His decision fully seconded by the parents and wholly supported by the palace. But at least, Yang Kang allowed Zhao Min seeing Visitors via Appointment and receiving Guests by Notice.

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    One evening, Yuyan after visiting a fussy Zhao Min and meeting the glowing Ying Ying, she recalled Huang Rong. Sensing his Lordship's leniency and smelling her freedom, “My lord...”
    “Hmm....?”
    “I wish to see the Lady Huang”
    “Hmm...!”
    “Please”

    Because his workload getting lesser, due to celebrate Guo Jing's wedding in a week's time, and sharing the Autumn Festival with Friends and Families, his Lordship in good mood. He has read Qin Feng's letter and besides passing information, the Traveler also requested a private audience, which himself looking forward to. After the Festival, Yang Guo thinking to delegate unimportant tasks, in order to speed things up and aimed to complete most priority jobs, if not all by End Autumn. He can then declare a Winter Holiday, and at the same time issuing Duty Roaster. The Palace cannot stop functioning altogether, you see and The Kingdom's concern cannot be neglected, you know. While musings aplenty and plans into place, he also received complimentary correspondences from Courtiers everywhere, congratulatory messages from Distant Members and flattery greetings from Faraway Subjects. Then after Winter Holiday, comes Spring Wedding and Marital Bliss, of course Man in best humor. Moreover, his Bride now a Maiden and no longer the Demon. However, what elating him most, she reciprocates his affection. So the Lord Yang not only good mood and best humor but finest disposition as well.

    “Hmm...”

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    When Fairy meets Deity again for the forth, proper communication and sisterly exchange, for first time.

    “How are you?”
    “Fine, and you?”
    “Likewise”
    “How did you end up in The Kingdom?”

    Huang Rong explained Banishment and revealed Pill but leaving Guo Jing out of the Picture and once done, asked “What about yourself? How come you inside the Palace?”

    Yuyan elaborated but careful not to refer her late Teacher, or mentioning much about the past. When her ladyship's finished, Star Deity remarked softly, “You was the White Demon, wasn't you?” causing Yuyan to jerk fearfully but the latter merely shrugged and added quietly, “That night before Guardians and Weapons showed up to kill us, I registered a vile presence. Briefly, yourself belonged to Moon Sect once, and myself aware long ago of the Association. Knew last minute, since Dragon Saber came Eliminating my lady after Destroying that female vampire”

    She didn't realize herself shivering and perspiring, until the latter reached out to touch reassuringly by wiping and saying, “Your past is gone and the worst being over while my problem ceaseless and own trouble endless until Doomsday. Whether Inhumanity or Humanity, you at least Native of Kingdom, but all I am is Fugitive and Trait....” the girl trailed off abruptly and focusing miserably elsewhere. Yuyan stared at Huang Rong, and remembering their second meeting, Divine Fairy came to conclude Star Deity neither happy Being nor blushing Bride. Her Ladyship soon composed and returned favor, by gesturing concernedly and asking gently, “Did he forced you?”
    “If I tell yes, that would be accusing and implicating Rape, wouldn't it? But if I am to say no, that didn't sound well to me and to you either, right? Funny thing it wasn't anything like Rape but everything to do and go, with the Flow”
    “Err.... I am sorry.... but I don't get you”
    “Never mind, I don't expect you to understand. Anyone or anybody, for the matter. My lady, let us not talking about Past or speaking the Future. Life is in Present, is it not?” came her deliberate change of subject.
    “Indeed” she willing to accommodate and to start new topic “Do you cook? Or Sew?”
    “Huh? What's that?!”
    “Pardon me, I forgot Yin beings different from Kingdom's peoples”
    “It is alright. By the way, I miss dancing”
    “So am I”
    “Shall we?”
    “Here?”
    “Yeah”
    “But....!” Yuyan eyed around, seeing their attendants out of hearing distance but not at all out of sight and noticing the rotating guards only to have Huang Rong suggesting out of blue, or rather voicing carelessly, “Ask them to join in our fun, the more the merrier”

    Hesitation versus Temptation, and Temptation won far too great. The recommendation pretty amusing, if not quite sensible. Besides, to dance in group rather thrilling yet less seductive, than doing it alone or performing in pair. So the attendants are startled, but they are young girls and more than agreeable to the offer. Also, not everyday they got to serve these Ladies, you see and not everybody can simply joining their Dancing, you know. Meantime, the rotating guards caught by surprise, and stood viewing agog as the dance steps getting fashionable and bolder in patterns. Imagine, elegant movement and feminine show with dash of speed. Their synchronized order, of a gentle origin but is presented with touch of strong element. Both Yuyan and Huang Rong are lead dancers, and although loss of skills nevertheless decent talent and their background, the two able to recreate new steps based on martial arts and feats. The maids trained on spot, just followed the pattern by example. Most of them are natural, if not graceful and altogether, the dancers formed a very beautiful motion and sharing the wonderful pastime. Simply put, Rocking! Soon the spectators in turn, drawing others' attention and getting rests' notice.

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    Duan Yu at the balcony taking fresh air when he registered the big crowds. The Yangs passing by the corridors, idling when they happened to perceive a mixed gatherings. Meanwhile, his Lordship and the Steward finished for the day, Guo Jing joining the cousins. Yang Guo is to seek Yuyan and Guo Jing to get Huang Rong while Yang Kang on the way. As the Gentlemen closing in destination, they discerning rare masses ahead. Halfway approaching, the three stopped and stared.

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    When there is Humanity, there must be Inhumanity as well to balance the Universe. So while Happiness reigned and Prosperity spread in the Kingdom, Evil stirring and Malice continued to prevail in the Nether Zone. Zhou Zhiruo who been hiding in shame, and due to her discord with Miejue, cuts contact with Moon Sect. Thus, is unaware of the Vampire's Demise. However, the Siren kept a look out for Kingdom's news. Once receiving tidings, courtesy of rumors and thanks to gossips, plus The Notice she who still nursing the grudge against Divine Fairy of Yin Realm, planned vengefully and laughed maniacally. Laughter soon replaced by Bitterness. Zhiruo found herself between cursing and screaming, hence somehow repeating what said year ago, “Wang Yuyan, you are doomed!”

    CHAPTER 46 MANDATE AND LOVE (The Harem)

    “Come my lady”
    “To where?”
    “The Harem”

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    “It is time”
    “Nay!”

    CHAPTER 47 EPILOQUE (The Heir, The Spare and The Friend)

    The End

    Last edited by author; 11-09-08 at 08:14 PM.

  2. #62
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    CHAPTER 46 MANDATE AND LOVE (The Harem)


    PART ONE

    Simply put, Rocking!

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    There no music, but fast movements “Hummed” and hot steps “Drummed” plus bold forms
    Strummed” as Attraction while “Elegance” completing Dance. After years and rounds of boring show, this neat Performance simply Refreshing! After decades and repetitions of unexciting pattern, this dramatic Fashion absolutely Smashing! The sight thrilling but without Seduction. Their display rousing yet minus Temptation. The dancers came to close with Divine Fairy staging her stunning pose and reached climatic end where Star Deity finishes with a stylish poise.

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    A. Deep. Silence....Time merely stopped and Moment just paused, before a burst of loud applauses and the rushing of sound claps. Yuyan blushed and Huang Rong naturally while their Maids flushed shyly. Her Ladyship spotted the Yangs among Spectators, and her color heightened when they started to move in slowly but definitely forward. Huang Rong saw Guo Xiang here and Guo Fu there, then out of nowhere stood Guo Polu with the Guos' clan being everywhere. The First Family stepped out, startling Spectators. All around them hastily marking protocol and duly observing ceremony. Yuyan and Huang Rong, together with their maids curtsied at the First Family and Lady Hua reached out to take her hands into own saying in wonder, “Yan er, I didn't know you could dance so well. Rong er, you are very good too”
    “Lovely scene, marvelous style and breathtaking synchronization” Lady Mu complimented generously.

    Yang Xiao grinned to convey his admiration while his sibling winked, as sign of appreciation. These men eyed them rather arrestingly, if not quite roguishly. After all, Wang Yuyan considered one of most beautiful women throughout Kingdom, perhaps Universe rivaling Angels and Goddesses. Huang Rong of Yin Realm is exquisite, ravishingly and exceptionally so, probably surpassing all fairest Princesses in Fairy Lands or equaled to legendary Beauties of Ancient Times. The two eyed these men back. You know, despite advancing age, the Yangs' still attractive and are sophisticated males with very own appealing personality.

    Ahem!” Both Lady Hua and Lady Mu cleared their throat simultaneously. Instead of getting red face, Yang Xiao turned on his charm while the brother became suave and sentimental. Both husbands confidently and gallantly, reaching out for their respective wife's hand and kissing it. Yuyan finally concluded where Yang Guo inherited his quirk and learned the kink from. Huang Rong found courtly behavior engaging and flowery gesture endearing, for first time. Another burst of loud applauses and sound claps, accompanied by feminine “ooooh...!” at the rarity and masculine “aaaah.....!” due unexpected publicity. You see, there time even the most Cynic longs for some good Old Drama and appreciates real classic of Timeless Romance. Examples are this couple lasting for decades, while that pair lives up to reputation. Despite the Siblings' one sided affection and their Consorts' negative impression, both marriages grew unbelievably strong on shaky ground and their unions enviably successful year after year. These Yangs are the archetypical angsts and solid proof of bittersweet trials, of a Match made not in Heaven but via Mandate. And Love proves genuinely from the heart, in order to conquer all. The Couples remembered themselves not alone and the Brides recalled Spectators still lingering. Before Yang Xiao gesturing to dismiss, a distant “AHEM!” clearly beat him to it. All zoomed to the source, and eyes either widened in panic or blinked in surprise, depending on the owner, upon sighting Lord Yang and Steward Yang, together with Premier Guo..... How long they been standing there watching?....The men neither smiling nor frowning but among the three, Yang Kang less intimidating. Usually he most serious and grave but it seemed, not the case here. At once, crowds quickly dispersed, gatherings hurriedly disbanded and groups rapidly separated. While at it, the masses much too scared to recollect protocol and way too frightened to think ceremony.

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    From nearby and above balcony, Duan Yu reacted by putting his hand closing own mouth, to prevent making any noise. The man found entire setting amusing yet worrying. The second feeling is stronger, for these guys known practicing strictest privacy and deliberately keeping lowest profile, when comes to their consort. He hopes Yang Guo will not venting temper then and prays Guo Jing shall not expressing anger there.

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    His Lordship stood stiffly in front of her Ladyship and countenance severe that even the parents tensing a bit, “Guo er, there is no harm for Yan er to dance with Rong er together with their maids, is there?” Lady Hua spoke first. He didn't reply and as severeness grew austerer, his father said, “Guo er, you did mention her Ladyship dancing in the openness before, didn't you, so what is problem here?”
    “My lord, I am sorry. There won't be next time” Yuyan apologized out of blue. Better she facing the man's wrath alone than all of them suffering his lordly mood.
    “It is not her Ladyship's fault, my lord. Silly idea and daring suggestion, all mine” Huang Rong voluntarily took the blame, fazing Yuyan and unsettling others.
    “No....”
    “Yes, so punish me...”
    “My lady” Guo Jing addressed presently and Yang Guo ordered abruptly, “Enough” before continuing sternly, “This Leisure can be arrange with musicians and done at appropriate place on appointed time in the near future. Myself loves enjoying and having such Pleasure too”

    It took the hearers moments to understand what said, while their pondering going on, his Lordship held her Ladyship's hand and in a softer tone “After superb workout and the great exercise, my lady must rest and Lady Huang should too, hmmm....” Despite show of Imperiousness, man's indulgence towards her unmistakable and his leniency on the ladies is obvious. The Lord Yang and his Bride left without ceremony, and their company quietly parted a line to make way for the First Couple. The Lord Guo after nodding silently at the First Family which they acknowledged in return, next to make his move pulling Huang Rong along since the Steward Yang opted to stay behind with parents and kins.

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    Duan Yu releases his breath and man smiled by himself with the unspoken proverb, All Well Ends Well!

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    “Where did my lady learn how to dance?”
    “I used to participate Village Dances and took part in Performing Arts since young”
    “Oh?” Yang Guo's eyes narrowed slightly before masking carefully, that Yuyan missed it, “My lady are not from Zhongnan Countryside, or are you? You told me before, Home in the North but never once, mentioned Location” he remarked mildly, so very mildly that she failed to note his intention or registering the purpose, behind.
    “No, I am from Peach Blossom Valley”
    “A distant neighboring village of Zhongnan”
    “Yes”
    “Known for exotic Cultures and tribal Habits, due close border and friendly dealing with Northern Desert. There is another border nearby and a different Territory altogether, where their Natives known as The Huns, womenfolks skilled for handicraft and menfolks famed for horsemanship”
    “Aye”
    “Which Art, memorable and what Dance, best?
    “Art, not much but Dance, all are interesting if not best. The unforgettable one was coming of age, and myself joined every fifteen years old girls for “Bonfire” where we to str... ah...” she halted suddenly and alerted sharply, to which the man calmly finishes for her “... strip naked during Burning and prancing nude engulfed by Flame until It died out. The name “Bonfire” merely a Masquerade. It is actually “Striptease” for teenage girls to have hormonal fun, at the same exposed to female sensuality”

    Oh, damn him! Damn damn damn!!

    “How come my lord knows?” Yuyan asked composedly.
    “I was Heir and am Lord, of the Kingdom, in case my lady forgotten. As long as nobody gets harmed or abused during process, killed or sacrificed in progress, the Palace allows all sorts of practice and tolerates every kinds of freedom, be it Secret Society or Underground Organization or Anonymous Circle or Private Covenant or Home Pagan or Common Mass etcetera. Bonfire is categorized under Nude Party”

    Her Ladyship said nothing then, and chose to focus elsewhere. His Lordship's hand came up to the chin, and when their eyes met, commanded “Dance”
    No!” came the icy refusal to which he smiled slowly and hinted deliberately, “Or else...
    “I am tired, my lord, and is sleepy!”
    “In those days I understand and be considerate but now, I believe my lady's health no longer weak and as fragile like before....,” as he spoke, the hand left her chin to have his fingers trailing lower so she jerked up and stepped away, angrily “Nay!

    Yang Guo stood and Yuyan knew the man always get what he wants once setting his mind to it. What infuriating her Ladyship's most, his Lordship ended up winning more, if not all “Don't!
    “Just a short Dance, my lady” He started to move, and she began to back off, “I am not going to do Striptease for my lord!”
    “I merely said Dance but since my lady mentioned Striptease... he is closing in and there no place for her to avoid the inevitable, “Please, my lord, don't force me!” Cornered, she pleaded which so unlike herself but then again, has learned from past lessons that putting up fight only own embarrassing situation or landing uncomfortable circumstance. After she struck him the last time, Yang Guo neither giving Yuyan another luck nor having second chance.

    First Dance, then” to which the latter blinked between agitation and confusion, “Huh?”
    “First Dance” his Lordship repeated and seeing her Ladyship failed to register, reminding “The first dance I saw you emerged from rows of Trees, and against backdrops of Woods, delivered a Landscape performance based on it's Season. Or should I say, Forest Spring Dance. And do correct if wrong, my lady's recent one with Lady Huang, although pattern mixed and style changed, nevertheless based on the original track Summertime

    It seemed the man's cleverness and brilliancy knew no bound. He could actually name the First perfectly and then telling the Second outright. At that point, objection forgotten and in place is the stirring appreciation, if not growing admiration. In the past when she a semi demoness, Yang Guo been stressing Yuyan with domination and imprisonment but of these days, although his Lordship still controlling nevertheless been relaxing the tight grip....

    “My lady” his tone firmly determined and she aware an Edict when heard one. Now the Maiden knew useless and hopeless to protest like a Virgin when Lord Yang already seen so much and definitely knew too much! Not to mention kissing here and touching there, wandering freely and roaming everywhere so might as well bring it on bravely, and all out boldly. Yuyan's voice impressively cool, “But this is Autumn, my lord”
    “Meaning yourself preferring Last Fall.... hmmm” equally damn good at reading between the line and if Yang Guo not mistaken, the steps adventurous with titillating movements. Not Voyeurism but ahem, Provocation.
    Precisely” her Ladyship's daring spirit has his Lordship grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

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    Guo Jing uncommunicative on their way and is pensive after they entered her chamber. The startled Qing er registered the Premier's strange mood and unusual quietness, and surprised that Lady Huang came back early with Lord Guo. According to Timetable, herself supposed to bring the girl in later. She been preparing a hot bath mixing several aromatic oils for Huang Rong in big tub, whim rather than scheme. Also courtesy from The Harem. The latter been tired again lately, and the maid thinking to pamper her Mistress. Sensing the awkward atmosphere between the couple, Qing er doesn't know whether good timing or worst idea. Based on Prime Schedules and due to Family Restrictions, their Master shouldn't be here tonight, or tomorrow night and so on, until Matrimony. She also didn't have precaution ready and now too short notice preparing or arranging for discretion. Since only days away, missing potion not big issue but this conjugal visit or his overnight stay can break tradition and a sensitive matter, never mind fact the two already cohabited.

    Meanwhile, Huang Rong tried to make eye contact with Qing er who seemed ill ease. At the same time, Guo Jing spotted the tub behind Screen. His nostrils caught something soothing yet naturally inviting and practically sensuous. Man calmly recognized these essential oils often discreetly used in Harem and are privately indulged by Couples. Not truly aphrodisiac but the effect potent “Qing er, are you done?”
    “Err..., yeah...,”
    “Then leave us”
    “Yes my lord”

    Once alone, “By the way, Qing er told me earlier that my lady have nothing to shift over to the Master Chamber”
    “Err...., yeah....,”
    “You do know we are getting married in less than week time, don't you?”
    “Yes my lord”
    “What about gifts from my family members and presents from your fellow maids?” he reminded then to which she fails to reply there. After a slight pause of conversation, continued “Once we are married, besides Qing er attending and serving my lady personally, you will also share Ling er be need, or for company, since she is my own chambermaid. And if my lady wishing it, I shall request to have Cheng Ying transferring over here. The four of you can amuse yourself with anything and at anywhere within Prime Residence, but please stay away from my Study and also don't turn our Home upside down” Really, the Premier did his best accommodating Huang Rong, who very grateful if not deeply touched, “I do wishing it, my lord. I appreciate the kindness and your generosity”

    What about Love?

    A shadow flashed across his face and Star Deity seized by feelings that been safely locked away, peacefully buried with time. Also, there moment like this where she cannot feigning ignorance or playing dumb forever. Her eyes darted apprehensively and came to notice the tub.

    “The water getting warm, my lady, I call the maids in for you” The Lord Guo turned around and about to when it dawned her Qing er being absent but the man is present while maids are nuisance, so she voiced out “My lord” first.
    “Yeah?” he turned back to face her, and Huang Rong asked without symptom of hesitation, “Do you want it? I can disrobe for my lord”

    It took him several instants to understand her intention and not misinterpreting otherwise, “Am not supposed or expected here, and I believe Qing er specially prepared it for my lady to enjoy alone”
    “The tub is big enough for two, my lord”

    Again, it took him several instants and longer than the first, before he finds tone to sound waspishly “If, my lady wants to thank me, let it be genuinely from Heart and not just through Body. If sex is all I desire, The Harem offered aplenty from smutty Coupling to erotic Threesome”

    The silence after that plainly strained her and acutely drained him. She to break it by reasoning “I wasn't thinking to return favor, my lord. Since both of us going to take bath anyway, might as well having together here”

    Guo Jing eyed her straight, neither yielding nor retreating. He done talking and doing. With Marriage approaching, what else but going with Flow again on Huang Rong's part. In the past, she indebted to Man and Kingdom, these days her Life on Loan and since Realm left behind, Trouble went missing and Problem zero profile, “My lord?”
    “Qing er didn't arrange my bathrobe or prepare the additional garment. I have nothing to wear later” the man pointed out then and added dryly afterthought, “or tomorrow morning, for the matter”

    What the Heck he trying to do? Playing hard to get??

    “Qing er also didn't have anything handy or necessity ready, when you decided turning up one drunken night. So, why my lord fuss over little inconvenience like lacking bathrobe or garment? Our wedding merely ceremony and the formality, we are as good as Man and Wife, are we not?”

    For one who seeming melancholic and appearing absentminded, she is pertinent when he least expected.

    The guy doesn't have to explain or need to defend, for the girl marking first effort and her steady initiative, for Romance “Why bother dressing up, only to strip off?” Imagine, a dangling fish right in front of the waiting cat. So folks, know what the saying goes?

    To Hell with Family Restrictions.

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    News of her Ladyship's cooking in the kitchen reached Yang Kang's hearing and Zhao Min's knowledge. Praises on the Bride's culinary skills came to the Duans' ears. Lady Zhao and Madam Duan confessing to themselves and not admitting to their spouse, that they are no super Cook but can prepare egg and just boil soup. As for Dancing, the two got it from their husband and one longs for fun again but the other yet to experience such exposure. However, both have to put off amusement that considered heavy for expectant mother to exercise. Meanwhile, Ying Ying fully recovered after staying abed for some time. The Physician issued Certificate of Fitness, and Duan Yu allowed the wife moving beside himself or with company. Meantime, the men found pregnant women moody and temperamental, pretty sensitive and highly emotional. Between the two young mothers to be, Ying Ying's temper way better than Zhao Min's, the former because readiness and maturity whereas the latter not suppose marrying let alone carrying. As for the young fathers to be, Duan Yu easily coping up fine but Yang Kang faring not so well. Thats the price he to pay for taking a child bride and having an underage wife.

    “I missed eating duck meat” Zhao Min craving shortly and Yang Kang said indulgently, “Tell your maids, my lady, and they know who to inform”
    “But I prefer the wild ones! My lord, when is the Hunting Season?”

    Instead of replying, the Steward sipped his drink telling, Nonsense! Outrageous! The Duans looking from her to him, then staring back at her who sounded, “My lord, I am talking to you!”
    “The answer is no! My lady cannot go hunting!!” the man retorted sharply then and poor cup breaking anytime soon under his grip.
    “Who said I be the one hunting? You do it and I want my lord using own hands and bare skills to catch because very stupid to apply arts or weapons, just to bring down a duck”

    Something seconds to explosion, and it did explode with Steward Yang snapping impatiently “My lady got to be kidding!” and fuming inwardly, Preposterous! What next? Chasing chicken?!

    Likely to burst any moment from now and it did with Zhao Min's tears, causing panic to the men and resulting Ying Ying to shoot at Yang Kang, “My lord, can't you just suit the Lady Zhao! She still young after all and is carrying your baby, remember? And it is very bad to shout during one's pregnancy for disturbing the unborn so do keep that in mind and your anger in check!” Now, strange might be but the Steward always having soft spot for her due to unexplained affinity and tends listening to the latter. A fact noted and accepted by many but forever vexing the Palace Ladies, especially irking Guo Fu who envied their agreeable chemistry. Meantime, the man regretted his manner and watched quietly as Ying Ying comforted his consort. Duan Yu blinked at his wife's fiery remonstration and is amazed by Steward Yang's unexpected meekness. When their eyes, she said to her husband, “It been a while too, that myself last tasted wild duck”

    You see, Duan Yu is not Yang Kang so no trouble getting her fancying hint, “Fine, Madame. I catch one for you” to which the Lady Zhao stopped crying and sniffed, “W..Will you have one for.. for me.. as w..well?”

    Again, Duan Yu is Duan Yu and the smooth fellow replied gallantly and complied formally, “If my lady wishing it”
    “Y..yes p..please” she smiled sweetly. You know, to have a Friend or another Man taking over is insulting so Yang Kang glaring at Duan Yu who shrugging off carelessly. Seeing the Steward taking out on her husband blatantly, Ying Ying obviously displeased while Zhao Min looking disappointed. Realizing he, as Gentleman of Kingdom, single handedly upsetting these ladies and unfairly treating the Lord's best pal, poor guy experiencing guilty conscience and feeling utterly wretched. If his parents got winds of the son sending their precious and pregnant daughter in law weeping, oh himself not going to hear the end of it! And worst still, should it reach his teacher's ears!! Doubtless the two always loggerheads but in reality, Hong Qigong treasured Zhao Min more than own Disciple!!! Ah wait, his uncle did tell him to learn a thing or two from the reliable source, right?

    I. Do. It!” Yang Kang growled heatedly and then kicking himself soundlessly, Don't and can't believe myself being cowed and tamed into going after Duck!!

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    Wang Yuyan, you are doomed!”

    She gasped aloud “Nooo...!” and jerked up, alarming Yang Guo who jumped beside her, “My lady!” Shaking and shivering, Yuyan blindly sought for cover, gown, robe – anything, for warmth, except the one beside her. Sensing great distress and extreme disturbance, man instinctively reached out to calm the frantic flow. When her Ladyship being quietened down, only then his Lordship threw the spread over themselves. “Bad dream?” he asked, breaking the silence to which she failed to response, “It is alright, my lady”

    No, it is not alright! Not at all!

    “Something, or Someone, from the past came to haunt my lady in dream. If not What, then Who is it, my lady?”

    Nothing escape the latter's knowledge and before the bride replying or denying, Yang Guo able to summarize, “Elder Huang said One of the Four managed to escape his mighty impact while the kids witnessed Fleeing. This Inhumane Creature happened to be a Vicious Enemy and came across The Kingdom's Notice, knew my lady survived their foul blows and lives on to marry Lord of The Kingdom soon. My lady's Dream all about The Wedding going to be A Nightmare” proving his prowess and intelligence, beyond extraordinary level. Yet, having Mental Problem and possessing Loony Complex. Hah, what a Paradoxical existence!
    “It is not too late, to regret or calling off, my lord”

    His Lordship leaning over and her Ladyship shifting away, no mood to entertain so his mouth came to contact her neck. Instead of insistence or usual persistence, kiss went rampantly elsewhere while hands equally unrestrained causing their spread roughly thrown, or flung aside, resulting the bride's gasping again, only opposite from the first.

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    Huang Rong's throat is dry. Guo Jing's arm around her and she careful not to wake him. About going off, when the same arm came up possessively to retain in time and he got up sitting beside her, “What is it, my lady?”
    “Thirsty”
    “Let me go and get for my lady”

    The Premier reached out for a handy piece to wrap around his waist for decency before stepping away from the bed. Behind curtain the Lady Huang pulled up a spread from her messy bed to hide modesty. Knowing she drinks a lot, he filled the cup full and bringing it over. The Lord Guo watched on as his consort emptying the content, and said suddenly, “Hey, leave some for me!” Startled, Huang Rong blinked at him and spied the cup. From the expression, Guo Jing could tell she finished all and sighed smilingly “Oh, never mind” He took the cup from her hand when Star Deity pulled at him unexpectedly. Before could react whatsoever, soft lips locked and licked own one. As her tongue plundering his mouth, he tasted sweet wetness and hungrily demanded for more. The gesture that stunning him earlier, now shocking man further. Both heard cup shattering sound and felt their covers slipping but neither she stopped to look nor he bothered to check. A mere drop not enough to quench thirst. After preliminary need in bathtub and then rigorous activity on bed followed next by brief rest, the couple set for record breaking passion. The aromatic air still lingered strongly and continued to provide an intimate atmosphere that keeping them invigorated. Therapy and virility a powerful combination while vitality and sexuality the forceful drive. Both are very influential factors so the Lovers up to steamy rounds and sweaty sessions, all night long.

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    The Pugilists arrived with some company, two days before Mid Autumn Wedding. The Premier received them happily and is joined by his Lordship and the Steward, together with their longtime Friend. Hua Manlou and Hufei are unknown to Guo Jing but he recognized Lu Xiaofeng while all three are fresh acquaintances for Duan Yu. After them, the four joyfully welcoming two newcomers in the forms of Yu Daiyan and Zhang Cuishan, of Wudang. Amidst celebrating moods and festive happenings, Guo Jing's connection with Shaolin a distant one so the Monastery only send minor representative, that is Xizhu who simply delighting the cousins and easily pleasing Duan Yu, and giving enough face for the Groom. Li Mochou not attending but the Head Priestess delivered a congratulatory note through her messenger Yin So So of Emei, who caught the eyes and interests of Zhang Cuishan. The Guos Clan having neither proper bond with Martial Schools nor existing tie with Major Sects, with exception of Quenzhen where Yang Guo the only member. However, other Association turning up one by one and many Friends showing in groups. Yang Wu Lang came last, on behalf of the General and Family, but Hong Qigong neither heard laughing around nor seen skipping about. Knowing the latter well, the Yangs and the Guos took no offense.

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    On the Nuptials day also happened to be Mid Autumn Festival, so the Wedding Ceremony went doubly well and perfectly timed. Once the Formality done and over, the Bride got ushered away and his Lordship let her Ladyship to accompany Huang Rong. The Groom remained to toast family members and entertaining pugilist friends, wining with royal guests and dining with noble visitors. Yang Kang returned favor representing Guo Jing if bets heavy and demands strong with Yang Guo taking over challenging rounds. The Steward, also surprisingly a great drinker, got plenty times and has lots of freedom since Zhao Min being confined whereas his Lordship all out sporting with his guests and very decorously pleasing the visitors, leaving Yang Wu Lang tackling and handling mightier stuffs. Never parents or kins, elders and nobles, members and subjects seen the three cousins Happy-Smiling-Go-Laughing as one, before! Overall, beautiful occasion and wonderful night, due additional merriments and extra amusements, plus thousands of lanterns of variety sizes and multiple shapes. However, the event slightly marred when the Premier came face to face with three foreign Princes. The voices died down suddenly and pairs of eyes zoomed knowingly, including that of the Yangs, the Guos and even the Duans.

    “Congratulation, Lord Guo” Yeluqi said and raised his cup, without sign of resentment while Kublai and Huodo followed suit, without trace of hostility. In any event, the two highnesses seemed distracted, and if the Groom not mistaken, they often straying to someone and that someone is Ren Ying Ying, who inconvenient to join her Ladyship with the Bride. At this point, these Foreigners reminded Guo Jing sharply of the Late Bu Jingyun and Niefeng of Yang Realm, “Thank you, your highnesses” the Premier kept his voice polite, and Yeluqi responded befittingly before excusing himself together with the two princes. It is him, or volume of murmurs going louder and sea of whispers getting higher?

    “Jing?” Wu Lang beside him and Guo Jing responded, “Yeah?”
    “Are you alright?”
    “Shouldn't I be?”
    “Your face pale”
    “Oh...”
    “Here, drink this to remove your white cell and bringing back red blood in place” which likely to burn one's throat and upset the stomach if abused “You do know I have a wedding night, don't you?”
    “Man, I heard and believed you enjoyed and indulged one Exploit too many, including an overdose Ecstasy during Restriction. Say, still not enough of it? Hey, I didn't know my lord damn hot male with one good stuff!” came the significant version and Guo Jing went deep scarlet. Wu Lang chuckled “Now, thats the rightful color!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Madame?”
    “Hmmm...”
    “Are you unwell?”
    “Yes”
    “Then lets go back to our Quarter”
    “But...”
    “No but Madame, and I am sure Guo Jing understand”

    Once the couple alone in their chamber, Duan Yu remarked carefully “So its them” and Ying Ying blinked blankly “Huh?”
    “Their highnesses Huodu and Kublai, they are the ones bothering you from afar, aren't they”
    “How do you know, Sir?”
    “Your husband may be simple commoner but neither blind idiot nor stupid fool, Madame”
    “Sir....” she started uneasily and he said coolly, “Remember how I dealt with Sexual Harassers?”
    “Those were intruders and trespassers, but these are royal princes and noble guests!”
    “Royal princes or noble guests, they have no right desiring my pregnant wife or liberty lusting what is mine”
    “Sir, please don't....” Ying Ying began worryingly only to have Duan Yu cutting in neutrally, “Relax dear, poor and lacking might be comparing to others, but like rests Natives of my birth and Peoples in the Kingdom, myself a learned Merchant and the civilized Gentleman, not Caveman or Barbarian”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    The cousins took a break, away from drinks and crowds, “My lord”
    “Aye?”
    “Some of these Foreigners started to show their true colors”
    “Yes”
    “Guo...” The Steward began seriously only to have his Lordship cuts in solemnly, “As long the three royal highnesses still behaving appropriately and not otherwise, the Kingdom shall tolerate his fault and will forgive their flaws”
    “But Ying Ying being virtually harassed and Duan Yu very pissed off. Come to think of, the two behaved just like Wind and Cloud during first encounter, only minus action. While at it, we have Jing disgusted at one and is annoyed at the other two”
    “Ying Ying under my direct protection, a fact the two well knew from palace sources and Duan Yu my very own best friend, the story of our childhood all three of them fully aware. The case between Jing and Yeluqi considered close unless the latter primitive enough to lay hand on Lady Huang of Kingdom, risking mutual peace and upsetting diplomatic front. Resentful his highness maybe for losing to our premier friend but I believe the young king in waiting, will not attempting anything or shall getting personal for now. Last but not least, the Duans are Natives of Kingdom and subjected to none except the Lord. So far, Kublai maintained his distance despite the open opportunity of proximity and Huodu smart not to seize any advantage when there chance, meaning they are thinking twice before incurring my wrath”

    A momentary pause, and is gravely broken by Yang Kang's “I received from inside sources and reliable rests, that the Mongolian and Persian often gathering accounts and individually checking Kingdom's news, got together later, believed to discuss or exchange information with the Westerner”
    “No surprise there. We did the same to our neighbors and others, only differently and more discreetly. Indeed the Future King of Western Desert prudent fellow and main strategist, to let his comrades doing dirty jobs and spying works. Among all heirs apparent and the crown princes, he most educated and worldly groomed. Apart from dangerous Mongol Empire and greedy Persia State as our future or major threat, it would seem we also have menacing Western Desert to beware of once Yeluqi sat highly on the throne and mightily among other desert kings, who are but aging rulers and lazy leaders”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Her Ladyship requested Qing er to allow them privacy, and the maid wise to retreat with Zhong Ling and Cheng Ying, at the outer chamber together with servants and attendants along. Once they are out of hearing, Yuyan turned to face Huang Rong who lifted up the veil and pulled it down. The former using low voice while the latter applying hush tone.

    “Are you happy?”
    “I should be, considering all happened and what passed”
    “Do you love him?”

    At that, Star Deity let out a vacuous smile and said in the distant tone, “Loved him once, long ago but it wasn't reciprocated. To tell it short, just when I thought everything done and over, Guardian Hua Wuque stepped in and even Almighty thought it fun. Then Death but next thing myself know and yourself aware, Mandate decreed otherwise and willed us Love”

    As Divine Fairy Wang Yuyan, she understood Star Deity Huang Rong. To date, Yang Guo is committed to their Relationship, never mind the flings if really one or his liaisons should there any, be it inside Palace or outside Kingdom “Do. You. Love. Him?”

    Instead of replying, the latter eyed her Ladyship smilingly first then pried suddenly, “How about yourself? What happened after we danced that day?”
    “Err.....” Off guard, Yuyan temporarily speechless and Huang Rong's smile deepened, to the extent of mischief, “Tell me yours and I say mine, deal?”

    Colors of embarrassment heightened, but you see, mature stuff very inviting to know and intimate secret absolutely naughty to share, “Deal!”
    “You first”
    “No, you first”
    “You are senior than me, and the older sister”
    “What is your age?”
    “Still sweet seventeen. Coming Winter, Eighteen. You?”
    “Twenty one next Spring”
    “Heh, my lady first!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Despite sharp ears, she couldn't hear their whispering properly and Qing er looked up blankly, when the ladies giggled aloud as though having great fun and sharing big joke. She stared at Zhong Ling and Cheng Ying who tried best to listen into the ladies' conversation but obviously failed, since blinking back equally clueless. Servants just as blank and from looks on them, Attendants are clueless too.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Wow! All that yet still....!!” Huang Rong said, then repeated, “Wow!!!”
    “Stop wowing! Your turn to spill!!”

    Once the girl finished relating, the other one went on and on, “Oh my....! Oh... My....!! My O My.....!!!”
    “Why wait, Sister?”
    “He's the one waiting and keep on teasing, not me” Yuyan grumbled somewhat crestfallenly.
    “Tell me honestly, his Lordship impotent or something?”
    “I can frankly tell his Lordship a macho guy and the alpha male, only to be guided by Quenzhen's teachings and influenced by Priest Wang's beliefs”
    “Quenzhen? Priest Wang – Wang Chaoyang?? One of the Five Greats of Kingdom???”
    “Aye, he a student from Quenzhen and the disciple of Wang Chaoyang”
    “Ah?! Really?!!”
    “Yeah, really”
    “By the way, you do know their story, don't you?”
    “You mean Wang Chaoyang and Lin Chaoying? He mortal and she immortal, well yeah but thats all I heard”
    “Simply put, the Tale of Forbidden Couple, abruptly ended and painfully separated, where he becomes a Priest while she disappears from Earth”
    “Men like him no problem fighting Dragon or trouble killing Monster but ask to face woman heart to heart or brave taboo one by one, he rather jumping down the cliffs. However, instead of Suicide, sorry excuse hiding behind religious robes. Whereas she chose voluntary seclusion and entered heavenly reclusion. Tragic”
    “It didn't quite stop there, did it? But continues with Dragon Girl...” Huang Rong trailed off regretfully but Yuyan finishing flatly and managing unemotionally, “..... forever tempting Lord Yang. We can't blame love karma or lusty cycle, can we?”
    “My lady...”
    “I am fine, Sister. Already aware of their dalliance for quite sometime. Also not objecting the Lord's polygamous indulgences or questioning string of conquests and tracking list of mistresses. Glad not to involve with his illicit engagements until white hair, or coping up with his extramarital affairs into old age”
    “Lets talk something else... ”
    “How about you feeling right now, excited?”
    “Like a Virgin about to be Deflowered” Star Deity pertly put to crack Divine Fairy up.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    The fun seemed endless and their joke appeared boundless when the Premier came in soberly, together with his Lordship who red in the face, but is sedate. All fast to observe Protocol and quickly marked Ceremony. The Ladies within must be alerted, and they heard the bride hurriedly put on the veil. Her Ladyship stepped out, and his Lordship gestured for them to leave. The Groom waited until the First Couple retreated, before dismissing all. They left speedily, closing windows along and locking doors behind.

    Once alone, Guo Jing and Huang Rong celebrates the final ritual by toasting each other and sealing marital tradition by drinking wine. Finishing the last drop, they face one another and the Groom said to his Bride, “His Lordship to announce a Winter Holiday soon, but before this and long ago, I already applied leave only postponing or delaying next. However, this time for sure and be taking off weeks before Winter. I will leave the Palace and shall bring my lady along, to visit my late Teacher's grave. He passed away last Winter, on the first day of Season. This coming one, marked his one year Death Anniversary. We should pay our respect together there”
    “Your Teacher, Dugu Qiubai, dead?”
    “Yes”

    Guo Jing's sad revelation appeared linking to Huang Rong's unhappy past, and she saying nothing in return. Perceiving negative air and mood change, the Lord Guo's hand came up to tilt the Lady Huang's chin. When their eyes met, “If he's still alive today, I am sure full of joy and couldn't wait to meet my lady” Still, there is no reply. Well, such compliment to Star Deity have no stirring effect. So, the Premier tried again with “Am glad we officially wed and legally Man and Wife, no need leaving every morning or sneaking away every time after stolen kiss and experienced bliss with my lady” which isn't the best warm up line but does burn her countenance bit, which enough to fire his system. At last, the picture of blushing Bride and elated Groom!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    When Qin Feng met up with Yang Guo, Yang Kang is present for the reunion and exchanges of information but absent later because the Traveler requested a private audience with his Lordship. Once the Steward gone, “Forgive me, meant no disrespect and am not imposing but....” he trailed off and Lord Yang said “Feng, please continue”
    “May I see your Mother, the Lady Hua and speaking to her alone?”
    “Huh?! You knew my Mother?!”

    At that, Qin Feng rather uncomfortable and quite regretting the whole thing, “I... No. But... Just...”

    Something seemed to dawn Yang Guo then and he went over to address briskly “Qin Feng” who responded dutifully, “My lord”
    “Why?”
    “Err....”
    “Well?”
    “My lord, I am Traveler of Kingdom but standing here today, playing the Messenger of a fellow Acquaintance and recently deceased Man. My lord, please do not ask me for details that only meant for your Mother, which just couple of words, really. However, I understand if my lord refuse to grant me this request”
    “He was the other man, wasn't he?”

    The traveler unable to reply, but one's uneasy silence an obvious answer to question. On his liberal side, Yang Guo doesn't mind to let Qin Feng seeing Lady Hua and speaking to her, but on other hand, if Yang Xiao got to know... Ah, even the Lord dares not imagine his Sire's wrath. Oh, not a Decision for the Son to make.

    “You have to ask my Father. I arrange for a meeting, so can make the request directly” least and best, he could do for all of them.
    “Thank you, my lord but there is no need for me to meet your Father in order to see your Mother. I am not a close friend to the dead man but just tried helping to fulfill one's last wish. Since already done my best, consider matter close and over”
    “Why miss the opportunity and throw away your chance?”
    “Do you really want me to speak it or spell out, my lord?”

    Images of his Father furiously snatched and forcefully seizing many documents from A Zhu or A Zhi, his mother's maids, flashed clearly across Yang Guo's mind. Came to witness by accident. Memories of his Father cruelly ripped letters and angrily burning stacks inside the Study, as sharp as yesterday. Happened to know by coincidence.

    “I thank for my lord's generosity and appreciating your effort” the man bowed formally and gestured ceremoniously before continuing humbly, “I bothered my lord long enough, so would like to excuse myself now”
    “Feng”
    “My lord?”
    “What is his name? Where the resting place?” and when the latter hesitated, Yang Guo added sadly, “Please. What harm there be in telling? The man a late subject of mine and also my mother's deceased acquaintance. As Lord and Son, I to acknowledge his passing and pay last respect, one day”
    “Gongsun Zhi and he wasn't buried” Qin Feng told him.
    “Excuse me. Wasn't buried? I don't understand!”
    “On deathbed with final breath, he told me to scatter his ashes outside Kingdom”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Guo er, are you alright?”
    “I am fine, Mother”
    “Are you sure, my son? You seemed off color”
    “Just tired, Father”
    “Well, please slow down a bit, then. Don't overdoing it” came maternal smile and paternal smirk, which mean the parents misinterpreting his Lordship and referring her Ladyship, not speaking on works or talking about duties.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Days later, there a hearty surprise, or the best joke, ever. Too bad for Wu Lang, who already left. Eyes widened and ears extended at the sight of two Gentlemen carrying a quacking duck in their hand. Hurried Footsteps can be heard from open corridors, side walks and hall ways while Hasty Movements along balconies, paths and staircases. Duan Yu quite comfortable and rather easygoing because he is Commoner and no big deal playing the Peasant. But Yang Kang is Steward of Kingdom, for Heaven Great Almighty's sake and this inside the Palace, damn it! Hunting and Trapping one thing, but going after duck different case and very shaming, altogether. Poor man doesn't know to put or hide, his face! It certainly didn't help the one he holding making most sound. Seriously, the Steward felt like strangling and mangling the noisy animal to death!

    When a baffled Yang Guo saw his cousin's thunderous feature and the pathetic duck, realization dawned and his Lordship went into fit of laughter. A bewildered Guo Jing rushed to see what the ruckus about and coming across miserable Yang Kang with an equally pitiable duck, plus the Lord's hilarity the Premier couldn't help but cracking up as well. Because Steward Yang scowling, others and rests including foreigners who gathered nearby and outsiders that grouped closely, wouldn't dare so openly or doing it loudly. Both Lord Yang and Lord Guo holding their stomach, almost ending up on floor, when a melodious voice rang across the space “Sir, you are back!” halting the guffaws and commanded all attentions. Even ducks stopped quacking and ceased flapping but none took notice.

    Ying Ying appeared with Zhao Min, who being chaperoned by Lady Mu and the three surrounded by maids and followed by attendants. Duan Yu smiled and walked over to his wife. Yang Kang still scowling when Lady Zhao, accompanied by Lu Wushuang, approached the Steward and addressing disbelievingly “My lord really catch me a duck! Oh, thank you, my lord!! Thank you so very much, you are the sweetest husband there is in Kingdom, one and only throughout Universe!!!”

    If Duan Yu is Duan Yu, then Zhao Min must be Zhao Min whose petite figure yet to show the bump meaning still cute and dainty, standing on all her toes throwing arms around the husband to peck his cheek, “Muah....!!!!” Never mind Steward Yang messy sweaty and smelly. Their spectators gawked on, either swearing it miraculous or scoffing as ridiculous, upon man's reaction from darkest countenance rapidly to brightest expression and from gravest manner schooled to mellowest self. At the same time, Ying Ying gave Duan Yu one too, lower profile but more serene and with warmest compliment. Once, the latter successfully generating jealousy of entire hall winning a fair maiden without anything pricey or worthy to show off. Now, the same man no problem getting the whole palace green with envy by having lovely and pregnant wife waiting lovingly and contently, for his return with only duck in hand. The young husbands and fathers to be, reciprocating tenderly, one putting his best cosy front while the other accomplishing own melting charm, that earned them united masculines and collective feminines, “Awww....!!!!!” The Pugilists are combination of humorous figures and lively characters plus touch of romanticism, and this bunch of guys got carried away by mushy scenes and swept off by domestic skills, went as far as whistling "Phewittt.....!!!!!!"

    Never the atmospheres so dreamy, never the moods absolutely gooey and never the peoples completely moony. From their viewing balcony, “How I wish am young again! We missed out all courting funs and wooing comics”
    “You and your Wolfish style, did but I with my Sheepish tactic, didn't”

    Well, Yang Xiao admits Defeat this one and allows his young sibling Ace for once. As for the General, their third last baby brother did in Foxy manner and all they can say is, History!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    At another balcony, Yeluqi stood quietly and left silently before being spotted spying.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Duan Yu perceived himself sinisterly watched, or rather Ying Ying being thoroughly viewed at. He sought the source, and found both Foreigners already shifted eyes and focusing elsewhere. Man's impatience running thin, but then again Precaution better than Confrontation. Yang Guo didn't miss his best friend's hidden rage and self restrain, neither Yang Kang nor Guo Jing, for the matter. And the three glancing up to where another Foreigner lurking there earlier.

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    Mid Autumn continued leisurely and casually towards End Autumn while Pugilists and Outsiders left. The First bunch for adventure and pursuing pastime, the Second batch either going home or detouring elsewhere, before gloomy day hindering all and lousy weather spoiling it. Inside Palace, during Court hour and at daily Assembly, the Duck episode helps cheering most work boredoms and relieving many stiff formalities. Meantime, the Lord Guo already off and away with the Lady Huang. During their Premier's absence and leave, Steward Yang neither overworked in Study nor overloaded at Office, meaning Kingdom in neat Reign and Administration accordingly to Rule. After his Lordship officially declaring Winter Holiday, sought her Ladyship to say “Come my lady”
    “To where?”
    “The Harem”
    “Whatever for?”
    “So I could introduce some palace ladies and few harem women to you. It wouldn't do, to have Yourself fighting with Them over Myself, would it?”
    Excuse me!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    PART TWO

    Sneak Preview....

    “Indeed” his Lordship replied indulgently and facing her indignant Ladyship, addressed loftily “They are my Favorites here in the Harem”

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    “Until today, Lord Yang Kang hates to come here. The Steward's last appearance in The Harem, was when his Favorite the Lady Li passed away years ago. Long before he brought the Lady Zhao home as his Child Bride”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    "It is time"
    "Nay!"
    Last edited by author; 11-23-08 at 09:00 PM.

  3. #63
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    Nov 2007
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    MANDATE AND LOVE (The Harem)

    PART TWO


    My lady is to take over the Domestic Chore of Kingdom. Main duties are checking records and keeping books while major responsibilities are managing West, monitoring East, supervising South and maintaining North”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Her Ladyship eventually stepping into the Famous or most Infamous Place, at Palace of Kingdom. That is North Household, also known as The Harem, and this place not what she expected. Gardens and Halls, main structure or interior wise, not much different from West Household and Prime Residence, except bold arrangements and colorful decorations. Well, Yuyan never been to East and South respectively so can't say and compare much. However, interesting contrast and prominent feature – The Occupants. They are unique judging from dressing alone, suggestive yet tasteful that comes with experience. Crafty mannerism, fashionably trained while catchy aura, expertly nurtured. Even residential maids and female attendants, are sophisticated. Male servants are debonair and their rotating guards, flamboyant. Coming across the First Couple, observed same Protocol and marked similar Ceremony. His Lordship acknowledged greetings formally, followed by communications. Her Ladyship noticed, although the Harem Women eyed him flirtatiously and responded amorously, nevertheless careful not to overstep line. Meantime, Yuyan saw Palace Nobles lingering afar and when they spotted his Lordship, quickly exiting elsewhere. Her Ladyship also happened to spy few Court Members passing above balconies and when realizing who came to visit, hurriedly took leave via side way and not using main path. Unless vision mistaken, even an Elder sneaking away unbelievably and unusually fast. Yuyan pretty sure Yang Guo didn't miss anything but closing eyes and shutting ears. After all, this The Harem and these men obviously mature being and fully grown up, while women based here are consensual adult and willing partner. If instinct serves right, there are some preferring own genders and those enjoying both sexes. Her Ladyship's musings came to an abrupt end and all attentions being distracted, when four ladies came running and crying, “My lord! My lord!! Oh, My lord!!!” These four really flung and threw themselves on his Lordship, who almost missed footing and balance due weights and numbers. The Bride watched unblinkingly, and surrounding Women eyed peevishly, as Lord Yang returning favor fondly, smiling warmly and mouthing charmingly “I know I know, so very long time no see. Yes yes, missing all too”
    “Liar!”
    “Confess cheating other and admit fooling rest but swear, wouldn't dare lying to you
    “Hmph!”
    “Exactly and precisely what Lord Yang Xiao quoted roguishly before!”
    “Hah, just like Father like Son!!”

    One of them noticed Yuyan then, uttering “Oh, my lord bringing her Ladyship to see us!” excitedly, thus removing focus from Yang Guo and the three echoed together bemusedly “Her Ladyship?” When sighting the latter, “Ah, my lord! She so beautiful!”
    “Her Ladyship truly Divine, my lord, like real Fairy!!”
    “My lord so lucky! The Kingdom very fortunate!! We are absolutely delighted!!!”
    “Well my lord, don't just stand there! Aren't you going to introduce us, the first important and second best and third popular and last but not least, fourth women in your life?!”
    “Indeed” his Lordship replied indulgently and facing her indignant Ladyship, addressed loftily “They are my Favorites here in the Harem”

    Yuyan remained indecisive, whether screaming his head off or laughing it out loud. The Four so called Favorites, obviously senior than Lady Hua but doubtlessly junior than Granny Sun.

    “Stop teasing us and cease annoying her!” seemingly came from the eldest and she stepped forward to greet Yuyan appropriately, “My lady” then remarked decently, “We brought him up since a baby”
    “Now the baby we nursed and the lad we cared, already Lord of Kingdom and we so happy he going to settle down soon with my lady”
    “You know my lady, we waited so long for his Lordship to get married!”
    “And he finally going to wed you this Spring! You see my lady, I can't wait for that cup of tea!”

    These women finished talking, and Man together with The Harem, waiting for herself to speak, “Err....”
    “My lady”
    “Huh?”
    “I will leave you with them, and shall come back later. Am going to meet Counselor Han Xiaoying of Northern Household now and thinking to catch up with Duan Yu next” His Lordship telling her Ladyship like husband informing wife before off to work. Then addressing the four, “Please guide and counsel my lady well”

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    “All of you born here? What the difference between Harem Women and Palace Ladies?”
    “The four of us, yes and many others too while a great number brought in by traveling Members of Palace and journeying Subjects of Kingdom. Some were found abandoned cruelly by roaming Troops, few discovered wandering aimlessly by camping Armies”
    “Residents in the Harem consisted all sorts, and from plenty kinds, of background. As for Palace Ladies, most related to Hierarchy or connected to Nobility. Due birth and talent, they can do better than serving maids. Plus literate and skill, they be wasted if passing idly as household attendants or rotating members. All girls, and boys, regardless upper class or lower born, the Palace schooled knowledge and improved mind, also development and advancement. Those who passed Ordinary Level can further ambition by attending and completing Higher Qualification. Once attaining or upon achieving Major Degree, Fairer gender can rise to Palace Rank like Opposite sex, delegated to Office respectively and accordingly. Treasury paid them wages and all Palace Ladies able hiring own space or renting private chamber. While at it, they also can be Harem Women after court hour. Difference? Personal opinion and individual thought. Mine is neutral”
    “Honestly, there is Difference but issue sensitive and matter delicate. Full time Harem Women not paid by Treasury but are discreetly kept or openly funded by.... well, lets us not get into details on that. However, the Palace allocate basic clothes and free meals and comfortable quarters. Frankly, we used to be Harem Women but since Lady Hua gave birth to Kingdom's Heir, our position upgraded to Palace Ladies by default, mainly because taking care of him from day one. But instead of moving out, rather staying in The Harem, because it been our home. East or West, North always best while South is out. His Lordship periodically living and routinely sleeping with us until around five and by six, permanently located at West Household but still playing and often hanging here until seven. That year, he entered Quenzhen and only came back during holiday but no longer visiting. Instead, we attended and served the Heir in Personal Quarters until Manhood. Throughout Teenage Years, the Palace quite determined to remove and tried replacing with younger Palace Ladies but he genuinely attached to us, and used power vetoing and privilege overthrowing its decision. Heh, that piety alone entitle us a nice cup of tea”
    “Yeah, we also the Lord's Surrogate Mothers during his infancy. Despite name and reputation, not every Palace Lady or all Harem Women lie on back and just spread leg. Hey, girls below ten knew too while pubescent can do even better”

    Right, lets not getting vivid views or descriptive pictures “Why didn't Lady Hua mothering her son herself?” Yuyan asked curiously, to which they hesitated at first and eventually one said, “After a woman gave birth, she needed rest”
    “I mean, recovery over and confinement passed. First responsibility and top priority - caring and nurturing, seeing and feeding her son - right?”

    The four hesitated again and uncomfortably. As far as she is concerned, Lady Hua a strong female plus loving person, if not the doting mother, so Yuyan pressed, “Well?”
    “My lady, there certain things....” the eldest spoke first and trailed off, unsure how to put it.
    “Speak” She mimicked the Lord Yang's austere manner using own lofty tone and copied the man's commanding style via confident self. Wang Yuyan not as pompous as Yang Guo but is compelling while her bearing formidable. In their eyes, the Bride's countenance superior but not haughty and mannerism, although cool nevertheless befitting Lady of Kingdom....Not only Lord Yang got very good taste on beauty but best appetite for grace as well....Finally one of them sighed “After producing Heir of Yangs, the Palace especially Late Lady Of Kingdom, wanted his Lordship's Mother to deliver Spare next, moment Physician issued Certificate of Fitness”
    “We weren't at scene, my lady but old enough to understand... this how gossips went and of what rumors spread... pardon us if line inconsiderate and flow inadequate....”
    “His Lordship's Father, although gentleman nevertheless a virile male and the demanding husband. Very spoiled too - he actually ran away willfully after an argument, and refused to come home despite his father's edict. Even ignoring the mother and stubbornly against the palace - anyway, lets not get sidetrack. Yet to ascend to Power, nineteen years old Yang Xiao into pleasure and leisure, plus family planning. With Kingdom's trade flourishing and the Yangs' income increasing immediately after Victory subduing Invaders into Reform and expanding influences due Cooperation, Late Lord Yang indulged his eldest son whatever whim and catering the latter's fancy. Wasn't satisfied with marrying girl and siring legitimate children, Yang Xiao wanted everything to the extent of harassing Hua Mulan, who longing for home and missing her first love”
    “Non Native and origin exotic. Possessed foreign beauty and special in spirit, with youthful valor plus intriguing loyalty... well, he never came across such combination and you know, the Chieftain Daughter in male disguise simply elegant than himself, and her escapade more provoking than own truancy. You see, there something exciting and just thrilling about Hua Mulan in his eyes. She wrong to invade and too late to retreat. Words to describe her folly, Crime and Destiny. To depict his part, Rage and Passion. Half of blood spilled during that saga, belonging to Kingdom”
    “She brusquely told Yang Xiao off and he vowed to seal her Fate but my lady, let skip threats and the turmoils. All politics dirty and ugly Everywhere throughout Universe”
    “In love with another, the Daughter flatly rejected and straightaway refusing proposal from the Heir, who eventually found out the Rival....”
    “When term disagreed and condition unfulfilled and negotiation failed.... Man determined to book the Culprit by hook or crook. Even Heaven took side, by revealing Secret Romance to Third Party who schemed for personal gain and seized to accomplish desire, by exposing the couple”
    “His Intrusion into their Love soon revealed as Conspiracy. If War broke out immediately, not only innocent Tribes facing extinction but countless Lives to extinguish along”
    “An epic standstill where the famous saying goes but like this instead, Executing All for One....”
    “Imagine agony where Kingdom shall punishing herself last after witnessing beloved ones, perishing before very eyes. So in the end, Sacrificing One for All
    “Yes, Yang Xiao very ingenious and mastermind using People as Puppet while and the Palace being unscrupulous and powerful to back him up... worst still if death sentence withdrew at final moment and Hua Mulan alive but alone, kept if not caged. Cruel, but then again the Daughter neither merciful during that invasion nor guiltless in first place. Oh, one eventually pay for heavy mistakes and to answer own consequences”
    “Fair or foul, Yang Xiao won. Sorry indeed for ending up on the wrong bed, but bigger piece and clearer picture, unspeakable if the enemy taking herself in revengeful way”
    “Pardoning Invaders, freeing Prisoners including sparing Rival, while Kingdom gained extra Land and given full Authority.... Regrettably tragic but Matrimony lesser Evil than well.... Etcetera....
    “His parents learned lesson never to upset their son again, basically used the girl for his amusement and for reproduction reason, practically encouraging by keeping deaf ears closing their eyes while the palace purposely..... Ah, never mind that now”
    “At one state the Bride of Kingdom suffered exhaustion and depression, underwent breakdown and deterioration. Kept declining and reached her dying stage, that all received alarming call. Even Almighty stepped in to prevent worst. However, instead of expecting Lady Hua to carry again, it happened to Lady Mu, who just as pressured and equally drained but the strain on her not quite so bad as the first”
    “During Invasion and upon Raid, fourteen years old Mu Guiying was captured and being brought to Palace or be more accurate, presented to The Kingdom as Gift for the Heir, only to be taken up by the Spare who saw her wrestling and kicking, screaming and cursing. At fifteen the unwilling Consort swearing murder and attempting suicide, doesn't know who her Groom until wedding night. By sixteen, already or rather, unready Mother. A proud Spitfire but faring better than the steely Daughter, only because this alluring girl got zero Puppet for these Yangs to pull and having nil String for her Husband to manipulate”
    “How was Lady Hua after that?” her Ladyship demanded and one readily to reveal, “Yang Xiao gently nursed Hua Mulan back to health. At the same time, dedicated Father fulfilling paternal role and filial Son committing Takeover, without failing single Domestic duty or lacking any Kingdom's responsibility”
    “Regardless his flaws, the latter has redeeming qualities and strange to say, rare moral and fixed integrity. His Lordship's father loves his Lordship's Mother very much, and cares for the Lord Yang Guo, still do to this day. Truly family man and really faithful figure”
    “Most Gentlemen of Privilege would either giving up or getting bored while many Noblemen with fault, eyes plus hands likely wandering until straying but Lord Yang Xiao of Kingdom didn't, despite List Potentials and Foreign Offers. Other Rulers definitely taking Concubines adding Issues elsewhere or keeping Mistresses spawning Broods here and there”
    “To cut it short, Hua Mulan survived and Yang Xiao became Lord of The Kingdom. Once on her feet, conscientious if not grateful or thankful, she helped to establish him by supporting and promoting his reign resulting Esteem. At the peak of rule and upon timely birth of Yang Kang who securing bloodline, she accomplished enough Kingdom's requirements and done meeting Peoples' expectations, requested to raise Yang Guo single handedly and sought to retreat peacefully”
    “The Lord allowed his Lady these reliefs, temporarily might be but then again, instead discreet affairs or flaunting liaisons, went home to her daily after busy court over. Whether assembly finished early or between breaking hours, he settled in comfortably as loving father and opted playing the devoted husband. Before long, he may be back to demanding and she to perform wifely obligation but come to think of it, Yang Xiao actually the first Lord of Kingdom into Monogamy and Fidelity, followed by his siblings respectively”
    “Meantime, the General Yang did something unbelievable, considering his age and scandalized according to standard. The Parents incensed, Brothers stupefied and Palace fuming, because only Heaven know how and Kingdom know when, he venturing off camp and sneaking into nearby village as Commoner to seduce an independent girl then secretly married the latter without parental approval and family knowledge, let alone palace notice. Fan Lihua, neither rich nor poor but happy and free, living by herself as legal proprietress and rightful mistress of deceased parents' property. The lass good looking and like his brothers, this lad handsome too. Thanks to martial training and due physical drilling, he well built for a teenager and easily passing off as an adult. The height alone, impressive despite common attire and plain front. There several versions, each contradictory. Somehow we suspected and believed circumstance of boy spotted girl somewhere, infatuated at first and checked for details. After deception and confirmed affection plus tough situation or desperate measure, launched bedding then hushed wedding next rushed pregnancy. He only brought her home during eight months, after tricking into thinking they seeing another Midwife. Think of the shock realizing Who her Spouse really Is! On the ninth month, she gave birth to Yang Da Lang inside Palace as legal Descendant accepted by The Yangs, acknowledged by The Kingdom and not declared as illegitimate Offspring. Because their son came third making hierarchy solid and marking succession stronger, General Yang was pardoned for indiscretion and Lady Fan being forgiven for ignorance. To their credit, unlike the unions by force, they mutual and both consensual. Beside good looking, third and last Bride of the Yangs also very sporting. After first child, they tried for daughter next because the Grandparents Yangs by now having enough male scions and longing for girl too, but another son and so on without precaution until seventh and last boy of current generation, Yang Qi Lang. Well like they said, History. Hah, A Sly Fox!”

    After the disturbing story comes this funny tale, and Yuyan couldn't help but giggling bit. The smiling women nodding then spilling “Yeah, the General's nickname and no secret that his Lordship's Father dubbed as Big Bad Wolf, while the Steward's father labeled The Black Sheep” and giggling burst out laughing. The four women joined her Ladyship but when the light moment passed, a more sensible atmosphere, where one continued on as though there no break in between “The Harem of Kingdom is not what my lady thought or heard from, say storytellers all over”
    “Women in Kingdom Harem, are most lucky and very fortunate, compared to those in State Harem or Empire Harem or Desert Harem, live only to satisfy their Master's lust” another added.
    “Why do you say that?”
    “We can eat and sleep here for free, of course, ha ha ha!” this one gestured playfully and laughing off.
    “Now now, be proper. Briefly, North Household actually Shelter. Taking homeless natives, raising poor orphans, caring single females, supporting helpless widows, helping unmarried mothers and so on – accepting anyone and keeping anybody, regardless gender that unfortunate or been abused, outside Palace and throughout Kingdom, beyond as well for the matter. The Lady Huang of Yin Realm a perfect example. When she first came here, the Palace supposedly placing her North but he who brought the girl in, conveniently suggested South. Ops, slightly offtrack! Heh, sorry!!”
    “True, most women based in North are crafty and ambitious. Some beyond artful and majority really wicked but I repeat not all of us schemes or sleeps our way to the top. As for the opposite sex, once reaching maturity or fully grown, either leaving palace or applying transfer, or employing elsewhere. Those who remained, many due loyalty like us while some chose... well, freedom and preference”
    “Aye, and all of us are only human, my lady”
    “But rest assure, my lady, Lord Yang Guo not into Harem or Polygamy. Neither Steward Yang, who burned down the Place once in fit of anger”
    “Again, why do you say that? And what caused his cousin's temper?”
    “We brought him up here, remember? So his Lordship very exposed to the Harem at early age. He knew all trades and familiar with tricks, accustomed to stuffs and bored to death by wiles and fakes. Then don't forget, a student of Quenzhen and under the respectable tutelage of Priest Wang. But Pugilism's influence comes handily second, his Lordship looking up strongly first as example, is own Father”
    “As for his cousin, poor lad was thirteen when Lady No-Name-Mention thinking the latter into senior woman or older girl tried to entice him. The Steward took a lot after his uncle Yang Xiao, when comes to certain traits especially Temper, which pretty quick and noticeably violent. Either very insanely pissed off, or so shocked to madness, he straightaway grabbed the candles and flung them savagely, setting drapes afire and layers ablaze”
    “Until today, Lord Yang Kang hates to come here. The Steward's last appearance in The Harem, was when his favorite palace lady the Lady Li passed away, years ago. Long before he brought the Lady Zhao home as his Child Bride”
    “Yang Kang stopped entering The Harem then but from there onwards, Lady Li was led into Personal Quarters, without fully accessing West Household. Poor thing died young”
    “She brought him up too?”
    “Nah, she a big sister to him with the major twist plus an extraordinary bond. He got to know her around five to six, been brooding alone since his cousin left for Quenzhen Sect. The Lady Li at mature age and an experienced female, of nineteen. Yang Kang greatly attached to her but there nothing sexual between them. If Place lot of eyes and Wall plenty ears then the Harem doubling so, if not tripling. Palace discretion and Noble privilege aside, the gap just too awkward if not downright absurd. Yes, nothing impossible when comes to Harem activity or Mating atrocity, but that beside the point. He seen her naked on many occasions but by accident and not deliberately. As Woman of The Harem she got casual Lovers and has regular Patrons. Throughout minor years, bound to stumble these Sessions sooner or later. By time healthy desire and kicking hormone, futile fantasy and empty inspiration. Also, training under Pugilist Hong at age nine, the lad's principle as steady as Structure of Palace and self restraint firm like Mountain of Kingdom”
    “While at it, got familiar with female nudity and gained fast knowledge on sex. Because the Steward very close to her, and often sought the latter's company, generally assumed she his Favorite. Which a fact, manner and fashion of speaking. From Ears of Place to Eyes on Wall, Lady Li whacking his bottom more during mischief and sounding him for sure due prank, than undressing or disrobing the lad whenever she staying overnight or they sleeping together. The two of them just like his Lordship with four of us. Not every adoration or liking, ended rolling and frolicking, happened tumbling and trashing, on the bed. If it did, then as close and good as Incest, which I say ewww....!!!”
    “After Lady Li's demise, many tried to replace her in his life, especially Lady Guo Fu but not a chance. The guy's seriousness grew solemner to become graver character and grimmer self. The Palace presented and introduced Yang Kang many girls, consisted of Natives and Foreigners. Even own Parents selected few noble born Heiresses and handpicked upper classes Daughters, but their Son uninterested and coldly dismissive. The latter almost rioted over matchmaking, his Father immediately panicked that he might ran away like what Brother/Uncle Yang Xiao did. Incidentally, Yang Kang has habit of dropping thing unattended and got knack for leaving stuff unfinished, behind in moment of impatience. Minimizing Risk, the then Spare of Yangs lesser Pressure on settling down and same Privilege with the then Heir of Kingdom, taking own sweet time. Anyway, back to topic, those who managed to serve the Steward, only to be told off abruptly after grooming. Some not even the opportunity to be close at all, let alone remaining to attend him”
    “Of course, we do not know how far private emotion shared or secret thought went, or gesture behind curtain but certainly the Steward Yang a faithful male even to this day valuing personal tie, appreciating friendship and treasuring relationship”
    “Don't think there any gesture, subtle or hidden or otherwise, for Lady Li been touching her Kang er as much as we been doing to our Guo er”
    “Come, enough of past gossips and old rumors, we have far more important things to talk and speak about”
    “Duh, we supposed to guide and counsel my lady, not tale telling!”
    “Ah, we are also to tell my lady how dealing and managing this Place”
    “Sorry, meant no disrespect but why you Ladies, and not his Lordship's Mother?”
    “Ahah, knew that question will come!”
    “And the answer shall be like this, Lady Hua to show and teach his Lordship's Bride taking over as Lady and Mother of The Kingdom but We be the ones to groom and polish my lady how to become Sister and Mistress of The Harem

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    After meeting with Counselor Han finished, Yang Guo went to Treasury searching the other man's Record but found none. Even himself doesn't seem to recall such Book so the Lord Yang spoke out “Yiweng, I want the Documentation on Gongsun Zhi”
    “Huh? Sorry my lord, but please repeat the name”
    Gongsun. Zhi

    Fan Yiweng hurriedly checked through the Master List top to bottom, down and up again before looking very confused and saying somewhat fretfully “Err, I don't think such person exist in the Kingdom. Um...the name somehow unfamiliar, my lord. Err... a Fugitive, perhaps?”

    If himself not mistaken, the other man a former Chieftain Son, ex Leader in Waiting of own Tribe. The latter not only lost his Bride, Home and Birthright but Identity as well... He trespassed Kingdom first... If their position be reversed, Gongsun Zhi to do the same with Yang Xiao..... All motions froze and every frightened eyes on his Lordship, as man violently kicked the table unexpectedly causing it crashing noisily into another before standing up and storming away, layers sweeping furiously with cloak billowing along, papers flying messily everywhere and things broke shattering behind.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Huang Rong resting by the riverside, and Guo Jing not far away attending their horse. The couple traveled simply and lightly. While musing alone, she came to sense they no longer alone in the area. Her eyes instinctively went to seek the source of discomfit but all around seemed peaceful and appeared tranquil.

    “Rong er?” Since traveling in the open, the Premier dropped formality and addressed his wife commonly by name. The latter didn't reply but looking ahead and he instantly called out sharply “Who's there?!”

    Neither movement nor sound but both Lord Guo and Lady Huang not deceived. He ordered, “Come out!” the same time she voiced, “Ou Yang Feng”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “My lord!” Ying Ying startled, while Duan Yu surprised to see Yang Guo turned up suddenly.
    “How are you, Madam? And the unborn?”
    “Fine, my lord. The unborn well too, thank you, what about my lord? And how is her Ladyship?”
    “Myself alright and Her Ladyship likewise” he answered briefly and facing his best friend, requested shortly “Yu, please come with me” before focusing Ying Ying again, politely “Please excuse us, Madam”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    The Great Pugilist stepped out, and the husband stood protectively in front of his wife, pointing strongly “You!”
    “Yes, me” came the answer but his eyes on Star Deity who spoke as though greeting, “Long time no see”
    “Of course, yourself been hiding inside the Palace. After curing spots and healing scars, succeeded snaring The Premier of Kingdom. He he he, Beauty forever bewitching plus Sex really selling, eh...”

    A stream of powerful energy shot out warningly upon the rudeness and Ou Yang Feng retreated just in time to avoid injury. The impact blasted the spot loudly and went to hit several yards explosively, causing splits and resulting cracks which in turn creating dangerous landslides and forming mighty collisions. If the Potion Master didn't move again to safety, he could have bury along with these forceful collapses.

    “Watch your manner and mind the language, old man” Guo Jing's voice cold and the atmosphere frosty due Man's contemptuous aura and not Mother Nature's element. Ou Yang Feng, notoriously treating rests and unscrupulous bullying others regained common sense not to defy Palace Number Three, or insulting Kingdom Number One. The same common sense observing protocol and marking ceremony “I beg my lord's pardon. No disrespect, my lady” freely, if not sincerely. The Premier not satisfied and threateningly forward when his Consort pulled him back, telling softly “He is right so leave him be”

    Both men saw her rapidly failing and being weakening. Guo Jing hurriedly reached out while Ou Yang Feng registered Star Deity's state for first time. The girl neither ailing nor deteriorating but stage of health pitiable and questionable. When their eyes met and in better shape, she apologized to him out of blue “Sorry, for whatever cruel word said and evil thing done to you in our crossed past” shocking Guo Jing temporarily and stunning Ou Yang Feng presently, before blacking out.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Yang Guo very quiet, and Duan Yu silent too. Himself not at best humor lately and currently aware neither time joking nor teasing with one who seems as bad mood as himself.

    “I know, Yu. I know” His Lordship said to which the friend blinked blankly “Huh? Know what??”

    The Lord Yang didn't reply but seemingly in deep thought and the Disciple of Shaolin astutely read Menace emitting from the Student of Quenzhen, who appeared pent up like a long dormant volcano soon to be.... Alert, something is wrong somewhere.... And completely off guard when “Miss our practice” meaning Yang Guo wanted to pit with Duan Yu, who also short of exercise. Usually no problem and is generally fun but at this point, neither wise course nor bright decision considering both disposition. Himself just bad news but his Lordship different streaks altogether!

    “Err....”
    “Yu”
    “Yeah?”
    “What say you, my friend?” the lord's mocking tone and provoking smile does challenging and daring the latter who needs venting out too “As you wish, my lord”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Let me check her pulse”
    “No”
    “I, Ou Yang Feng notorious man and is infamous Pugilist, but the name Heartless Killer or tag Evil Murderer does not belong to me”
    “Neither real Healer nor true Physician”
    “Am also a Potion Master. That mean something, if not lot”
    “Why the generous offer? My lady and Elder Ou Yang are at loggerheads”
    “Perhaps she said sorry. Although what passed unforgettable or occurred unforgivable, nevertheless most grudges and offensive events, indeed long over. Don't worry, my lord. I am not stupid enough to poison the lady right under your nose”

    Only then, Guo Jing allowed the Ou Yang Feng to touch Huang Rong, and the old man took considerable amount of time reading her pulse. True, he neither Healer nor Physician but then again, is one of Five Greats and renowned Potion Master. Although not as celebrated as the Four, nevertheless own forte and impressive field. If himself not wrong, only legendary source and mythical substance in this Universe able to maintain her existence. So when he removed his hand, “What happened inside the Palace, my lord?”
    “Excuse me?”
    “The last time, she was degenerating. Then you turned up playing the hero and took my advice bringing her back to Palace. So what happened after that? What Miracle used to remove the curse and What Paragon within to sustain her being”
    “Not your place to ask and my privilege not to tell”
    “Fine then. Your lady should wake in a while and time for me to part company, my lord” ready to off and the Premier neither stopping him nor bidding farewell. Halfway, the latter halted and the Lord Guo expressed impatiently, “What now?”
    “Your wife can die anytime”
    What...?!” The husband reacted wrathfully but Ou Yang Feng already gone with the winds.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    All eyes zoomed as two familiar figures leaped and raced towards Palatial Ground, and these eyes tell their legs to follow fast. Ears caught martial movements and heard speeding sounds, and these ears direct their owners to seek the source. Even the Steward Yang, who idling in his Study since Lady Zhao taking her nap, rushed towards the scene. The layout of Southern Household is next to Palatial Ground and residents passing open corridors could view clearly or occupants standing at watching towers, would witness entirely. Crown Prince Yeluqi is taking fresh air with Princes Huodu and Kublai when Yang Guo swept past and Duan Yu somersaulting by. The three rooted on the spot, and the two landed on their feet. The setting particularly odd, as though Duo about to show off skills and moves in front of Trio. His Lordship firm and the Friend steady, one moment standing in place and apart, next they closed the gap and soon a spectacular stunt.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Huang Rong opening her eyes and staring straight into Guo Jing who off color but the man neither ill nor sick. She tried to get up and he said hurriedly “No. Please lie down longer” to which herself complied without word. After a while, tried again and the husband helped his wife up gently. Star Deity eyed around, and asked “Where is Ou Yang Feng?”
    “Gone”

    Lady Huang would like to ask more but from the sound of it, the Lord Guo not only off color but in a temper too.

    What? Ou Yangfeng praising her wickedness and complimenting the vileness?

    “Rong er, are you alright?” he insisted suddenly and herself able to “Aye. Your face is white, are you alright, Sir?”

    It dawned Guo Jing then that she never mentioned or addressed his name for ages, “Is saying my name tasted bitter to your lips?”

    What the hell got into this man? And what the heck that old fella said or done??

    “Err...”
    “Forgive me and forget it. Are you ready to make a move?”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Nothing new about the two Pitting at the Palatial Ground but what heart stopping, It intense plus volatile, as the Gentlemen applying savagery and attempting viciousness ....Yang Kang and Spectators, emotion between fear and cheer....The Princes along with fellow Foreigners, feeling ranging from daze to amaze....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Quenzhen strokes strong and swift, Shaolin moves light and speedy. Case of best student of Wang Chaoyang versus Top Disciple of Yideng. Those who never get to see the Greats in action before, this as close as can be where one swung to attack aggressively and the other jumped to defend accurately. Soon Duan Yu the fiery assaulter and Yang Guo retaliates equally so. Negation Powers danced against Yiyang Forces, and all eyes never blinked upon the beautiful deeds yet lethal wonders. Maneuvering Fingers tackling Manipulating Sets, leading to Spectators close up with stances of variety styles and arts in multiple forms while Foreigners first sight experience of classic Duel and reputed Pugilism. Testing arm to arm, combating fist with fist, going kick by kick, the two best friends so far never handling it explosively but today, meaning now, their confrontation regardless on ground or in midair, anything but warming up. Boys will be boys, as Playmates their Practice often impressive and Pit always competitive. As best friends, Matches dramatic if not drastic. Yang Guo went to display his extreme ability, Duan Yu came up with own outstanding mean. Both are Teacher's Pet where Student a Genius and Disciple the Prodigy. As levels of Negation went up, so does stages of Yiyang energy. Their flawless effects yet foulest blows, erupted tempestuously but neither perishing Life nor endangering Self. The Ultimate where consummate palm met confident palm, their stream of element lashing out and rising high to clash mightily, before bursting and echoing thunderously.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “What the...?!” her Ladyship jerked, but the Four Favorites merely shrugged and one said knowingly “His Lordship”
    “Huh?”
    “The Lord did say going to meet Master Duan, didn't he? So I dare say the two are at it again”
    “Please elaborate”
    “Practicing at the Palatial Ground” came the reply and then continuing on “Now as we were telling my lady.....”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Aftermath....Duan Yu regained his senses.... What the Hell!... and reacted by blinking at Yang Guo whose mood yet to subside. However, his Lordship not looking at him but deliberately staring behind. Duan Yu turned and saw Spectators around with Foreigners abound. Nearby, he spotted Kublai who failed meeting his eyes while Huodu rather poor color but Yeluqi is composed.

    “We didn't scare your highnesses, or did we?” His Lordship stood and spoke beside himself.
    “No, Lord Yang's skill awesome and Master Duan's display magnificent. I never seen anything as breathtaking or as staggering as that” Yeluqi answered but his royal comrades are speechless.
    “Thank you. I am sorry if disturbed your highnesses' peace. Just that my best friend and I so used to pit here with each other and forgetting ourselves while the Palace full of guests and filled with visitors”
    “Not at all. I enjoyed it very much and love to have a repeat”
    “Indeed, glad to hear so. But what about your highnesses, did it bothering or troubling you two? If so, do please forgive me” the address targeting Princes Kublai and focusing Prince Huodu. The former managed “Fine, fine... I like it” briefly while the latter able to reply “No harm done, my lord... don't mind such practice”
    “Good! Yu, we engaging one another and entertaining their highnesses, during Winter!”
    “Am all for our Date
    “We are honored by the idea” Yeluqi returned.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Guo, what the heck....! But that was excellent, my lord...!! Damn, you should ask me along....!!!”
    “Are welcome to join us next round, Steward”
    “Really?”
    “Yeah, really”
    “Did our Friend knew you intended to caution these Foreigners through martial feat?”
    “I didn't tell him but surely Yu guessed after that”
    “By the way, one King cowering and few Princesses fainted”
    Really?”
    Yeah, really

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    His Lordship appeared, “It is time”
    “Nay” Her Ladyship protested, but the women sensing via body language, “My lady, this already late”
    “His lordship tired, same with my lady”
    “At our age, we are exhausted too”
    “We can continue on another day, upon my Lady's request and the Lord's permission”

    By then, Yuyan more or less getting their message across. Again, what the saying and her motto?

    No Provocation.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Whatever your intention on Madam Duan, just drop it. Master Duan neither common bloke to deal nor simple meat do away, with” Yeluqi said meaningfully to them, “Not only the husband intimidating fellow but whole episode representing Lord Yang's unspoken warning. The man cares for her and protects with own hands”
    “Why not try telling that to your own self” Kublai retorted.
    “I did, and more beside” came the lazy drawl.
    “What?” Huodu asked dryly.
    “Reminded myself still a Crown Prince. But once am the King....”
    “Hey, all talk!” Kublai scoffed.
    “My royal comrades, Slow and Steady .... Better Late than Never.....”
    “At this rate, Daughter and not Mother”

    Both.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Is it her, or he getting more and more possessive? After encountering Ou Yang Feng, she supposed the husband at least disgusted, if not at all repulsed, at herself. But all Huang Rong found out is Man don't quite right and rather the opposite. They are inside an Inn, dining and staying. Herself center of Attraction and the obvious Distraction. Doesn't know which worst, Envy that carry hints of male lust or Jealousy that spoke volumes of conjugal fury.

    “Rong er, are you finished?”
    “Yes”
    “Shall we retire?”
    “Please”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    As the Lord Guo slept on holding herself close and tight, Lady Huang remained awake pondering... Did he know?... But how??....Surely Ou Yang Feng didn't....???

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    CHAPTER 47 EPILOQUE (The Heir, The Spare and The Friend)

    PART ONE

    “My lord, I heard Dugu Qiubai chuckling”
    “Rong er, my Teacher is dead!”
    “His Ghost”
    “Nonsense!!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@

    “Dance is called Winter Sonata”
    Last edited by author; 12-09-08 at 12:08 AM.

  4. #64
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    CHAPTER 47 EPILOQUE (The Heir, The Spare and The Friend)


    PART ONE

    Sir!” Ying Ying gasped and moved the moment Duan Yu stepped in “Am fine, Madame. Please calm down” He said and reached reassuringly.
    “Fine? Fine?! You fought with his Lordship!”
    “Just practicing. Told you before that I used to pit with him from time to time”
    “Do not lie to me, Sir! You think I cannot tell from the rackets?!” she screamed at him unreasonably causing the household members wise to retreat at safe distance. Husband realized Wife shaking with anger and shivering in fear, “Madame, please! Cool it, remember your delicate condition!”
    “Did. You. Remember. Me. When. Fighting. With. Him?!” came the wrathful message.
    “I wasn't...! He the.... !! We just.... Sorry, Madame, Sorry!!! I'm so Sorry, alright!!!! Sorry!!!!!

    Just like it came, the fury went off once he apologized profusely. Really, pregnant woman basically unpredictable and emotionally unstable. Now resulting something else altogether “Are you hurt?”
    “No”
    “So whats that all about?”
    “Exercise” for second time.
    “Don't you boys ever grow up?!” Ying Ying practically sounded and Duan Yu mentally counted to repeat “Sorry, Madame” for forth, no wait one two three four... fifth times and she sighed, “I didn't mean to scold you, Sir”
    “I know, Madame and I understand, perfectly” he replied patiently to which she closed in then and hugged him tightly. The latter returned gesture and across space, saw her Attendants winked at his male attribute while their Servants saluted him for demonstrating efficacy.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “From where you know his name, and from whom you heard about him?”
    “Does it matter, Father?”
    Yang Guo

    As Lord of The Kingdom, he fears none but problem is, the latter his Sire who sorely pissed off at himself for checking details on the other man. Yang Xiao's temper known to be fast like Yang Kang's, whose bark worse than bite but unlike Steward Yang, the former ferocity known to be deadly like Lord Yang himself, if provoked. Presently, Senior Yang didn't blast Junior Yang which makes situation potentially hostile and circumstance possibly discordant. Their confrontation inevitably volatile, if not fatal.

    “From a passing acquaintance. Gongsun Zhi is dead, Father” At this point, honesty the best policy.
    “Good riddance then”
    “Father!” Yang Guo burst out and shot strongly, “Doubtless, he Non Native and wrongly trespassed but after Reform, rightful Subject of Kingdom and whats more, Mother's deceased acquaintance! Whatever between you and him.... why?! Why, reduced his status to a Fugitive?!! Why sparing man only to oppress rest of his life?!!!”
    “If Man single and unattached, why not romancing Girl freely instead of conducting it in secret? If Love truly noble and really honorable, why deceived Parents and hoodwinked Families plus misleading All?”

    The Lord opened his mouth, but blood chilled and skin crawled. Yang Xiao said straight into his son's eyes and went on without mincing word, each like a blow to Yang Guo's face, “I understood Hua Mulan defending her peoples but Gongsun Zhi different story. Admittedly, I didn't play Gentleman but then again, wasn't Invader who came rampaging collecting pool of Kingdom's blood or Trespasser that went berserk in mood for killing spree, first place. True, in her eyes, me a Villain and according to minds, I the Big. Bad. Wolf. Alright, your Grandfather spoiled myself rotten and I confessed am Roguish during hormonal years, but never Scoundrel Scion of Yangs or Cheating Partner to Any or Evil Person by Birth. If Yang Xiao heartless Lord of Kingdom and merciless Rival in Love, Gongsun Zhi likely maimed, according to Tribal Rules and definitely mauled, in the Primitive Ways. My sparing of him Not because pretending good Ruler front of everyone or playing compassionate Leader showing to everybody only became cruel Bastard next from behind But. Selfishly. Protecting. Hua Mulan. Alone and Doing. Best. Shielding. Her. So despise me if you must. Honestly, been living with your Mother's hidden prejudice and dealing with entire Generation's negative impression for decades, frankly don't give a damn about my lord's open antipathy and unfilial being from now on”

    Yang Xiao finished speaking and turned around, but Yang Guo suddenly in front of him and before Senior Yang could snap Junior's head off, “Forgive me, Father. I forget myself” the Guy did more than apologize, but his Sire would not have Ruler and Leader of Kingdom kneeling so he stopped the latter by voicing firmly “No, Guo er, no”
    “Father...”
    “The Lord of Kingdom bows to none, remember that” came the quiet reminder.
    “But...” Yang Guo began remorsefully, only to have Yang Xiao cut in steadily, “You are forgiven, Son. You did not forget yourself, merely delivering opinion and just displaying righteousness”
    Father” came the soft plea and his old man discloses “Fair or foul, I meant keeping and guarding my lady well. You did the same on Yan er, didn't you? Hua Mulan's folly different from Wang Yuyan's crime, yet similar escapade that challenging and arousing. On our part, acted politically instead of carrying out romantically. Not ideally right, but neither sinfully wrong. As for Gongsun Zhi, I didn't reduced his status, nor oppressed the man. It was his Betrothed whom he also kept many in the dark, that spill the Beans after I took the Chieftain Daughter away. Since we at it, I brief you once and all. Better from my own lips into your ears than my lord listening and hearing from miscellaneous mouths. The Wench as traitorous as himself, promised me not to expose that Wretch but then again certainly nettled and understandably vengeful. She went on providing sworn witnesses and producing intimate tokens. The majority Tribesmen, related to her angrily voted for Punishment and even his Clans, took opportunity seizing Domination, explicitly demanded Execution. Readying for Marriage and awaiting the Wedding when I received tidings and immediately asked your Grandfather to stop the Chieftain Son's Humiliation. His family, learned fresh deception and suffered more embarrassment, plus further slapped by Kingdom's Edict decided enough is enough, stripped Inheritance and issued Banishment. It was an Internal Affair and the Infernal Matter neither known to Palace nor spread throughout Kingdom. Reason why I snatched your mother's letters and tampered her every Correspondences, Main purpose destroying Files and burning Documents. Truth always hurt and fact I do not want her, her... her.... her...., Hell! (cursing heatedly before continuing flatly) Although I never pitied Gongsun Zhi genuinely nevertheless been watching him charitably. How else he to survive out there, alone? Abandoned by Kins and Homeless for years, one bound having adversity if not facing enemy. After Reform, indeed Subject of Kingdom so I have you know now he never went hungry or in the cold. Got means and sources to tab the man. Bear in mind, myself cannot do everything or looking after him everyday because even yourself said, ruling The Kingdom is not an easy job, while reigning effectively no simple task. Years back, lost track of him and despite my continuous search, zero report until you mentioned his name recently”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    ....Your father gave me to maintain and for upkeep Wudang in those early and struggling day, frugal time during expanding.....”

    Holding the Jiangnan Seal in hand, his Lordship eyed it gladly yet sadly, fingered fondly also regrettably. Yang Guo knew himself equaling and rivaling Yang Xiao when comes competency and integrity but realized then and there, failed to surpass the latter's outstanding merit. Well, the Lord is Generous, as generous as can be but somehow deficient in a sense. Benign too, but nothing distinguished compared to own old man. His thought on the Homeless and the Helpless? He wasn't negligent or being careless but ah, downright lacking! Wisdom? Nil, duh!

    “.....Your father trying to protect her.... If your mother didn't marry your father.....”

    Even an Outsider aware and understood his Predecessor's virtues, so why as a Son he ruddy foolish and as the Descendant he bloody stupid?!

    ... Gongsun Zhi likely maimed... definitely mauled..... received tidings and immediately asked your Grandfather to stop the Chieftain Son's Humiliation.....”

    Indeed, Yang Xiao not only pardoning the other man of his wrongdoings but lenient towards the latter as well.

    “.... How else he to survive out there, alone .... After Reform, indeed Subject of Kingdom.... I have you know he went never hungry or in the cold...

    Hah, the blundering accuse and aye, what a guilt!

    “... Honestly, been living with your Mother's hidden prejudice and dealing with entire Generation's negative impression for decades, frankly don't give a damn about my lord's open antipathy and unfilial being from now on....”

    “Father...” he uttered miserably, but the harm is done. Yang Xiao willing forgive and would forget, but could Yang Guo do same on himself for sounding his Sire rudely and wounding the latter deeply?

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Are you alright, my lord?” Hua Mulan asked her husband.
    “Fine, my lady. Just tired”
    “Tired? What did you do?”
    “Nothing. Am old man, remember?”
    “What are you talking about, my lord?”

    Yang Xiao tried to soothe his wife, but why is she fading while A Zhi and A Zhu are vanishing. Then, several voices echoed at close, “My Lord!” which himself failed to register anything after that.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Yang Guo returned late and found Yuyan waiting. Her Ladyship saw his Lordship's gloomy mood and noticed the brooding air, has common sense not to distract the man when as such. Even attendants retired quietly and maids retreated silently, without being dismissed. Before the couple able to communicate, his Parents' trusted messenger rushed in breathlessly “M..y l..ord!!”
    “What? Speak!”
    Your F...Father, S..Stroke!!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Father!” his Lordship charged right into the Chamber, followed by her Ladyship who appeared with the accompanying maids.
    “Guo er!” Lady Hua called out and Yang Guo who as panic as her, “Mother! How's father?! Mother, is he alright?! Wh...?!!” he tried going on but simply failed, at the same time struggling speech as though he the one suffering Stroke.
    “My lord” Yuyan reached out to pacify the man and his mother too, “My lady” The situation didn't improve with the Steward racing in together with his Parents but Lady Zhao is absent, whose own condition excusable.
    “Uncle... ?!”
    “Brother...?!”
    “How...?!”

    Everyone talking frantically but none answering. The Physicians stepped out unexpectedly and everybody unprepared when one of them expressively put a finger across his lips, “Sssshhhh....!” Not a movement heard after that and then, the soft and weak muttering “..I'm fine..” The Family reacted as one, “Father...!” Yang Guo jerked while Hua Mulan gasped “My lord...!”
    “Brother....!” The couple echoed.
    “Uncle....!” Yang Kang mouthed.
    “Physicians, how his Lordship's father?” Yuyan's question calmly rose above their discomposed voices.
    “A mild attack, perhaps my lords and my ladies to see him tomorrow”
    “He to rest and we monitor closely”
    “We will attend him overnight and shall notify at once if anything”
    “We do our best, if not my lords and my ladies can have our heads”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Sir, is something on my face, or somewhat wrong with the appearance?”
    “No”
    “Then why you kept staring at me?”

    As a matter of fat, men spied her so blatantly and women eyed her very venomously that Huang Rong wanted to scream. With his increasing possessiveness, Star Deity needed venting out, if not lashing aloud and she did it conveniently. The couple alone in one of the dining chambers, reserved only for upper classes as there no free place and empty spot at the common eating area. All tables are taken and they have to wait until there availability. Guo Jing requested privacy then and despite their plain front, the Proprietor sensing Man's noble presence and smelling wealthy essence. Not stereotyping, but standard knowledge and experience wise that only the Rich having such Spouse or the Titled owning exquisite Companion.

    “You are very beautiful, do you know that?” Guo Jing said deliberately to which she responded tartly “Her Ladyship ten times more beautiful, why didn't you staring then?”
    “There no greater beauty, only individual one. Am not a guy leering at every gorgeous woman or hankering every lovely lady but is watching and just looking after what is mine”

    He spoke neutrally and she shivered naturally. For split second, she imagine face to face with.... ? when “Rong er?” breaking the lurking spell.
    “How much further...?” she blurted and gulped, “...I mean, how many days...?”
    “A week or so. We should reach Destination day or two, before Winter. My dear, are you alright?” came his warm address and Huang Rong felt unnecessary heat.
    “Err... fine... traveling... hectic... slightly uhm, exhausted...” came her inadequate response, to which the Premier said attentively, “Then we stop here for today”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Guo er, not your fault. When one into advancing years, these things happened” Yang Xiao remained abed but is sitting up leaning against the headboard. Father and Son alone, after Lady Hua retired with rest of family members. After countless entreaty from the Gentlemen and endless request by the Ladies, Wife only yielded when Husband addressed his concern on her own health.

    “But I'm the Culprit in first place”
    “All of us Culprit in first place at one point or another, along with nonsenses and consequences” came the dismissive tone and after a momentary pause, his Lordship's father continued distantly “What goes round, comes round”
    “Father?”
    “I caused lot of grief to your grandfather and constantly upsetting your grandmother, also rebelling against the Palace, you know...” but is interrupted by the Lord Yang who said “Father, please don't....” hurriedly, in order not to aggravate his Sire. However the latter simply waved it away telling “Fast one... We argued often, your Grandfather and I.... and quarreled almost on everything.... from small pastimes to major discussions... despite that, our relationship cordial, because am Firstborn also Favorite, which pleasing my mother and irking his concubines while vexing the step siblings but that another tale.... He Arranged my Marriage, to secure Bloodline like what his own Father did to him.... I Balked such Order, as Mother took Side and Palace tried be Funny, I ran away to Wudang, so tranquil and very secluded, just nice Retreat for me pressured into Matrimony and stressed into Breeding... At my age and in that period, preferred to flirt freely and being happy bachelor - first, rather than settling down only regretting commitment and indulging affairs – later, you see.... While there, thinking to become Hermit like Feng. Well, I have two legitimate brothers, and they can always taking over legally and respectively, can't they? During my truancy, Father got ill – whether he feigning or not.... Anyway, still refused to go home and at loggerheads with Feng when the fellow nagged and nagged. All I wanted – Meditating in peace and all He did – Nagging night and day! Come to think of it, that Hermit damn annoying, but because he martially accomplished I didn't dare to smack him.... (Yang Xiao scowled and Yang Guo grinned).... Then, Invading Episode and my Brother your Uncle send private Missive stating family having Heart Attack while whole Palace in Mess. Of course, he wrote detailedly yet same time, The Black Sheep exaggerating all. Feng's nagging turned bloody lecturing. Without thinking I punched him and he shut up straightaway. Hmm, should done it earlier eh? (Yang Xiao smirked at Yang Guo who smiled).... Packed my stuff and left in huff. Returned to palace and rode out again, for Battle intending hacking that Chieftain Son's head off for troubling my Contemplation and trespassing The Kingdom but imagine Shock seeing a Girl cracking Whip....” a momentarily pause again, before continuing subsequently, if not fluently “.... Guo er, there no right or wrong when comes to Feud - all involved at fault... Threats uncontrollable and Retaliations unrestrained.... Unavoidable but Preventable, so chose short cut by suggesting Reform to end Conflict... The Kingdom being Strongest Power, can unite struggling Tribes and deal with minor Natives... However, Event soon shifted focus and centered mainly on Proposal.... I didn't mean to force your Mother becoming my wife or coveting another man's bride... Initially, was backing off because priority as Peacemaker not seeking Matrimony but middle of Chaos, discovered Treachery and scheme grew Personal.... Meantime, her Folly stirred my Fury.... her Refusal fueled my Rage.... her Crime ignited my Vice.... her Exploit sealed my Victory... I won the Game applying dirtiest strategy, using ugliest tactic .....” Yang Xiao stopped for breath and Yang Guo reached out consolingly, “Father...”
    “The Chieftain Daughter saw no other alternative but submit, or sacrifice.. (the man's lips curled sardonically but his tone dignified instead of disdainful) I wasn't proud as third Party or fond of string Pulling but then again she unwittingly took enough Kingdom's blood to drown her. Whether me forming Triangle or not, already hefty Price for Her head while His being wanted, Dead or Alive. Plus, Hua Mulan's cross dressing and Gongsun Zhi's two timing were simply... oh, Bollocks” scoffing at last.
    “You did the right thing. Most importantly no more life lost, no more blood spilled. And she better off with you, exempted being ill-fated while Gongsun Zhi somehow lucky and somewhat fortunate, considered his duplicity. On happier note, Father fell in Love and Mother reciprocates with Time. Perhaps, pre-destined”
    “Ah, but have you ever wonder why you no other sibling?”
    “Err, nay... I don't want to know!” Yang Guo spoke quickly and shook his head rapidly, close to protest, Your intimate details none my business!! Eww...!!!
    “Hey lad, what are you thinking?”
    “Nothing! Nothing at all!” the latter retorted curtly as the color heightened uncomfortably.
    “Your Father was young, during our early union and your Mother suffered harassment, once upon a time. Lesson harmful while Result costly. I learned my mistake and discovered damage too late” revelation came this way and too much of information causing his Lordship to command abruptly, “Enough!”
    “Well, finish anyway” Yang Xiao shrugged then candidly “I dare say your lifestyle far sensational than Predecessors and more scandalous than Ancestors, Son. Despite nicknamed Big Bad Wolf or A Charming Rogue for the matter, myself at least never into compromising or cohabiting before Matrimony”

    Yang Guo aware Yang Xiao getting back at himself but since the Stroke, Lord Yang schooled to hold tongue. Neither he a man discussing sex life, nor lack of it with own Father, or with anyone else on that issue. At same time, from Sire's Book and Latter's Record, his Lordship gaining value aplenty on Magnanimity and receiving chapter anew about Morality.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Yang Xiao slowly but steadily recuperating. The First Family and Duan Yu together with his wife, rejoiced. Hua Mulan attended her husband and their coupling or bickering, depending on opinion, entertaining the spectators, especially Yuyan and Zhao Min. Sometimes too, even the ever sensible Ying Ying cracked up along with the two, amusing the Gentlemen and others. Meanwhile, Rests and Guests got winds of the Incident but beyond that, Origin of Attack remained unknown. Not even Hua Mulan aware of what passed between Father and Son. Eyes on wall that saw and Ears of place that heard, were tight lipped and Sources divulged nothing. Gossiping prudently and rumormongering aside, West Household most loyal Inhabitants and very discreet Residents. Due Protocol and Procedure, Members and Subjects are scheduled to visit via Notice while Guests and Visitors, able paying their courtesy through Appointment. The Duans usually joining in upon Request but when came to certain foreign Prince or Princes' presence, they are absent.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “My lord” Yuyan addressed one morning, and Yang Guo eyed her as though already aware what coming. Since her Ladyship spoken so, his Lordship greeted in response, “My lady”
    “I...” she stopped, a part of her guilty for pleading excuse but on other hand, been waiting and looking forward, to this day.
    “Elder Huang coming with the kids, correct?” The Lord Yang queried mildly and was answered hesitantly, “Err yes, I uhm...”
    “We shall accompany my Father briefly then, for I will join my lady meeting Huang Yaoshi and seeing the Children. The old fella is irritable, but your sake I tolerate him whereas the siblings are adorable, and myself yearn for such company”

    Is is her, or the man at hinting stage? So, what he expects to hear??

    Sorry my lord, may live to marry you but might not last to carry Heir of Kingdom, let alone giving birth to your Spare.

    “My lady?” at his Lordship's voice and touch, startled her Ladyship, who jumped “Huh?”
    “Are you alright?” came the careful tone and Yuyan registered his watchfulness “Yeah”
    “Sure?”
    “Fine, my lord”

    As the couple on their way, Divine Fairy wondered like Star Deity pondered but different take. Unlike Lady Huang who speculating, Lady Wang came predicting. Strangely, her Ladyship doesn't mind at all, if the Lord of Kingdom taking Dragon Girl as Second Wife or Next Consort, so long she Wang Yuyan is First. Doubtlessly catty again but come on, a woman's thing, folks!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Thankfully, the meeting quite enjoyable and became rather fun with additional family and expanding party. The little girl winning maternal hearts and impressing expectant mothers while the boy's martial skill achievement and mighty young feat, putting three Grownups to shame. Huang Yaoshi ready to gloat... “They my Disciples!”.... but catching her Ladyship's eye, voluntarily shut his mouth. When the siblings combined talents and managed successfully to outwit these adults in their games, Old Heretic proud and about to brag... “Look who's Teacher!”... when spotting his Lordship's glare and wisely swallowed the word. Then, Steward Yang who yet to name their date. Admittedly, he too old to pit anymore so better not reminding and less provoking the latter. Huang Yaoshi and Yideng never crossed sword, or ever clashing word so no point starts with Master Duan. As for Lord Yang, well they already Cat and Dog in the beginning. Perhaps unwisely, but at least now reached level of civility, if not ground for mutuality. The hours grew late so the Healer signaled the kids and they obeyed instantly causing Yuyan to protest and proffering “No! Elder, can't you stay here with them? Winter is coming and cold out there!” without seeking the Lord's permission. All chose to overlook the Bride's aberration.

    “I have own place and these children got home”
    “But going to Snow anytime!”
    “Don't worry my lady, for I manage and they make it”

    Huang Yaoshi will not stay and Yang Guo shall not impose but “Elder, come back in Spring and please bring them along”

    An Order together with an Invitation, and the old man bowed ceremoniously. See, he does know how to behave befittingly now and then, “As you wish, my lord”
    “We both wishing it, Elder” came formality of address and the meaningful nod.

    When their eyes met and understanding passed between them. Not hard or difficult for the two sharing one mind or exchanging unspoken thought, then and there because these men loving and treasuring same woman. All said and done, they eventually parted company. Days later, drops of whites hitting roof and landing flat, meaning Winter finally came. Last one, Kingdom at War but this year, Kingdom on Holiday.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “After passing this Valley, we reach my Teacher's resting place. Meanwhile we take break here” Guo Jing remarked to Huang Rong who just nodded. His arms went up to bring her down. As her numb feet touching ground, she failed to stand and forced to lean suddenly against the husband. By doing so, she startled him and upsetting their horse. It neighed aggressively but not wildly, and quick thinking Guo Jing pulled his wife out of danger, and the move unbalanced both. They fell and Man covered his Consort first before rolling to safety. Luckily, the beast is tame and the couple retreated enough to catch their breath. While they at it, a female being stepped out in full view and Star Deity missing beat and never regained it, so to speak. Guo Jing is alerted but the latter posed no alarm, neither closing in. Since this is the Open, one must greet the other or vice versa. However, before he could open his mouth, “Well, well....! Hello, hello....!! Hi hi, Star Deity Huang Rong always Star Deity Huang Rong, despite Ugly Hag once upon a time, hi hi...!!!”

    Not conventional speech, nor polite compliment. It doesn't take a genius to figure out she member of Yin Realm and non Native of Kingdom.

    “Nothing to say? Forgotten me so fast, your sect sister Mei Chaofeng? Hey, we used to be Fellow Realm and Star Member, why stranger so soon? Tst.. tst...!”

    Guo Jing glanced at Huang Rong who lost all colors and missing all signs. Seems breathless too, so unlike encountering Ou Yang Feng, who surprisingly appeared to be better Foe than this Existence, “Rong er” When she remained the same, he snapped at their unwelcome company “Go away! My wife no longer belongs to Star Sect, or Yin Realm!!” When the latter surprised then hesitating, continued icily “I didn't give face to her highness the Princess Yaoyue so don't push your luck, Miss!!!”

    Mei Chaofeng aware few instances, but not following episodes. Now their discord deep and past clash simply great. Indeed, so much evil dealings and too many bad bloods, in between for spite. She backing off since unable to injure Her physically but decided to attack verbally. After all, sheer jealousy equal to universal resentment, right?

    “Hey Mister, I knew Star Deity since we were little tots... Let me tell your Wife in love with another who caused her downfall in first place and ended up lowliest creature, crappiest being.... hey, disgusting Traitor of Yin, cheap Fugitive in Kingdom.... Ha ha ha, you silly and foolish man, allow me to put she a kept woman playing the Mistress in return for Offer and Protection... Ha ha ha!!!”

    After informing maliciously and saying coarsely, she retreated gleefully. Now if the latter knows he's that man, onslaught more abusive and definitely fouler, than this evil communication. So Huang Rong is fortunate that Mei Chaofeng is ignorant yet unfortunately for Star Deity, a tongue can cuts deeper than the sword and in their case, these words ten times more poisonous than all Star Sect's venoms combined.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Honestly the Vicious Cycle never ends and Huang Rong suffers Humiliation afresh. Star Deity hits bottom hard before, although second time not as painful as the first nevertheless wounding.

    The Ultimate Joke and Almighty Good Laugh...

    Frankly Guo Jing stumped, so much so that failed to retaliate against fashion and insult hurled at them. At same time, he got all answers to his unasked questions.

    So reasons why Abandonment and her Remoteness...

    The moment passed and Man called quietly, “Rong er” only to have deep silence as reply. He repeated loudly, “Rong er!”
    “Are we making a move now?” came the Lady Huang's toneless response.

    Alright, she doesn't want to talk about it and come to think properly he isn't ready to confront their Past which involving himself but was ignorant until now. The Premier vowed to deal with it but neither time nor place. Guo Jing knew, already too late but then again, better than never.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    On the way, the Lady Huang neither this nor that and the Lord Guo doesn't know feeling what. Their journey much delayed due encounter and her decline. However the couple reached Destination exactly on Winter Day. First thing first, and that is preparation to mark respects. Guo Jing gave her the cup and Huang Rong drank it's content.

    “Rong er!”
    “What?”
    “You shouldn't drink it!”
    “Why not?”
    “The cup meant for my Teacher!”
    “Huh, where is he?”

    He opened his mouth and seeing her eyes darting here confusedly and there curiously, almost burst out laughing when he heard cracking. Aside from them, there nobody else here, right? Besides, no one knew this place and if there is, not easy finding entrance or can simply accessing here.

    “My lord, I heard Dugu Qiubai chuckling”
    “Rong er, my Teacher is dead!”
    “His Ghost”
    “Nonsense!!”
    “Hmm..., then why the cup? And why scolded me drinking?”
    “Err....”

    There goes the cracking again, and Guo Jing started to get paranoid, “My lord?”
    “Rong er, take my cup and gently served it here”
    “Why want to waste...?” she began only to have he begged so, “Please my lady, just do it!” and relieved when duly done. He took back the cup from her hand, and himself performed same. Once over, his sense of unease refused to go away so before off to explore, solicitously “Are you tired?”
    “Bit”
    “Why don't my lady rest and try slumber?”
    “Alright”
    “Cold?”
    “No”
    “Could be, by night falls. Come, I would see to your comfort”

    @@@@@@@@@@@

    After his Consort settling warmly, the Premier waited on patiently until she sleeping peacefully before moving away. His feeling growing stronger and Man checking every corner. As Guo Jing venturing in further, instinct registered Presence and indeed an Apparition but when he turned sharply and eyed around swiftly, there misty breezes and only empty spaces. Now he must imagine it, mustn't he, considering the barren atmosphere and lifeless site. About to explore more, for memory sake and sought private refuge, when the form of Dugu Qiubai loomed like an Immortal, before his very own disbelieving eyes.

    “Teacher!” He croaked. No, not croaked but bellowed, actually.

    I like your bride. She lovely and lively, matching your clueless self and corresponding your wooden piece ..... Dugu Qiubai didn't open his mouth but Guo Jing heard it. Is that what called, Spirit Talk? But how...??

    Jing er, thank you for the filial Cup of Tea. Am fulfilled and now complete. Still lingered because of it, but be gone soon for good....

    Even the speaking became Spiritual. Guo Jing would like to response, only man could not muster any after bellowing earlier.

    I wish you happy and I bless her well. Union fruitful until the End....

    Meeting the deceased Solitude Swordsman and seeing his late Teacher again, already robbed Man of Voice and Wit so this befitting line yet such phantom speech, powerfully shook his Conscience. As Lord Guo stood mute and frozen, the ancient image and divine vision of Dugu Qiubai fades away, like Soul departing for Eternity. His Teacher not best example of Virtue but the latter an Enigma in own Right. The Premier never considered his deed or ever figured out act but Realization came forcefully and Thought unstoppable now.

    Rape....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Winter is cold, as cold as any snowing Season but Kingdom spend It warmly thanks to System and Order, Administration and Management. The Population, regardless rich Peoples or poor Natives, sleeping eating coping well, if not faring best. True, no Reign known to be absolutely perfect but the Yangs decent Rulers and liberal Lords, since day one taking Power. Vagrants are not Beggars, neither homeless Wanderers the society's problem nor solitary Roamers a distressing case. Charitable Institutions sufficiently established, funded via Palace Income and Social Organizations fairly scattered, opened by District Treasury. Unlike neighboring lands where there unrest, unstability or unrealiability and distant realms that never last peacefully or impressively, the Kingdom's Leaders capable and Lineage creditable. For decades, they continued to produce Generation of worthy Gentlemen and legitimate Children. In recent years after Yang Xiao's victory and undertaking success, Kingdom improved and flourished, making it most grandest Region throughout Universe and far richest Territory in History. Under Yang Guo's regime and quality development, Standard of Living advanced rapidly where local trades continue to prosper, due booming demands while Status of Economy lucrative, through foreign deals and financial pacts. In short, The Kingdom heading forward New Era and ushering towards Golden Age.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    One snowy but cozy evening, three couples spend the winter hours and sharing lazy periods together. Yang Guo and Yang Kang played an engaging game of chess, Duan Yu their one and only spectator. The Ladies chatting on Motherhood and happily about Everything. During breaking time, the six grouped together. While gathering, something dropped accidentally so the owner of the fallen item bend to pick it up.

    “Flute!” Yuyan gaped in bewilderment and all eyes on herself who went to ask bemusedly, “Master Duan plays it well?”
    “Neither brilliantly nor expertly, my lady” Duan Yu replied modestly and revealed casually, “Passing interest when young, trial and error then. Continued so and so until now. Nothing Superior”
    “Never mind. How come never hearing you? Why Madam didn't mentioning it?”

    Before the man could think of an evasive answer or Ying Ying able to form a proper explanation, his Lordship said “Yu, it has been ages since I heard you at it”
    “Aye, would you serenaded us with your note?” The Steward agreed and requested.
    “Please, I love to hear you” Zhao Min spoke beseechingly.
    “Master Duan, do you know any Winter theme?” Her ladyship rushed to quiz.
    “Yes”
    “Good, play one!” she reacted ecstatically while male voices expressed “Wonderful, please do!”
    “Well Sir, what are you waiting for?” the wife sounded the husband, then added pointedly “I miss it too”

    Thus, Duan Yu played his flute and like the first time, the relaxing melody fulfilling others and stirring rests. Unlike the last however, the tone nothing sensual but beautifully from Start till Finish. The Flutist no Master of Instrument, but fluent and exhibits taste. Once done the Five enthusiastically respecting One rare talent, who is self trained and keenly appreciating Music, of his composition and own class.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    She didn't tell No...... Man argued with his inner Self...... Neither she said Yes...... Voice still unwilling to back down.....

    Shut Up!

    Damn. You.

    What to do now?

    Confess.

    I. Was. Drunk.

    Good.... Old.... Excuse....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “My lord”
    “Yeah?”
    “Are you alright?”
    “Yeah”

    It is snowing heavily outside but the couple spared from the cold. Despite lacking luxury, they have enough necessity. Meanwhile, Huang Rong puzzling what got into Guo Jing lately. Honestly, the latter disturbing and worrying herself. Meantime, the Premier pensively on until Star Deity couldn't meet his eyes and sought to move away.

    “My lady” The Lord Guo reached out to stop the Lady Huang who stammered, “A..aye?”
    “I am sorry” came the apology to which she blinked blankly, “Huh? For what?”
    “My rejection, your affliction and everything else, that happened in between” Time bringing out frankly, which Huang Rong chose not to reply and Guo Jing pressed on determinedly, “Is that reason why your total disregard on Affection and being resolutely indifference to Love?”

    Why can't Man just leave as it is?

    “Please answer me”
    “Nay, my lord” she responded vacuously and he accused gravely “Liar!” but refused from commenting crudely or repeating what Mei said.

    A brief silence and the slight pause, before Star Deity entreated bitterly “Please drop it, my lord”
    “No, ordeal on your side and fraud on my part, shall always between us so my lady please listen and will hear me...” All came spilling forward and as Lord Guo finishes with, “Both of us wanted you, but I have the upper hand while he made an error then wrong move....” Lady Huang shook “You..! You...!! You...!!!” but unable to voice on except finger pointing.
    “Am sorry amended the Document and cheating my lady back then but I never doubted feelings there, or ever attempted to ravish you. And suddenly his Highness.... ” admitting halfway and trailing off to prepare himself for her tirade but it never came for she fainting in slow motion. The Premier reached out speedily to prevent his Consort falling. Her being cold and the feature pale so Husband panicked, because scene something like Wife dropped Dead.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    As Lady Huang lain unconscious, Lord Guo detected a strange pulse and read an unusual beat which unfamiliar increasing Frantic. And despite his heating element warming her, the latter remained Cold. However, Paleness is replaced by Serenity. Is it him, or she... fuller? Meantime, the Premier doing calculation starting from Restricted Week. Then how about processing it beginning on Wedding Night?

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    At the Palace of Kingdom, a Winter Banquet honoring Royalties and entertaining Foreigners, also exhilarating Yang Xiao, who recovered fully to join Mass. During the Celebration, Female Aristocrats spoke out one by one, addressing her Ladyship “I heard Lady Wang and Lady Huang are Great Dancers!”
    “Ooo... I dearly love to see it!”
    “Yes but too bad, the other is inconveniently absent”
    “If one really good and truly marvellous, should have no problem showing it off – right, my lady?”

    The Hall hushed, not because of the unexpected words but at their unchecked manners. It came from fairer sexes and therefore feminine interactions, Yang Guo chose to ignore foreign grossness so The Court refrained from disapproving loud their alien culture. If language and conversation out of line or phrase or communication out of order, perhaps then Lord Yang stepping in to insert the authority. Meantime Kings, Princes and Princesses secretly delighted at the Ganging Up, anticipating themselves - For Anything. Envoys, Ambassadors and Diplomats decidedly watchful and privately awaiting outcome - Whatever Outcome. Meanwhile, Yuyan astutely reading silence as Courage and shrewdly perceiving quiet Support, answered coolly “Aye” After all, she and he Fated on day one and been Destined since. Then living and sleeping with him for nearly a year, bound noticing his habits if not knowing all. The latter's Mother as dedicated Teacher, her Ladyship learned as much as can be about Man and Kingdom, at fingertips. Counting Four Palace Ladies as Favorite Mentors, she studied Yang Guo's character of strengths plus spotting nature of weaknesses. Next, these Harem Women session for her is sex education, which introduce useful art to understand different males and produce helpful craft to gather their moods. Also judging Stranger or identify Personality, Other and Etcetera. Presently, the guy almost an open book now. As his Lordship eyed the Bride straight and soundlessly, the rests blinked between impatience and confusion.

    “Is my lady going to do it?” One of them currently demanded followed by “Shall we call in the Musicians?”
    “My lady alone or preferring troupe?”
    “Come on, don't keep us waiting!”

    An outright challenge from these Females and her Ladyship rose to accept it, halting all motions and ceasing the murmurs. Bearing proud and Countenance daring, “Master Duan, is your Flute in hand?” Her direct question startled hearers and baffled listeners, but it didn't faze Owner of The Name mentioned, who easily getting hint and no problem replying smoothly “Anytime and anywhere, at my lady's Leisure and Pleasure” Then stood gallantly and bowed formally, genuinely surprising own wife and pleasing his best friend, generally amaze Spectators including her Ladyship but the latter soon recollecting and grateful for such chivalrous deed, composedly with the flow. If Ying Ying and Yang Kang sharing chemistry due Affinity, then Yuyan and Duan Yu scoring compatibility through Hobby. Having familiar design and possessing similar interest, both Lady and Gentleman acted blithely. Since he seconded intrigue targetting their goal, she returned favor by praising “Excellent!" With wave of regal gesture, had Musician and Instrument at command. Spotting a familiar looking group and recognizing the eager staring maids, Yuyan clapped “Come!” confidently and They needed no prompting again. With Flutist readily at close and this Troupe neatly in place, her Ladyship simply announces “Dance is called Winter Sonata”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Huang Rong woke up, weak and daze but as long his consort very alive and still breathing, the agitated Guo Jing thanking Heaven and Earth, Star and Moon, Cave and Kingdom. The cause temporarily forgotten and husband gently held his wife, concernedly “My lady?”
    “Hmm...”
    “Are you... alright?”
    “Hmm... f.. fine...”
    “My lady hungry and thirsty?”
    “Y.. yes”
    “I get food and drink for you”

    The Lord Guo prepared quite lot for couple reasons. One, he sure she needed the intake very much. Two, to test her condition out. Three, himself starving and dehydrated too, because restless days and due sleepless nights. The moment Lady Huang saw it, sickened and protested “I am not hungry anymore”
    Eh?”
    “Thirsty”
    “Here” She took it only to throw up and he asked hurriedly, “My lady! Are you pregnant?!” sending Huang Rong forgo vomiting and blinking at Guo Jing's urgency who insisted “Well?!
    “I dunno”
    What?!
    “I. Don't. Know”
    Excuse me?!
    “Have you gone deaf, my lord?”
    “No, I heard you perfectly”
    “Daft?”

    Heck, surely she not ignorant or clueless how and where babies come from!!

    “My lady is pregnant” he said at last to which Huang Rong failed to react and Man unsure to express next. Usually positive news but their case, effect lacking and impression discouraging “Are you angry carrying my child?”
    “Nay”
    “But not glad either, hmm...?”
    “Please don't talk like that, my lord”
    “My lady....” he started only to have her mumbling “Please... food... hungry...”

    Inexperienced yet the guy successfully picking up few things from his two married friends and time to time witnessed certain changes or observed negative attitudes on their expecting ladies. Huang Rong not much different in Motherhood Aspect or Delicate Sight but Guo Jing suffers Angst, whether Pregnancy best gift or Fatherhood bad sign as Hua Wuque's previous statement “.... life on loan” and Ou Yang Feng's latest intelligence “....can die anytime” returned to haunt him. Without warning, Blood of Phoenix proceed to trouble the Premier Guo of Kingdom.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Duan Yu played the Piece splendidly while Yuyan together with her Dancers, managed to perform triumphantly despite non coordination. Because all parties sincerely united at Heart and faithfully connected in Mind, thus Harmony joined Synchrony opportunely if not gracefully, on common ground. Her Ladyship left the circle to pull at his Lordship, catching everyone off guard. Although been singled out deliberately, nevertheless Yang Guo sportingly let himself be led into Dance. The man boasting no dancing skill but able to carry off nicely if not elegantly, according to his Bride's style and complementing the latter's pattern. At turn of unexpected Pleasure and additional Fun, atmosphere became highly excitable and the Leisure mighty desirable. Yang Xiao first to raise vocal approval, followed by Hua Mulan moral boost. Almost immediately, even Yang Kang pretty merry and his Parents applauded blatantly while Zhao Min laughing gaily and Ying Ying smiling brightly. Next thing they knew, everybody cheering on and humorously along. As Note concluding and Dance came closing - whether happy or envy, like or not - many feelings grew fervent and most emotions ran deep. Majority hoping It never to finish but good thing eventually end. Final sound and last step, Hall further in rapture and Palace seized by euphoria, when Lord Yang and Lady Wang of Kingdom delivered more than Pose by sealing it with Kiss. Upon the public display, Romance took Center stage. Brief and chaste maybe but enough fueling Bliss to lasting marriages or pumping Thrill to decorous families example the Yangs and the Duans. Promoting Frenzy to Old and Young who rarely witnessed such Promise or open Courtship but Misery might be to some, meaning Aristocrats and Princesses alike. Amidst noises and whistles, Duan Yu's eyes came to rest abruptly on two Princes, who freely regarding him with mixture of awe and grudge. After that Pitting drama, their highnesses not much Nuisance to his wife whenever they happened crossing path with the Duo. One Crown Prince, glimpsing state of aloofness and aura of estrangement, smart to divert by toasting his comrades and at the latter. Kublai and Huodu, wise to follow Yeluqi's suit and since the Foreigners' effort for amicability, Duan Yu afford acknowledging Trio with polite nod.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    EPILOGUE (The Heir, The Spare and The Friend)

    PART TWO

    “You!” Zhou Zhiruo gasped fearfully.
    “You!!” Yang Kang snapped furiously.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Father!” the girls called out excitedly and unitedly but both ran separately towards respective Sire. At same time, three boys stepped out with own Parents.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Are you sure?”
    “Aye”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


    THE END Copyright Author 2009
    The Kingdom First Edition

    Last edited by author; 01-12-09 at 07:54 PM.

  5. #65
    Member baldy's Avatar
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    Please contimue the story. Thanks

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    Quote Originally Posted by baldy View Post
    Please contimue the story. Thanks
    Don't worry. TK already came to an end. Update took longer lately because my original idea for prequel (YX and HML) and sequel (GJ and YLQ) abandoned. Instead of TK I and TK II, the last few chapters divided into Part I and Part II. Editing and rewriting takes lot of time.

  7. #67
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    No problem take you time. Thanks for the story

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    CHAPTER 47 EPILOQUE (The Heir, The Spare and The Friend)


    PART TWO

    “Have I done or said something wrong, my lord?” Huang Rong asked Guo Jing who took long moment to reply “Nay” briefly. The Lord Guo back to silent mode and Lady Huang doesn't know whether good or bad. Before, Wife the reserved one but now Husband is strangely reticent, after playing Physician announcing Pregnancy. On her part, the discovery of his deception came too late, so to speak. Even if she known earlier, what then? Suing Premier Guo of The Kingdom? Herself never forgets that as Fugitive, lacking rights and being non Native, limited freedoms. Doubtless, there a Crown Prince of Western Desert who maybe convenient or big help but just too bad they only spoke fleetingly. She was rash while his Highness hasty. Presently, Star Deity almost laugh aloud.

    The Foreigner totally freaked out, which understandable. Accepted Yeluqi turned Coward but least expected Guo Jing played Crook. One is Royal born and a King in Waiting, the latter from Upper class if not Noble birth. The First supposed symbol of Worthiness and the Second believed to represent Rightfulness but both ended displaying Weaknesses. Men, hah!

    Her musing interrupted when he addresses suddenly, “Mei Chaofeng the one, right?”
    “H..huh?”
    “One Summer Night, she among those female intruders who trespassed Prime Residence and attacked my lady with a vicious blow before I came to Scene and finished them off. Sensed an Escapee but my chief Focus and the first Concern was You. Pill of Immortality saved your life and healed my lady then and there, but failed restoring Health against the Fatality, or recovering Element from her Assault. After that and between conversation, I remembered my lady mentioned a name beside the Princess Yaoyue. Never really considering before but is fully recalling now. Her highness first culprit and main harm but Mei Chaofeng worst enemy and true villain”
    “Err...” Must he always talk about Past? Can't they speak on something Better?
    “Rong er” Husband closes in.
    “Ye..yea... yeah?” Wife is nervous.
    Blood of Phoenix” he changed topic altogether.
    “Eh?” she blinked blankly.
    “Tell me about It, like you did Pill”
    “Blood's effect same with Pill's influence .... just different source... and opposite origin.... since we sharing small Drop..... Term split into two, Condition shortened by half.... Her Ladyship will die young while my life shall end anytime....”

    If Guo Jing kind of awful at lying, then Huang Rong sort of lousy in explaining. She ceased babbling when noticing he as White as Snow....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    She fell asleep, well pregnant mother tires very easily and slumbers a lot, you know. After making sure everything alright, he soundlessly left the chamber to venture into another. Time for.... heck, himself no idea but soon found a Figure waiting patiently and fanning serenely. Guo Jing neither startled nor baffled, after all the latter often showing up as he likes it and always popping out from nowhere, or somewhere.

    “Congratulation or Condolence?” wryest tone and bitterest question, which Hua Wu Que eyed the Premier straight but said nothing in reply, not even greeting.

    “Sorry” The Premier apologized contritely and the Guardian said quietly, “Guo Jing”
    “Why?
    “There is no why. Sometimes fated and everything predestined” the fan snapped close softly.
    “Hua Wuque”
    “What?
    “If I didn't reject in first place, she wouldn't be degraded and humiliated, would she?”
    “Deep inside, you knew so and long ago, did suspect it, didn't you?”
    Unfair...! I never...! She shouldn't....!! We weren't... didn't...!!!” Lord Guo burst miserably then but failed to utter further protest.
    “Look, if Star Deity wasn't abandoned, you couldn't come across her dire state, could you? And if the latter not at dying stage, there won't be any Association or such Connection among three of Us. Hate to repeat, but you Humans so emotional. Come on, since when Life going without pain or Love course running smoothly? Since at it, lets recap. The beginning, Girl made first move but Guy chose his infatuation. In between, Lesson and Maturity where She learned Mistake and was humbled while You realized Folly and genuinely regretted. Meantime, Indifference promotes Interest and Interest leads to Vice where Vice finds Privilege tempting. Next, a princely Rival posing Challenge. Then Information provoked Deception and Intervention sealed Intrigue. Since Past already History, my suggestion is leave Future setting right and settling all” After finished lecturing and concluded neutrally, started fanning himself again. The Premier's embarrassed self plus troubled mind began to wander temporarily by wondering whether necessary, since freezing outside and temperature icy here.

    “Nothing to do with season or the weather, just a heavenly habit” the fella explained pretty dryly and Guo Jing gave up pondering.
    “Anything else to complain?”

    With this Being around, the Lord Guo unable behaving normally, let alone thinking befittingly. The latter stood as stiff as tombstone and appeared like piece of wood, so the former announced solemnly “Well my lord, we are to sever tie forever”
    What?!” bewildered as usual, of course.
    “Our Bond has come to an end. Time saying final goodbye and bidding last farewell, Premier Guo Jing of The Kingdom” declaration serious and grave. While at it, singularly moving and touching too.

    “No...!” despite poor visage, Man managed vehemently but the Guardian of Heavenly Sword continued steadily, or revealed deliberately “Will miss our relationship and shall never forget you. My Fan as parting gift”

    Guo Jing greatly saddened and Hua Wuque is gone but... Wait! Where the Fan.....?! The Departure dazzling, producing distracting moment and his Retreat glaring, resulting something else. Guy's string of loose imagination or stream of wild thought, came to a screeching halt where mind went blank and brain gone dead. The latter's vision either suffered Hallucination... briefest glimpse of Childbirth.... or experienced Divination... shortest flash of Future....

    NOOOO!” the Premier shouted while Lady Huang crying or rather, screaming.... “AHHHH!!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Are you alright, my lady” Yang Guo asked one evening and Yuyan replied flatly, “Fine, my lord”
    “Sure?” the tone both careful and watchful so her Ladyship eyed his Lordship directly, “Yes, but why these questions, my lord?”
    “My lady seems off color, and the palace suspected something. Although my parents longs for it nevertheless couldn't help fidgeting such incident or early timing”

    Apart from Cold, she been uneasy because now Mid Winter progressing to End. Soon, Spring will come and their Wedding shall take place. Both Groom and Kingdom eagerly awaiting Day but Bride fretted that particular Date. Wang Yuyan knew Zhou Zhiruo would come exposing herself and shocking all. Oh surely, Yang Guo could tell Hazard too, if not reading Danger or sensing Peril. Uninvited Guest generally bothersome, if not menacing so just imagine Spooky Visitor from Hell. Regardless Beautiful Siren or Vile Creature, Sighting usually never prosperous while Meeting only spells disastrous. But word finally sunk in, her Ladyship frowned and consciously, “Palace suspect what? Your parents longs for what? What incident, what timing? My lord, what are you talking about?”
    “Speculation my lady might be pregnant” he said it mildly which she took in heatedly and retorted waspishly “I might!”

    However, man remained calm and herself noticed his visible change and the positive temper. Nothing drastic but lately, little by little Yang Guo improves a lot - domestically at least. Superiority and Austerity still there, but Meanness absent and pompousness gone.

    “Well, accident and miracle do happen. Scandalous but Incredible couple, aren't we?” the Lord Yang grinned and winked suddenly. Oh, so playful yet so true, considering their Union. Ah, suggestive yet sensitive, which rankled Yuyan unexpectedly and the latter shot recklessly “What makes you think is yours?!” Ops!

    His features darkened and the voice changed “That Old White Knight, physically aging and biologically failing, virility lacking and masculinity waning. Impregnating my lady not only illogical but laughable as well. None dares touching you, let alone bedding except Lord of Kingdom” Wow, feral points as proof and bare fangs all out! Ah, the famous saying A Leopard doesn't change its Spot. Example and Definition, standing and breathing right in front of her Ladyship. Better drop the conversation, before It turn provocation, “My lord should set Record straight by reassuring Relation and discouraging Speculation”

    Just then, Household Servants entered discreetly bringing red packages accompanied by Maids bearing bright parcels and Attendants carrying variety boxes. Temporarily diverted, the Lord flashes his brightest smile and showing off best spark, cheering these Staff and their Occupation generating so much ado. Meantime, the Bride having mixed feelings and going through sensations. The Crowds pleasing, yet suffocating. The Activities gratifying but just too sudden and Yuyan failed coping with Atmosphere. Again, Past and Present collides while Future....

    My lady!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Is her Ladyship pregnant?!” Hua Mulan demanded.
    Nay, my lady. Her Ladyship is not expecting”
    Are you sure?!” Yang Xiao pressed but instead of the Physician's answer, came his Lordship's reply “Aye, so please drop it, Ladies and Gentlemen”
    Guo er....” his concerned father tried to say something but seems to have change of mind.
    Yan er....” his worried mother called out amidst several whispers and few hushed voices, but Yuyan couldn't reply. Divine Fairy tries to keep awake only finding herself deeper in Slumber Land.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Well?”
    “My lord, her Ladyship outwardly healthy and mentally fine but within, physically weak as Mortal elements fading and bodily systems failing”
    “Meaning?”

    Meaning the Bride of Kingdom to expire anytime soon.... poor Physician dares not lift his eyes to meet the Lord, let alone passing that remark.

    “My lady is dying, isn't she?” Yang Guo didn't bellow, needn't to.
    “Please forgive me, my lord” the Physician knelt and head bowed low.
    “Rise” Lord Yang ordered and continued, “Can you tell how long?”
    “No my lord but have an alternative that may help sustaining her Ladyship. Whether good advice or bad idea, myself not very sure since beyond medical calls”
    “Speak”
    “Her Ladyship's condition similar to the Lady Huang's ailment. I gave opinion and the Lord Guo took my advice treating his Consort via attainment. Though transitory and only channeling, their achievement so far so good. Before her Ladyship entered Palace, beside unusual diets and rare herbs, Elder Huang healed your Bride using spiritual energy and through exceptional feat. My lord is martially accomplished too, perhaps....” the Physician trailed off and watched Man's countenance ranging from intelligence to hope. The former hurriedly cautioning the latter, “My lord, please bear in mind, depending on level and the individual, such process merely progressive but ineffective long run. Some diseases, Incurable despite Removed”

    Yang Guo didn't vent his lordly anger, or unleashing the ugly temper because himself already aware Yuyan shall not live long, just didn't expect Death calling or knocking, so soon. Sad but true so is unfair to take it on the fella who together with his fellow physicians, has been in the Yangs' Service for decades. The four are neither renowned Healers, nor boasted Fame but they did their duty well plus discretion and dedicated to profession without complain, all these years. His confidence in them varying but on other hand, believing and trusting each with own life. Come to think of it, Huang Yaoshi is Great but then again, the old man no Almighty either.

    “Thank you, Physician”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    In Dream Land, or at Heavenly Zone, the Meeting unwelcome to both. However, a Mortal standing irrefutably below that of an Immortal ranking. Thus the Bride nodded and greeted “Guardian” coolly. The latter acknowledged and addressed “Divide Fairy” aloofly. Cattiness aside and despite acrimony, neither starting Cat Fight. But on other hand, is there Feud to begin first place? Actually no but then again, Who the Source that spill the beans about White Demon? Often such intrusion, regardless Motive, is unacceptable if not despicable, to Party involved or Company concerned. But since history and for one deceasing, Truce best solution “I am ready”
    Your time is not up yet”
    I don't understand”
    Have you forgotten the Future? Or are you doubting my Vision?”

    Her Ladyship didn't answer so the Female Seer continued “Wang Yuyan, the final confrontation with Zhou Zhiruo is inevitable. You must deal with own Past, which outstanding while the Siren to face her Debt, long overdue”

    Like Lord Yang, the Guardian spoke as though reading line or copying phrase, straight from Book! If only Herself didn't exist, She and Him perfect couple in term of Status and Finesse. In other word, a Match made in Heaven. At that point, the scales fell from eyes and whatever feelings for other woman, from all to nil.

    Although unmerited nevertheless grateful for Blood of Phoenix and everything else Guardian meant generously towards Lord Yang, so Thank You before I forget again” without trace of bitterness.
    Consider those my Effort to offset our bad Account, Lady Wang” came reply minus hostility.

    Dragon Girl vanished suddenly and Yang Guo appeared unexpectedly, startling Yuyan who gasped....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Guo Jing raced into the chamber and ran towards Huang Rong who still crying, or screaming, as though having bad dream, if not suffering from nightmare, “My lady! My lady!!”

    The Lord Guo reached out instinctively and attempting to calm his consort. Soon the Lady Huang quietened down. The man then sat down beside her, “Are you alright?”
    “A..aye”
    “What the dream all about?”
    “I.. I wasn't dreaming”
    “Wasn't dreaming?!” husband gaped at wife, “But... but... but...!!” trying to figure next word or working on his appropriate line when the latter cutting in detachedly, “Remarriage if must or Concubinage if wish but my lord please raise and do care for our child, after I am gone”
    Rong er!”
    “I'm sure yourself knew from Ou Yang Feng, who at least sensing myself is dying. And just now, Hua Wuque hinting and pointing as much. His aura awakened me while the prophecy rather poignant”

    His first encounter, upsetting while their second distressing. Meeting the Heavenly Guardian overwhelming. Now conversation shattering and revelation devastating. The Lord Guo visibly stricken until Lady Huang calling and shaking, “My lord?” Her voice and touch triggered something within causing Man to crack, “No..! Nay..! Never...!” until she stopped him with a well deserved Smack! The deed neither overly harsh nor deliberately hard but produced enough sound reverberating throughout the chamber and ringing into their ears. You know, Guo Jing slapped Huang Rong once and both never thought she returning it remotely with a deadpan tone “I willing to excuse your misconduct and the misdeed but shall not forgive should my lord ignoring or neglecting our child”
    “I didn't mean to rape my lady! If only yourself saying no or protesting so, myself would have stop!”
    “Could you? Really??” came distant yet amused drawl, which temporarily astounding him. Their degree of angst turned considerable progress for jest “.....Err....” torment forgotten, honestly he entirely got sidetrack and frankly his grieving mind uncooperative. After all, away from Courtly duties and Political intrigues, the guy slow and clueless.
    “If comforting and reassuring, I have my lord know our child isn't Product of Rape”
    “All I want to know whether you love me, requiting a little or not at all. Insignificant for you but Important to me”
    “I did”
    “That past tense. But then again, deserved my lady's Scorn and earned your hatred, right? ”
    “Guo Jing, your Fairy Godfather Hua Wuque is right. Humans so emotional”

    Is it him, or she smirking? And mocking one at that! While at it, did she or didn't she, “Come again?”
    “Humans so emotional”
    “Before that?”
    “Your Fairy Godfather is right”
    My Fairy... ?! What the...!!” the guy spluttered, whether surprised or chagrined reaction, himself doesn't know and can't decide “Excuse me, never mind about Hua Wuque but Before. That
    “Before. That. What?”
    “Did you say my name?”
    “Eh?”
    “Did. You. Say. My. Name?”
    “Hmm, guess so. Erm, any problem?”

    He conceded she's good at playing Lamb acting Dumb tricking Wolf and deceiving Tiger.

    “You don't intend to answer my questions, do you?” Her husband sounded and Huang Rong candidly “What questions?”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Ahh...!” Her Ladyship jerked up and heard someone calling out at close, “My lady...” As Yuyan blinked blindly and confusedly, Yang Guo increased his level of energy. She felt strength returning and able to voice properly, “My lord...”

    His Lordship just smiled and merely nodded. Everything dawned to the Bride then and the latter sighed “I appreciate my lord's effort but will die anyway and shall expire anytime so please, stop wasting Energy and quit abusing Element”
    “You should know me better by now”
    “My life in the past, just too screwed up. Marrying this Spring, myself not only ruining yourself or rocking family members but what worst, damaging Kingdom hierarchy and destroying Yangs dynasty”
    “I understand my lady's fear but don't forget your husband is Lord of Kingdom, whose duty to look after everything. Neither Foreigner nor Neighbor allowed to harm Natives under my Rule, let alone Stranger trespassed Kingdom to accuse my Bride”
    “My lord completely missed out the point”
    “I aware the fact Sirens existed and the truth Vampires perpetuated. These Creatures been roaming Kingdom, undetected and I know these Existence survives by preying on my peoples. Even your nemesis remains at large and still haunting, if not hunting, my lady”

    Her Ladyship felt inadequate to reply and his Lordship went on reflecting and summarizing “Long before I met you, already working on solution to deal with Realm's bothersome beings and Zone's troublesome foes. That period, Love wasn't my agenda and War came distracting if not interrupting all. Whether we fated together or destined apart, such Threat merely an ongoing Responsibility for me to shoulder while the upcoming Menace just another Trial for me to bear. Seriously, nothing new but is perhaps Mandate. If possible, desire to vanquish Evil during my Reign. Couldn't wait tackling this Enemy and personally wouldn't mind showing off”

    “But my lord only a man, whereas she... she....” Yuyan stressed and Yang Guo declared “... fears The Dragon Saber”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    What?! You managed to summon the Dragon Saber?!!” Yang Kang stared at Qin Feng while Yang Guo processed Information quietly.
    Aye. Honestly, desperately wishing for safety than wanting anything else. Frankly, didn't expect the Weapon came to aid, or to be precise, Out protecting helpless peoples and rescuing innocent lives like us”
    How you wielded it?”
    Didn't touch it and don't think anyone could”

    The Steward Yang fell silent and Qin Feng shifted attention to Lord Yang who took over conversationally “Did the Lady Guardian turned up as well?”
    “The Attack was sudden and Scene too much chaos, my lord. Dragon Saber equally so amidst the grisly situation. Don't remember seeing or sighting Dragon Girl but since my lord brought up, pardon me for presuming or some consider it bragging - I think Weapon acting on freewill”

    But his Lordship sensed more and understood Quintessence of Weapon. Qin Feng both humble via self and noble through deed. The Dragon Saber granted Aid to Man whose spirit in Need, never Greed. If not mistaken, Qin Feng the First to survive the Weapon's power and Yang Guo believed himself Second to overcome It's force. The two may not be the best Paragon of male species but how many men whose Heart stays true to resist Temptation and Soul remains uncorrupted, despite excessive Influence? Bravely and successfully against Invincible Foe one thing but refusing and rejecting Dragon Saber different achievement altogether! If there indeed an Immortality Attainment, then they so called accomplishes it! Wouldn't it be fantastic and marvelous if.....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Her Ladyship refused commenting, basically understood his Lordship's connection if not the case. Just because they settled their differences with each other, doesn't quite mean bond between Man and Guardian over. Rather, new beginning and fresh circumstance for Yang Guo and Dragon Girl. At the same time, Lord Yang refrained addressing more and better explaining less. He unintentionally touched on Object or Subject practically taboo but the couple's tension simply abandoned and conveniently forgotten, special thanks to the Duans' friendly request and courtesy visit.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “You are not eating, my lord” Huang Rong eyed her husband.
    “I am not hungry. My lady please finishes it” Guo Jing gestured and added afterthought, “Our unborn needs it”
    “My lord is upset, also very unhappy” she said carefully.
    “The food, my lady” he replied evasively.

    Star Deity knew what caused the Premier's loss of appetite and fairly speaking the latter has liberty rejecting those days. A person regardless gender, is contemptible if both lecherous and treacherous but Guo Jing behaving neither. Nor teasing or flirting with opposite sex, not even Ren Ying Ying. Falling in Love and Out of Favor, own streaks and mistake doings, should blame none. Escaping Abuse from Yin Realm into Mercy of The Kingdom, only landed Destitute and being timely Rescued. While at Heavenly Zone, no Gateway for her either so after chain of Event ended up compensating Man's gesture. However, apart from flaws, Lord Guo still a Gentleman and the good husband. Also the saying Once Bitten Twice Shy aside, her Immunity to his Quality, is a woman's basic manner of Pride. She strikes back, fashion of speaking or to put simply, tit for tat. At this juncture, Life is short but the Love worthwhile somewhat soul-stirring and somehow soul-searching. Another saying goes like this, To err is Human.... so Guo Jing visibly jumped, when Huang Rong touching him instead of reaching food.

    “Let bygones be bygones, my lord. I never hated you. Those days, busy struggling to live on and fully concentrating to survive all while same time, just too troubled focusing or concerning matter of the Heart. Dunno about you peoples in The Kingdom, but we beings of Yin Realm, once means always and forever” she expected slow response but he behaved unpredictably quick and unbelievingly fast. Next thing Lady Huang knew, the Lord Guo hugging and kissing which eventual leads to... well, outside freezing temperature due heavy blizzard but inside pretty warm, if not sizzling hot.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Winter receding and Spring showing. Snow melted and Activities began while Businesses started. Places noisy and Streets busy, after Winter Holiday and Long Break. All minding own affairs or preparing the necessities, at same time readying and waiting for his Lordship's Nuptials day. Weeks before, the Premier decided safe and informed his Consort they are going Home. Huang Yaoshi and the siblings headed towards Capital. Also on their way, Zhang Sanfeng and many Pugilists who friendly with the Groom and other Associates close to the Yangs. If the Autumn Wedding saw Foreigners and Neighbors journeyed to enter Kingdom, then Spring Wedding witnessed Distant Subjects and Retired Members, Faraway Nobles and Outskirts Officers, proceeded to visit Palace. The Generals of Yangs too, left their respective Camp after securing Border. Even One from Netherzone, getting ready.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    First day of Spring and as the Wedding nears, Attendants rounding and Servants working, nonstop while Maids running here, doing daily chore and rushing there, carrying out bidding. Among all Households, Prime Residence least busy so when Lord Guo arrived with Lady Huang, the exhilaration upon the Return rivaling West's excitement and surpassing East's engagement. Glamorous than Northern occupation and Southern Household equally perked! After many screams, familiar bursts and feverish sounds of similar effect upon news and thrills, the ever efficient Qing er ordered this and that for their Master and Mistress while Zhong Ling hurriedly attended Guo Jing. Cheng Ying delightfully fussed Huang Rong. Later, as the Premier off reporting to his Lordship and the Steward, Trio accompanied their Mistress and Foursome indulged in chitchat until the Master's return.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Excuse me?” three voices echoed.
    My wife expecting”
    Congratulation!” Yang Kang first to say it.
    Wow, all our wives pregnant! Imagine that!!” Duan Yu next to speak but “Ahem, not all, my friend, not all” Yang Guo pointed out straight.
    Well, there is no need sound disappointed, is there, my lord?” the Friend remarked archly and the Steward laughing heartily “Right, ha ha ha!” at his cousin.
    Now now, Boys, enough” Guo Jing attempted to play Peacemaker.
    Boys?!” Duan Yu scowled.
    Guys, then” the Premier amended.
    Kids” his Lordship corrected, targeting two specifically.
    Oy!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “First Bow, to Heaven and Earth” Behind the veil, the Bride wanted to cry, No! but someone beside her gently nudged and herself just bowed. “Second Bow, to Parents and Elders” Another nudge, and soundlessly, Wang Yuyan complied for the second time. “Third Bow, as Husband and Wife” and her Ladyship thought, Doom!! but heard nothing and is still breathing, so going third and doing the last “....The Lord Yang and Lady Wang of The Kingdom”
    “HA HA HA, A DEMONESS GETTING MARRIED.....!”

    Screams, and Shocks. Alarms are raised immediately and Yuyan felt herself surrounded. There a gush of strong wind, her red veil lifted rudely as though being snatched away, and floating violently if not vilely, before shot viciously, to pieces. The next moment after next, her visions is blurred. Imagine middle of Chaos, or in a Riot. Overall, she couldn't make out anything!

    Courage, Divine Fairy, Courage....

    The Bride is startled, as startled as can be for it seems Dragon Girl spoke beside herself. Courage did return and so is Spirit, “SILENCE!

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Pugilists are alerted moment sensing Danger and registering Intrusion. They stayed together the way they united against Intruders or Enemies, during War and Adversity. Among Five Greats, only Huang Yaoshi is present but the old man kept low profile. His rescuing style, usually last minute. Zhang Sanfeng beside the First Family while Yang Kang stood with Guo Jing, as Main Defense together with The General of Yangs. Their top priority, Safety and Security.

    No stranger to Peril, Palace Nobles understood their duty during Alarm and Court Members knew their place if Furore. Although neither true Hero nor real Champion in any sense, nevertheless these Subjects are patriotic Peoples and loyal Natives of The Kingdom. Side by side with Guards and grouping along with the Troops, they did their part safeguarding Rests and performed job protecting Others. Duan Yu, close to Ying Ying and watchful of Huang Rong.

    SILENCE!

    The hall temporarily Quiet, upon the wrathful outburst but is broken by Yang Kang who stormed forward, drawing all eyes including the Trespasser's attention. The Steward not a man easily forgotten or simply being dismissed while Siren having no difficulty recognizing this handsome male and fiery one.

    “You!” Zhou Zhiruo gasped fearfully.
    “You!!” Yang Kang snapped furiously.
    “You!!!” Boyish voice and girlish tone cuts in abruptly, drawing more scrutinies “Remember us, Demoness!” to which Siren failed to reply and tried hard recalling. Really, her situation didn't turn out as planned or expected. Worst, accusation and statement, description and information, out after one another “Murderess, don't think I forgotten your Crimes!”
    “You and three others hunting Sister, then Four brutally attacking her One. Then viciously blowing us up, when Sister stepped in taking the savage blast!”
    “We ended up bleeding but her Ladyship scarred and injured, when Elder Huang came to our Rescue!”

    Peoples and Pugilists not stupid or blind. Skeptical and suspicious may be but Narration from the Pair convincing and the Steward's earlier allegation credible. As for the Foreigners, whatever resentment or confusion might be, they not foolish enough to side this Creature. Also, many remembered his Lordship mentioning her Ladyship scarred and injured, once upon a time. His recital corresponding Their elaboration if not entirely explaining Head to Tail.

    Zhou Zhiruo vanished unexpectedly but her retreat only serve threat to Wang Yuyan. The Drama became Trauma when Siren and Bride, in Showdown episode. The latter, beautiful and enchanting but the former, disfigured and unearthly. Suddenly, Behold....

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    If, a mythical Queen whose face launched a thousand Ships in War and the fictional Princess who stunned a thousand Army in Battle, then what about Bride of Kingdom?

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Thousand Swords alive but suddenly, Behold....

    The Unseen Power, immobilizing while the Invisible Force, monopolizing. Ears that heard first, now Hairs stood next. Motions froze and feelings spellbound, upon sighting the Dragon Saber, in the Groom's hand pointing straight at the Siren. None ever conquered the Weapon or known to win Its Wills, Lord Yang Guo first and only man, to succeed.

    Allegiance, Reverence, Obeisance....

    Dominating and Controlling, Sacred but Intimidating, Surreal yet Formidable. Imagine Almighty spoke from Above and Yang Guo carrying a Celestial Scepter or bearing the Supreme Ordinance. The Siren dropped to knee. Though none fell after her, majority are cowering.

    You!” Yang Guo hissed to Zhou Zhiruo, who flinched openly and trembling visibly, as though awaiting Beheading “How. Dare. You!” without raising vocal, but clearly rang within Palace walls and perhaps, beyond Cosmos layers “Evil members of Zones and foul beings of Realms – Saber as Punisher, Universe the Jury and Kingdom my Witness, Death for Incursion without Permission!

    Indisputably his Word is Law, meaning The Edict so Dragon Saber glowed and flashed, distant but distinct rumbling and it grew thunderous, giving the murderous impression of executing Lord Yang's Order. Like in Dream, all watched mutely as the Siren perishes before their eyes, but instead seeing red and smelling raw, the Weapon evanescences while the latter dematerializes. Although appear painless, those Heart in rightful place and one whose Conscience is Humane, nevertheless feeling pity and sensing agony. Sorry sight but such Invasion inexcusable and unpardonable while crashing The Wedding strictly wrong.

    How it began, thats how over. Brightness descended and All started to wake up, only to react agog at the Maiden in White who expresses “Congratulation” sincerely as though Nothing happened. To Pugilists and Foreigners, she is the Goddess like Being. To Yang Guo, she is Dragon Girl of course. Few Insiders believed a clandestine Lover and some Outsiders suspected the secret Mistress. But to Yuyan, she is his Guardian. Since already bury hatchet in Memory, why not Reality as well?

    “Thank you” came her graceful reply, amazing Man while their etherealness in turn, enthralling Mass.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Fourteen years later, two girls entered the Palace Shrine and after done at Main Site, they proceeded towards their mother's Resting Place. In a chamber, two Monuments side by side. The girls marked ceremony and paid respect together. They remained there to pass time, which happens to be their Favorite Retreat. While chatting and idling, several footsteps heard approaching. When two Gentlemen appeared, “Father!” the girls called out excitedly and unitedly but both ran separately towards respective Sire. At same time, three boys stepped out with own Parents. Two of them shared same features, are handsome teens and well built youths. But outstanding Presence, is the tallest and most eldest, Company.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Both Lady Huang and Lady Wang died at Childbirth. The Palace mourned their Death but The Yangs didn't lament the Birth, for Lady Zhao got Twin earlier – pair of healthy Siblings and handsome Boys. Once grieving Period over, the Lord secured Succession by announcing his nephews Yang Chan as Heir and declaring Yang Ming the Spare, of Kingdom.

    Neither Ruler, aged twenty five nor Premier at twenty two then, remarried despite family advice and political offer. The young Widowers, raised their daughter alone, after Court hours. Yang Guo is devoted Father while Guo Jing a committed Parent. As Leaders, dedicated the single Life fulfilling Role shouldering Responsibility but private Time reserved for their beloved Charge.

    Yang Kang fares better in Life and Love. The Steward mellowed with age and under domestic influence. Together with the matured Zhao Min, adores their Brood and cherishes the Niece, also cares for her Playmate. They have another son Yang Jian. Since his Lordship remained unwed and neither new Consort nor future Bride to inherit Title, Lady Zhao presiding as Mother of Kingdom by default.

    Ren Ying Ying gave Duan Yu a son, Zheng who formed fellowship with Chan and Ming. The Duans happy couple and close family. The Merchant and Wife later have two more daughters, whom they named Ziyan and Zirong, after the late Lady Wang and late Lady Huang respectively. Duan Zheng trained in Wudang instead of Shaolin while his Sisters under Emei Tutelage.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Ling er” Yang Guo acknowledged his daughter smilingly yet sadly. Yang Ling at fourteen is a divine replica of the late Wang Yuyan of Kingdom, who not only convoked Thousand Swords but evoked Dragon Saber as well. Or so the Pugilist Saying goes. Much sought after by Princes and desired by Kings and Sovereigns. But she only has eyes for Duan Zheng and often wishing him nearby instead of so faraway.
    “Shuang er” Guo Jing too, acknowledged his daughter and the expression not much different from his Lordship. Guo Shuang, slightly older and strongly mirrored the deceased Huang Rong of Yin Realm. Of mixed parentage and half blood, she not only attracting Royalty and fascinating Aristocracy but captivating Heir and bewitching Spare of Yangs as well. Problem is she prefers the Friend who so near yet so far.
    Zheng!” the girls reacted joyfully next and only addressing “Oh, Uncle Kang! Ah, Uncle Yu!” much much later, after few paternal and many deliberate, “Ahem”s!

    At seventeen, Duan Zheng is like a shining Knight. What he lacks in Status and Wealth, makes up by possessing his Mother's good looks and sensible charms, inheriting the Father's genuine traits and dashing airs. Though zero affluence and without influence, still a Merchant's son and is well educated, plus neat background. The lad smiled warmly and gestured politely, “Greetings, Ladies” as marking respect and also observing ceremony. Instead of imitating nobility or pretending gentility, he simply exemplify pugilism and naturally exhibiting heroism.

    “Where Yan er and Rong er?”
    “My sisters still at Mount Emei”
    “Are they coming to join us soon?”
    “Yes”
    “Oy, are we transparent or something?” Yang Ming, whose manner took after Zhao Min. Before the cousin sister could snap his twin brother's head off, Yang Chan whose nature resembling Lord Uncle but temper originating from Steward Father, told both Yang Ming and Yang Ling “Enough”

    The adults choosing blind eyes and turning deaf ears, moving away altogether so Duan Zheng said “Now, Ladies and Gentlemen, please cool it” easily, supported by Guo Shuang who has her Father's tendency and got the Mother's impulse “Right, say Peace!”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Please don't do this, my lord”
    “The Twin coming to age next Season and only befitting myself passing Power to yourself in order to hand It over to them when the right time comes”

    The Steward Yang glanced at the Premier Guo, for support but the latter kept quiet. Himself tired and wearied too but Authority non transferable. While at it, Lord Guo understood his Lordship's deep message and inner sentiment. With Structure shifting and the Hierarchy changing, post of Steward to remain vacant until official replacement. Himself decided silently then and there, once Yang Chan and Yang Ming ascending to Power, Guo Jing will resign and shall retire. Seeing no aid there, Yang Kang eyed their lifelong Acquaintance for help but Duan Yu never involved with Politic and refuses doing so now. Damn, no assistance here either.

    “Please reconsider, my lord”
    “Ling er coming to age soon and inhering the Jiangnan Estate. There is nothing else for me to reconsider”
    “Guo, are you retiring there with her after stepping down?”
    “No”
    “Glad you are staying back”
    “I am leaving, Gentlemen, for good”
    Excuse. Me!” his cousin spluttered agitatedly and one gestured to calm while the other seizing moment “Sorry to interrupt but where are you going, my lord, if don't mind me asking?”
    “Quenzhen”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Before Man left his Home and Palace, went to the Shrine paying final respects. Once done with filial piety, headed towards another site. Entering the chamber, he gently laid a single stalk as marking ceremony on one Monument. Approaching next, instead of repeating same process the latter performed deeds of retrieving something from that Sculpture. A small urn and carrying with him, completes the remaining tasks before taking off without second glance.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    Guo”
    Aye”
    Can I ask you something personal for the last time?”
    What is it, Kang?”
    Her Ladyship was the White Demon, wasn't it?”
    Why ask now?”

    Yang Kang has no answer to that and Yang Guo left without replying the question.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    “Are you sure?”
    “Aye”

    Wang Chaoyang sighed and Yang Guo asked “Am I not welcome here, Teacher?” to which the Leader and great Founder of Quenzhen replied, “I established this Place to find Peace, only to be surrounded by Regret. Guo er, Priesthood not Answer to Solution”
    “I am not Running or Hiding or Anything but desiring a quiet Retreat after the exhausting Years”
    “Why Quenzhen Sect and not Heavenly Zone?”
    “Prefers Vegetarian diet over Aphrodisiac stuff”
    “Honestly, that bad?”
    “Frankly, worst mental abuse, worst physical experience, worst sexual memory. By the way, Teacher, this also worst appraisal topic”
    “I am sorry”
    “Well, never mind. So, yes or no?”

    All these years, Priest Wang been looking for Successor but none qualified. Now perhaps his longing over. What makes better candidate, than a former Model Student of Quenzhen? The latter scandal were his private undertakings, which really nobody damn bloody business. And today, Celibacy instead of second Matrimony, or practicing Bigamy, or indulging Trigamy, or exercising Polygamy, or..... well dear folks, enough idea. By the way, what the saying again? Ah, yes. Life begins at Forty and beside the late Lady Wang, there is a Lady Guardian. Whether rumors real or just gossips, when coming to such Involvement - no matter how innocent or immortal Attachment - be platonic or otherwise, who understood more or experienced most, but Wang Chaoyang himself, hmm?

    “Why not just a period of calling, instead of taking vow. You still young. Lets see how how fate works thing out and what destiny have in store for us”

    Funny, Dragon Girl quoted this before, similar word if not precise line.

    “So be it”

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    During Lord Yang Kang's Second Year Reign, the Palace arranged Outing. Or to be precise, Hunting. However, instead of Blood Sport, the event resembles Chasing Game. Duan Zheng is invited by the Twin and he joined them for Fun. Tragedy strikes as Yang Ling first to notice her best friend's absence, “Where Shuang er?”

    Hunting become Searching, but Guo Shuang never found. There clues indicating she been abducted for ransom but her kidnappers demanded nothing. They must be highly skilled Outlaws and not mediocre like Bandits considering Guo Shuang is martially trained. At first, Palace suspected notorious Sects or infamous Gangs but neither proof nor motive. The second pointed Realms and Zones, but after The Edict, unruly Beings and perverse Creatures dares not affronting the Lord Yang Guo let alone challenging The Dragon Saber. Then there rumors on notorious Ninja Clan beyond Sea, but origin unknown and source outlandish. When continued efforts failed and all hopes dashed, Duan Zheng who yet to take over his Father's business “Uncle Guo, I cannot promise you anything but I can help looking around”

    When the Siblings found out his intention, they confronted him “So all these while, you like her too huh?” face to face and eye to eye.
    “Chan, you know I never compete with you. Ming, time to drop this nonexistent rivalry”
    “What about Ling er? You do know she admires you, don't you?”
    “She a Lady and I the Commoner. Enough said”

    No secret to Palace and noted by own Parent, that teenage hormones amongst them pretty high but all their sexual tensions ended non climax, due proper upbringing and firm comradeship. While at it, the trio successfully separating personal issue from general matter, “I join you!”
    “Me too!”

    So The Kingdom begins anew and chapter starts afresh with The Heir, The Spare and The Friend. Mischief aplenty and Chivalry abound when one Gallant and two Nobles came across Stranger with Fan, telling Riddle and spreading Legend. Of course, such Meeting only leads to Mystery and Adventure. Whats more, likely to discover Tale of the Past but that is another Story.

    @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

    THE END Copyright Author 2009
    The Kingdom First Edition
    Last edited by author; 03-05-09 at 11:41 PM.

  9. #69
    Senior Member Melanie's Avatar
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    Aha! Finally, I finished reading your story! Wang Yuyan's ending did not come as a big shock for me, since you already hinted at what will become of her in your previous PM to me, but it was sad, nonetheless. From the epilogue, it sounds like there will be a sequel in the making for the next generation. I look forward to reading that! Good job.

  10. #70
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    Quote Originally Posted by Melanie View Post
    Aha! Finally, I finished reading your story! Wang Yuyan's ending did not come as a big shock for me, since you already hinted at what will become of her in your previous PM to me, but it was sad, nonetheless. From the epilogue, it sounds like there will be a sequel in the making for the next generation. I look forward to reading that! Good job.
    Hello Melanie, nice to hear from you again . And thank you for dropping comment after final reading .

    TK originally to have prequel and sequel. Broke up the prequel into TK short stories which been posted. As for the sequel, sorry there won't be any. Since you looking forward, I shall PM the synopsis of the next generation adventure, which focuses pugilism instead of politic and romance ala HSDS/DOMD plus DG/YG 16 years reunion bonus

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