After Cao Cao issued the orders for the northern campaign against Ye City, final military arrangements were carried out in Xuchang. The morning court was solemn, every official aware of the gravity of the task.
Yet after the court adjourned, Yang Xiu, the clever strategist in Cao Pi’s inner circle, mysteriously invited him to his residence.
“Young Master Zihuan, I recently came across a remarkable item that I believe will pique your interest,” Yang Xiu said with a restrained but confident smile, leading Cao Pi into a private chamber.
On a small table lay a scroll, carefully unfurled by Yang Xiu.
The moment Cao Pi’s eyes fell on it, his breath caught.
The painting depicted a woman standing amid a peony garden, dressed in luxurious attire. Her beauty was beyond words:
Her eyebrows arched like distant mountains, delicate and dark, faintly furrowed as if bearing an unspoken melancholy, invoking sympathy.
Her eyes were like autumn waters, bright and deep, shimmering with unspoken emotion, enchanting anyone who gazed upon them.
A straight, elegant nose, lips faintly parted as if about to speak, and skin so pale it seemed to glow in the sunlight.
Her posture was graceful and poised, combining youthful lightness with the sophistication of a grown woman. Her aura was extraordinary, blending the elegance of a noble lady with a subtle, almost imperceptible melancholy, like a celestial being fallen among mortals, out of place amid the surrounding luxury.
The painting’s craftsmanship captured her every nuance and charm, clearly the work of a master.
“Who… who is this?” Cao Pi asked, his voice hoarse, eyes fixed on the scroll.
Yang Xiu smiled, lowering his voice:
“This is Zhen Mi, wife of Yuan Xi, second son of Yuan Shao, daughter of the Zhen family of Zhongshan.”
“Zhen Mi…” Cao Pi whispered, his eyes alight with unprecedented fervor. “The north truly harbors such beauty! She is a peerless woman, a reincarnation of the Goddess of Luo! Even Diao Chan pales in comparison!”
Seizing the moment, Yang Xiu continued:
“She is not only stunning but gentle and talented. Alas, she is wed to Yuan Xi, a wasted pearl. If the Yuan family falls amid the chaos, such a beauty may perish in the turmoil—a grievous loss indeed.”
Cao Pi’s expression hardened with covetous determination:
“Indeed! Such a treasure should belong to me! I will accompany Father on this campaign. Nothing shall prevent it.”
The Next Day
At the Hall of the Minister of Works, Cao Cao convened his ministers to finalize the strategy for the northern campaign. Hebei lay exposed, and the time to strike was ripe.
Yet today’s court would not be ordinary.
As Cao Cao scanned the officials, preparing to issue orders, Cao Zhi stepped forward decisively, voice strong and unwavering:
“Father! I humbly request to accompany the northern campaign to Ye City!”
His eyes were resolute, his tone uncharacteristically determined:
“This battle is crucial to securing the north. Though I am inexperienced, I yearn to witness your strategy firsthand, Father. I wish to contribute in calming the people and restoring order. I earnestly seek your permission!”
Traditionally, as eldest son, Cao Pi was the heir apparent. Cao Cao had long groomed him for this role.
But Cao Zhi’s exemplary service during and after the Battle of Guandu had earned him remarkable respect in the army, highlighting Cao Pi’s mediocrity. The scales of succession were subtly tipping, and Cao Cao wished to observe further before making a final decision—thus he granted Cao Zhi permission.
“Father! I too request to join the northern campaign!”
To everyone’s surprise, Cao Pi now also stepped forward to volunteer.
Ministers exchanged glances, surprised. Remaining in Xuchang was safer and a position of immense responsibility; why would the heir apparent suddenly request front-line service?
Cao Pi had prepared his words, speaking earnestly:
“Father, I regret not having witnessed the front lines at Guandu. As the saying goes, ‘Experience is deeper than book learning.’ With the decisive battle in Hebei imminent, this is the time for a man to temper his skills and serve the nation. I wish to follow you, learn strategy firsthand, and contribute to victory. With Xun Yu and others safeguarding Xuchang, all is secure. I humbly request permission!”
Silence fell over the hall, all eyes fixed on the brothers—the unprecedented sight of both volunteering was remarkable.
“Excellent! Excellent!” Cao Cao clapped, laughter mingled with pride and vigor. “My sons possess ambition and loyalty—this is the fortune of the Cao family, the fortune of the realm!”
His gaze sharpened:
“Since both of you wish it, you shall accompany the campaign.”
“By your command!” Cao Pi and Cao Zhi responded in unison, bowing.
In that brief moment of lowering their heads, their eyes met—an unspoken spark passing silently between them.
Cao Zhi’s mind settled slightly, but his deep concern for Zhen Mi remained. That night, after handling numerous affairs, he dismissed his attendants and went alone to a small courtyard where Cai Wenji resided.
Outside, slender bamboo swayed in the night breeze; inside, the fragrance of books filled the room. Cai Wenji sat calmly, a figure of quiet poise. After recent care and rest, she had removed the makeup used to disguise herself, revealing her natural features—subtle, gentle, with a moonlit glow, pale yet radiant, embodying the “scholarly grace” of a peerless beauty.
Cao Zhi was momentarily stunned.
“Cai… sir?” he whispered respectfully, knowing she disliked the title “Miss” and preferred “Sir” in recognition of her intellect.
A surprised, delighted voice responded:
“It is Zi Jian? Please, come in.”
Cao Zhi entered, finding her engaged with a scroll. She gently closed it upon noticing him.
“Forgive my intrusion late at night,” Cao Zhi said, bowing slightly.
“Not at all, Zi Jian. I am glad you came,” Cai Wenji replied warmly.
Looking into his eyes, she remarked softly:
“You leave for the northern campaign tomorrow. Is your mind troubled, preventing sleep?”
Her keen observation instantly discerned that his concern stemmed from someone else—a woman tied to Ye City who occupied his heart.
Cao Zhi took a deep breath, finally speaking candidly:
“Sir, you have seen through me. I shall not hide it. It is her… Zhen Mi. Trapped in Ye City, poorly treated by Yuan Xi. Now, with the civil war raging, her fate is uncertain… I…” He clenched his fists until his knuckles whitened. “I volunteer for this campaign largely for her. I burn with impatience to reach Ye City immediately!”
Cai Wenji nodded gently, offering counsel:
“Worry is natural for someone who cares. That you feel so deeply is commendable. Miss Zhen is fortunate to have you watch over her. Focus on maintaining your own strength, and only then can you truly protect those you wish to.”
Cao Zhi hesitated:
“B-but…”
Suddenly, he felt a gentle tap on his forehead.
“Cai Wenji, what—?” he exclaimed.
She lightly tapped him, smiling softly:
“A small reminder, Zi Jian. Stop dwelling on despair. You are a capable young man, not some solemn scholar. Keep your spirit up.”
Her words carried subtle care and encouragement. The sudden interruption relieved his tension.
She continued:
“Why overthink? Live each day well. Often, nothing is amiss; it is we who trouble ourselves unnecessarily.”
Moved, Cao Zhi stood, bowing deeply:
“Thank you, sir, for your guidance. I shall remember your words. After Hebei is pacified, I will return to seek your counsel.”
Cai Wenji rose, returning the bow:
“May you… achieve victory and return safely.”
Cao Cao’s army set forth on the northern expedition, banners blurring the sky, spears like forests. Citizens lined the roads to watch.
In a hidden corner, Empress Fu watched from afar, her gaze lingering on Cao Zhi among the troops. The Cao family’s strength grew, the Han dynasty faltered—but this spirited young prince… what twists of fate might he bring to the future?