× Master of My Soul × [ Dynasty Warriors ] [ Slowly Updating ]

× 09 - Omen of Vigilance ×

I examined my reflection in the bronze mirror, trying to decide if my choice of clothing and accessories were too fancy. I wanted to go out and wander the city today, and figured it was best if I did not attract too much attention in this unfamiliar place and cause unnecessary trouble. I finally decided to keep my violet dress but remove some extravagant hairpins. Final adjustments were made and I left the room to get some breakfast. Although it was early morning, the rain seemed to have gotten heavier and the sky was still completely shrouded by dark clouds, giving everything a grey tone.

I peeked inside the dining room to see everyone having their meal except for Cao Anmin, which was expected of him since he is probably still sleeping. "Good morning everyone," I said with a small smile as I walked in and bowed slightly while Cao Ang motioned to a servant to bring another set of utensils for me.

"Good morning, Xue," Cao Cao spoke while the others nodded in acknowledgement, giving my uncle the respect for his authority to speak. He still seemed so worn out, and I could not help but wonder what could have made him look so tired. I then remembered what Guo Jia had told me and kept my mouth shut about the matter. "Have a seat," he said and I sat down next to my cousin.

Cao Ang smiled and touched the jade pins in my hair. "Are you going outside today? It has been a while since I have seen you wear these," he wondered, knowing that I usually used the expensive pins if I wanted to show up in public or with important people. They were less noticeable since most city women used similar accessories. 

I nodded as the servant returned with my utensils. "There are some things that I want to buy, and getting to know the city is always nice," I replied to him with a smile. I have not forgotten about the medicine I promised Guo Jia. Cao Ang looked as if he was about to say something, but I stopped him before he could. "Please, I don't need bodyguards. Nothing bad's going to happen from a casual walk," I told him and giggled softly when he shook his head at my words. 

After breakfast, I returned to my room to collect some spare bronze coins and then headed off to find Guo Jia in his room. "Well hello there," he spoke and gave that charming smile of his as he set down the scroll in his hands. "What brings you here today?" He then asked, leaning his elbow against the low table before him.

I took small steps inside the room and took a seat across the blond. "I'm going to the market in a bit, can I take your pulse again before I go?" I questioned with a small smile. I figured it would be best if I could get updated on his condition, especially since the weather is not the best and could easily affect an ill person.

"If you wish," Guo Jia replied and placed his hand on the desk, palm facing upwards. I held his wrist delicately and placed two fingers over his pulse, concentrating on the slight throbbing. There was very little difference from the last time I took it, which hopefully meant that his condition has not worsened. There was not much change to his complexion either, as he was still as pale as before, and I smiled a little more at this. "Is everything good?" The blond asked as I removed my hands and reached for an empty scroll instead.

I looked up at him and shrugged my shoulders slightly. "Well, I wouldn't say 'good', but it hasn't gotten much worse, so that should be a relief," I answered truthfully before pointing to the brush set and ink stone on the other side of the table. "Could you pass me those, please?" I asked politely as a remedy formula began to form in my mind. Most of the ingredients I would expect to find anywhere, but there are some things that I might have to find on my own. Luckily I have a garden at home where I grew special herbs and other plants, which I assumed will come handy.

As Guo Jia passed me the items and I began to write out the names of necessary ingredients, I noticed him rest his chin in his palm and look at the scroll. "You have very nice writing," he commented, and I could not help but smile proudly. It was one of those privileges of being a member of this family that allowed me to practice the arts and pursue my own interests, and I had to say I did a fairly good job. "Did our Lord teach you to write?" He then asked, and I suddenly paused.