Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

After leaving Luoyang, considering that there was no war in Xiliang for the time being, and that Lu Zhi's family had experienced too much fear in Luoyang City, Ma Chao decided to let them relax. Therefore, he did not rush on the journey, but chose to stop and walk along the way, allowing them to have fun and relax.

Along the way, new and exciting things constantly appeared before their eyes, as if a whole new world had opened up for them. Lu Yu, Lu Zhi's family member, who had always been as steady as a young scholar, gradually released his suppressed emotions in this relaxed and joyful atmosphere. He began to become lively, no longer as dull as before. He would curiously open the curtains of the carriage and peer out with wide eyes, his expression excited, like an innocent child discovering a treasure. Sometimes, he would let Dian Wei ride the horse, while he sat in Dian Wei's warm embrace, looking out to experience the wonders of the outside world.

Lu Wan was originally a bright and lively woman. Having experienced the shock of war, she initially held back from showing much affection towards Ma Chao. However, as they stopped and walked along the way, her suppressed emotions gradually released, and she became more lively.

Ma Chao watched Lu Wan's transformation with a heart filled with joy and relief. In truth, he and Lu Wan had always harbored a deep affection for each other. In their past lives together, they had held a special bond, but due to the turbulent times and various unforeseen circumstances, this affection had been temporarily shelved. Now, in this relaxed atmosphere, their feelings began to quietly surge again, growing stronger.

Lu Wan's gaze toward Ma Chao shone with tenderness and longing. She began to actively communicate with him, sharing her feelings and thoughts. Ma Chao, in turn, began to cherish every moment with Lu Wan, and his care and love for her became even more evident. Together, they admired the scenery, laughed, and spent wonderful time together. In this intertwined bond, their hearts grew closer, as if everything had become so beautiful and natural.

Time passed quietly, and before they knew it, they had already gone far away from Luoyang and were about to enter Hedong.

Ma Chao, riding on his horse, looked ahead with a slightly serious expression and said, "Lu Wan, we're getting closer and closer to Hedong. Thinking about meeting Wen Ji soon, I'm both excited and a little nervous."

Lu Wan, sitting on horseback, also had a complicated expression on her face. She responded, "Yes, Brother Chao, me too. I'm really looking forward to meeting Wen Ji. But when I think about what happened with Lord Cai Yong, I worry about whether Wen Ji can withstand such a blow. I'm really afraid she'll collapse."

Ma Chao sighed softly and said, "I feel the same way. Wen Ji and her father have such a deep bond, this must be a bolt from the blue for her. But I really want to see her soon, to see that she's well."

Lu Wan bit her lip, worry flickering in her eyes. "Me too, Brother Chao, but what if she finds out? I can't imagine how sad she would be."

Ma Chao frowned, thought for a moment, and then said, "But this matter will have to be faced sooner or later. We must accompany her well when the time comes. I believe Wen Ji will be strong."

Lu Wan nodded, her eyes still full of worry, "Well, this is the only way. I just hope Wen Ji can survive this, and I hope our arrival can give her some comfort." Ma Chao looked into the distance, his eyes revealing his concern and expectation for Cai Wenji.

Ever since marrying into the Wei family of Hedong, Cai Wenji had settled down in that somewhat quiet courtyard. Meals were served on time daily, but beyond that, she received no genuine care from anyone. Cai Wenji, naturally a relaxed and calm person, initially felt a sense of loss, thinking of herself alone in this place, where everything around her was so unfamiliar, no one who could truly understand her joys and sorrows, no one with whom she could have a heartfelt conversation. But she soon found comfort in herself, telling herself to make the best of things, and she didn't find much discomfort. It was just that there were no more familiar people in this place, and even when she went out to relieve herself, she couldn't find anyone suitable to accompany her. She could only spend her days with her maids, enduring a miserable life.

From the Hedong Wei clan, she occasionally heard news of the turbulent situation in Luoyang. This caused Cai Wenji to secretly worry about her father, constantly wondering how he was doing and if he was okay. She prayed countless times for his safety. Furthermore, the Hedong Wei clan, a prominent and aristocratic family, had many strict rules. Her husband, Wei Zhongdao, had never visited her since their marriage, not even sharing their bed on their wedding night. This inevitably caused Cai Wenji to feel a surge of sadness and resignation. She couldn't understand why this had happened. Was she really that unlovable? But she soon came to terms with it, believing perhaps it was fate. Then there was Wei Zhongdao's brother and sister-in-law. They came from a prominent family and, having married into the family for many years, had gradually become a true noblewoman. They were always gossiping. Although they had visited a few times, their words were often harsh. Every time Cai Wenji heard her sister-in-law's words, she felt uncomfortable, as if she could never truly become close to this woman. However, she was kind-hearted and unwilling to argue, silently telling herself to ignore them and just be herself. So, she continued to immerse herself in writing, painting, and playing the zither, seeking her own peace and comfort in the world of art.

But the figure that occasionally appeared in my dreams was still as handsome and tall, as eye-catching as ever. In my dreams, he was riding a steed, his figure majestic and extraordinary, his handsome face captivating my heart. But how could I ever tell anyone about this longing?

Whenever she dreamed of Ma Chao, Cai Wenji's heart would surge like surging waves. She would see Ma Chao's familiar face, the one that haunted her. When she woke up, tears would flow uncontrollably, soaking her pillowcase. Her heart was filled with bitterness and pain, yet she couldn't express it.

She couldn't help but recall the good old days in Luoyang, when they'd spent countless happy days chatting and talking together. Those moments shone like bright stars, a warm glow deep in her memory. But her current situation left her feeling powerless, as if she were bound by the hand of fate, unable to break free. She knew she couldn't change anything, so she could only accept her fate and continue living like this, filled with longing and helplessness.

Although Cai Wenji never talked about this to anyone and always buried her emotions deep in her heart, this repressed emotion made her become increasingly haggard and thin without her realizing it. Her originally round cheeks gradually lost their luster, and her bright eyes became a little dull and sad. She seemed to have lost her vitality, and she endured all this alone in this cold courtyard.

Ma Chao, riding a tall horse with a stern and resolute expression, carefully escorted Lu Zhi and his family as they continued along the road. After a long journey, they finally arrived at the residence of the Wei family in Hedong.

When the messenger announced the arrival of Ma Chao and Lu Zhi's family, the head of the Wei family showed no sign of neglect and hurriedly led the men of the family to greet them. After all, Dong Zhuo's power was enormous, and Ma Chao was Dong Zhuo's most valued and beloved general. Such a figure was naturally not to be underestimated.

Seeing Ma Chao dismount and approach, the Wei clan leader hurried forward with a smile and a bow, saying, "Ah, I've long heard of General Ma. It's a true honor to meet him today!" Ma Chao nodded slightly and replied calmly, "Master Wei, you're welcome." However, behind this seemingly warm courtesy, the Wei clan leader deeply despised Ma Chao, a military commander. In his view, military commanders were merely rough men who knew how to fight and kill. But due to Dong Zhuo's overwhelming power, he had no choice but to feign such respect in his welcome to Ma Chao. The Wei clan leader then quickly turned to greet Lu Zhi's family. After a seemingly warm exchange of pleasantries, he welcomed everyone into his residence. Throughout this process, the Wei clan leader maintained a respectful attitude and handled his affairs with caution, fearing that even the slightest mistake would offend Ma Chao, his distinguished guest.