The Tale of the Lotus Heart novel Chapter 21

The next morning, Yong had someone fetch me clothes. The clothes were dark blue in color and different than the dresses and gowns I'd worn up until this point. The outfit was a pair of loose fitting pants paired with a cross-tied, shorter dress that was thicker with leather pads sown to the shoulders. The sleeves were fitted like a long sleeved tshirt with leather cuffs that stopped at my wrist and protected half of my forearms. The belt that was tied on top was also made of leather. I swung my arm around and twisted in the clothing after the maid fairies dressed me. They didn't say anything, but I saw the questions in their face. Yong came back and looked over the outfit.

"Looks good," he smiled. I dropped my arms as I looked at him.

"I've been meaning to ask. Technology in the Mortal Realm is so advanced these days, for example: pants. Why do we have to go around like we're in the ancient era and wear dresses and gowns every day?" I asked. Yong scoffed as he straightened the belt on me.

"Did you forget? We live for hundreds of thousands of years. Things made on the Mortal Realm are mostly temporary or need constant replacement. It's easily to go with what works. As for clothes, same thing. We can fly to our destination if we want. Do you really think denim rubbing together every time you take a step can withstand a couple thousand years?" He answered my question with a question. It made sense. He held my shoulders gently as he sighed.

"Alright, be careful on your way," he said before placing a kiss on my head. When I got to the Imperial Army ground, Heavenly General was waiting for me. He bowed when he saw me.

"Princess, what can I do for you?" He asked.

"I've come to join the ranks," I replied. His eyes widened as he looked at me.

"Princess, I'm aware of your talents, but do you think this is appropriate?" He asked hesitantly.

"I've already gotten my great-godfather's permission to go to whatever faction I choose. I figured my energy would be best served here," I explained.

"But we're due to go to battle in the Northern Territory with the First Prince soon," he said, like I only came for fun.

"Perfect. I'm not asking for special treatment. I just want to help with the efforts against the Demon Realm. You said yourself at Heavenly Cloud: I could easily become the most destructive and unpredictable weapon," I reminded him. He hesitated again before opening the gate for me. I saw quickly why he hesitated. With all of the soldiers training, I didn't see a single woman.

"For now, we'll put you in the general's tent since you're the only woman," he said, leading me to the tent. I walked inside before nodding to him.